Bulletin for the Sixth Sunday of Easter
May 22, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
| bulletin_-_may_22_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for the Fifth Sunday of Easter
May 15, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
| bulletin_-_may_15_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for the Fourth Sunday of Easter
May 8, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
| bulletin_-_may_8_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for the Third Sunday of Easter
May 1, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Jesus' Scars
| bulletin_-_may_1_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for the Second Sunday of Easter
April 10, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Jesus' Scars
| bulletin_-_april_24_2022.pdf |
| reflection-_jesus_scars.pdf |
Bulletin for Sunrise Service and Easter Sunday
April 17, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Remembrance and Feasting
| bulletin_-_april_17_2022_-_sunrise.pdf |
| bulletin_-_easter_-_april_17_2022_-_sanctuary.pdf |
| reflection_on_remembrance_and_feasting.pdf |
Lenten Devotional Booklet for 2022
| lent-devotions-2022_letter_all-wks.pdf |
Bulletin for Palm Sunday
April 10, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Time
| bulletin_-april_10_2022.pdf |
| reflection_on_time.pdf |
Bulletin for 5th Sunday of Lent
April 3, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Restoration
| bulletin_-_april_32022.pdf |
| pastors_reflection_on_restoration.pdf |
Bulletin for 4th Sunday of Lent
March 27, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Light
| bulletin_-_march_27_2022.pdf |
| pastors_reflection_on_light.pdf |
Bulletin for 3rd Sunday of Lent
March 20, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Water
| bulletin_-_march_20_2022.pdf |
| pastors_reflection_on_water.pdf |
Bulletin for 2nd Sunday of Lent
March 13, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
Plus the Pastor's Weekly Reflection on Life
| bulletin_-march_13_2022.pdf |
| pastors_weekly_reflection-life.pdf |
Bulletin for 1st Sunday of Lent
March 6, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30pm
| bulletin_-march_6_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for ASH WEDNESDAY
March 2, 2022 Service Starts at 7:00pm
| 03-02-22_ash_wednesday.pdf |
Bulletin for LAST SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY
February 27, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_february_27_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY
February 20, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_february_20_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for SIXTH SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY
February 13, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_february_13_2022_epiphany_6.pdf |
Bulletin for FIFTH SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY
February 6, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-february_6_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for FOURTH SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY
January 30, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_january_30_2022_epiphany_4.pdf |
Bulletin for THIRD SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY
January 23, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_january_23_2022.pdf |
| weekly_insert_-_january_23_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for SECOND SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY
January 16, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_january_16_2022_epiphany.docx |
| Weekly Bulletin Insert - January 16, 2022 |
Bulletin for BAPTISM OF THE LORD
January 9, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-january_9_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for SECOND SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS
January 2, 2022 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-january_2_2022.pdf |
Bulletin for FIRST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS
December 26, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_december_26_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for CHRISTMAS EVE
December 24, 2021 Service Starts at 6:00 PM
| bulletin_-_december_24_-_christmas_eve.pdf |
Bulletin for FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 19, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_december_19_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 12, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_december_12_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 5, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_december_5_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
November 28, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_november_28_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for CHRIST THE KING SUNDAY
November 21, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_november_21_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for DEDICATION SUNDAY
November 14, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_nov._14_2021_-_dedication_sunday.pdf |
Bulletin for ALL SAINTS’ SUNDAY
November 7, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_november_7_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for REFORMATION SUNDAY
October 31, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_october_31_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 30TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
October 24, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_october_24_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 29TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
October 17, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_october_17__2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 28TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
October 10, 2021 Service Starts at 10:30
| bulletin_-_october_10_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 18th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, August 1, 2021 Service Starts at 9:30
| bulletin_-_august_1_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 17th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, July 25, 2021 Service Starts at 9:30
| bulletin_-_july_25_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 16th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, July 18, 2021 Service Starts at 9:30
| bulletin_-_july_18_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 15th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, July 11, 2021 Service Starts at 9:30
| bulletin_-july_11_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 14th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, July 4, 2021 Service Starts at 9:30
| bulletin_-_july_4_2021.pdf |
Special Note:
Beginning this Sunday, June 27, the Worship Service will be at 9:30am.
We will be worshipping in the sanctuary, on Zoom and Facebook.
Beginning this Sunday, June 27, the Worship Service will be at 9:30am.
We will be worshipping in the sanctuary, on Zoom and Facebook.
Bulletin for 13th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, June 27, 2021
| bulletin_-_june_27_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 12th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, June 20, 2021
| bulletin_-_june_20_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 11th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, June 13, 2021
| bulletin_-_june_13_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 10th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, June 6, 2021
| bulletin_-_june_6_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for TRINITY SUNDAY, May 30, 2021
Service held in the church in person as well as on a Zoom meeting.
| bulletin_-_may_30_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for PENTECOST, May 23, 2021
Service held in the church in person as well as on a Zoom meeting.
| bulletin_-_may_23_2021_pentecost.pdf |
Bulletin for Seventh Sunday of Easter, May 16, 2021
| easter_7_b_may_16_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 7, 2021
| bulletin_-_may_9_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Fifth SUNDAY OF EASTER, May 2, 2021
| bulletin_-_may_2_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Fourth SUNDAY OF EASTER, April 25, 2021
| bulletin_-_april_25_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Third SUNDAY OF EASTER, April 18, 2021
| bulletin_-_april_18_2021_third_sunday_of_easter.pdf |
Bulletin for SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER, April 11, 2021
| bulletin_-_april_11_2021.pdf |
Easter Morning Worship Service
Bulletin for RESURRECTION SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021
| bulletin_-_april_4_2021_easter.pdf |
Easter Virtual Choir video
Bulletin for GOOD FRIDAY, April 2, 2021
| bulletin_-_april_2_2021_good_friday.pdf |
Bulletin for Maundy Thursday, April 1, 2021
| bulletin_-_april_1_2021_maundy_thursday.pdf |
Bulletin for PALM PASSION SUNDAY, March 28, 2021
| bulletin_-_march_28_2021_palm_sunday.pdf |
Bulletin for 5th Sunday of Lent, March 21, 2021
| bulletin_-__march_21_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 4th Sunday of Lent, March 14, 2021
|
| ||
Bulletin for 3rd Sunday of Lent, March 7, 2021
| bulletin_-_march_7_2021__002_.pdf |
Bulletin for 2nd Sunday of Lent, February 28, 2021
| bulletin_-_feb_28_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for 1ST Sunday of Lent, February 21 , 2021
| bulletin_-_feb_21_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Transfiguration Sunday, February 14, 2021
| bulletin_-_feb_14_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Sunday Ordinary Time 5 B, February 7, 2021
| bulletin_-_feb._7_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Sunday Ordinary Time 4 B, January 31, 2021
| bulletin_-__jan._31_2021.pdf |
Bulletin for Sunday Ordinary Time 3 B, January 24, 2021
| bulletin_-_jan_24_2021_ordinary_time.pdf |
Bulletin for Sunday Ordinary Time 2 B, January 17, 2021
| bulletin_-_jan._17_2021_-_ordinary_time.pdf |
Bulletin for the 2nd Sunday of Christmas January 3, 2021
| January 3 Bulletin.pdf |
Bulletin for the Sunday Service 12:00 Noon, December 27, 2020
| December 27 Bulletin.pdf |
Bulletin for the Christmas Eve Service 7:00 pm, December 24, 2020
| Christmas Eve Bulletin.pdf |
The virtual choir video and bulletin for the FORTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT WORSHIP 12:00 NOON and the
BLUE CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SERVICE DECEMBER 20, 2020 7:00PM
| 20 December Noon Bulletin |
| 20 December Blue Christmas Bulletin |
The virtual choir video and bulletin for the THIRD SUNDAY IN ADVENT WORSHIP SERVICE, DECEMBER 13, 2020
| December 13 Bulletin |
Bulletin for the SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT WORSHIP SERVICE, DECEMBER 6, 2020
| December 06 Bulletin |
Congregational Meeting
December 6, 2020
1 PM via Zoom
Join Zoom Worship (login beginning at 12 Noon EDT)
https://zoom.us/join
Phone in: (mobile or home phone) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 742 347 8806 Passcode: 6562894
+19292056099,7423478806#, 0#,6562894# US (New York)
Call for a Congregational Meeting
The purpose of this meeting is to make a change to our church’s By-Laws, elect Elders to serve on Session beginning 2021, elect members for the Pastor Nominating Committee.
Karen Basile—Clerk of Session
December 6, 2020
1 PM via Zoom
Join Zoom Worship (login beginning at 12 Noon EDT)
https://zoom.us/join
Phone in: (mobile or home phone) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 742 347 8806 Passcode: 6562894
+19292056099,7423478806#, 0#,6562894# US (New York)
Call for a Congregational Meeting
The purpose of this meeting is to make a change to our church’s By-Laws, elect Elders to serve on Session beginning 2021, elect members for the Pastor Nominating Committee.
Karen Basile—Clerk of Session
The virtual choir video and bulletin for the FIRST SUNDAY IN ADVENT WORSHIP SERVICE, NOVEMBER 29, 2020
| November 29 Bulletin |
November 16, 2020
Dear friends,
We are not able to gather together as much as we would like or as the pandemic will allow. I am always aware of how much care there is in this congregation; relationships are important.
These Advent devotions will be shared with the entire congregation and I hope as you use them, you will keep friends and family and the whole congregation of First Presbyterian in your prayers. The devotions were written by Rev. Jill Duffield, who is the editor of the Presbyterian Outlook. There are devotions for every day through Christmas Day.
I encourage you to use this in the season of Advent, especially on Sundays when we will light our Advent candles. We wait and watch in hope for the arrival of the Christ Child. May your Advent be filled with wonder and anticipation.
God bless,
Pastor Nancy
Dear friends,
We are not able to gather together as much as we would like or as the pandemic will allow. I am always aware of how much care there is in this congregation; relationships are important.
These Advent devotions will be shared with the entire congregation and I hope as you use them, you will keep friends and family and the whole congregation of First Presbyterian in your prayers. The devotions were written by Rev. Jill Duffield, who is the editor of the Presbyterian Outlook. There are devotions for every day through Christmas Day.
I encourage you to use this in the season of Advent, especially on Sundays when we will light our Advent candles. We wait and watch in hope for the arrival of the Christ Child. May your Advent be filled with wonder and anticipation.
God bless,
Pastor Nancy
| Advent Devotions 2020 |
Bonnie's video, the virtual choir video and bulletin THANKSGIVING WORSHIP SERVICE NOVEMBER 22, 2020
| November 22, 2020 Thanksgiving Service Bulletin.pdf |
Here is the virtual choir video and bulletin from the CHRIST THE KING SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22. 2020 service
| November 22, 2020 Bulletin |
Here is the virtual choir video from the Sunday October 25th's service.
Here is the virtual choir video from the Sunday October 3'd's service.
| Bulletin for the Zoom meeting on 20st SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME August 16, 2020 at 12:00 noon |
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
You, O God, are supreme and holy. You create our world and give us life. Your purpose overarches everything we do. You have always been with us. You are God.
You, O God, are infinitely generous, good beyond all measure. You came to us before we came to you. You have revealed and proved your love for us in Jesus Christ, who lived and died and rose again. You are with us now. You are God.
You , O God, are Holy Spirit. You empower us to be your gospel in the world. You reconcile and heal; you overcome death. You are our God. Amen.
A New Zealand Prayer Book. Pg. 481
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 124
If it had not been the Lord who was on our side
—let Israel now say--
2 if it had not been the Lord who was on our side,
when our enemies attacked us,
3 then they would have swallowed us up alive,
when their anger was kindled against us;
4 then the flood would have swept us away,
the torrent would have gone over us;
5 then over us would have gone
the raging waters.
6 Blessed be the Lord,
who has not given us
as prey to their teeth.
7 We have escaped like a bird
from the snare of the fowlers;
the snare is broken,
and we have escaped.
8 Our help is in the name of the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 124
I did not write a posting yesterday. David, my husband who loves boats and is a very experienced sailor, took his 14 foot Ghost sailboat out on Swartzwood Lake – with the dog. Both had life jackets on. I sat in a comfortable chair in the shade on shore, watching the boat slowly drift across the lake. All of a sudden, I saw the mast go over into the water, and then the boat. I could not see David or Greta, our dog. My first irrational thought was to swim out and rescue them. Fortunately, I had a rational thought and called 911. Within ten minutes, there were about 12 rescue vehicles from three townships, the state police, and the state park service. There were divers, EMT, several boats and lots of wonderful people. As they were preparing to go out, a couple of pontoons were near the sinking sailboat and within minutes we could see David on one of the boats with Greta holding court in the middle of the boat.
All kinds of scenarios went through my head; none became reality. Reality was that David and Greta were fine. David even had an extra life jacket that he tied on the sinking mast so it would not be lost to the bottom of the lake. Soon afterwards, another boat brought David’s sailboat to the boat ramp. All was well.
I would like to think that I would still give thanks to God if things had not turned out well. Life is fragile, unpredictable, and precious. God’s presence and love is not these things; God is faithful, reliable and available to us in all circumstances. So I say with the psalmist, Blessed be the LORD, who has been our help.
HYMN 330 OUR HELP IS IN THE NAME OF GOD Martin Tel
Our help is in the name of God the Lord,
the One who made the heavens with a word,
creator of the world, each living thing.
Come, bless the Lord, lift up your hearts and sing:
“Our help is in the name of God the Lord.”
When evil seems to have the upper hand,
Call on God’s name: the Lord, the great “I AM.”
When troubles rise and all around gives way,
Remember God stays with us night and day.
Our help is in the name of God the Lord.
Praise God the Lord who hears the captives’ prayer.
Like birds escaping from the fowler’s snare
We are set free; our praises now ascend:
“Blessed be the Lord: Creator, Savior, Friend.
Our help is in the name of God the Lord.”
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
You, O God, are supreme and holy. You create our world and give us life. Your purpose overarches everything we do. You have always been with us. You are God.
You, O God, are infinitely generous, good beyond all measure. You came to us before we came to you. You have revealed and proved your love for us in Jesus Christ, who lived and died and rose again. You are with us now. You are God.
You , O God, are Holy Spirit. You empower us to be your gospel in the world. You reconcile and heal; you overcome death. You are our God. Amen.
A New Zealand Prayer Book. Pg. 481
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 124
If it had not been the Lord who was on our side
—let Israel now say--
2 if it had not been the Lord who was on our side,
when our enemies attacked us,
3 then they would have swallowed us up alive,
when their anger was kindled against us;
4 then the flood would have swept us away,
the torrent would have gone over us;
5 then over us would have gone
the raging waters.
6 Blessed be the Lord,
who has not given us
as prey to their teeth.
7 We have escaped like a bird
from the snare of the fowlers;
the snare is broken,
and we have escaped.
8 Our help is in the name of the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 124
I did not write a posting yesterday. David, my husband who loves boats and is a very experienced sailor, took his 14 foot Ghost sailboat out on Swartzwood Lake – with the dog. Both had life jackets on. I sat in a comfortable chair in the shade on shore, watching the boat slowly drift across the lake. All of a sudden, I saw the mast go over into the water, and then the boat. I could not see David or Greta, our dog. My first irrational thought was to swim out and rescue them. Fortunately, I had a rational thought and called 911. Within ten minutes, there were about 12 rescue vehicles from three townships, the state police, and the state park service. There were divers, EMT, several boats and lots of wonderful people. As they were preparing to go out, a couple of pontoons were near the sinking sailboat and within minutes we could see David on one of the boats with Greta holding court in the middle of the boat.
All kinds of scenarios went through my head; none became reality. Reality was that David and Greta were fine. David even had an extra life jacket that he tied on the sinking mast so it would not be lost to the bottom of the lake. Soon afterwards, another boat brought David’s sailboat to the boat ramp. All was well.
I would like to think that I would still give thanks to God if things had not turned out well. Life is fragile, unpredictable, and precious. God’s presence and love is not these things; God is faithful, reliable and available to us in all circumstances. So I say with the psalmist, Blessed be the LORD, who has been our help.
HYMN 330 OUR HELP IS IN THE NAME OF GOD Martin Tel
Our help is in the name of God the Lord,
the One who made the heavens with a word,
creator of the world, each living thing.
Come, bless the Lord, lift up your hearts and sing:
“Our help is in the name of God the Lord.”
When evil seems to have the upper hand,
Call on God’s name: the Lord, the great “I AM.”
When troubles rise and all around gives way,
Remember God stays with us night and day.
Our help is in the name of God the Lord.
Praise God the Lord who hears the captives’ prayer.
Like birds escaping from the fowler’s snare
We are set free; our praises now ascend:
“Blessed be the Lord: Creator, Savior, Friend.
Our help is in the name of God the Lord.”
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Weaver of truth, fashioner of grace, friend of the lost and the forsaken. Holy God, we come into your presence to give praise and adoration. Celebrating your redeeming and recreating love we come hopefully, we come expectantly with pilgrims and sojourners of all ages to meet again your message, O God, of unremitting grace through him who is the Christ. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, ed. Martha Gilliss, pg. 58, Raymond Hearn
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 67
May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah
2 that your way may be known upon earth,
your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you judge the peoples with equity
and guide the nations upon earth. Selah
5 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
6 The earth has yielded its increase;
God, our God, has blessed us.
7 May God continue to bless us;
let all the ends of the earth revere him.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 67
The word Selah appears 71 times in the book of Psalms. It is some kind of musical or liturgical marker. It does tend to mark the end of a section or a shift in the text. Some thoughts are that it means to be silent and listen.
This psalm is a psalm of praise. We all know people who are always seeing the best in a situation or always able to see that silver lining on storm clouds. To be positive is not an exercise in delusion; but rather a sign of strength and hope that the present and the future can still be filled with good things. Here the psalmist points out all the ways that God blesses us – even in the midst of all the brokenness. So perhaps the best we can do is to follow the directions of Selah. Be silent and listen to the words of praise and confidence in God’s blessings.
HYMN 341 O GOD, SHOW MERCY TO US The New Metrical Version
of the Psalms, 1909
O God, show mercy to us, and bless us with your grace;
And cause to shine upon us the brightness of your face,
So that your way most holy on earth may soon be known,
And unto every people your saving grace be shown.
Let all the peoples praise you; let all the nations sing;
In every land let praises and songs of gladness bring.
For you will judge the peoples in truth and righteousness,
And on the earth all nations will your just rule confess.
Let all the peoples praise you; let all the nations sing.
The earth in rich abundance to us its fruit will bring.
The Lord our God will bless us; our God will blessing send,
And all the earth will worship to its remotest end.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Weaver of truth, fashioner of grace, friend of the lost and the forsaken. Holy God, we come into your presence to give praise and adoration. Celebrating your redeeming and recreating love we come hopefully, we come expectantly with pilgrims and sojourners of all ages to meet again your message, O God, of unremitting grace through him who is the Christ. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, ed. Martha Gilliss, pg. 58, Raymond Hearn
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 67
May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah
2 that your way may be known upon earth,
your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you judge the peoples with equity
and guide the nations upon earth. Selah
5 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
6 The earth has yielded its increase;
God, our God, has blessed us.
7 May God continue to bless us;
let all the ends of the earth revere him.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 67
The word Selah appears 71 times in the book of Psalms. It is some kind of musical or liturgical marker. It does tend to mark the end of a section or a shift in the text. Some thoughts are that it means to be silent and listen.
This psalm is a psalm of praise. We all know people who are always seeing the best in a situation or always able to see that silver lining on storm clouds. To be positive is not an exercise in delusion; but rather a sign of strength and hope that the present and the future can still be filled with good things. Here the psalmist points out all the ways that God blesses us – even in the midst of all the brokenness. So perhaps the best we can do is to follow the directions of Selah. Be silent and listen to the words of praise and confidence in God’s blessings.
HYMN 341 O GOD, SHOW MERCY TO US The New Metrical Version
of the Psalms, 1909
O God, show mercy to us, and bless us with your grace;
And cause to shine upon us the brightness of your face,
So that your way most holy on earth may soon be known,
And unto every people your saving grace be shown.
Let all the peoples praise you; let all the nations sing;
In every land let praises and songs of gladness bring.
For you will judge the peoples in truth and righteousness,
And on the earth all nations will your just rule confess.
Let all the peoples praise you; let all the nations sing.
The earth in rich abundance to us its fruit will bring.
The Lord our God will bless us; our God will blessing send,
And all the earth will worship to its remotest end.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you have so greatly loved us, long sought us, and mercifully redeemed us. Give us grace, that in everything we may yield ourselves, our wills and our works, a continual thank-offering to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Worship Daily Prayer, 2018. Prayer from Westminster Divines (1647)
SCRIPTURE READING JOB 36:24-31
“Remember to extol his work,
of which mortals have sung.
25 All people have looked on it;
everyone watches it from far away.
26 Surely God is great, and we do not know him;
the number of his years is unsearchable.
27 For he draws up the drops of water;
he distills[a] his mist in rain,
28 which the skies pour down
and drop upon mortals abundantly.
29 Can anyone understand the spreading of the clouds,
the thunderings of his pavilion?
30 See, he scatters his lightning around him
and covers the roots of the sea.
31 For by these he governs peoples;
he gives food in abundance.
MEDITATION ON JOB 36:24-31
These words from Job 36 are spoken by Elihu. He has been listening to the three friends of Job and getting frustrated. When he has a chance to speak, he reminds Job of the greatness of God.
When we think of the story of Job, we tend to focus on all that went tragically wrong; he lost his wife, his children, everything that was dear to him. We read of the arrangement between Satan (the adversary) and the Lord; God insists that Job is faithful, no matter what. Satan challenges that and says that Job will curse God if all he has is taken from him. Job does not curse God. Elihu’s words remind him and us that God has great powers that we cannot even imagine.
In the midst of all that seems broken in our time, we can still be faithful, like Job. There is good around us; we need to open our eyes and hearts and see what God is doing in our midst. Do we have full understanding of all that is happening? No, we do not. But we do know that God loves us, God who is great beyond our understanding.
HYMN 30 O GOD, IN A MYSTERIOUS WAY William Cowper
O God, in a mysterious way great wonders you perform.
You plant your footsteps in the sea and ride upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines of never failing skill,
You treasure up your bright designs and work your sovereign will.
O fearful saints, fresh courage take. The clouds you so much read
Are big with mercy and shall break in blessings on your head.
Our unbelief is sure to err and scan your work in vain.
You are your own interpreter, and you will make it plain.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you have so greatly loved us, long sought us, and mercifully redeemed us. Give us grace, that in everything we may yield ourselves, our wills and our works, a continual thank-offering to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Worship Daily Prayer, 2018. Prayer from Westminster Divines (1647)
SCRIPTURE READING JOB 36:24-31
“Remember to extol his work,
of which mortals have sung.
25 All people have looked on it;
everyone watches it from far away.
26 Surely God is great, and we do not know him;
the number of his years is unsearchable.
27 For he draws up the drops of water;
he distills[a] his mist in rain,
28 which the skies pour down
and drop upon mortals abundantly.
29 Can anyone understand the spreading of the clouds,
the thunderings of his pavilion?
30 See, he scatters his lightning around him
and covers the roots of the sea.
31 For by these he governs peoples;
he gives food in abundance.
MEDITATION ON JOB 36:24-31
These words from Job 36 are spoken by Elihu. He has been listening to the three friends of Job and getting frustrated. When he has a chance to speak, he reminds Job of the greatness of God.
When we think of the story of Job, we tend to focus on all that went tragically wrong; he lost his wife, his children, everything that was dear to him. We read of the arrangement between Satan (the adversary) and the Lord; God insists that Job is faithful, no matter what. Satan challenges that and says that Job will curse God if all he has is taken from him. Job does not curse God. Elihu’s words remind him and us that God has great powers that we cannot even imagine.
In the midst of all that seems broken in our time, we can still be faithful, like Job. There is good around us; we need to open our eyes and hearts and see what God is doing in our midst. Do we have full understanding of all that is happening? No, we do not. But we do know that God loves us, God who is great beyond our understanding.
HYMN 30 O GOD, IN A MYSTERIOUS WAY William Cowper
O God, in a mysterious way great wonders you perform.
You plant your footsteps in the sea and ride upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines of never failing skill,
You treasure up your bright designs and work your sovereign will.
O fearful saints, fresh courage take. The clouds you so much read
Are big with mercy and shall break in blessings on your head.
Our unbelief is sure to err and scan your work in vain.
You are your own interpreter, and you will make it plain.
MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The eyes of all wait upon thee, and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thy hands and satisfieth the desire of every living thing. Through Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.
Young family prayer, taken from Psalm 145 KJV
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 104:24-34
O Lord, how manifold are your works!
In wisdom you have made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
25 Yonder is the sea, great and wide,
creeping things innumerable are there,
living things both small and great.
26 There go the ships,
and Leviathan that you formed to sport in it.
27 These all look to you
to give them their food in due season;
28 when you give to them, they gather it up;
when you open your hand, they are filled with good things.
29 When you hide your face, they are dismayed;
when you take away their breath, they die
and return to their dust.
30 When you send forth your spirit, they are created;
and you renew the face of the ground.
31 May the glory of the Lord endure forever;
may the Lord rejoice in his works--
32 who looks on the earth and it trembles,
who touches the mountains and they smoke.
33 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have being.
34 May my meditation be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the Lord.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 104:24-34
All creation is amazingly beautiful, diverse, and full of surprises. I was reminded of that this morning, as we had our breakfast and coffee on the patio in our back yard. The temperature was perfect with a slight breeze as we watched the birds, chipmunks and squirrels work their way around the yard. I realize this is a simple and mundane view; nothing out of the ordinary. We were seated under our two very ancient dogwood trees and also had a view of the lovely community park across the street. It was spectacular.
We take so much for granted, and in the process do not care for or even pay enough attention to the creation around us.
The dangers to the earth and the atmosphere are real. I am not a scientist, but I trust those whose gifts and experience and training give them the insight to what is happening to the earth. Antarctica is quickly melting, seas are rising, and the pollution of fossil fuels is rising. All of creation is generously shared with us by the Creator; have we failed as stewards of the earth? Possibly.
If, like the psalmist, we wish to sing to the LORD as long as we live, and sing praises while we still have being, I would hope we can also cherish and care for this beautiful and amazing creation.
HYMN 14 FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH Folliott Sandford Pierpoint
For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth over and around us lies:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For the wonder of each hour o the day and of the night,
Hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon and stars of light:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For the joy of ear and eye, for the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony linking sense to sound and sight:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child,
Friends on earth, and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For thyself, best gift divine to the world so freely given;
For that great, great love of thine, peace on earth and joy in heaven:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The eyes of all wait upon thee, and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thy hands and satisfieth the desire of every living thing. Through Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.
Young family prayer, taken from Psalm 145 KJV
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 104:24-34
O Lord, how manifold are your works!
In wisdom you have made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
25 Yonder is the sea, great and wide,
creeping things innumerable are there,
living things both small and great.
26 There go the ships,
and Leviathan that you formed to sport in it.
27 These all look to you
to give them their food in due season;
28 when you give to them, they gather it up;
when you open your hand, they are filled with good things.
29 When you hide your face, they are dismayed;
when you take away their breath, they die
and return to their dust.
30 When you send forth your spirit, they are created;
and you renew the face of the ground.
31 May the glory of the Lord endure forever;
may the Lord rejoice in his works--
32 who looks on the earth and it trembles,
who touches the mountains and they smoke.
33 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have being.
34 May my meditation be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the Lord.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 104:24-34
All creation is amazingly beautiful, diverse, and full of surprises. I was reminded of that this morning, as we had our breakfast and coffee on the patio in our back yard. The temperature was perfect with a slight breeze as we watched the birds, chipmunks and squirrels work their way around the yard. I realize this is a simple and mundane view; nothing out of the ordinary. We were seated under our two very ancient dogwood trees and also had a view of the lovely community park across the street. It was spectacular.
We take so much for granted, and in the process do not care for or even pay enough attention to the creation around us.
The dangers to the earth and the atmosphere are real. I am not a scientist, but I trust those whose gifts and experience and training give them the insight to what is happening to the earth. Antarctica is quickly melting, seas are rising, and the pollution of fossil fuels is rising. All of creation is generously shared with us by the Creator; have we failed as stewards of the earth? Possibly.
If, like the psalmist, we wish to sing to the LORD as long as we live, and sing praises while we still have being, I would hope we can also cherish and care for this beautiful and amazing creation.
HYMN 14 FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH Folliott Sandford Pierpoint
For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth over and around us lies:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For the wonder of each hour o the day and of the night,
Hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon and stars of light:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For the joy of ear and eye, for the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony linking sense to sound and sight:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child,
Friends on earth, and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
For thyself, best gift divine to the world so freely given;
For that great, great love of thine, peace on earth and joy in heaven:
Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.
| Bulleton for the Zoom survice on 19th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME August 9, 2020 at 12:00 noon |
The correct link for the Zoom service on August 9th: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86448723035?pwd=OHREVGlvejkrLzJjcHk5ZDgxOG9iUT09
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Gracious God,
pour out your Spirit upon your servants, whom you called by baptism as your own. Grant us the same mind that was in Christ Jesus. Give us a spirit of truthfulness to rightly to proclaim your Word in Christ in the words and actions of daily living. Give us the gifts of your Holy Spirit, to build up the church, to strengthen the common life of your people, and to lead with compassion and vision.
In the walk of faith and for the work of ministry, give to your servants and to all who serve as leaders among your people gladness and strength, discipline and hope, humility, humor, and courage, and an abiding sense of your presence. Amen.
A Manual for Moderators, Presbytery of Mid-Kentucky, Rev. Ken Hockenberry. Pg. 25, adapted.
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 1:21-26
21 So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection.” 23 So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed and said, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen 25 to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 1:21-26
This morning the presbytery of Newton had a special meeting (via Zoom) for the purpose of examining a candidate for a pastoral position at one of the congregations in the presbytery. I realized as I watched that this process is biblical. Through a process of training, prayer, experience and discernment by the candidate, the congregation and the presbytery, a call to ministry from God was clearly evident.
In this short passage from Acts, we witness the gathered community of followers of Jesus choosing a replacement leader to take the place of Judas. Two men are lifted up as qualified candidates; they have been with the community since the baptism of John, they witnessed to the resurrection and to the ascension of Jesus. The community prayed and waited upon the will of God, then voted and elected Matthias who was added as the twelfth apostle.
The church is at its best when we trust in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and we are willing to work together as the body of Christ. In this time of change, our life as a community of faith is truly in God’s hands. We are called – all of us – to discern the will of God and then to act upon it. As a great affirmation of faith says, “we are not alone.” Thanks be to God!
HYMN 757
Today we all are called to be disciples of the Lord,
To help to set the captive free, make plowshares out of sword,
To feed the hungry, quench their thirst, make love and peace our fast,
To serve the poor and homeless first, our ease and comfort last.
God made the world and at its birth ordained our human race
To live as stewards of the earth, responding to God’s grace.
But we are vain and sadly proud; we sow not peace but strife.
Our discord spreads a deadly cloud that threatens all of life.
Pray justice may come rolling down as in a mighty stream,
With righteousness in field and town to cleanse us and redeem.
For God is longing to restore an earth where conflicts cease,
A world that was created for a harmony of peace.
May we in service to our God act out the living word,
And walk the road the saints have trod till all have seen and heard.
As stewards of the earth may we give thanks in one accord
To God who calls us all to be disciples of the Lord.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Gracious God,
pour out your Spirit upon your servants, whom you called by baptism as your own. Grant us the same mind that was in Christ Jesus. Give us a spirit of truthfulness to rightly to proclaim your Word in Christ in the words and actions of daily living. Give us the gifts of your Holy Spirit, to build up the church, to strengthen the common life of your people, and to lead with compassion and vision.
In the walk of faith and for the work of ministry, give to your servants and to all who serve as leaders among your people gladness and strength, discipline and hope, humility, humor, and courage, and an abiding sense of your presence. Amen.
A Manual for Moderators, Presbytery of Mid-Kentucky, Rev. Ken Hockenberry. Pg. 25, adapted.
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 1:21-26
21 So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection.” 23 So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed and said, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen 25 to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 1:21-26
This morning the presbytery of Newton had a special meeting (via Zoom) for the purpose of examining a candidate for a pastoral position at one of the congregations in the presbytery. I realized as I watched that this process is biblical. Through a process of training, prayer, experience and discernment by the candidate, the congregation and the presbytery, a call to ministry from God was clearly evident.
In this short passage from Acts, we witness the gathered community of followers of Jesus choosing a replacement leader to take the place of Judas. Two men are lifted up as qualified candidates; they have been with the community since the baptism of John, they witnessed to the resurrection and to the ascension of Jesus. The community prayed and waited upon the will of God, then voted and elected Matthias who was added as the twelfth apostle.
The church is at its best when we trust in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and we are willing to work together as the body of Christ. In this time of change, our life as a community of faith is truly in God’s hands. We are called – all of us – to discern the will of God and then to act upon it. As a great affirmation of faith says, “we are not alone.” Thanks be to God!
HYMN 757
Today we all are called to be disciples of the Lord,
To help to set the captive free, make plowshares out of sword,
To feed the hungry, quench their thirst, make love and peace our fast,
To serve the poor and homeless first, our ease and comfort last.
God made the world and at its birth ordained our human race
To live as stewards of the earth, responding to God’s grace.
But we are vain and sadly proud; we sow not peace but strife.
Our discord spreads a deadly cloud that threatens all of life.
Pray justice may come rolling down as in a mighty stream,
With righteousness in field and town to cleanse us and redeem.
For God is longing to restore an earth where conflicts cease,
A world that was created for a harmony of peace.
May we in service to our God act out the living word,
And walk the road the saints have trod till all have seen and heard.
As stewards of the earth may we give thanks in one accord
To God who calls us all to be disciples of the Lord.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Underneath are the everlasting arms:
loved words and loving – reminding us of a God who is always there, like a mother with a young child, knowing our needs, catching us when we fall, comforting, bearing, cradling, dancing and caressing.
Underneath are the everlasting arms:
words of encouragement in moments of desolation and loneliness; words passed down from mother to daughter, not in cold print but warm with faith. Thanks be to God. Amen.
The Pattern of Our Days, ed. Kathy Galloway, The Iona Community.pg. 131, adapted.
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 91
You who live in the shelter of the Most High,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
2 will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress;
my God, in whom I trust.”
3 For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler
and from the deadly pestilence;
4 he will cover you with his pinions,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.
5 You will not fear the terror of the night,
or the arrow that flies by day,
6 or the pestilence that stalks in darkness,
or the destruction that wastes at noonday.
7 A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.
8 You will only look with your eyes
and see the punishment of the wicked.
9 Because you have made the Lord your refuge,
the Most High your dwelling place,
10 no evil shall befall you,
no scourge come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways.
12 On their hands they will bear you up,
so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread on the lion and the adder,
the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot.
14 Those who love me, I will deliver;
I will protect those who know my name.
15 When they call to me, I will answer them;
I will be with them in trouble,
I will rescue them and honor them.
16 With long life I will satisfy them,
and show them my salvation.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 91
Many of us recognize this beautiful psalm because of Michael Joncas’ song (see below). The psalmist writes to us and describes the presence of God as faithful and protective. We are sheltered and loved. At the end of the psalm it is God who speaks: Those who love me, I will deliver; I will protect those who know my name.
From the time I was a small child, this has been my understanding of God. I never had a time when I imagined God as angry, vengeful or harsh. When I was asked to write about how I saw God (as I was preparing for seminary and ordination), I wrote of a grandmotherly woman who held me close on her lap where I knew I was safe.
Today is my birthday; I always think of my mother, who gave birth to me when she was 20 years old. By the time she was 30, she had five children. Everyone of us believed she loved us more than we could describe; she was available and proactive in our lives, encouraging us in whatever dreams we had.
I have often wondered why we do not use the image of God as mother more often. Give thanks for your mother who gave you birth, thanks for the mother who raised you and loves you, and thanks for the mothering God who shelters and protects you.
HYMN 43 YOU WHO DWELL IN THE SHELTER OF THE LORD Michael Joncas
You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord, who abide in his shadow for life,
Say to the Lord, “My refuge, my rock in whom I trust!”
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you, and famine will bring you no fear:
Under his wings, your refuge, his faithfulness your shield.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day;
Though thousands fall about you, near you it shall not come.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
For to his angels he’s given a command to guard you in all of your ways;
Upon their hands they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Underneath are the everlasting arms:
loved words and loving – reminding us of a God who is always there, like a mother with a young child, knowing our needs, catching us when we fall, comforting, bearing, cradling, dancing and caressing.
Underneath are the everlasting arms:
words of encouragement in moments of desolation and loneliness; words passed down from mother to daughter, not in cold print but warm with faith. Thanks be to God. Amen.
The Pattern of Our Days, ed. Kathy Galloway, The Iona Community.pg. 131, adapted.
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 91
You who live in the shelter of the Most High,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
2 will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress;
my God, in whom I trust.”
3 For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler
and from the deadly pestilence;
4 he will cover you with his pinions,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.
5 You will not fear the terror of the night,
or the arrow that flies by day,
6 or the pestilence that stalks in darkness,
or the destruction that wastes at noonday.
7 A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.
8 You will only look with your eyes
and see the punishment of the wicked.
9 Because you have made the Lord your refuge,
the Most High your dwelling place,
10 no evil shall befall you,
no scourge come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways.
12 On their hands they will bear you up,
so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread on the lion and the adder,
the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot.
14 Those who love me, I will deliver;
I will protect those who know my name.
15 When they call to me, I will answer them;
I will be with them in trouble,
I will rescue them and honor them.
16 With long life I will satisfy them,
and show them my salvation.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 91
Many of us recognize this beautiful psalm because of Michael Joncas’ song (see below). The psalmist writes to us and describes the presence of God as faithful and protective. We are sheltered and loved. At the end of the psalm it is God who speaks: Those who love me, I will deliver; I will protect those who know my name.
From the time I was a small child, this has been my understanding of God. I never had a time when I imagined God as angry, vengeful or harsh. When I was asked to write about how I saw God (as I was preparing for seminary and ordination), I wrote of a grandmotherly woman who held me close on her lap where I knew I was safe.
Today is my birthday; I always think of my mother, who gave birth to me when she was 20 years old. By the time she was 30, she had five children. Everyone of us believed she loved us more than we could describe; she was available and proactive in our lives, encouraging us in whatever dreams we had.
I have often wondered why we do not use the image of God as mother more often. Give thanks for your mother who gave you birth, thanks for the mother who raised you and loves you, and thanks for the mothering God who shelters and protects you.
HYMN 43 YOU WHO DWELL IN THE SHELTER OF THE LORD Michael Joncas
You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord, who abide in his shadow for life,
Say to the Lord, “My refuge, my rock in whom I trust!”
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you, and famine will bring you no fear:
Under his wings, your refuge, his faithfulness your shield.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day;
Though thousands fall about you, near you it shall not come.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
For to his angels he’s given a command to guard you in all of your ways;
Upon their hands they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine liken the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Help me Lord, to live one day at a time. Thank you that your grace is sufficient for today and that I don’t need to worry about tomorrow, because your grace will sufficient for tomorrow also. Loving God, if you will, you can use even me. Make me willing to be looked upon as foolish by the world, if people should consider me so. Open my eyes and heart to all that is good in your world and in your people. Amen.
A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard L. Rice & Lamar Williamson, Jr. Prayer by Corrie ten Boom (adapted), pg. 122.
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 85:8-13
Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,
for he will speak peace to his people,
to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.[a]
9 Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him,
that his glory may dwell in our land.
10 Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;
righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
11 Faithfulness will spring up from the ground,
and righteousness will look down from the sky.
12 The Lord will give what is good,
and our land will yield its increase.
13 Righteousness will go before him,
and will make a path for his steps.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 85:8-13
Here is good news. The kingdom of God brings with it peace and justice, faithfulness and righteousness. Is there any reason we cannot practice using these gifts right now? Of course not. But in the midst of the news of the pandemic, the economic crisis, the question of sending our children to school, the strained relationships within our country and around the world – well, perhaps this sounds like a nice dream, not a potential reality.
This is a question of trust. Do we truly believe that God is steadfast, that God will give what is good to us? Where is the glory of God that supposedly fills our land and brings peace to our lives? Perhaps we need to take a deep breath, and look closely at what is good around us. Gratitude for what good we find also leads us to look further; we may see righteousness and peace and justice in the midst of all the uncertainty. Look again carefully and with trust. God will speak, God will give us what is good.
HYMN 449 SHOW US, O LORD, YOUR STEADFAST LOVE Christopher L. Webber
Show us, O Lord, your steadfast love, and let your saving grace be near;
When we return with open hearts the Lord speaks peace and we will hear.
Mercy and truth at last have met; justice and peace are reconciled.
Truth has arisen from the earth; justice looked down from heaven and smiled.
Lord, you will grant prosperity; our land will yield its full increase.
Justice shall go before your face; the pathway for your feet is peace.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Help me Lord, to live one day at a time. Thank you that your grace is sufficient for today and that I don’t need to worry about tomorrow, because your grace will sufficient for tomorrow also. Loving God, if you will, you can use even me. Make me willing to be looked upon as foolish by the world, if people should consider me so. Open my eyes and heart to all that is good in your world and in your people. Amen.
A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard L. Rice & Lamar Williamson, Jr. Prayer by Corrie ten Boom (adapted), pg. 122.
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 85:8-13
Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,
for he will speak peace to his people,
to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.[a]
9 Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him,
that his glory may dwell in our land.
10 Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;
righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
11 Faithfulness will spring up from the ground,
and righteousness will look down from the sky.
12 The Lord will give what is good,
and our land will yield its increase.
13 Righteousness will go before him,
and will make a path for his steps.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 85:8-13
Here is good news. The kingdom of God brings with it peace and justice, faithfulness and righteousness. Is there any reason we cannot practice using these gifts right now? Of course not. But in the midst of the news of the pandemic, the economic crisis, the question of sending our children to school, the strained relationships within our country and around the world – well, perhaps this sounds like a nice dream, not a potential reality.
This is a question of trust. Do we truly believe that God is steadfast, that God will give what is good to us? Where is the glory of God that supposedly fills our land and brings peace to our lives? Perhaps we need to take a deep breath, and look closely at what is good around us. Gratitude for what good we find also leads us to look further; we may see righteousness and peace and justice in the midst of all the uncertainty. Look again carefully and with trust. God will speak, God will give us what is good.
HYMN 449 SHOW US, O LORD, YOUR STEADFAST LOVE Christopher L. Webber
Show us, O Lord, your steadfast love, and let your saving grace be near;
When we return with open hearts the Lord speaks peace and we will hear.
Mercy and truth at last have met; justice and peace are reconciled.
Truth has arisen from the earth; justice looked down from heaven and smiled.
Lord, you will grant prosperity; our land will yield its full increase.
Justice shall go before your face; the pathway for your feet is peace.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Touch us by the power of your presence, O God, that as we worship, we may know what is your will for us, and in surrender to that will may know the beauty of your peace. May the scattered pieces of our lives come together in a wholeness where life will be rich and full and free; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship ed. Martha S Gilliss. Pg 52.
SCRIPTURE ISAIAH 43:1-7
But now thus says the Lord,
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
I give Egypt as your ransom,
Ethiopia[a] and Seba in exchange for you.
4 Because you are precious in my sight,
and honored, and I love you,
I give people in return for you,
nations in exchange for your life.
5 Do not fear, for I am with you;
I will bring your offspring from the east,
and from the west I will gather you;
6 I will say to the north, “Give them up,”
and to the south, “Do not withhold;
bring my sons from far away
and my daughters from the end of the earth--
7 everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made.”
MEDITATION ON ISAIAH 43;1-7
POWER. Yesterday during the wind and rain, we, along with over a million other New Jersey residents, lost power. My husband gifted himself with a generator a few months ago and was so excited to use it for the first time. In the dark, we could hear the generator running and could sleep knowing our refrigerator and freezer were working.
In these verses from Isaiah, we can get a glimpse of God’s power. God’s love is so incredible that we are told there is nothing to fear – not floods, or fire or anything else that may threaten us. Everyone is under God’s love and God’s power. We are promised that God is always with us, even in the darkest moments of the storm. The power of God is truly beyond our comprehension. It is the power to create, to love and to redeem. When you think about the commandments to love God and to love each other, God is gently but firmly commanding us to use this amazing power of love in our lives. Perhaps we can be creative, loving, and present for one another. Amazing!
HYMN 32 I SING THE MIGHTY POWER OF GOD Isaac Watts
I sing the mighty power of God that made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad and built the lofty skies.
I sing the wisdom that ordained the sun to rule the day.
The moon shines full at God’s command, and all the stars obey.
I sing the goodness of the Lord who filled the earth with food.
God formed the creatures through the Word, and then pronounced them good.
Lord, how thy wonders are displayed, where’er I turn my eye,
If I survey the ground I tread, or gaze upon the sky!
There’s not a plant or flower below but makes thy glories known.
And clouds arise, and tempests blow, by order from thy throne,
While all that borrows life from thee is ever in thy care,
And everywhere that we can be, thou, God, art present there.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Touch us by the power of your presence, O God, that as we worship, we may know what is your will for us, and in surrender to that will may know the beauty of your peace. May the scattered pieces of our lives come together in a wholeness where life will be rich and full and free; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship ed. Martha S Gilliss. Pg 52.
SCRIPTURE ISAIAH 43:1-7
But now thus says the Lord,
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
I give Egypt as your ransom,
Ethiopia[a] and Seba in exchange for you.
4 Because you are precious in my sight,
and honored, and I love you,
I give people in return for you,
nations in exchange for your life.
5 Do not fear, for I am with you;
I will bring your offspring from the east,
and from the west I will gather you;
6 I will say to the north, “Give them up,”
and to the south, “Do not withhold;
bring my sons from far away
and my daughters from the end of the earth--
7 everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made.”
MEDITATION ON ISAIAH 43;1-7
POWER. Yesterday during the wind and rain, we, along with over a million other New Jersey residents, lost power. My husband gifted himself with a generator a few months ago and was so excited to use it for the first time. In the dark, we could hear the generator running and could sleep knowing our refrigerator and freezer were working.
In these verses from Isaiah, we can get a glimpse of God’s power. God’s love is so incredible that we are told there is nothing to fear – not floods, or fire or anything else that may threaten us. Everyone is under God’s love and God’s power. We are promised that God is always with us, even in the darkest moments of the storm. The power of God is truly beyond our comprehension. It is the power to create, to love and to redeem. When you think about the commandments to love God and to love each other, God is gently but firmly commanding us to use this amazing power of love in our lives. Perhaps we can be creative, loving, and present for one another. Amazing!
HYMN 32 I SING THE MIGHTY POWER OF GOD Isaac Watts
I sing the mighty power of God that made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad and built the lofty skies.
I sing the wisdom that ordained the sun to rule the day.
The moon shines full at God’s command, and all the stars obey.
I sing the goodness of the Lord who filled the earth with food.
God formed the creatures through the Word, and then pronounced them good.
Lord, how thy wonders are displayed, where’er I turn my eye,
If I survey the ground I tread, or gaze upon the sky!
There’s not a plant or flower below but makes thy glories known.
And clouds arise, and tempests blow, by order from thy throne,
While all that borrows life from thee is ever in thy care,
And everywhere that we can be, thou, God, art present there.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2020 - Storm Day
MONDAY, AUGUST 3, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Draw your Church together, O God, into one great company of disciples, together following our Lord Jesus Christ into every walk of life, together serving him in his mission to the world, and together witnessing to his love on every continent and island. Amen.
A New Aealand Prayer Book, The Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and
Polynesia. Prayers for Various Occasions, pg. 141.
SCRIPTURE READING ROMANS 1:8-15
8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed throughout the world. 9 For God, whom I serve with my spirit by announcing the gospel of his Son, is my witness that without ceasing I remember you always in my prayers, 10 asking that by God’s will I may somehow at last succeed in coming to you. 11 For I am longing to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— 12 or rather so that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine. 13 I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that I have often intended to come to you (but thus far have been prevented), in order that I may reap some harvest among you as I have among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish 15 —hence my eagerness to proclaim the gospel to you also who are in Rome.
MEDITATION ON ROMANS 1:8-15
After the required salutation to the Christians in Rome, Paul gets to the purpose of this very important letter. He has never been to Rome, but knows a few of the leaders of the Christian community.
These words of encouragement and gratitude are a witness to the importance of the connected church; we are not an isolated congregation nor are we an isolated denomination. We recognize that the church of Jesus Christ is the body of Christ and encompasses Christians of all kinds all over the world.
These are also timely words in this season of the pandemic. In our various stages of isolation, we need to know that we are still connected to friends and family. We, like Paul, can begin our day by thanking God through Jesus Christ for our brothers and sisters in the faith for their steadfast trust in God, for the love that is shared and for the compassion shown to those who are ill or anxious. We are blessed to be “mutually encourage by each other’s faith”. Our hope in Christ is that eventually we will be in the presence of one another, without masks, without fear –and without the threat of the COVID virus.
HYMN 847 OUR HOPE, OUR LIFE Martin E. Lekebusch
Our hope, our life are in the Lord, the God we honor and confess.
Why crave renown or opulence? The fade, those things we now possess.
Some flaunt their gold; some trust its power, but what they cherish will decay.
And still the ransom for a soul remains a price too great to pay.
Though wealth or learning may be ours, or fame that spreads throughout the land,
The shackles of mortality prevent so much that we have planned.
Beyond this age of shame and sham we glimpse a better destiny:
The Lord will lift us free from death to dwell in praise eternally.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Draw your Church together, O God, into one great company of disciples, together following our Lord Jesus Christ into every walk of life, together serving him in his mission to the world, and together witnessing to his love on every continent and island. Amen.
A New Aealand Prayer Book, The Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and
Polynesia. Prayers for Various Occasions, pg. 141.
SCRIPTURE READING ROMANS 1:8-15
8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed throughout the world. 9 For God, whom I serve with my spirit by announcing the gospel of his Son, is my witness that without ceasing I remember you always in my prayers, 10 asking that by God’s will I may somehow at last succeed in coming to you. 11 For I am longing to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— 12 or rather so that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine. 13 I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that I have often intended to come to you (but thus far have been prevented), in order that I may reap some harvest among you as I have among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish 15 —hence my eagerness to proclaim the gospel to you also who are in Rome.
MEDITATION ON ROMANS 1:8-15
After the required salutation to the Christians in Rome, Paul gets to the purpose of this very important letter. He has never been to Rome, but knows a few of the leaders of the Christian community.
These words of encouragement and gratitude are a witness to the importance of the connected church; we are not an isolated congregation nor are we an isolated denomination. We recognize that the church of Jesus Christ is the body of Christ and encompasses Christians of all kinds all over the world.
These are also timely words in this season of the pandemic. In our various stages of isolation, we need to know that we are still connected to friends and family. We, like Paul, can begin our day by thanking God through Jesus Christ for our brothers and sisters in the faith for their steadfast trust in God, for the love that is shared and for the compassion shown to those who are ill or anxious. We are blessed to be “mutually encourage by each other’s faith”. Our hope in Christ is that eventually we will be in the presence of one another, without masks, without fear –and without the threat of the COVID virus.
HYMN 847 OUR HOPE, OUR LIFE Martin E. Lekebusch
Our hope, our life are in the Lord, the God we honor and confess.
Why crave renown or opulence? The fade, those things we now possess.
Some flaunt their gold; some trust its power, but what they cherish will decay.
And still the ransom for a soul remains a price too great to pay.
Though wealth or learning may be ours, or fame that spreads throughout the land,
The shackles of mortality prevent so much that we have planned.
Beyond this age of shame and sham we glimpse a better destiny:
The Lord will lift us free from death to dwell in praise eternally.
| Bulletin for the Zoom service on 18TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, August 2, 2020 at 12:00 noon |
WEDNESDAY, July 29, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Come, Holy Spirit, give us a sense unity and common purpose; as we have received faith through other people, give us words and actions that will help others to believe in you.
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. Give us ears to hear the call of Jesus and minds, hearts and wills ready and willing to respond to it. Amen.
Wild Goose Big Book of Worship Resources, Iona Community, pp. 164-5
SCRIPTURE READING MARK 4:30-32He also said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? 31 It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; 32 yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.”MEDITATION ON MARK 4:30-32
I grew up seeing fields of wild mustard; bright yellow, swinging in the breeze. I never saw a mustard shrub large enough to grow branches and entice birds to make nests. Apparently there are many varieties of mustard, and in some places those very small seeds grow into huge bushes. It is a hardy plant, no matter the variety, and is very useful. I make pickles that require mustard seeds and homemade mustard made of ground mustard. I love the flavor.The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed. Somehow, I think it takes a lot of imagination to see the kingdom of God in a small round seed. But I think Jesus is talking about potential. He also says, frequently, that the kingdom of God is here and now, around us and within us. What kind of potential do we have? What growth can we encourage? Within us is all the potential God has given to us, probably more than we can imagine. So thanks be to God for small, humble mustard seeds! HYMN 771 WHAT IS THE WORLD LIKE Adam M. L. Tice
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Mustard seeds grow more than we can conceive;
Roots thread the soil, branches reach for the sun.
This is how God moves us each to believe.
hat is the world like when God’s will is done?
Witness the wandering child coming home’
Watch as the parent breaks into a run.
This is how God longs for us when we roam.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
No more is neighbor just ally or friend;
Peace thrives in places where once there was none.
This is how God works when rivalries end.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Ready for feasting, we watch through the night,
Tending our lamps till the new day’s begun.
This is how God readies us for the light.
These are the stories that Jesus imparts,
Filled with the Spirit who joins us as one.
Born through our voices, our hands, and our hearts,
This is a new world where God’s will is done.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Come, Holy Spirit, give us a sense unity and common purpose; as we have received faith through other people, give us words and actions that will help others to believe in you.
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. Give us ears to hear the call of Jesus and minds, hearts and wills ready and willing to respond to it. Amen.
Wild Goose Big Book of Worship Resources, Iona Community, pp. 164-5
SCRIPTURE READING MARK 4:30-32He also said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? 31 It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; 32 yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.”MEDITATION ON MARK 4:30-32
I grew up seeing fields of wild mustard; bright yellow, swinging in the breeze. I never saw a mustard shrub large enough to grow branches and entice birds to make nests. Apparently there are many varieties of mustard, and in some places those very small seeds grow into huge bushes. It is a hardy plant, no matter the variety, and is very useful. I make pickles that require mustard seeds and homemade mustard made of ground mustard. I love the flavor.The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed. Somehow, I think it takes a lot of imagination to see the kingdom of God in a small round seed. But I think Jesus is talking about potential. He also says, frequently, that the kingdom of God is here and now, around us and within us. What kind of potential do we have? What growth can we encourage? Within us is all the potential God has given to us, probably more than we can imagine. So thanks be to God for small, humble mustard seeds! HYMN 771 WHAT IS THE WORLD LIKE Adam M. L. Tice
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Mustard seeds grow more than we can conceive;
Roots thread the soil, branches reach for the sun.
This is how God moves us each to believe.
hat is the world like when God’s will is done?
Witness the wandering child coming home’
Watch as the parent breaks into a run.
This is how God longs for us when we roam.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
No more is neighbor just ally or friend;
Peace thrives in places where once there was none.
This is how God works when rivalries end.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Ready for feasting, we watch through the night,
Tending our lamps till the new day’s begun.
This is how God readies us for the light.
These are the stories that Jesus imparts,
Filled with the Spirit who joins us as one.
Born through our voices, our hands, and our hearts,
This is a new world where God’s will is done.
TUESDAY, July 28, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear Lord, help me to trust in your wisdom that nothing is forgotten. Give me the strength to meet the events of my life, believing that in you all will be revealed and everything will be made well. Help me to surrender my anxiety so that my spirit may have east and be at peace in love. Amen.
All Will Be Well, Julian of Norwich, pg. 42.SCRIPTURE READING 1 KINGS 4:29-3429 God gave Solomon very great wisdom, discernment, and breadth of understanding as vast as the sand on the seashore, 30 so that Solomon’s wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east, and all the wisdom of Egypt. 31 He was wiser than anyone else, wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, children of Mahol; his fame spread throughout all the surrounding nations. 32 He composed three thousand proverbs, and his songs numbered a thousand and five. 33 He would speak of trees, from the cedar that is in the Lebanon to the hyssop that grows in the wall; he would speak of animals, and birds, and reptiles, and fish. 34 People came from all the nations to hear the wisdom of Solomon; they came from all the kings of the earth who had heard of his wisdom.MEDITATION ON 1 KINGS 4:29-34
Many of us are familiar with the story of the two women brought before Solomon. They both had small infants; sometime in the night, one of the infants died. They both claimed the living child was theirs and came to Solomon for a wise decision about the predicament. Solomon suggested that the child be cut in half and thus shared with both women. One of the women cried out to save the child’s life; Solomon proclaimed that she was the mother. Only a mother would cry out as she had to save her own child’s life.This text follows the story of the two women. When the phrase, “Wise as Solomon” is used, this is the kind of wisdom that is evident. We need such wisdom these days. We are inundated with all kinds of propaganda in writing, social media, television, radio, etc. How do we discern what is true, what is noble, what is good? The wisdom of Solomon was a gift from God, and it looks like Solomon was judicious in using his wisdom.Perhaps we pray not only for wisdom, but for discernment. May we listen carefully and ponder over the words and ideas we hear.
HYMN 174 COME AND SEEK THE WAYS OF WISDOM Ruth Duck
Come and seek the ways of Wisdom, she who danced when earth was new.
Follow closely what she teaches, for her words are right and true.
Wisdom clears the path to justice, showing us what love must do.
Listen to the voice of Wisdom, crying in the marketplace.
Hear the word made flesh among us, full of glory, truth, and grace.
When the word takes root and ripens, peace and righteousness embrace.
Sister Wisdom, come, assist us; nurture all who seek rebirth.
Spirit-guide and close companion, bring to light our sacred worth.
Free us to become your people, holy friends of God and earth.
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear Lord, help me to trust in your wisdom that nothing is forgotten. Give me the strength to meet the events of my life, believing that in you all will be revealed and everything will be made well. Help me to surrender my anxiety so that my spirit may have east and be at peace in love. Amen.
All Will Be Well, Julian of Norwich, pg. 42.SCRIPTURE READING 1 KINGS 4:29-3429 God gave Solomon very great wisdom, discernment, and breadth of understanding as vast as the sand on the seashore, 30 so that Solomon’s wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east, and all the wisdom of Egypt. 31 He was wiser than anyone else, wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, children of Mahol; his fame spread throughout all the surrounding nations. 32 He composed three thousand proverbs, and his songs numbered a thousand and five. 33 He would speak of trees, from the cedar that is in the Lebanon to the hyssop that grows in the wall; he would speak of animals, and birds, and reptiles, and fish. 34 People came from all the nations to hear the wisdom of Solomon; they came from all the kings of the earth who had heard of his wisdom.MEDITATION ON 1 KINGS 4:29-34
Many of us are familiar with the story of the two women brought before Solomon. They both had small infants; sometime in the night, one of the infants died. They both claimed the living child was theirs and came to Solomon for a wise decision about the predicament. Solomon suggested that the child be cut in half and thus shared with both women. One of the women cried out to save the child’s life; Solomon proclaimed that she was the mother. Only a mother would cry out as she had to save her own child’s life.This text follows the story of the two women. When the phrase, “Wise as Solomon” is used, this is the kind of wisdom that is evident. We need such wisdom these days. We are inundated with all kinds of propaganda in writing, social media, television, radio, etc. How do we discern what is true, what is noble, what is good? The wisdom of Solomon was a gift from God, and it looks like Solomon was judicious in using his wisdom.Perhaps we pray not only for wisdom, but for discernment. May we listen carefully and ponder over the words and ideas we hear.
HYMN 174 COME AND SEEK THE WAYS OF WISDOM Ruth Duck
Come and seek the ways of Wisdom, she who danced when earth was new.
Follow closely what she teaches, for her words are right and true.
Wisdom clears the path to justice, showing us what love must do.
Listen to the voice of Wisdom, crying in the marketplace.
Hear the word made flesh among us, full of glory, truth, and grace.
When the word takes root and ripens, peace and righteousness embrace.
Sister Wisdom, come, assist us; nurture all who seek rebirth.
Spirit-guide and close companion, bring to light our sacred worth.
Free us to become your people, holy friends of God and earth.
MONDAY, July 27, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
All things are born of you, O God. We carry within us your light and your life. In the mystery of matter and deep in the cells of our souls are your longings for oneness. The oneness of the universe, vast and vibrating with the sound of its beginning. The oneness of the earth, greening and teeming as a single body. The oneness of the human soul, a sacred countenance in infinite form. Grant us your longings for oneness, O God, amidst life’s glorious diversity and creative forms. Amen.
Praying with the Earth: A Prayerbook for Peace, John Phillip Newell, pg. 28
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 65:8-138 Those who live at earth’s farthest bounds are awed by your signs;
you make the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy.
9 You visit the earth and water it,
you greatly enrich it;
the river of God is full of water;
you provide the people with grain,
for so you have prepared it.
10 You water its furrows abundantly,
settling its ridges,
softening it with showers,
and blessing its growth.
11 You crown the year with your bounty;
your wagon tracks overflow with richness.
12 The pastures of the wilderness overflow,
the hills gird themselves with joy,
13 the meadows clothe themselves with flocks,
the valleys deck themselves with grain,
they shout and sing together for joy.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 65:8-13I love this time of the summer. Everything is lush and deep green; when I go my garden, I pick beans, peas, peppers, squash and handfuls of beautiful Shasta daisies and cone flowers. As I drink my breakfast coffee, I see all kinds of birds coming to feed at the bird feeders out the back windows. Everything is beautiful, growing and healthy.In this time of uncertainty, giving thanks to God for such amazing abundance is almost too easy. When fall and winter come with their own beauty, I try to remember this time of the summer. The seasons are a gift and part of the rhythm of life. How can we not have grateful hearts? The psalmist writes that the meadows and pastures and hills and valleys shout and sing together for joy. Soto can we shout and sing, even in the midst of a pandemic and the unrest around us. God’s creation is every changing, but is always wondrous!HYMN 38 TO BLESS THE EARTH (PSALM 65)The New Metrical Version of the Psalms, 1909To bless the earth God sends us from heaven’s abundant storeThe waters of the springtime, enriching it once more.The seed by God provided is sown o’er hill and plain,
And then come gentle showers to bless the springing grain.God crowns the year with goodness; the earth God’s mercy fills;
The wilderness is fruitful, and joyful are the hills.With grain the fields are covered; the flocks in pastures graze;
All nature joins in singing a joyful song of praise
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
All things are born of you, O God. We carry within us your light and your life. In the mystery of matter and deep in the cells of our souls are your longings for oneness. The oneness of the universe, vast and vibrating with the sound of its beginning. The oneness of the earth, greening and teeming as a single body. The oneness of the human soul, a sacred countenance in infinite form. Grant us your longings for oneness, O God, amidst life’s glorious diversity and creative forms. Amen.
Praying with the Earth: A Prayerbook for Peace, John Phillip Newell, pg. 28
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 65:8-138 Those who live at earth’s farthest bounds are awed by your signs;
you make the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy.
9 You visit the earth and water it,
you greatly enrich it;
the river of God is full of water;
you provide the people with grain,
for so you have prepared it.
10 You water its furrows abundantly,
settling its ridges,
softening it with showers,
and blessing its growth.
11 You crown the year with your bounty;
your wagon tracks overflow with richness.
12 The pastures of the wilderness overflow,
the hills gird themselves with joy,
13 the meadows clothe themselves with flocks,
the valleys deck themselves with grain,
they shout and sing together for joy.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 65:8-13I love this time of the summer. Everything is lush and deep green; when I go my garden, I pick beans, peas, peppers, squash and handfuls of beautiful Shasta daisies and cone flowers. As I drink my breakfast coffee, I see all kinds of birds coming to feed at the bird feeders out the back windows. Everything is beautiful, growing and healthy.In this time of uncertainty, giving thanks to God for such amazing abundance is almost too easy. When fall and winter come with their own beauty, I try to remember this time of the summer. The seasons are a gift and part of the rhythm of life. How can we not have grateful hearts? The psalmist writes that the meadows and pastures and hills and valleys shout and sing together for joy. Soto can we shout and sing, even in the midst of a pandemic and the unrest around us. God’s creation is every changing, but is always wondrous!HYMN 38 TO BLESS THE EARTH (PSALM 65)The New Metrical Version of the Psalms, 1909To bless the earth God sends us from heaven’s abundant storeThe waters of the springtime, enriching it once more.The seed by God provided is sown o’er hill and plain,
And then come gentle showers to bless the springing grain.God crowns the year with goodness; the earth God’s mercy fills;
The wilderness is fruitful, and joyful are the hills.With grain the fields are covered; the flocks in pastures graze;
All nature joins in singing a joyful song of praise
| Bulletin for the 17TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME July 26, 2020 Zoom 12:00 Noon Service |
SATURDAY, July 25, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God, sometimes, I am overwhelmed by fear, fearful of change, fearful of others, fearful of the unknown. In those times, grant me courage, a courage not borne out of fear, but courage that is guided by your wisdom, gifted with your presence, and grounded in your calling. Amen.
40 Days. 40 Prayers, 40 Words: Lenten Reflections for Everyday Life, Bruce Reye-Chow, pg. 4.
SCRIPTURE READING ISAIAH 40:28-31
Have you not known? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He does not faint or grow weary;
his understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the faint,
and strengthens the powerless.
30 Even youths will faint and be weary,
and the young will fall exhausted;
31 but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
they shall walk and not faint.
MEDITATION ON ISAIAH 40:28-31
In a recent article about exhaustion (something we all experience in these days of COVID) I read there are two needs we have that will revitalize us. First, there is the exhaustion that needs rest. Secondly, there is the exhaustion that needs peace. Stress, anxiety, a loss of control – all these and more contribute to exhaustion. We are weary and powerless. We can only imagine what it is like to have the energy to run and not be weary, to walk long distances and not faint.
It is easy with the kind of exhaustion we are experiencing to fall into almost a mental stupor; we don’t think or reason as well as we used to. It is like falling into a dark place with no awareness we cannot get out. It is there we hear the voice calling us, “Have you not known? Have you not heard?”
God does not give up on us, can give us strength, and help us to focus. This is our hope, our promise. Imagine soaring through the skies like an eagle, being able to see for miles. We do not need to stay in the place of darkness. As the song says, “He will raise you up on eagles; wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.” Hope and believe.
HYMN 43 YOU WHO DWELL IN THE SHELTER OF THE LORD Michael Joncas
You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord, who abide in his shadow for life,
Say to the Lord, “My refuge, my rock in who I trust!”
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you, and famine will bring you no fear;
Under his wings, your refuge, his faithfulness your shield.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day;
Though thousands fall about you, near you it shall not come.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
For to his angels he’s given a command to guard you in all of your ways;
Upon their hands they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God, sometimes, I am overwhelmed by fear, fearful of change, fearful of others, fearful of the unknown. In those times, grant me courage, a courage not borne out of fear, but courage that is guided by your wisdom, gifted with your presence, and grounded in your calling. Amen.
40 Days. 40 Prayers, 40 Words: Lenten Reflections for Everyday Life, Bruce Reye-Chow, pg. 4.
SCRIPTURE READING ISAIAH 40:28-31
Have you not known? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He does not faint or grow weary;
his understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the faint,
and strengthens the powerless.
30 Even youths will faint and be weary,
and the young will fall exhausted;
31 but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
they shall walk and not faint.
MEDITATION ON ISAIAH 40:28-31
In a recent article about exhaustion (something we all experience in these days of COVID) I read there are two needs we have that will revitalize us. First, there is the exhaustion that needs rest. Secondly, there is the exhaustion that needs peace. Stress, anxiety, a loss of control – all these and more contribute to exhaustion. We are weary and powerless. We can only imagine what it is like to have the energy to run and not be weary, to walk long distances and not faint.
It is easy with the kind of exhaustion we are experiencing to fall into almost a mental stupor; we don’t think or reason as well as we used to. It is like falling into a dark place with no awareness we cannot get out. It is there we hear the voice calling us, “Have you not known? Have you not heard?”
God does not give up on us, can give us strength, and help us to focus. This is our hope, our promise. Imagine soaring through the skies like an eagle, being able to see for miles. We do not need to stay in the place of darkness. As the song says, “He will raise you up on eagles; wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.” Hope and believe.
HYMN 43 YOU WHO DWELL IN THE SHELTER OF THE LORD Michael Joncas
You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord, who abide in his shadow for life,
Say to the Lord, “My refuge, my rock in who I trust!”
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you, and famine will bring you no fear;
Under his wings, your refuge, his faithfulness your shield.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day;
Though thousands fall about you, near you it shall not come.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand.
For to his angels he’s given a command to guard you in all of your ways;
Upon their hands they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Refrain
And he will raise you up on eagles’ wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand
WEDNESDAY, July 22, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God our helper, our shade, our protector, you are able to give life to the dead, to call into being things that do not exist. We trust in your power to make all things new; to keep us in sunlight and moonlight, along rocky paths and pathways unknown; until all our going and coming brings us at last to your kingdom promised in Christ. Amen.
Feasting on the Word Worship Companion: LItrugies for Year A, Vol. 1, Kimberly Bracken Long, ed.
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 10:23-25
23 Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 10:23-25
What strikes me in this text is the direction to provoke one another to love and good deeds. Too often we read the scriptures as personal, only for me and how I should live. The writer of Hebrews issues a kind of challenge to us: look outside yourself, help others to love and live better. How do we do that?! I sometimes think I have more than enough to do to love more and live better myself. How can I encourage anyone else? The Hebrews writer goes on to say that we need to meet together, encourage one another.
I was explaining to my four year old granddaughter as we were leaving her house on a Saturday night that I had to work the next day. I would go to church; I was the pastor, and I would be in church on Sundays. “Every Sunday?!” she asked. Yes. Every Sunday, even if I was not a pastor. I told her it was very important to me. As we left I could see the wheels turning in her mind. But I told the truth. I love worship, and I love being with a congregation. When I am in worship with a congregation, I know I am being challenged and “provoked” to love and better living. Sunday morning worship is where I find encouragement, and where I hear Good News.
HYMN 39 GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS Thomas O. Chisholm
Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with thee.
Thou changest not; thy compassions they fail not.
As thou hast been thou forever wilt be.
Refrain
Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning, new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun moon, and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.
Refrain
Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning, new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow:
Blessings all mine, wth ten thousand beside!
Refrain
Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning, new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God our helper, our shade, our protector, you are able to give life to the dead, to call into being things that do not exist. We trust in your power to make all things new; to keep us in sunlight and moonlight, along rocky paths and pathways unknown; until all our going and coming brings us at last to your kingdom promised in Christ. Amen.
Feasting on the Word Worship Companion: LItrugies for Year A, Vol. 1, Kimberly Bracken Long, ed.
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 10:23-25
23 Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 10:23-25
What strikes me in this text is the direction to provoke one another to love and good deeds. Too often we read the scriptures as personal, only for me and how I should live. The writer of Hebrews issues a kind of challenge to us: look outside yourself, help others to love and live better. How do we do that?! I sometimes think I have more than enough to do to love more and live better myself. How can I encourage anyone else? The Hebrews writer goes on to say that we need to meet together, encourage one another.
I was explaining to my four year old granddaughter as we were leaving her house on a Saturday night that I had to work the next day. I would go to church; I was the pastor, and I would be in church on Sundays. “Every Sunday?!” she asked. Yes. Every Sunday, even if I was not a pastor. I told her it was very important to me. As we left I could see the wheels turning in her mind. But I told the truth. I love worship, and I love being with a congregation. When I am in worship with a congregation, I know I am being challenged and “provoked” to love and better living. Sunday morning worship is where I find encouragement, and where I hear Good News.
HYMN 39 GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS Thomas O. Chisholm
Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with thee.
Thou changest not; thy compassions they fail not.
As thou hast been thou forever wilt be.
Refrain
Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning, new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun moon, and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.
Refrain
Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning, new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow:
Blessings all mine, wth ten thousand beside!
Refrain
Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning, new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me
TUESDAY, July 21, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
How great is your love, Lord God, how wide is your mercy! Never let us board up the narrow gate that leads to life with rules or doctrines that you dismiss; but give us a Spirit to welcome all people with affection, so that your church may never exclude anyone. We are all included in the love of Jesus, and our hearts are filled with gratitude. Amen.
Book of Common Worship, Daily Prayer, 2018. pg 498
SCRIPTURE READING JEREMIAH 29:11-14
11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12 Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 13 When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, 14 I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
MEDITATION ON JEREMIAH 29:11-14
Do you ever get to the middle of the day and feel like you are trying to swim through mud? Nothing seems to work, you have no idea where you are going or what you are doing. When that happens to me, I think of these words of God to the prophet Jeremiah. God has plans for each of us. And yes, we are all that important and loved by God.
The offer is that if we call and seek the Lord, we will find the Lord. Sometimes God is found in the most mundane and simple tasks, and it is truly a gift to encounter God while washing dishes or making beds.
God claims “I will bring you back”; while swimming through mud, that is a promise to hang on to.
HYMN 683 LORD OF ALL HOPEFULNESS Jan Struther
Lord of all hopefulness, Lord of all joy,
Whose trust, ever child-like, no cares could destroy:
Be there at our waking and give us, we pray,
Your bliss in our hearts, Lord, at the break of day.
Lord of all eagerness, Lord of all faith,
Whose strong hands were skilled at the plane and the lathe:
Be there at our labors and give us, we pray,
Your strength in our hearts, Lord, at the noon of the day.
Lord of all kindliness, Lord of all grace,
Your hands swift to welcome, your arms to embrace:
Be there at our homing and give us, we pray,
Your love in our hearts, Lord, at the eve of the day.
Lord of all gentleness, Lord of all calm,
Whose voice is contentment, whose presence is balm:
Be there at our sleeping and give us, we pray,
Your peace in our hearts, Lord, at the end of the day
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
How great is your love, Lord God, how wide is your mercy! Never let us board up the narrow gate that leads to life with rules or doctrines that you dismiss; but give us a Spirit to welcome all people with affection, so that your church may never exclude anyone. We are all included in the love of Jesus, and our hearts are filled with gratitude. Amen.
Book of Common Worship, Daily Prayer, 2018. pg 498
SCRIPTURE READING JEREMIAH 29:11-14
11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12 Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 13 When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, 14 I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
MEDITATION ON JEREMIAH 29:11-14
Do you ever get to the middle of the day and feel like you are trying to swim through mud? Nothing seems to work, you have no idea where you are going or what you are doing. When that happens to me, I think of these words of God to the prophet Jeremiah. God has plans for each of us. And yes, we are all that important and loved by God.
The offer is that if we call and seek the Lord, we will find the Lord. Sometimes God is found in the most mundane and simple tasks, and it is truly a gift to encounter God while washing dishes or making beds.
God claims “I will bring you back”; while swimming through mud, that is a promise to hang on to.
HYMN 683 LORD OF ALL HOPEFULNESS Jan Struther
Lord of all hopefulness, Lord of all joy,
Whose trust, ever child-like, no cares could destroy:
Be there at our waking and give us, we pray,
Your bliss in our hearts, Lord, at the break of day.
Lord of all eagerness, Lord of all faith,
Whose strong hands were skilled at the plane and the lathe:
Be there at our labors and give us, we pray,
Your strength in our hearts, Lord, at the noon of the day.
Lord of all kindliness, Lord of all grace,
Your hands swift to welcome, your arms to embrace:
Be there at our homing and give us, we pray,
Your love in our hearts, Lord, at the eve of the day.
Lord of all gentleness, Lord of all calm,
Whose voice is contentment, whose presence is balm:
Be there at our sleeping and give us, we pray,
Your peace in our hearts, Lord, at the end of the day
MONDAY, July 20, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Thank you, O God, for the hope that you have given to us in Jesus Christ – a hope that endures, a presence that you provide to support us. Give us minds and hearts that can discern your still, small voice that may be in a book we read, in a meeting with a friend, or in something we hear. Lead us along the narrow but fulfilling path, and give to us always some feeling of progress toward your kingdom because we commit our lives to you. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, ed. Martha S. Gilliss, prayer by Rev. Dr. Robert D. Young, pg. 100
SCRIPTURE READING 1 THESSALONIANS 1:2-5
2 We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers and sisters[a] beloved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake.
MEDITATION ON 1 THESSALONIANS 1:2-5
Paul’s first letter to the church in Thessalonika is a letter of encouragement and support. This is also a message to us. God has chosen us for service, for witness and for the building up of the community of faith. These are lofty words to hear in a time like this; we are more likely to be disheartened and without the strength to do much.
Where do we find hope in days like this? For each uplifting story on social media or in the news, there seem to be a dozen disturbing accounts bringing out the worst in human beings. It is hard to focus on the positive; but that is where we need to look. There we will find evidence of the best of humanity and we can give thanks to God for not abandoning us. The Spirit moves among us and we can have hope.
The promises of God do not fade away. As the Thessalonians worked for the good news in love and in steadfast hope, so we can work and witness to the good we see around us. We too can hope, because we know God is faithful.
HYMN 772 LIVE INTO HOPE Jane Parker Huber
Live into hope of captives freed, of sight regained, the end of greed.
The oppressed shall be the first to see the year of God’s own jubilee!
Live into hope! The blind shall see with insight and with clarity,
Removing shades of pride and fear, a vision of our God brought near.
Live into hope of liberty, the right to speak, the right to be,
The right to have one’s daily bread, to hear God’s word and thus be fed.
Live into hope of captives freed from chains of fear or want or greed.
God now proclaims our full release to faith and hope and joy and peace
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Thank you, O God, for the hope that you have given to us in Jesus Christ – a hope that endures, a presence that you provide to support us. Give us minds and hearts that can discern your still, small voice that may be in a book we read, in a meeting with a friend, or in something we hear. Lead us along the narrow but fulfilling path, and give to us always some feeling of progress toward your kingdom because we commit our lives to you. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, ed. Martha S. Gilliss, prayer by Rev. Dr. Robert D. Young, pg. 100
SCRIPTURE READING 1 THESSALONIANS 1:2-5
2 We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers and sisters[a] beloved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake.
MEDITATION ON 1 THESSALONIANS 1:2-5
Paul’s first letter to the church in Thessalonika is a letter of encouragement and support. This is also a message to us. God has chosen us for service, for witness and for the building up of the community of faith. These are lofty words to hear in a time like this; we are more likely to be disheartened and without the strength to do much.
Where do we find hope in days like this? For each uplifting story on social media or in the news, there seem to be a dozen disturbing accounts bringing out the worst in human beings. It is hard to focus on the positive; but that is where we need to look. There we will find evidence of the best of humanity and we can give thanks to God for not abandoning us. The Spirit moves among us and we can have hope.
The promises of God do not fade away. As the Thessalonians worked for the good news in love and in steadfast hope, so we can work and witness to the good we see around us. We too can hope, because we know God is faithful.
HYMN 772 LIVE INTO HOPE Jane Parker Huber
Live into hope of captives freed, of sight regained, the end of greed.
The oppressed shall be the first to see the year of God’s own jubilee!
Live into hope! The blind shall see with insight and with clarity,
Removing shades of pride and fear, a vision of our God brought near.
Live into hope of liberty, the right to speak, the right to be,
The right to have one’s daily bread, to hear God’s word and thus be fed.
Live into hope of captives freed from chains of fear or want or greed.
God now proclaims our full release to faith and hope and joy and peace
| Bulletin for 16TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME July 19, 2020 Zoom worship at 12:00 noon |
SATURDAY, July 18, 2020
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of our lives you are always calling us to follow you into the future, inviting us to new ventures, new challenges, new ways to care, new ways to touch the hearts of all. When we are fearful of the unknown, give us courage. When we worry that we are not up to the task, remind us that you would not call us if you did not believe in us.
When we get tired, or feel disappointed with the way things are going, remind us that you can bring change and hope out of the most difficult situations. Amen.
The Pattern of our Days: Liturgies and Resources for Worship, ed. By Kathy Galloway for The Iona Community, pg. 142
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 40:1-3
I waited patiently for the Lord;
he inclined to me and heard my cry.
2 He drew me up from the desolate pit,
out of the miry bog,
and set my feet upon a rock,
making my steps secure.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
and put their trust in the Lord.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 40:1-3
Time. There is the time of the earth, of creation, of humanity. Before there were clocks time was kept by the sun; day and night governed the rhythm of life. Now we check our clocks and time pieces regularly to see where we are.
Cosmic time, the time of God, cannot be regulated or even checked. How impatient we can be because God does not act in our understanding of time! Waiting patiently means putting our trust in God and in God’s timing. The promises are sure that God loves us, cares for us and will redeem us; but these things may not happen the way we envision. Rather, we put ourselves in God’s hands, wait patiently and all will be well.
HYMN 651 I WAITED PATIENTLY FOR GOD The Iona Community
I waited patiently for God, for God to hear my prayer;
And God bent down to where I sank and listened to me there.
God raised me from a miry pit, from mud and sinking sand,
And set my feet upon a rock where I can firmly stand.
And on my lips a song was put, a new song to the Lord.
Many will marvel open-eyed and put their trust in God.
Great wonders you have done, O Lord, all purposed for our good.
Unable every one to name, I bow in gratitude
O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of our lives you are always calling us to follow you into the future, inviting us to new ventures, new challenges, new ways to care, new ways to touch the hearts of all. When we are fearful of the unknown, give us courage. When we worry that we are not up to the task, remind us that you would not call us if you did not believe in us.
When we get tired, or feel disappointed with the way things are going, remind us that you can bring change and hope out of the most difficult situations. Amen.
The Pattern of our Days: Liturgies and Resources for Worship, ed. By Kathy Galloway for The Iona Community, pg. 142
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 40:1-3
I waited patiently for the Lord;
he inclined to me and heard my cry.
2 He drew me up from the desolate pit,
out of the miry bog,
and set my feet upon a rock,
making my steps secure.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
and put their trust in the Lord.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 40:1-3
Time. There is the time of the earth, of creation, of humanity. Before there were clocks time was kept by the sun; day and night governed the rhythm of life. Now we check our clocks and time pieces regularly to see where we are.
Cosmic time, the time of God, cannot be regulated or even checked. How impatient we can be because God does not act in our understanding of time! Waiting patiently means putting our trust in God and in God’s timing. The promises are sure that God loves us, cares for us and will redeem us; but these things may not happen the way we envision. Rather, we put ourselves in God’s hands, wait patiently and all will be well.
HYMN 651 I WAITED PATIENTLY FOR GOD The Iona Community
I waited patiently for God, for God to hear my prayer;
And God bent down to where I sank and listened to me there.
God raised me from a miry pit, from mud and sinking sand,
And set my feet upon a rock where I can firmly stand.
And on my lips a song was put, a new song to the Lord.
Many will marvel open-eyed and put their trust in God.
Great wonders you have done, O Lord, all purposed for our good.
Unable every one to name, I bow in gratitude
FRIDAY, July 17, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you are the giver of life. We pray for the church in the whole world. Sanctify her life, renew her worship, give power to her witnessing., restore her unity. Give strength to those who are searching together for that kind of obedience which creates unity. Heal the divisions separating your children one from another, so that they will make fast, with bonds of peace, the unity which the Spirit gives. Amen.
Book fo Common Worship (1993), A Prayer from Zaire, pg. 811.
SCRIPTURE READING EPHESIANS 4:1-6
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.
MEDITATION ON EPHESIANS 4:1-6
Paul gives us a list of qualities of a worthy life: humility, gentleness, patience, love and maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. What strikes me immediately about this list is the call to practice patience. In this time of chaos, mixed and contrary messages about school openings, virus counts, politics, we are not all of the same opinion. Patience does indeed become a virtue to be practiced!
There is only one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God. This is something we hold true as Christians. A profession of faith without actions rings hollow; conflicts about who is right and who is wrong splinters the one body of Christ and even the faith becomes chaotic and suspicious.
Patience is not an easy virtue; it ties directly into the love we are to have for God and one another and to the practice of forebearance. Pray for this quality of life for all of us that we may do more than tolerate one another. May we also love one another and work to maintain that unity in the Spirit.
HYMN 317 IN CHRIST THERE IS NO EAST OR WEST John Oxenham
In Christ there is no east or west, in him no south or north,
But one great fellowship of love throughout the whole wide earth.
In Christ shall true hearts everywhere their high communion find;
His service is the golden cord close binding humankind.
Join hands, disciples of the faith, whate’er your race may be.
All children of the living God are surely kin to me.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you are the giver of life. We pray for the church in the whole world. Sanctify her life, renew her worship, give power to her witnessing., restore her unity. Give strength to those who are searching together for that kind of obedience which creates unity. Heal the divisions separating your children one from another, so that they will make fast, with bonds of peace, the unity which the Spirit gives. Amen.
Book fo Common Worship (1993), A Prayer from Zaire, pg. 811.
SCRIPTURE READING EPHESIANS 4:1-6
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.
MEDITATION ON EPHESIANS 4:1-6
Paul gives us a list of qualities of a worthy life: humility, gentleness, patience, love and maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. What strikes me immediately about this list is the call to practice patience. In this time of chaos, mixed and contrary messages about school openings, virus counts, politics, we are not all of the same opinion. Patience does indeed become a virtue to be practiced!
There is only one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God. This is something we hold true as Christians. A profession of faith without actions rings hollow; conflicts about who is right and who is wrong splinters the one body of Christ and even the faith becomes chaotic and suspicious.
Patience is not an easy virtue; it ties directly into the love we are to have for God and one another and to the practice of forebearance. Pray for this quality of life for all of us that we may do more than tolerate one another. May we also love one another and work to maintain that unity in the Spirit.
HYMN 317 IN CHRIST THERE IS NO EAST OR WEST John Oxenham
In Christ there is no east or west, in him no south or north,
But one great fellowship of love throughout the whole wide earth.
In Christ shall true hearts everywhere their high communion find;
His service is the golden cord close binding humankind.
Join hands, disciples of the faith, whate’er your race may be.
All children of the living God are surely kin to me.
THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, why do we suffer? Why do we hurt? Shall our only answer be the whirlwind of unknowing? Why do the wicked flourish, while the righteous waster away, I am left speechless, left with the words, “I will trust in you, my God.”
God we ask for the sending of your healing Spirit, who breathed upon your disciples and moves within and without your church. As Jesus mourned the death of a friend and yet brought new life, may we also mourn and yet trust in you. Amen.
Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals, 201. Pg. 555-556, adapted.
SCRIPTURE JOHN 11:30-36
30 Now Jesus had not yet come to the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. 31 The Jews who were with her in the house, consoling her, saw Mary get up quickly and go out. They followed her because they thought that she was going to the tomb to weep there. 32 When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she knelt at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. 34 He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Jesus began to weep. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!”
MEDITATION on JOHN 11:30-36
If there is any story or passage in scripture that describes grief, this is the one to read. In other translations, verse 35 reads simply, “Jesus wept.” While grieving and weeping are human reactions, Jesus was also divine. God also grieves and mourns the brokenness of the world and the loss of loved ones. In the midst of loss and grief, God is also incredibly compassionate. We can be comforted by the presence of God and hope for the future because of the promises of God.
As we watch images of crowds gathering close together at the beach, in restaurants and bars, on the streets – all without social distancing or masks – we may find ourselves frustrated. The hospital beds are filling up again, ventilators are in use, and people are anxiously waiting for good news about family and friends. Sometimes the news is good; sometimes it is devastating. We need to hear a word of hope and comfort from one another and from God. Then we need to trust in that word that will get us through the worst of times.
But sometimes, like Jesus, we weep. God weeps with us, and we are not alone.
HYMN 840 WHEN PEACE LIKE A RIVER Horatio G. Spafford
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, why do we suffer? Why do we hurt? Shall our only answer be the whirlwind of unknowing? Why do the wicked flourish, while the righteous waster away, I am left speechless, left with the words, “I will trust in you, my God.”
God we ask for the sending of your healing Spirit, who breathed upon your disciples and moves within and without your church. As Jesus mourned the death of a friend and yet brought new life, may we also mourn and yet trust in you. Amen.
Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals, 201. Pg. 555-556, adapted.
SCRIPTURE JOHN 11:30-36
30 Now Jesus had not yet come to the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. 31 The Jews who were with her in the house, consoling her, saw Mary get up quickly and go out. They followed her because they thought that she was going to the tomb to weep there. 32 When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she knelt at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. 34 He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Jesus began to weep. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!”
MEDITATION on JOHN 11:30-36
If there is any story or passage in scripture that describes grief, this is the one to read. In other translations, verse 35 reads simply, “Jesus wept.” While grieving and weeping are human reactions, Jesus was also divine. God also grieves and mourns the brokenness of the world and the loss of loved ones. In the midst of loss and grief, God is also incredibly compassionate. We can be comforted by the presence of God and hope for the future because of the promises of God.
As we watch images of crowds gathering close together at the beach, in restaurants and bars, on the streets – all without social distancing or masks – we may find ourselves frustrated. The hospital beds are filling up again, ventilators are in use, and people are anxiously waiting for good news about family and friends. Sometimes the news is good; sometimes it is devastating. We need to hear a word of hope and comfort from one another and from God. Then we need to trust in that word that will get us through the worst of times.
But sometimes, like Jesus, we weep. God weeps with us, and we are not alone.
HYMN 840 WHEN PEACE LIKE A RIVER Horatio G. Spafford
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul
| Bulletin for Zoom service on the 15TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME July 12, 2020 at 12 noon. |
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Eternal God, you are the power behind all things, behind all minds: behind the ability to think and reason, behind all understanding of the truth. Eternal God, you are the power behind the cross of Christ: behind the weakness, the torture and the death, behind unconquerable love. Eternal God, we worship you, and trust in your great love and faithfulness. Amen.
Book of Common Worship (1993), pg. 21, adapted.
SCRIPTURE 2 SAMUEL 18:31-33
31 Then the Cushite came; and the Cushite said, “Good tidings for my lord the king! For the Lord has vindicated you this day, delivering you from the power of all who rose up against you.” 32 The king said to the Cushite, “Is it well with the young man Absalom?” The Cushite answered, “May the enemies of my lord the king, and all who rise up to do you harm, be like that young man.”
33 [g] The king was deeply moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept; and as he went, he said, “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!”
MEDITATION ON 2 SAMUEL 18:31-33
This is every parent’s worst nightmare: the death of a child. Absalom has defied his father, King David, and is killed in the process. The Cushite (and others) thought David would be pleased that his rebellious son was dead. How wrong they were! Every time I read this story, I can hear David’s grief in his voice as he weeps and laments the loss of Absalom.
We recognize that grief is for our loss, for our inability to control the outcome of disease or violence. Our faith is a source of comfort and compassion. Too many times I have heard grieving friends and family apologize for their tears and emotions. But faith also gives us permission to weep, lament, to scream with anger if needed. (Just read the psalms.) And here is David, the beloved of God, who could not control the fate of his beloved son. God also lost a beloved son; the grief we feel at losing a loved one is known and understood by God. We can wail and scream in anger all we want; God can take it. And when the lament comes to some kind of a close, God is still present, waiting with compassion and hope.
As we continue to live and die in the midst of this pandemic, our grief and sorrow should be recognized and we should be free to mourn. As people of faith, we also are invited to fall into the arms of a loving and compassionate God.
HYMN 787 GOD WEEPS WITH US WHO WEEP AND MOURN Thomas Troeger
God weeps with us who weep and mourn; God’s tears flow down with ours,
And God’s own heart is bruised and word from all the heavy hours
Of watching while the soul’s bright fire burned lower day by day,
And pulse and breath and love’s desire dimmed down to ash and clay.
Through tears and sorrow, God, we share a sense of your vast grief;
The weight of bearing every prayer for healing and relief,
The burden of our questions why, the doubts that they engage,
And as our friends and loved ones die, our hopelessness and rage.
And yet because, like us, you weep, we trust you will receive
And in your tender heart will keep the ones for whom we grieve,
While with your tears our hearts will taste the deep, dear core of things
From which both life and death are graced by love’s renewing springs
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Eternal God, you are the power behind all things, behind all minds: behind the ability to think and reason, behind all understanding of the truth. Eternal God, you are the power behind the cross of Christ: behind the weakness, the torture and the death, behind unconquerable love. Eternal God, we worship you, and trust in your great love and faithfulness. Amen.
Book of Common Worship (1993), pg. 21, adapted.
SCRIPTURE 2 SAMUEL 18:31-33
31 Then the Cushite came; and the Cushite said, “Good tidings for my lord the king! For the Lord has vindicated you this day, delivering you from the power of all who rose up against you.” 32 The king said to the Cushite, “Is it well with the young man Absalom?” The Cushite answered, “May the enemies of my lord the king, and all who rise up to do you harm, be like that young man.”
33 [g] The king was deeply moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept; and as he went, he said, “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!”
MEDITATION ON 2 SAMUEL 18:31-33
This is every parent’s worst nightmare: the death of a child. Absalom has defied his father, King David, and is killed in the process. The Cushite (and others) thought David would be pleased that his rebellious son was dead. How wrong they were! Every time I read this story, I can hear David’s grief in his voice as he weeps and laments the loss of Absalom.
We recognize that grief is for our loss, for our inability to control the outcome of disease or violence. Our faith is a source of comfort and compassion. Too many times I have heard grieving friends and family apologize for their tears and emotions. But faith also gives us permission to weep, lament, to scream with anger if needed. (Just read the psalms.) And here is David, the beloved of God, who could not control the fate of his beloved son. God also lost a beloved son; the grief we feel at losing a loved one is known and understood by God. We can wail and scream in anger all we want; God can take it. And when the lament comes to some kind of a close, God is still present, waiting with compassion and hope.
As we continue to live and die in the midst of this pandemic, our grief and sorrow should be recognized and we should be free to mourn. As people of faith, we also are invited to fall into the arms of a loving and compassionate God.
HYMN 787 GOD WEEPS WITH US WHO WEEP AND MOURN Thomas Troeger
God weeps with us who weep and mourn; God’s tears flow down with ours,
And God’s own heart is bruised and word from all the heavy hours
Of watching while the soul’s bright fire burned lower day by day,
And pulse and breath and love’s desire dimmed down to ash and clay.
Through tears and sorrow, God, we share a sense of your vast grief;
The weight of bearing every prayer for healing and relief,
The burden of our questions why, the doubts that they engage,
And as our friends and loved ones die, our hopelessness and rage.
And yet because, like us, you weep, we trust you will receive
And in your tender heart will keep the ones for whom we grieve,
While with your tears our hearts will taste the deep, dear core of things
From which both life and death are graced by love’s renewing springs
TUESDAY, JULY 7, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O Sun behind all suns, I give you greeting this new day. Let all Creation praise you. Let the daylight and the shadows praise you. Let the fertile earth and the swelling sea praise you. Let the winds and the rain, the lightning and the thunder praise you. Let all that breathes, both male and female, praise you. And I shall praise you. O God of all life I give you greeting this day. Amen.
Celtic Prayers from Iona, J. Philip Newell, Wednesday morning prayer/
SCRIPTURE PSALM 147:1-6
Praise the Lord!
How good it is to sing praises to our God;
for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting.
2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the outcasts of Israel.
3 He heals the brokenhearted,
and binds up their wounds.
4 He determines the number of the stars;
he gives to all of them their names.
5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power;
his understanding is beyond measure.
6 The Lord lifts up the downtrodden;
he casts the wicked to the ground.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 147:1-6
As you read through all 150 psalms, you may notice that the closer you get to the end (Psalm 150), the more joyous and celebratory the psalms are. Psalm 147 is a celebration of the presence of God and the great care for Jerusalem and the people. It is not a frivolous acclamation, but points to the actions God takes: healing the brokenhearted, and binding up wounds.
Recognizing the work of healing and restoration makes our celebrations more powerful. This weekend of celebration our Independence Day brought with it the recognition of wounds and broken hearts that are in need of care. Who is responsible for the healing and binding? Wouldn’t it be nice to wash our hands of all responsibilities and simply assume these things belong to God? But we believe God calls us to participate in the building of the kingdom of God; so we cannot wash our hands of the much needed healing around us.
As we listen and learn from our brothers and sisters of political and social wounds inflicted over the history of our nation, hopefully we will respond with compassion, with encouragement – and with change.
HYMN 657 SING TO GOD, WITH JOY AND GLADNESS John Bell
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
God unites the scattered people, gathers those who wandered far,
Heals the hurt and broken spirits, tending every wound and scar.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
Such is God’s great power and wisdom, none can calculate or tell;
Keen is God to ground the wicked and with humble fold to dwell.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
God with clouds the sky has curtained, thus ensuring rain shall fall;
Earth, responding, grows to order food for creatures great and small.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
God’s discernment never favors strength or speed to lift or move;
God delights in those who worship, trusting in God’s steadfast love.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O Sun behind all suns, I give you greeting this new day. Let all Creation praise you. Let the daylight and the shadows praise you. Let the fertile earth and the swelling sea praise you. Let the winds and the rain, the lightning and the thunder praise you. Let all that breathes, both male and female, praise you. And I shall praise you. O God of all life I give you greeting this day. Amen.
Celtic Prayers from Iona, J. Philip Newell, Wednesday morning prayer/
SCRIPTURE PSALM 147:1-6
Praise the Lord!
How good it is to sing praises to our God;
for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting.
2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the outcasts of Israel.
3 He heals the brokenhearted,
and binds up their wounds.
4 He determines the number of the stars;
he gives to all of them their names.
5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power;
his understanding is beyond measure.
6 The Lord lifts up the downtrodden;
he casts the wicked to the ground.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 147:1-6
As you read through all 150 psalms, you may notice that the closer you get to the end (Psalm 150), the more joyous and celebratory the psalms are. Psalm 147 is a celebration of the presence of God and the great care for Jerusalem and the people. It is not a frivolous acclamation, but points to the actions God takes: healing the brokenhearted, and binding up wounds.
Recognizing the work of healing and restoration makes our celebrations more powerful. This weekend of celebration our Independence Day brought with it the recognition of wounds and broken hearts that are in need of care. Who is responsible for the healing and binding? Wouldn’t it be nice to wash our hands of all responsibilities and simply assume these things belong to God? But we believe God calls us to participate in the building of the kingdom of God; so we cannot wash our hands of the much needed healing around us.
As we listen and learn from our brothers and sisters of political and social wounds inflicted over the history of our nation, hopefully we will respond with compassion, with encouragement – and with change.
HYMN 657 SING TO GOD, WITH JOY AND GLADNESS John Bell
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
God unites the scattered people, gathers those who wandered far,
Heals the hurt and broken spirits, tending every wound and scar.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
Such is God’s great power and wisdom, none can calculate or tell;
Keen is God to ground the wicked and with humble fold to dwell.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
God with clouds the sky has curtained, thus ensuring rain shall fall;
Earth, responding, grows to order food for creatures great and small.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good.
God’s discernment never favors strength or speed to lift or move;
God delights in those who worship, trusting in God’s steadfast love.
Refrain
Sing to God, with joy and gladness, hymns and psalms of gratitude;
With the voice of praise discover that to worship God is good
MONDAY, JULY 6, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of all life, when your people are mourning, make us patient listeners to the memories of happy times. Make us sensitive carers so that we support but do not weaken. Make us good friends, so that we can hold the future open for when we are all ready to face it. Give us your strength, your presence in the absence we feel, and your rest that we may rise again to new life, and your hope that in death and loss we are not divided. Amen.
The Pattern of our Days, ed. By Kathy Galloway, the Iona Community. Adapted.
SCRIPTURE ISAIAH 40:1-2
Comfort, O comfort my people,
says your God.
2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,
and cry to her
that she has served her term,
that her penalty is paid,
that she has received from the Lord’s hand
double for all her sins.
MEDITATION ON ISAIAH 40:1-2
If you are familiar with Handel’s Messiah, you will recognize these words as the opening tenor aria of the whole piece. The people of God witnessed the destruction of the temple and most of Jerusalem at the hands of the conquering Babylonians and then were taken across difficult terrain into captivity in Babylon. Here the prophet Isaiah says their sins, the cause of the destruction and exile, have been paid for – doubly.
God is speaking and offering comfort. We can only imagine the grief and anguish of the conquered people; they probably thought that God had abandoned them and they would never see their homeland again.
But God is faithful. We are watching so much brokenness and grief around us. Where is God? In all the chaos and loss, where do we see God? God is with us. The story of the Babylonian exile is a witness to God’s faithfulness and compassion. So in the midst of our own despair, we can look for God – and discover that God has never left us, but remains with us always.
HYMN 87 COMFORT, COMFORT NOW MY PEOPLE Johannes Olearius
“Comfort, comfort now my people; tell of peace! “says our God.
“Comfort those who sit in darkness mourning under sorrow’s load.
To my people now proclaim that my pardon waits for them!
Tell them that their sins I cover, and their warfare now is over.”
For the herald’s voice is crying in the desert far and near,
Calling us to true repentance, since the reign of God is here.
O, that warning cry obey! Now prepare for God a way.
Let the valleys rise in meeting and the hills bow down in greeting.
Straight shall be what long was crooked, and the rougher places plain.
Let your hearts be true and humble, as befits God’s holy reign.
For the glory of the Lord now on earth is shed abroad,
And all flesh shall see the token that God’s word is never broken
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of all life, when your people are mourning, make us patient listeners to the memories of happy times. Make us sensitive carers so that we support but do not weaken. Make us good friends, so that we can hold the future open for when we are all ready to face it. Give us your strength, your presence in the absence we feel, and your rest that we may rise again to new life, and your hope that in death and loss we are not divided. Amen.
The Pattern of our Days, ed. By Kathy Galloway, the Iona Community. Adapted.
SCRIPTURE ISAIAH 40:1-2
Comfort, O comfort my people,
says your God.
2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,
and cry to her
that she has served her term,
that her penalty is paid,
that she has received from the Lord’s hand
double for all her sins.
MEDITATION ON ISAIAH 40:1-2
If you are familiar with Handel’s Messiah, you will recognize these words as the opening tenor aria of the whole piece. The people of God witnessed the destruction of the temple and most of Jerusalem at the hands of the conquering Babylonians and then were taken across difficult terrain into captivity in Babylon. Here the prophet Isaiah says their sins, the cause of the destruction and exile, have been paid for – doubly.
God is speaking and offering comfort. We can only imagine the grief and anguish of the conquered people; they probably thought that God had abandoned them and they would never see their homeland again.
But God is faithful. We are watching so much brokenness and grief around us. Where is God? In all the chaos and loss, where do we see God? God is with us. The story of the Babylonian exile is a witness to God’s faithfulness and compassion. So in the midst of our own despair, we can look for God – and discover that God has never left us, but remains with us always.
HYMN 87 COMFORT, COMFORT NOW MY PEOPLE Johannes Olearius
“Comfort, comfort now my people; tell of peace! “says our God.
“Comfort those who sit in darkness mourning under sorrow’s load.
To my people now proclaim that my pardon waits for them!
Tell them that their sins I cover, and their warfare now is over.”
For the herald’s voice is crying in the desert far and near,
Calling us to true repentance, since the reign of God is here.
O, that warning cry obey! Now prepare for God a way.
Let the valleys rise in meeting and the hills bow down in greeting.
Straight shall be what long was crooked, and the rougher places plain.
Let your hearts be true and humble, as befits God’s holy reign.
For the glory of the Lord now on earth is shed abroad,
And all flesh shall see the token that God’s word is never broken
| Bulletin for the Zoom meting on 14th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME JULY 5, 2020 |
SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Be present with us, O God of peace, Our hours and moments are in your hands, and you alone provide the peace and wisdom we need to make our time together fruitful. Take away all competing distractions and keep us focused on the work you set before us. Make all things, new, stirring in us wonder and awe as we are called to participate in the building of the kingdom. We thank you for your abiding care, your never-ending love, and the abundance of grace you give to us. Amen.
Inclusive/Expansive Language Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010), Rev. Dr. Nancy K. Young, Prayer One.
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 13:31-35
31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32 If God has been glorified in him,[j] God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. 33 Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ 34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 13:31-35
In many ways this is an appropriate text for our Independence Day celebrations. The chaos and uncertainties of this year point to the fragility of our republic; we seem to be close to losing what we have celebrated for over 250 years. We are separated by our fears, our anger, our sense of loss and all this is encouraged by those who relish seeing everything turned upside down and inside out.
Love is the answer. There so many great hymns that speak of love, but this is a song I have always liked. It is not in the hymnal, but look up and listen to it. Or just read these incredible words.
Happy 4th of July!
LOVE IS THE ANSWER England Dan & John Ford Coley
Name your price
A ticket to paradise
I can't stay here any more
And I've looked high and low
I've been from shore to shore to shore
If there's a short cut I'd have found it
But there's no easy way around it
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer
Who knows why
Someday we all must die
We're all homeless boys and girls
And we are never heard
It's such a lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely world
People turn their heads and walk on by
Tell me, is it worth just another try?
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer (let it shine)
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer (you know the answer is love)
Tell me, are we alive, or just a dying planet?
What are the chances?
Ask the man in your heart for the answers
And when you feel afraid, love one another
When you've lost your way, love one another
When you're all alone, love one another
When you're far from home, love one another
When you're down and out, love one another
All your hope's run out, love one another
When you need a friend, love one another
When you're near the end, love
We got to love, we got to love one another
Light of the world, you got to shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all (know that love can save the day)
Set us free
Love is the answer
(Just give it, just one more chance)
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer (love, love, love)
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer
(Lord, you just can't let it stop, Lord)
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all, set us free
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Be present with us, O God of peace, Our hours and moments are in your hands, and you alone provide the peace and wisdom we need to make our time together fruitful. Take away all competing distractions and keep us focused on the work you set before us. Make all things, new, stirring in us wonder and awe as we are called to participate in the building of the kingdom. We thank you for your abiding care, your never-ending love, and the abundance of grace you give to us. Amen.
Inclusive/Expansive Language Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010), Rev. Dr. Nancy K. Young, Prayer One.
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 13:31-35
31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32 If God has been glorified in him,[j] God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. 33 Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ 34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 13:31-35
In many ways this is an appropriate text for our Independence Day celebrations. The chaos and uncertainties of this year point to the fragility of our republic; we seem to be close to losing what we have celebrated for over 250 years. We are separated by our fears, our anger, our sense of loss and all this is encouraged by those who relish seeing everything turned upside down and inside out.
Love is the answer. There so many great hymns that speak of love, but this is a song I have always liked. It is not in the hymnal, but look up and listen to it. Or just read these incredible words.
Happy 4th of July!
LOVE IS THE ANSWER England Dan & John Ford Coley
Name your price
A ticket to paradise
I can't stay here any more
And I've looked high and low
I've been from shore to shore to shore
If there's a short cut I'd have found it
But there's no easy way around it
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer
Who knows why
Someday we all must die
We're all homeless boys and girls
And we are never heard
It's such a lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely world
People turn their heads and walk on by
Tell me, is it worth just another try?
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer (let it shine)
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer (you know the answer is love)
Tell me, are we alive, or just a dying planet?
What are the chances?
Ask the man in your heart for the answers
And when you feel afraid, love one another
When you've lost your way, love one another
When you're all alone, love one another
When you're far from home, love one another
When you're down and out, love one another
All your hope's run out, love one another
When you need a friend, love one another
When you're near the end, love
We got to love, we got to love one another
Light of the world, you got to shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all (know that love can save the day)
Set us free
Love is the answer
(Just give it, just one more chance)
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer (love, love, love)
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer
(Lord, you just can't let it stop, Lord)
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all, set us free
FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God of all, our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate; our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves: Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually who are you not to be?
You are a child of God – your playing small shall not serve the world. There is nothing enlightening about shirking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.
We were born to make manifest the Glory of God that is within us. It is not just some of us: it is everyone. As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
Nelson Mandela, 1994
SCRIPTURE READING GALATIANS 3:27-29
27 As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring,[k] heirs according to the promise.
MEDITATION ON GALATIANS 3:27-29
As we enter into new awareness and recognition of the incredible diversity of human beings, this familiar and powerful text from St. Paul is very helpful. The description of the community as having no ethnic, economic or gender criteria opens the blessings of Christ to all. We are one – WE ARE ONE – in Christ.
Then we ask, “What does it mean to be made in the image of God?” Our physical bodies are finite, fragile and eventually are finished. So the argument that God must look like us is backwards; for God is infinite, unchanging and is the beginning and the end of everything. For me, the image of God for each human being is the nature of the heart and some kind of participation in the perfect community of the Trinity. If God is love, then we are made from love and have been given that potential.
Our LGBTQIA brothers and sisters are made in the image of God. Each face reflects the love of God through Christ. Ethnic identity is important for us, but certainly not for God. Gender is fluid and again, I don’t believe that matters to God either. Most of all, we need to look at each human being as made in the image of God – made in love.
HYMN 493 NOW THERE IS NO MALE OR FEMALE Lynette Miller
Now there is no male or female; now there is no free or slave;
Now there is no Jew or Gentile in the earth Christ died to save.
Christ has set us free for freedom: we no more sing slavery’s creed;
Old submissions cannot claim us; Christ has set us free indeed.
Crucified with Christ the Savior, baptized in his holy death,
And as Christ was raised to glory we have new life on this earth.
Power of water and God’s naming, turning us from dark to light,
Joins us to those who, before us, ran the race and fought the fight.
Death has no dominion o’er him, so for us death holds no power;
Life’s own waters now have marked us, born to God this very hour.
From this moment and forever dead to sin, alive in Christ,
Born of water and the Spirit, now in Christ we find our life
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God of all, our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate; our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves: Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually who are you not to be?
You are a child of God – your playing small shall not serve the world. There is nothing enlightening about shirking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.
We were born to make manifest the Glory of God that is within us. It is not just some of us: it is everyone. As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
Nelson Mandela, 1994
SCRIPTURE READING GALATIANS 3:27-29
27 As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring,[k] heirs according to the promise.
MEDITATION ON GALATIANS 3:27-29
As we enter into new awareness and recognition of the incredible diversity of human beings, this familiar and powerful text from St. Paul is very helpful. The description of the community as having no ethnic, economic or gender criteria opens the blessings of Christ to all. We are one – WE ARE ONE – in Christ.
Then we ask, “What does it mean to be made in the image of God?” Our physical bodies are finite, fragile and eventually are finished. So the argument that God must look like us is backwards; for God is infinite, unchanging and is the beginning and the end of everything. For me, the image of God for each human being is the nature of the heart and some kind of participation in the perfect community of the Trinity. If God is love, then we are made from love and have been given that potential.
Our LGBTQIA brothers and sisters are made in the image of God. Each face reflects the love of God through Christ. Ethnic identity is important for us, but certainly not for God. Gender is fluid and again, I don’t believe that matters to God either. Most of all, we need to look at each human being as made in the image of God – made in love.
HYMN 493 NOW THERE IS NO MALE OR FEMALE Lynette Miller
Now there is no male or female; now there is no free or slave;
Now there is no Jew or Gentile in the earth Christ died to save.
Christ has set us free for freedom: we no more sing slavery’s creed;
Old submissions cannot claim us; Christ has set us free indeed.
Crucified with Christ the Savior, baptized in his holy death,
And as Christ was raised to glory we have new life on this earth.
Power of water and God’s naming, turning us from dark to light,
Joins us to those who, before us, ran the race and fought the fight.
Death has no dominion o’er him, so for us death holds no power;
Life’s own waters now have marked us, born to God this very hour.
From this moment and forever dead to sin, alive in Christ,
Born of water and the Spirit, now in Christ we find our life
THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Forgiving God, your Son once said that his brother, sister, mother were all who did your will. Yet even when we fail to do your will you welcome and accept us as your children. Teach us to include others as readily as you include us; for to do so is to do your heavenly will. Amen.
Iona Abbey Worship Book, pg. 156
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 10:34-36, 47-48
34 Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all.
Then Peter said, 47 “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 10:34-36, 47-48
Human nature being what it is, the first conflict of the early church is over the problem of Gentiles and a hierarchy of inclusion/exclusion. How can Gentiles be part of the Christian faith? The savior is promised from the chosen people and for the chosen people; and Jesus was Jewish, not a Gentile. This little speech of Peter is given to the council in Jerusalem right after he has a vision of the cloth coming down from the heavens filled with ‘unclean’ animals. A voice is heard: “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” Peter gets the point, and is bold to speak to the council about inclusivity.
We love to be part of the elite, members of the clubs or societies that keep others out. God’s family does not exclude anyone. We kind of know that deep in our gut, but it is hard to live and act on that principle. That is a goal for all of us. If Jesus Christ is Lord of all, then we are brothers and sisters of all and advocates and sources of support and peace for all. If God shows no partiality – neither should we.
HYMN 372 O FOR A WORLD Miriam Therese Winter
O for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways,
Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise.
O for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved,
Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved.
We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice
That opens us to unity and gives our vision voice.
The poor are rich, the weak are strong; the foolish ones are wise.
Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise.
O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace,
Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Forgiving God, your Son once said that his brother, sister, mother were all who did your will. Yet even when we fail to do your will you welcome and accept us as your children. Teach us to include others as readily as you include us; for to do so is to do your heavenly will. Amen.
Iona Abbey Worship Book, pg. 156
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 10:34-36, 47-48
34 Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all.
Then Peter said, 47 “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 10:34-36, 47-48
Human nature being what it is, the first conflict of the early church is over the problem of Gentiles and a hierarchy of inclusion/exclusion. How can Gentiles be part of the Christian faith? The savior is promised from the chosen people and for the chosen people; and Jesus was Jewish, not a Gentile. This little speech of Peter is given to the council in Jerusalem right after he has a vision of the cloth coming down from the heavens filled with ‘unclean’ animals. A voice is heard: “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” Peter gets the point, and is bold to speak to the council about inclusivity.
We love to be part of the elite, members of the clubs or societies that keep others out. God’s family does not exclude anyone. We kind of know that deep in our gut, but it is hard to live and act on that principle. That is a goal for all of us. If Jesus Christ is Lord of all, then we are brothers and sisters of all and advocates and sources of support and peace for all. If God shows no partiality – neither should we.
HYMN 372 O FOR A WORLD Miriam Therese Winter
O for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways,
Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise.
O for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved,
Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved.
We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice
That opens us to unity and gives our vision voice.
The poor are rich, the weak are strong; the foolish ones are wise.
Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise.
O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace,
Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Eternal God, you are the source of every gift, and the fountain of all blessing. Give us such joy in living and such peace in serving Christ, that we may gratefully make use of all your blessings, and joyfully seek our risen Lord in everyone we meet. In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Book of Common Worship: Daily Prayer, pg. 55 (2018)
SCRIPTURE READING 1 SAMUEL 16:6-7
6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is now before the Lord.” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
MEDITATION ON 1 SAMUEL 16:6-7
At a high school reunion, someone asked what I was doing, where I was living – you know the kind of questions. I told them I had just been ordained as a Presbyterian pastor. This was met with gales of laughter. “You?! No way!” fortunately my old friend Bert was present, and he had just been ordained a Roman Catholic priest after a very fine beginning career as a journalist. Bert just looked at our mutual friend and said, “You never know what God is going to do.”
Eliab must have been a fine specimen of a man. At least Samuel thought so, and he probably was a great fellow. But God reminds Samuel the Lord looks on the heart.
Each one of us has a calling, a God-given purpose for our lives. It is possible that we do not ‘look’ like the profession or calling we have; but we have the heart for it.
We cannot imagine in our wildest dreams how God sees. All we know is that God does not see as we do. That is good news.
HYMN 432 HOW CLEAR IS OUR VOCATION, LORD Fred Pratt Green
How clear is our vocation, Lord, when once we heed your call
To love according to your word and daily learn, refreshed, restored,
That you are Lord of all and will not let us fall.
But if, forgetful, we should find your yoke is hard to bear;
If worldly pressures fray the mind and love itself cannot unwind
Its tangled skein of care: our inward life repair.
We marvel how your saints became in hindrances more sure:
Whose joyful virtues put to shame the casual way we wear your name,
And by our faults obscure your power to cleanse and cure.
In what you give us, Lord, to do, together or alone,
in old routines or ventures new, may we not cease to look to you:
the cross you hung upon, all you endeavored, done
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Eternal God, you are the source of every gift, and the fountain of all blessing. Give us such joy in living and such peace in serving Christ, that we may gratefully make use of all your blessings, and joyfully seek our risen Lord in everyone we meet. In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Book of Common Worship: Daily Prayer, pg. 55 (2018)
SCRIPTURE READING 1 SAMUEL 16:6-7
6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is now before the Lord.” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
MEDITATION ON 1 SAMUEL 16:6-7
At a high school reunion, someone asked what I was doing, where I was living – you know the kind of questions. I told them I had just been ordained as a Presbyterian pastor. This was met with gales of laughter. “You?! No way!” fortunately my old friend Bert was present, and he had just been ordained a Roman Catholic priest after a very fine beginning career as a journalist. Bert just looked at our mutual friend and said, “You never know what God is going to do.”
Eliab must have been a fine specimen of a man. At least Samuel thought so, and he probably was a great fellow. But God reminds Samuel the Lord looks on the heart.
Each one of us has a calling, a God-given purpose for our lives. It is possible that we do not ‘look’ like the profession or calling we have; but we have the heart for it.
We cannot imagine in our wildest dreams how God sees. All we know is that God does not see as we do. That is good news.
HYMN 432 HOW CLEAR IS OUR VOCATION, LORD Fred Pratt Green
How clear is our vocation, Lord, when once we heed your call
To love according to your word and daily learn, refreshed, restored,
That you are Lord of all and will not let us fall.
But if, forgetful, we should find your yoke is hard to bear;
If worldly pressures fray the mind and love itself cannot unwind
Its tangled skein of care: our inward life repair.
We marvel how your saints became in hindrances more sure:
Whose joyful virtues put to shame the casual way we wear your name,
And by our faults obscure your power to cleanse and cure.
In what you give us, Lord, to do, together or alone,
in old routines or ventures new, may we not cease to look to you:
the cross you hung upon, all you endeavored, done
TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God, you have created us and all that is out of the same material. Therefore, we should see no difference between spirit and flesh. We should rejoice in all the variety that you have created in the universe, but especially among humankind. We are all on a journey from our birth until our death, when we will return to you as stardust. Travel with us, Holy Spirit, and enliven our spirits as well as our hearts. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-14, 22-27
12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.14 Indeed, the body does not consist of one member but of many.
22 On the contrary, the members of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and those members of the body that we think less honorable we clothe with greater honor, and our less respectable members are treated with greater respect; 24 whereas our more respectable members do not need this. But God has so arranged the body, giving the greater honor to the inferior member, 25 that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it
MEDITATION ON 1CORINTHIANS 12:12-14, 22-27
One of the short stories told in the Coen brothers’ film, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, is called Meal Ticket. It is about a traveling theatre impresario in the old west; the only act he has is a young man who can recite Shakespeare, the Gettsyburg Address, and a variety of poetry and classical theatre. The catch is that the young man has no legs or arms. I immediately thought about this passage from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. The young man could do very little besides recite. He had to be fed, lifted up and down, dressed and taken care of completely by the impresario.
Paul make such a good point that every part of the body is essential; no part is more important than any other (although I used to think the spleen and appendix were not really essential). Not only is Paul’s description of a healthy body or community, but it is also a mandate for justice and equality. Anyone who walked through the door of the gathering of Corinthian Christians was as valuable and essential as anyone else. How did we get to this place in our history, where we determine the value of a human being by skin color, education, economic status, or religion? We should read and hear this passage from 1 Corinthians (in its entirety) every day to remind us we are no more or no less valuable in the eyes of God than any other human being.
HYMN 300 WE ARE ONE IN THE SPIRIT Peter Scholtes
We are one in the spirit; we are one in the Lord;
We are one in the spirit; we are one in the Lord,
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
We will walk with each other; we will walk hand in hand;
We will walk with each other; we will walk hand in hand,
And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
We will work with each other; we will work side by side;
We will work with each other; we will work side by side,
And we’ll guar human dignity and save human pride:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
All praise to the Father, from whom all things come,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, God’s only Son,
And all praise to the Spirit, who makes us on:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God, you have created us and all that is out of the same material. Therefore, we should see no difference between spirit and flesh. We should rejoice in all the variety that you have created in the universe, but especially among humankind. We are all on a journey from our birth until our death, when we will return to you as stardust. Travel with us, Holy Spirit, and enliven our spirits as well as our hearts. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-14, 22-27
12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.14 Indeed, the body does not consist of one member but of many.
22 On the contrary, the members of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and those members of the body that we think less honorable we clothe with greater honor, and our less respectable members are treated with greater respect; 24 whereas our more respectable members do not need this. But God has so arranged the body, giving the greater honor to the inferior member, 25 that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it
MEDITATION ON 1CORINTHIANS 12:12-14, 22-27
One of the short stories told in the Coen brothers’ film, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, is called Meal Ticket. It is about a traveling theatre impresario in the old west; the only act he has is a young man who can recite Shakespeare, the Gettsyburg Address, and a variety of poetry and classical theatre. The catch is that the young man has no legs or arms. I immediately thought about this passage from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. The young man could do very little besides recite. He had to be fed, lifted up and down, dressed and taken care of completely by the impresario.
Paul make such a good point that every part of the body is essential; no part is more important than any other (although I used to think the spleen and appendix were not really essential). Not only is Paul’s description of a healthy body or community, but it is also a mandate for justice and equality. Anyone who walked through the door of the gathering of Corinthian Christians was as valuable and essential as anyone else. How did we get to this place in our history, where we determine the value of a human being by skin color, education, economic status, or religion? We should read and hear this passage from 1 Corinthians (in its entirety) every day to remind us we are no more or no less valuable in the eyes of God than any other human being.
HYMN 300 WE ARE ONE IN THE SPIRIT Peter Scholtes
We are one in the spirit; we are one in the Lord;
We are one in the spirit; we are one in the Lord,
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
We will walk with each other; we will walk hand in hand;
We will walk with each other; we will walk hand in hand,
And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
We will work with each other; we will work side by side;
We will work with each other; we will work side by side,
And we’ll guar human dignity and save human pride:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
All praise to the Father, from whom all things come,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, God’s only Son,
And all praise to the Spirit, who makes us on:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love
MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
In the beginning, O God, your Spirit swept over the chaotic deep like a wild wind and creation was born. In the turbulence of my own life and the unsettled waters of the world today let there be new birthing of your Spirit. In the currents of my own heart and the upheavals of the world today let there be new birthing of your might Spirit. Amen.
Celtic Benediction, J. Philip Newell, pg. 17
SCRIPTURE READING GENESIS 1:26-27
26 Then God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.”
27 So God created humankind in his image,
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them.
MEDITATION ON GENESIS 1:26-27
This is one of the most controversial parts of the first creation story found in Genesis 1. It is confusing that the Hebrew uses the first person plural in verse 26: “Let us make humankind in our image,” then returns to 1st person singular in verse 27. Perhaps it is because our language is not sufficient to describe God; this is one more aspect of a description that is obscure.
The important thing is that we are all made in the image of God. Every single human being is made in the image of God. And no, as someone recently asked, that does not mean that God is male or female. The text doesn’t even mention gender or physical appearance.
So what does it mean? We speak of God as love, as the one who has unlimited mercy, justice, grace and compassion. I would like to think being made in the image of God opens up the potential for all of us to practice all these things. We so easily slip into judgment of one another based on economics, race, education, gender. What if we could live into the image of God? What would our world be like and how would we live our lives?
HYMN 15 ALL CREATURES OF OUR GOD AND KING Francis of Assisi
All creatures of our God and King, lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
O brother sun with golden beam, O sister moon with silver gleam,
Sing praises! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
O brother wind with clouds and rain, you nurture gifts of fruit and grain.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
O sister water, flowing clear, make music for your Lord to hear.
Sing praises! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
O brother fire, so warm and bright, chase off the shadows of the night.
Alleluia! Alleluia
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
In the beginning, O God, your Spirit swept over the chaotic deep like a wild wind and creation was born. In the turbulence of my own life and the unsettled waters of the world today let there be new birthing of your Spirit. In the currents of my own heart and the upheavals of the world today let there be new birthing of your might Spirit. Amen.
Celtic Benediction, J. Philip Newell, pg. 17
SCRIPTURE READING GENESIS 1:26-27
26 Then God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.”
27 So God created humankind in his image,
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them.
MEDITATION ON GENESIS 1:26-27
This is one of the most controversial parts of the first creation story found in Genesis 1. It is confusing that the Hebrew uses the first person plural in verse 26: “Let us make humankind in our image,” then returns to 1st person singular in verse 27. Perhaps it is because our language is not sufficient to describe God; this is one more aspect of a description that is obscure.
The important thing is that we are all made in the image of God. Every single human being is made in the image of God. And no, as someone recently asked, that does not mean that God is male or female. The text doesn’t even mention gender or physical appearance.
So what does it mean? We speak of God as love, as the one who has unlimited mercy, justice, grace and compassion. I would like to think being made in the image of God opens up the potential for all of us to practice all these things. We so easily slip into judgment of one another based on economics, race, education, gender. What if we could live into the image of God? What would our world be like and how would we live our lives?
HYMN 15 ALL CREATURES OF OUR GOD AND KING Francis of Assisi
All creatures of our God and King, lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
O brother sun with golden beam, O sister moon with silver gleam,
Sing praises! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
O brother wind with clouds and rain, you nurture gifts of fruit and grain.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
O sister water, flowing clear, make music for your Lord to hear.
Sing praises! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
O brother fire, so warm and bright, chase off the shadows of the night.
Alleluia! Alleluia
| Bulletin for Zoom service on the 13TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME JUNE 28, 2020 |
SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Holy and gracious God, who pities us like a father and comforts us like a mother, we give thanks for the addition of children to the church’s fellowship as well as to our circles of kinship. We rejoice that the love of Jesus knows no bounds of exclusion, that the Holy Spirit is poured out on all flesh, causing daughters and sons to prophesy. Strengthen and guide all who will have a part in the nurture of our children of all ages on their faith journeys. May the church be built up by love that moves back and forth among us as followers of the living Christ. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, C. Eric Mount Jr., adapted, pg. 120
SCRIPTURE READING 2 TIMOTHY 3:14-15
14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, 15 and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
MEDITATION ON 2 TIMOTHY 3:14-15
We take vows as the church when a child is baptized. We promise – on behalf of the whole church – to support and nurture the faith of one being baptized. Some of us began that journey as infants; I was baptized at 2 weeks of age and spent my childhood and youth involved in church activities that taught me and nurtured me in the Christian faith. However, no matter what age we are or stage of life we are in, we all become children of God when we are moved by the Spirit.
We are connected to those “from whom we learn”; our parents, teachers, friends, church leaders, pastors, camp counselors, etc. We are part of a large family, connected by the love of God and our love for one another. We have in common our faith in Christ as well as our reliance upon the Word which is a witness to the love of God and our redemption through Jesus Christ. Most of all, we share that amazing relationship with God by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the good news: we are all children of God, beloved and encouraged.
HYMN 732 REJOICE IN GOD’S SAINTS Fred Pratt Green
Rejoice in God’s saints, today and all days!
A world without saints forgets how to praise.
Their faith in acquiring the habit of prayer,
their depth of adoring, Lord, help us to share.
Some march with events, to turn them God’s way;
some need to withdraw, the better to pray;
some carry the gospel through fire and through flood:
our world is their parish: their purpose is God.
Rejoice in those saints, unpraised and unknown,
who bear someone’s cross, or shoulder their own:
they shame our complaining, our comforts, our cares:
what patience in caring, what courage is theirs
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Holy and gracious God, who pities us like a father and comforts us like a mother, we give thanks for the addition of children to the church’s fellowship as well as to our circles of kinship. We rejoice that the love of Jesus knows no bounds of exclusion, that the Holy Spirit is poured out on all flesh, causing daughters and sons to prophesy. Strengthen and guide all who will have a part in the nurture of our children of all ages on their faith journeys. May the church be built up by love that moves back and forth among us as followers of the living Christ. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, C. Eric Mount Jr., adapted, pg. 120
SCRIPTURE READING 2 TIMOTHY 3:14-15
14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, 15 and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
MEDITATION ON 2 TIMOTHY 3:14-15
We take vows as the church when a child is baptized. We promise – on behalf of the whole church – to support and nurture the faith of one being baptized. Some of us began that journey as infants; I was baptized at 2 weeks of age and spent my childhood and youth involved in church activities that taught me and nurtured me in the Christian faith. However, no matter what age we are or stage of life we are in, we all become children of God when we are moved by the Spirit.
We are connected to those “from whom we learn”; our parents, teachers, friends, church leaders, pastors, camp counselors, etc. We are part of a large family, connected by the love of God and our love for one another. We have in common our faith in Christ as well as our reliance upon the Word which is a witness to the love of God and our redemption through Jesus Christ. Most of all, we share that amazing relationship with God by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the good news: we are all children of God, beloved and encouraged.
HYMN 732 REJOICE IN GOD’S SAINTS Fred Pratt Green
Rejoice in God’s saints, today and all days!
A world without saints forgets how to praise.
Their faith in acquiring the habit of prayer,
their depth of adoring, Lord, help us to share.
Some march with events, to turn them God’s way;
some need to withdraw, the better to pray;
some carry the gospel through fire and through flood:
our world is their parish: their purpose is God.
Rejoice in those saints, unpraised and unknown,
who bear someone’s cross, or shoulder their own:
they shame our complaining, our comforts, our cares:
what patience in caring, what courage is theirs
FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Strengthen in us, Lord, our love for you today. Lord lead us to the truth. We offer you our needs; take to yourself our cares and hopes. Lord Jesus, we pray for all who suffer; show them your compassion through us.
Gracious God, open our hearts to your word and to the power of the Spirit. Give us love to discover your will and strength to carry it out this day; for you are light, forever and ever. Amen.
The Glenstal Book of Prayer, A Benedictine Prayer Book, pg. 33.
SCRIPTURE READING DEUTERONOMY 6:1-9
Now this is the commandment—the statutes and the ordinances—that the Lord your God charged me to teach you to observe in the land that you are about to cross into and occupy, 2 so that you and your children and your children’s children may fear the Lord your God all the days of your life, and keep all his decrees and his commandments that I am commanding you, so that your days may be long. 3 Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe them diligently, so that it may go well with you, and so that you may multiply greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has promised you.
4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.[a] 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. 6 Keep these words that I am commanding you today in your heart. 7 Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise. 8 Bind them as a sign on your hand, fix them as an emblem[b] on your forehead, 9 and write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
MEDITATION ON DEUTERONOMY 6:1-9
This is a well known and beloved passage for faithful Jews and Christians. Verses 4-5 are known as the Shema, which is the Hebrew word for hear or listen. Jesus quotes these words when he gives the two great commandments to love God and then to love neighbor.
As Jesus says in Matthew 22, on these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. This commandment to love God found in Deuteronomy is to be observed above all other commandments and ordinances. Our children are to learn these words; family conversations should be held to teach and discuss the importance of loving God. We do this in order that our children and our children’s children will ‘fear’ God – or in other words, will be in awe of the amazing God who first loves us. This is the most important teaching in the Judeo-Christian traditions. Love is of God. What better lesson can we teach our children?
HYMN 215 WHAT WONDROUS LOVE IS THIS? American Folk Hymn
What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.
When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down beneath God's righteous frown,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul.
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing.
To God and to the Lamb Who is the great 'I am';
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;
While millions join the theme, I will sing.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing and joyful be;
And through eternity, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And through eternity, I'll sing on
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Strengthen in us, Lord, our love for you today. Lord lead us to the truth. We offer you our needs; take to yourself our cares and hopes. Lord Jesus, we pray for all who suffer; show them your compassion through us.
Gracious God, open our hearts to your word and to the power of the Spirit. Give us love to discover your will and strength to carry it out this day; for you are light, forever and ever. Amen.
The Glenstal Book of Prayer, A Benedictine Prayer Book, pg. 33.
SCRIPTURE READING DEUTERONOMY 6:1-9
Now this is the commandment—the statutes and the ordinances—that the Lord your God charged me to teach you to observe in the land that you are about to cross into and occupy, 2 so that you and your children and your children’s children may fear the Lord your God all the days of your life, and keep all his decrees and his commandments that I am commanding you, so that your days may be long. 3 Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe them diligently, so that it may go well with you, and so that you may multiply greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has promised you.
4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.[a] 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. 6 Keep these words that I am commanding you today in your heart. 7 Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise. 8 Bind them as a sign on your hand, fix them as an emblem[b] on your forehead, 9 and write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
MEDITATION ON DEUTERONOMY 6:1-9
This is a well known and beloved passage for faithful Jews and Christians. Verses 4-5 are known as the Shema, which is the Hebrew word for hear or listen. Jesus quotes these words when he gives the two great commandments to love God and then to love neighbor.
As Jesus says in Matthew 22, on these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. This commandment to love God found in Deuteronomy is to be observed above all other commandments and ordinances. Our children are to learn these words; family conversations should be held to teach and discuss the importance of loving God. We do this in order that our children and our children’s children will ‘fear’ God – or in other words, will be in awe of the amazing God who first loves us. This is the most important teaching in the Judeo-Christian traditions. Love is of God. What better lesson can we teach our children?
HYMN 215 WHAT WONDROUS LOVE IS THIS? American Folk Hymn
What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.
When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down beneath God's righteous frown,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul.
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing.
To God and to the Lamb Who is the great 'I am';
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;
While millions join the theme, I will sing.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing and joyful be;
And through eternity, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And through eternity, I'll sing on
THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, I pray that you will surround my children with your grace and favor. In your mercy and kindness, strengthen them with the fortitude of your Holy Spirit. May they be forever filled with your knowledge and wisdom, and help them to make decisions that glorify and honor you. Help them to follow after you and seek your peace, guidance and righteousness. We trust and believe in your plans and your intentions for us. In Jesus’ name, Amn.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 JOHN 3:1-3
1 See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he[a] is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. 3 And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:1-3
Our identity as children of God comes from the love God has for us. There are places in our country and around the world where parentage means status. “Who’s your daddy?” is an introductory question and a lot depends on the answer.
For Christians, we can answer that we are children of God – Father and Mother. Being children of God encourages us to know ourselves, to love God and others, and to trust in God. We live in hope and the certainty that God will be with us in this life as well as in the next life.
The goodness that we yearn for and seek comes from God. With the vision we have been given, we see the beauty of creation and of humanity and our hearts are filled with joy. Are human beings always good, kind and compassionate? We know from experience that evil exists and we can be broken beings. But God can give us a glimpse of who we really are: children of God.
HYMN 19 GOD OF GREAT AND GOD OF SMALL Natalie Sleeth
God of great and God of small, God of one and God of all,
God of weak and God of strong, God to whom all things belong,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name.
God of land and sky and sea, God of life and destiny,
God of never-ending power, yet beside me every hour,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name.
God of silence, God of sound, God by whom the lost are found,
God of day and darkest night, God whose love turns wrong to right,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name.
God of heaven and God of earth, God of death and God of birth,
God of now and days before, God who reigns forevermore,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, I pray that you will surround my children with your grace and favor. In your mercy and kindness, strengthen them with the fortitude of your Holy Spirit. May they be forever filled with your knowledge and wisdom, and help them to make decisions that glorify and honor you. Help them to follow after you and seek your peace, guidance and righteousness. We trust and believe in your plans and your intentions for us. In Jesus’ name, Amn.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 JOHN 3:1-3
1 See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he[a] is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. 3 And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:1-3
Our identity as children of God comes from the love God has for us. There are places in our country and around the world where parentage means status. “Who’s your daddy?” is an introductory question and a lot depends on the answer.
For Christians, we can answer that we are children of God – Father and Mother. Being children of God encourages us to know ourselves, to love God and others, and to trust in God. We live in hope and the certainty that God will be with us in this life as well as in the next life.
The goodness that we yearn for and seek comes from God. With the vision we have been given, we see the beauty of creation and of humanity and our hearts are filled with joy. Are human beings always good, kind and compassionate? We know from experience that evil exists and we can be broken beings. But God can give us a glimpse of who we really are: children of God.
HYMN 19 GOD OF GREAT AND GOD OF SMALL Natalie Sleeth
God of great and God of small, God of one and God of all,
God of weak and God of strong, God to whom all things belong,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name.
God of land and sky and sea, God of life and destiny,
God of never-ending power, yet beside me every hour,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name.
God of silence, God of sound, God by whom the lost are found,
God of day and darkest night, God whose love turns wrong to right,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name.
God of heaven and God of earth, God of death and God of birth,
God of now and days before, God who reigns forevermore,
Alleluia, alleluia, praise be to your name
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Merciful God, you call us by name and promise to each of us your constant love. Watch over your servants. Deepen our understanding of the gospel; strengthen our commitment to follow the way of Christ; and keep us in the faith and communion of your church. Increase our compassion for others; send us into the world in witness to your love; and bring us to the fullness of your peace and glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Worship, 1993, pg. 416
SCRIPTURE READING 1 SAMUEL 1:24, 26-28
She brought him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh; and the child was young. 26 And she said, “Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the Lord. 27 For this child I prayed; and the Lord has granted me the petition that I made to him. 28 Therefore I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he lives, he is given to the Lord.”
MEDITATION ON 1 SAMUEL 1:24, 26-28
The story of Hannah is one that so many women understand. Hannah wants a child so desperately; she prays to the Lord and promises that if she has a child, she will dedicate that child to the Lord. And when Samuel is weaned (about 3 years old). Hannah takes him to Shiloh, the high and holy place where Eli is the priest in charge. She leaves Samuel with Eli as her dedication to the Lord.
I have taken a long time to understand that Hannah loved Samuel very much; enough to give him up to the Lord. I cannot think of anything that could have convinced me to leave any of my children at 3 years old with complete strangers and simply walk away.
However, I also think of all the mothers who cannot keep their children. It is love that helps them give their infants and children up. They hope for a better life for their children and, for so many, also trust in God to watch over and protect the children.
We give our children to the care of God in baptism and at the same time make a covenant to nurture children in the faith and train them up knowing the love of God. The compassion and love of God is what we cling to as children and as parents.
HYMN 487 THESE TREASURED CHILDREN Jacque B. Jones
These treasured children present now are bound to us by sacred vow;
With love, we make a heartfelt claim to welcome them in Jesus’ name.
Our ancient story we shall tell, till these our children know it well
Within their souls and minds and hearts, for this is where their journey starts.
We long to trust as children do and so entrust our days to you;
In their young lives we clearly see a lesson in humility.
Come, Holy Spirit, help us be a nurturing community;
Empower us to realize God’s kingdom through our children’s eyes.
Then, tender God, each child embrace; God give them blessings, grant them grace
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Merciful God, you call us by name and promise to each of us your constant love. Watch over your servants. Deepen our understanding of the gospel; strengthen our commitment to follow the way of Christ; and keep us in the faith and communion of your church. Increase our compassion for others; send us into the world in witness to your love; and bring us to the fullness of your peace and glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Worship, 1993, pg. 416
SCRIPTURE READING 1 SAMUEL 1:24, 26-28
She brought him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh; and the child was young. 26 And she said, “Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the Lord. 27 For this child I prayed; and the Lord has granted me the petition that I made to him. 28 Therefore I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he lives, he is given to the Lord.”
MEDITATION ON 1 SAMUEL 1:24, 26-28
The story of Hannah is one that so many women understand. Hannah wants a child so desperately; she prays to the Lord and promises that if she has a child, she will dedicate that child to the Lord. And when Samuel is weaned (about 3 years old). Hannah takes him to Shiloh, the high and holy place where Eli is the priest in charge. She leaves Samuel with Eli as her dedication to the Lord.
I have taken a long time to understand that Hannah loved Samuel very much; enough to give him up to the Lord. I cannot think of anything that could have convinced me to leave any of my children at 3 years old with complete strangers and simply walk away.
However, I also think of all the mothers who cannot keep their children. It is love that helps them give their infants and children up. They hope for a better life for their children and, for so many, also trust in God to watch over and protect the children.
We give our children to the care of God in baptism and at the same time make a covenant to nurture children in the faith and train them up knowing the love of God. The compassion and love of God is what we cling to as children and as parents.
HYMN 487 THESE TREASURED CHILDREN Jacque B. Jones
These treasured children present now are bound to us by sacred vow;
With love, we make a heartfelt claim to welcome them in Jesus’ name.
Our ancient story we shall tell, till these our children know it well
Within their souls and minds and hearts, for this is where their journey starts.
We long to trust as children do and so entrust our days to you;
In their young lives we clearly see a lesson in humility.
Come, Holy Spirit, help us be a nurturing community;
Empower us to realize God’s kingdom through our children’s eyes.
Then, tender God, each child embrace; God give them blessings, grant them grace
TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
In the beginning, God made the world, light and dark, shape and void, height and depth, to tell of love. In the gift of new life, in signs of hope, in the children we are given, God’s love is shown. So let us celebrate and give thanks for the gift of these children.
May God’s joy be in your hearts and God’s love surround your living. Each day and night and wherever you roam. May you know God’s presence. In growing and learning, in joy and sorrow, in friendship, in solitude, in beginnings and endings may God keep you and bless you all the days of your life. Amen.
The Pattern of Our Days, ed. Kathy Dalloway, pgs. 19-21, adapted
SCRIPTURE READING PROVERBS 22:6
Train children in the right way,
and when old, they will not stray.
MEDITATION ON PROVERBS 22:6
This verse is one of many “one- liners” from Proverbs 22. It reminds me of a morning about 20 years ago. We were visiting my brother and sister-in-law and eating breakfast. At the counter, my nephew, Ian, was sitting next to our daughter. Molly was wearing a t-shirt that was a gift from her grandfather’s church at the dedication of their new building; on the back of the t-shirt were written the words from Proverbs 22:6. On the back of Ian’s t-shirt was a lewd picture of a woman and the words, “Support your local hooker.” Ian played rugby, and hooker was one of the positions of the rugby team.
Ian now lives in Mozambique; he went on a mission trip as he was finishing college and worked with boys who were abandoned or who ran away. He fell in love with the country, the boys and the work. He adopted several and continues to work with the mission and comes up with innovative ways to help the local economy and the young men with education, jobs, etc.
I have kept this photo of Ian and Molly in my office. It reminds me how important it is that we model justice and love and hospitality to our children and to the world. The juxtaposition of the two t-shirt backs remind me how fragile and impressionable children are; and how we need to keep the conversation open and honest. I have to say I love and respect both these ‘children’; they have become wonderful adults.
HYMN 488 I WAS THERE TO HEAR YOUR BORNING CRY John C Ylvisaker
I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well;
In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell.
When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong.
If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one,
I'll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk 'till rising sun.
In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young,
I'll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I've begun.
When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes,
I'll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise.
I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
In the beginning, God made the world, light and dark, shape and void, height and depth, to tell of love. In the gift of new life, in signs of hope, in the children we are given, God’s love is shown. So let us celebrate and give thanks for the gift of these children.
May God’s joy be in your hearts and God’s love surround your living. Each day and night and wherever you roam. May you know God’s presence. In growing and learning, in joy and sorrow, in friendship, in solitude, in beginnings and endings may God keep you and bless you all the days of your life. Amen.
The Pattern of Our Days, ed. Kathy Dalloway, pgs. 19-21, adapted
SCRIPTURE READING PROVERBS 22:6
Train children in the right way,
and when old, they will not stray.
MEDITATION ON PROVERBS 22:6
This verse is one of many “one- liners” from Proverbs 22. It reminds me of a morning about 20 years ago. We were visiting my brother and sister-in-law and eating breakfast. At the counter, my nephew, Ian, was sitting next to our daughter. Molly was wearing a t-shirt that was a gift from her grandfather’s church at the dedication of their new building; on the back of the t-shirt were written the words from Proverbs 22:6. On the back of Ian’s t-shirt was a lewd picture of a woman and the words, “Support your local hooker.” Ian played rugby, and hooker was one of the positions of the rugby team.
Ian now lives in Mozambique; he went on a mission trip as he was finishing college and worked with boys who were abandoned or who ran away. He fell in love with the country, the boys and the work. He adopted several and continues to work with the mission and comes up with innovative ways to help the local economy and the young men with education, jobs, etc.
I have kept this photo of Ian and Molly in my office. It reminds me how important it is that we model justice and love and hospitality to our children and to the world. The juxtaposition of the two t-shirt backs remind me how fragile and impressionable children are; and how we need to keep the conversation open and honest. I have to say I love and respect both these ‘children’; they have become wonderful adults.
HYMN 488 I WAS THERE TO HEAR YOUR BORNING CRY John C Ylvisaker
I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well;
In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell.
When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong.
If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one,
I'll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk 'till rising sun.
In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young,
I'll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I've begun.
When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes,
I'll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise.
I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O Lord, awaken the consciousness of all peoples and their leaders; raise up men and women full of love and generosity who can speak and act for peace, and show us new ways in which hatred can be left behind, wounds can be healed, and unity can be restored. Amen.
A Cry for Mercy, Henri Nouwen
SCRIPTURE READING Luke 15: (11-24) 25-32
25 “Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. 27 He replied, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.’ 28 Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!’ 31 Then the father[d] said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’”
MEDITATION ON LUKE 15: (11-24) 25-32
These verses are the end of the story of the prodigal son. So often we focus on the younger son, the prodigal, and all that he did that was sinful and rude and disrespectful. Or we focus on the elder son, who is whining and throwing a hissy fit because he feels he has been overlooked in favor of the younger son whose behavior is reprehensible.
Yesterday was Father’s Day, and I have admired the father in this story but was also suspicious of him. What kind of father lets a spoiled and disrespectful son have his inheritance early, knowing what kind of immature and narcissistic person he is? Then I realize he is the kind of father who loves his sons more than anything else in the world. When the younger son comes home, the father runs into the field to greet him. He is the kind of father who, when confronted by the older son with recriminations and bitterness tells this older son that all the father has is his. That is the measure of the great love he has for his sons. There is nothing that means more to the father than his sons, no matter what they have done or said.
Rembrandt painted the return of the prodigal son; it is the painting that Henri Nouwen reflects on in his book, The Prodigal Son A Story of Homecoming. The father’s face is filled with compassion. His hands, both placed on the back of the son kneeling before him, demonstrate both strength and tenderness. Nouwen focuses on the complete love and forgiveness given to the son and writes, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful to make God smile by giving God the chance to find me and love me lavishly?” (pg. 101)
We all need a father like this one in the story of the prodigal son. Nouwen realized that we do have a father who offers unlimited mercy and love; and God does seek us out and love us lavishly.
HYMN 771 WHAT IS THE WORLD LIKE Adam I. M. Tice
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Mustard seeds grow more than we can conceive;
Roots thread the soil; branches reach for the sun.
This is how God moves us each to believe.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Witness the wandering child coming home;
Watch as the parent breaks into a run.
This is how God longs for us when we roam.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
No more is neighbor just ally or friend;
Peace thrives in places where once there was none.
This is how God works when rivalries end.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Ready for feasting, we watch through the night,
Tending our lamps till the new day’s begun.
This is how God readies us for the light.
These are the stories that Jesus imparts,
Filled with the Spirit who joins us as one.
Born through our voices, our hands, and our hearts,
This is a new world where God’s will is done
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O Lord, awaken the consciousness of all peoples and their leaders; raise up men and women full of love and generosity who can speak and act for peace, and show us new ways in which hatred can be left behind, wounds can be healed, and unity can be restored. Amen.
A Cry for Mercy, Henri Nouwen
SCRIPTURE READING Luke 15: (11-24) 25-32
25 “Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. 27 He replied, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.’ 28 Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!’ 31 Then the father[d] said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’”
MEDITATION ON LUKE 15: (11-24) 25-32
These verses are the end of the story of the prodigal son. So often we focus on the younger son, the prodigal, and all that he did that was sinful and rude and disrespectful. Or we focus on the elder son, who is whining and throwing a hissy fit because he feels he has been overlooked in favor of the younger son whose behavior is reprehensible.
Yesterday was Father’s Day, and I have admired the father in this story but was also suspicious of him. What kind of father lets a spoiled and disrespectful son have his inheritance early, knowing what kind of immature and narcissistic person he is? Then I realize he is the kind of father who loves his sons more than anything else in the world. When the younger son comes home, the father runs into the field to greet him. He is the kind of father who, when confronted by the older son with recriminations and bitterness tells this older son that all the father has is his. That is the measure of the great love he has for his sons. There is nothing that means more to the father than his sons, no matter what they have done or said.
Rembrandt painted the return of the prodigal son; it is the painting that Henri Nouwen reflects on in his book, The Prodigal Son A Story of Homecoming. The father’s face is filled with compassion. His hands, both placed on the back of the son kneeling before him, demonstrate both strength and tenderness. Nouwen focuses on the complete love and forgiveness given to the son and writes, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful to make God smile by giving God the chance to find me and love me lavishly?” (pg. 101)
We all need a father like this one in the story of the prodigal son. Nouwen realized that we do have a father who offers unlimited mercy and love; and God does seek us out and love us lavishly.
HYMN 771 WHAT IS THE WORLD LIKE Adam I. M. Tice
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Mustard seeds grow more than we can conceive;
Roots thread the soil; branches reach for the sun.
This is how God moves us each to believe.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Witness the wandering child coming home;
Watch as the parent breaks into a run.
This is how God longs for us when we roam.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
No more is neighbor just ally or friend;
Peace thrives in places where once there was none.
This is how God works when rivalries end.
What is the world like when God’s will is done?
Ready for feasting, we watch through the night,
Tending our lamps till the new day’s begun.
This is how God readies us for the light.
These are the stories that Jesus imparts,
Filled with the Spirit who joins us as one.
Born through our voices, our hands, and our hearts,
This is a new world where God’s will is done
| Bulletin for Sunday June 14 2020 Zoom service at 12:00 Noon |
SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God, we know that you have called us to be your people and that you love us with an everlasting love. We thank you that you guide us through all of life. Sometimes life can be very discouraging. We do not always recognize your presence or accept your power. We wallow in discouragement and doubt, weakening our ability to live as your people in the world. Help us to trust you more fully, for the sake of Christ. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, ed. Martha S. Gilliss, prayer by Susan R. Tomlinson
SCRIPTURE READING 1 THESSALONIANS 5:12-18
But we appeal to you, brothers and sisters,[c] to respect those who labor among you, and have charge of you in the Lord and admonish you; 13 esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 And we urge you, beloved,[d] to admonish the idlers, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them. 15 See that none of you repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to all. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
MEDITATION ON 1 THESSALONIANS 5:12-18
Paul ends this beautiful letter to the Christians at Thessalonika with this advice about how to be community. Central to his appeal to the community is to always do good, rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances.
What would our communities and families look like if we followed Paul’s words? Despite some calling the protestors in Seattle ‘terrorists’, what I have seen and heard from Seattle residents is the CHAZ neighborhood is basically peaceful. People are out with their children, walking dogs, going to open markets and generally enjoying one another. It is, at least for now, a peaceful and harmonious neighborhood. We can see Paul’s vision of community and relationships evident here.
Why would we condone such a thing – no law enforcement allowed? I am reserving judgment because I believe human nature will eventually change the peace and harmony of the neighborhood. But then I hear again the story of the Irish people sending funds (and hope) to the Navaho nation. Over 150 years ago, the Navaho people took up an offering to send to the Irish in the midst of the potato famine. There is a special connection between these two groups of people. Perhaps human nature is better and more noble than we expect.
Paul says that we do all these things, all these good things in creating peace and harmony, because this is the will of God in Christ Jesus. There is hope, and therefore there shall be gratitude.
HYMN 647 GIVE THANKS Henry Smith
Give thanks with a grateful heart; give thanks to the Holy One;
Give thanks because we’re given Jesus Christ, the Son.
Give thanks with a grateful heart; give thanks to the Holy One;
Give thanks because we’re given Jesus Christ, the Son.
And now let the weak say, “We are strong”;
let the poor say “We are rich because of what the Lord has done for us!
And now let the weak say, “We are strong”;
let the poor say “We are rich because of what the Lord has done for us!
Give thanks. Give thanks
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God, we know that you have called us to be your people and that you love us with an everlasting love. We thank you that you guide us through all of life. Sometimes life can be very discouraging. We do not always recognize your presence or accept your power. We wallow in discouragement and doubt, weakening our ability to live as your people in the world. Help us to trust you more fully, for the sake of Christ. Amen.
Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, ed. Martha S. Gilliss, prayer by Susan R. Tomlinson
SCRIPTURE READING 1 THESSALONIANS 5:12-18
But we appeal to you, brothers and sisters,[c] to respect those who labor among you, and have charge of you in the Lord and admonish you; 13 esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 And we urge you, beloved,[d] to admonish the idlers, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them. 15 See that none of you repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to all. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
MEDITATION ON 1 THESSALONIANS 5:12-18
Paul ends this beautiful letter to the Christians at Thessalonika with this advice about how to be community. Central to his appeal to the community is to always do good, rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances.
What would our communities and families look like if we followed Paul’s words? Despite some calling the protestors in Seattle ‘terrorists’, what I have seen and heard from Seattle residents is the CHAZ neighborhood is basically peaceful. People are out with their children, walking dogs, going to open markets and generally enjoying one another. It is, at least for now, a peaceful and harmonious neighborhood. We can see Paul’s vision of community and relationships evident here.
Why would we condone such a thing – no law enforcement allowed? I am reserving judgment because I believe human nature will eventually change the peace and harmony of the neighborhood. But then I hear again the story of the Irish people sending funds (and hope) to the Navaho nation. Over 150 years ago, the Navaho people took up an offering to send to the Irish in the midst of the potato famine. There is a special connection between these two groups of people. Perhaps human nature is better and more noble than we expect.
Paul says that we do all these things, all these good things in creating peace and harmony, because this is the will of God in Christ Jesus. There is hope, and therefore there shall be gratitude.
HYMN 647 GIVE THANKS Henry Smith
Give thanks with a grateful heart; give thanks to the Holy One;
Give thanks because we’re given Jesus Christ, the Son.
Give thanks with a grateful heart; give thanks to the Holy One;
Give thanks because we’re given Jesus Christ, the Son.
And now let the weak say, “We are strong”;
let the poor say “We are rich because of what the Lord has done for us!
And now let the weak say, “We are strong”;
let the poor say “We are rich because of what the Lord has done for us!
Give thanks. Give thanks
THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
You know, O God, how hard it is to survive captivity without any hope of the Holy City. Sing to us, God, the songs of the promised land. Serve us your manna in the desert, and give us grace to enjoy our day of rest as an expression of our trust.
Let there be, in some place, a community of men, women, elderly, children, and new-born babies as a goal and sign of wholeness, and an embrace of the future. Amen.
A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice & Lamar Williamson. A Prayer for Deliverance, Rubem A. Alves
SCRIPTURE READING
Daniel said:
“Blessed be the name of God from age to age,
for wisdom and power are his.
21 He changes times and seasons,
deposes kings and sets up kings;
he gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to those who have understanding.
22 He reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what is in the darkness,
and light dwells with him.
23 To you, O God of my ancestors,
I give thanks and praise,
for you have given me wisdom and power,
and have now revealed to me what we asked of you,
for you have revealed to us what the king ordered.”
MEDITATION ON DANIEL 2:20-23
King Nubuchadnezzar had dreams that needed interpretation. When no one could tell him what his dream was (he refused to tell all the magicians and seers what he had dreamed), the king flew into a rage and demanded all who stood before him be executed. Daniel and his comrades avoided the death sentence (and actually saved the rest of the condemned men in the king’s court) because he volunteered to speak to the king about his dream and to interpret it. His offer was accepted, and he spoke this blessing and prayer of thanksgiving in response to God’s providence (after all, God gave Daniel a glimpse of the king’s dream).
Daniel and the other people of God were in exile in Babylon, constantly harassed and threatened, especially by the king. Not many of us have any idea what it is like to live such a precarious life. Jews hiding from Nazis in Europe during WWII; or our own American black brothers and sisters trying to make a good life for themselves in various parts of our country. I do not know what that life is like.
But we do know the relief and gratitude when danger passes us by, when we find ourselves safer than we expected. Here Daniel shows us that the first thing we do when we escape danger or evil is to bless God’s name and give thanks.
Our feeble glimpse into that kind of danger should push us to speak and act on behalf of those in danger, just like Daniel did. Like so many, I am frustrated because I do not know what to say or do as we continue to face racism and all its evils in our country. First, I think we give thanks to God for ay wisdom or power we have. Then we find places to speak and act.
HYMN 372 O FOR A WORLD Miriam Therese Winter
O for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways,
Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise.
O for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved,
Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved.
We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice
That opens us to unity and give our vision voice.
The poor are rich; the weak are strong; the foolish ones are wise.
Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise.
O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace,
Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
You know, O God, how hard it is to survive captivity without any hope of the Holy City. Sing to us, God, the songs of the promised land. Serve us your manna in the desert, and give us grace to enjoy our day of rest as an expression of our trust.
Let there be, in some place, a community of men, women, elderly, children, and new-born babies as a goal and sign of wholeness, and an embrace of the future. Amen.
A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice & Lamar Williamson. A Prayer for Deliverance, Rubem A. Alves
SCRIPTURE READING
Daniel said:
“Blessed be the name of God from age to age,
for wisdom and power are his.
21 He changes times and seasons,
deposes kings and sets up kings;
he gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to those who have understanding.
22 He reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what is in the darkness,
and light dwells with him.
23 To you, O God of my ancestors,
I give thanks and praise,
for you have given me wisdom and power,
and have now revealed to me what we asked of you,
for you have revealed to us what the king ordered.”
MEDITATION ON DANIEL 2:20-23
King Nubuchadnezzar had dreams that needed interpretation. When no one could tell him what his dream was (he refused to tell all the magicians and seers what he had dreamed), the king flew into a rage and demanded all who stood before him be executed. Daniel and his comrades avoided the death sentence (and actually saved the rest of the condemned men in the king’s court) because he volunteered to speak to the king about his dream and to interpret it. His offer was accepted, and he spoke this blessing and prayer of thanksgiving in response to God’s providence (after all, God gave Daniel a glimpse of the king’s dream).
Daniel and the other people of God were in exile in Babylon, constantly harassed and threatened, especially by the king. Not many of us have any idea what it is like to live such a precarious life. Jews hiding from Nazis in Europe during WWII; or our own American black brothers and sisters trying to make a good life for themselves in various parts of our country. I do not know what that life is like.
But we do know the relief and gratitude when danger passes us by, when we find ourselves safer than we expected. Here Daniel shows us that the first thing we do when we escape danger or evil is to bless God’s name and give thanks.
Our feeble glimpse into that kind of danger should push us to speak and act on behalf of those in danger, just like Daniel did. Like so many, I am frustrated because I do not know what to say or do as we continue to face racism and all its evils in our country. First, I think we give thanks to God for ay wisdom or power we have. Then we find places to speak and act.
HYMN 372 O FOR A WORLD Miriam Therese Winter
O for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways,
Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise.
O for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved,
Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved.
We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice
That opens us to unity and give our vision voice.
The poor are rich; the weak are strong; the foolish ones are wise.
Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise.
O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace,
Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Worship the Lord with gladness, and enter the Lord’s presence with songs of joy. O God, the angels of heaven proclaim your glory without ceasing. Help us as we serve you in worship, that in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs we may sing to you with our whole heart. Amen.
The Book of Common Worship (1993), pg. 29 adapted.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 CHRONICLES 16:28-34
Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples,
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
29 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
bring an offering, and come before him.
Worship the Lord in holy splendor;
30 tremble before him, all the earth.
The world is firmly established; it shall never be moved.
31 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice,
and let them say among the nations, “The Lord is king!”
32 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
let the field exult, and everything in it.
33 Then shall the trees of the forest sing for joy
before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth.
34 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever.
MEDITATION ON 1 CHRONICLES 16:28-34
This is the end of a psalm written by David for the placing of the ark of the covenant in the tent in Jerusalem. David appointed =certain Levites as the ministers of the ark; Asaph was the head minister and David directed him and his family to sing this psalm.
There is no temple, no shrine, building – simply a tent. David wants to build a temple, but the word of God comes to him that his son will build the temple.
The psalm paints a vivid and powerful picture: people coming to worship with offerings, even the heavens will rejoice, the sea will roar, the fields exult. And finally, David writes,
34 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever.
We so desperately want to be back in the building for worship. We want to sit in familiar pews, sing our favorite hymns, see and hug our friends. Our Zoom worship has brought people into worship who otherwise could not join us; and some have decided not to worship because they may not be comfortable with the technology.
Is our worship less pleasing to God because we are not together in a building? I don’t think so. It may be less pleasing to us but we are not the focus of worship. At the end of day, we are asked to give thanks to the LORD. We are blessed to see each other (or hear those on phones) every Sunday morning. Thanks be to God!
HYMN 10 SING GLORY TO THE NAME OF GOD David Gambrell
Sing glory to the name of God whose holy splendor shines abroad
Alleluia, alleluia!
Enthroned above the crashing waves, the God of grace and glory saves.
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
The name of God is full of might: resounding thunder, flashing light.
Alleluia, alleluia!
The wilderness cannot contain the echoes of the great refrain:
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
The name of God is wild and free, awhirl in holy mystery.
Alleluia, alleluia!
A secret wrapped in smoke and fire, still chanted by the temple choir:
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
May God forever be our peace; may hymns of glory never cease:
Alleluia, alleluia!
Let all the faithful people come; sing praise to God, the Three-in-One:
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Worship the Lord with gladness, and enter the Lord’s presence with songs of joy. O God, the angels of heaven proclaim your glory without ceasing. Help us as we serve you in worship, that in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs we may sing to you with our whole heart. Amen.
The Book of Common Worship (1993), pg. 29 adapted.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 CHRONICLES 16:28-34
Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples,
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
29 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
bring an offering, and come before him.
Worship the Lord in holy splendor;
30 tremble before him, all the earth.
The world is firmly established; it shall never be moved.
31 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice,
and let them say among the nations, “The Lord is king!”
32 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
let the field exult, and everything in it.
33 Then shall the trees of the forest sing for joy
before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth.
34 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever.
MEDITATION ON 1 CHRONICLES 16:28-34
This is the end of a psalm written by David for the placing of the ark of the covenant in the tent in Jerusalem. David appointed =certain Levites as the ministers of the ark; Asaph was the head minister and David directed him and his family to sing this psalm.
There is no temple, no shrine, building – simply a tent. David wants to build a temple, but the word of God comes to him that his son will build the temple.
The psalm paints a vivid and powerful picture: people coming to worship with offerings, even the heavens will rejoice, the sea will roar, the fields exult. And finally, David writes,
34 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever.
We so desperately want to be back in the building for worship. We want to sit in familiar pews, sing our favorite hymns, see and hug our friends. Our Zoom worship has brought people into worship who otherwise could not join us; and some have decided not to worship because they may not be comfortable with the technology.
Is our worship less pleasing to God because we are not together in a building? I don’t think so. It may be less pleasing to us but we are not the focus of worship. At the end of day, we are asked to give thanks to the LORD. We are blessed to see each other (or hear those on phones) every Sunday morning. Thanks be to God!
HYMN 10 SING GLORY TO THE NAME OF GOD David Gambrell
Sing glory to the name of God whose holy splendor shines abroad
Alleluia, alleluia!
Enthroned above the crashing waves, the God of grace and glory saves.
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
The name of God is full of might: resounding thunder, flashing light.
Alleluia, alleluia!
The wilderness cannot contain the echoes of the great refrain:
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
The name of God is wild and free, awhirl in holy mystery.
Alleluia, alleluia!
A secret wrapped in smoke and fire, still chanted by the temple choir:
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
May God forever be our peace; may hymns of glory never cease:
Alleluia, alleluia!
Let all the faithful people come; sing praise to God, the Three-in-One:
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia
TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY The Dedication
Thanks to thee, God, who brought’st me from yesterday to the beginning of today, everlasting joy to earn for my soul with good intent. And for every gift of peace thou bestowest on me, my thoughts, my words, my deeds, my desires I dedicate to thee. I supplicate thee, I beseech thee, to keep my from offence, and to shield me tonight, for the same of thy wounds with thine offering of grace.
Amen.
The Celtic Vision: Prayers and blessings from the Outer Hebrides, Ed. Esther de Waal. Pg. 40
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 9:1-2
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart;
I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
2 I will be glad and exult in you;
I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 9:1-2
The psalms give us permission to rejoice, to scream in anger and grief, and certainly to give honor and thanks to God. I spend time at a Benedictine monastery, where we pray three times every day. Each time we chant several psalms, and even with the beautiful translations that are used, the psalms can lack subtlety regarding anger and vindictiveness.
Psalm 9 begins with these verses of thanksgiving and praise and then continues with all the vengeance of God against the enemies. God rebukes the nations, destroys cities until there not even a memory of the enemy left.
As much as we love the praise and thanksgiving we are encouraged to give God, I am squeamish about all the vengeance. This does not fit with my contemporary Christian values; but then I have to acknowledge that the violent texts are scripture and of the same value as the ones I love.
When we chant psalms with the sisters of St. Benedict, we are to keep silence after each one. In the silence we meditate on the words we have just sung aloud. Some of the sisters have been doing this every day for over 60 – 70 years. What I hear from them is the need to listen and let the words that most applicable come to the surface. Sometimes they hold us accountable for our shortcomings, other times they are the words of comfort we need, and others, like the beginning of this psalm, give our whole praise and thanksgiving to God. Other words in the psalms point out the brokenness of humanity and our cruelty towards one another.
So today I simply want to give thanks. Thanks for the beauty around me, the friends and family I love, the hope that is the midst of all the angst and chaos, and for all the wonderful deeds God is doing in our midst. That will be enough.
HYMN 356 SING PRAISE TO GOD, WHOSE MIGHTY ACTS Carl P. Daw
Sing praise to God, whose mighty acts still strong in memory stand
To give us hope when evil seems to gain the upper hand.
Give thanks for deeds of steadfast love, for wonders new and old:
For fire and cloud, for daily food, for mercies yet untold.
Though monuments of evil rise in marble, gilt and stone,
Time’s search will find their boasts untrue, their makers’ names unknown.
Mute avenues of ruins will mark where once proud cities stood,
But from destruction God will save the faithful, just, and good.
Rise up, O God, reclaim the power usurped by mortal pride;
Deflate the hollow pomp of those whom rank and titles hide.
Let not the needy cry unheard, the suffering hope in vain;
Restore the fallen, bless the meek, till peace and justice reign
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY The Dedication
Thanks to thee, God, who brought’st me from yesterday to the beginning of today, everlasting joy to earn for my soul with good intent. And for every gift of peace thou bestowest on me, my thoughts, my words, my deeds, my desires I dedicate to thee. I supplicate thee, I beseech thee, to keep my from offence, and to shield me tonight, for the same of thy wounds with thine offering of grace.
Amen.
The Celtic Vision: Prayers and blessings from the Outer Hebrides, Ed. Esther de Waal. Pg. 40
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 9:1-2
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart;
I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
2 I will be glad and exult in you;
I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 9:1-2
The psalms give us permission to rejoice, to scream in anger and grief, and certainly to give honor and thanks to God. I spend time at a Benedictine monastery, where we pray three times every day. Each time we chant several psalms, and even with the beautiful translations that are used, the psalms can lack subtlety regarding anger and vindictiveness.
Psalm 9 begins with these verses of thanksgiving and praise and then continues with all the vengeance of God against the enemies. God rebukes the nations, destroys cities until there not even a memory of the enemy left.
As much as we love the praise and thanksgiving we are encouraged to give God, I am squeamish about all the vengeance. This does not fit with my contemporary Christian values; but then I have to acknowledge that the violent texts are scripture and of the same value as the ones I love.
When we chant psalms with the sisters of St. Benedict, we are to keep silence after each one. In the silence we meditate on the words we have just sung aloud. Some of the sisters have been doing this every day for over 60 – 70 years. What I hear from them is the need to listen and let the words that most applicable come to the surface. Sometimes they hold us accountable for our shortcomings, other times they are the words of comfort we need, and others, like the beginning of this psalm, give our whole praise and thanksgiving to God. Other words in the psalms point out the brokenness of humanity and our cruelty towards one another.
So today I simply want to give thanks. Thanks for the beauty around me, the friends and family I love, the hope that is the midst of all the angst and chaos, and for all the wonderful deeds God is doing in our midst. That will be enough.
HYMN 356 SING PRAISE TO GOD, WHOSE MIGHTY ACTS Carl P. Daw
Sing praise to God, whose mighty acts still strong in memory stand
To give us hope when evil seems to gain the upper hand.
Give thanks for deeds of steadfast love, for wonders new and old:
For fire and cloud, for daily food, for mercies yet untold.
Though monuments of evil rise in marble, gilt and stone,
Time’s search will find their boasts untrue, their makers’ names unknown.
Mute avenues of ruins will mark where once proud cities stood,
But from destruction God will save the faithful, just, and good.
Rise up, O God, reclaim the power usurped by mortal pride;
Deflate the hollow pomp of those whom rank and titles hide.
Let not the needy cry unheard, the suffering hope in vain;
Restore the fallen, bless the meek, till peace and justice reign
MONDAY, JUNE 8, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God,
Thank you for your amazing power and work in our lives, thank you for your goodness and for your blessings over us. Thank you that you are able to bring hope through even the toughest of times, strengthening us for your purposes. Thank you for your great love and care. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you that you are always with us and will never leave us. Thank you for your incredible sacrifice so that we might have freedom and life. Forgive us for when we don't thank you enough, for who you are, for all that you do, for all that you've given. Help us to set our eyes and our hearts on you afresh. Renew our spirits, fill us with your peace and joy. We love you and we need you, this day and every day. We give you praise and thanks. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 12:28- 13:2
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us give thanks, by which we offer to God an acceptable worship with reverence and awe; 29 for indeed our God is a consuming fire. Let mutual love continue. 2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing It.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 12:28-13:2
We are promised the kingdom of God that cannot be destroyed, damaged – or even shaken. In the midst of the chaos and fragility of our world, this promise should cause us to give thanks. How? With our worship, our adoration and awe. And by turning outward from ourselves and promote love and hospitality.
I have always loved the image of entertaining angels without realizing it. We recently had dinner guests from Zimbabwe – three sisters and the husbands of two of the sisters – it was a wonderful evening. Everyone was relaxed and there was something very special about our time together. Looking back, I believe we were entertaining angels without knowing it. We all had a long day with another long day to come (a Sunday), and yet I felt invigorated by our conversation and all the laughter.
Every guest who comes to us should be viewed as a potential angel. Thanks be to God for guests, for angels, and for hospitality!
HYMN 770 I’M GONNA EAT AT THE WELCOME TABLE African American Spiritual
I’m gonna eat at the welcome table,
I’m going to eat at the welcome table, Alleluia.
I’m gonna eat at the welcome table,
I’m gonna eat at the welcome table, Alleluia.
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus,
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus, Alleluia
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus,
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus, Alleluia.
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers,
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers, Alleluia.
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers,
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers, Alleluia
.
Here all the world will find a welcome,
Here all the world will find a welcome, Alleluia.
Here all the world will find a welcome,
Here all the world will find a welcome, Alleluia.
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey,
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey, Alleluia.
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey,
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey, Alleluia
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God,
Thank you for your amazing power and work in our lives, thank you for your goodness and for your blessings over us. Thank you that you are able to bring hope through even the toughest of times, strengthening us for your purposes. Thank you for your great love and care. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you that you are always with us and will never leave us. Thank you for your incredible sacrifice so that we might have freedom and life. Forgive us for when we don't thank you enough, for who you are, for all that you do, for all that you've given. Help us to set our eyes and our hearts on you afresh. Renew our spirits, fill us with your peace and joy. We love you and we need you, this day and every day. We give you praise and thanks. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 12:28- 13:2
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us give thanks, by which we offer to God an acceptable worship with reverence and awe; 29 for indeed our God is a consuming fire. Let mutual love continue. 2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing It.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 12:28-13:2
We are promised the kingdom of God that cannot be destroyed, damaged – or even shaken. In the midst of the chaos and fragility of our world, this promise should cause us to give thanks. How? With our worship, our adoration and awe. And by turning outward from ourselves and promote love and hospitality.
I have always loved the image of entertaining angels without realizing it. We recently had dinner guests from Zimbabwe – three sisters and the husbands of two of the sisters – it was a wonderful evening. Everyone was relaxed and there was something very special about our time together. Looking back, I believe we were entertaining angels without knowing it. We all had a long day with another long day to come (a Sunday), and yet I felt invigorated by our conversation and all the laughter.
Every guest who comes to us should be viewed as a potential angel. Thanks be to God for guests, for angels, and for hospitality!
HYMN 770 I’M GONNA EAT AT THE WELCOME TABLE African American Spiritual
I’m gonna eat at the welcome table,
I’m going to eat at the welcome table, Alleluia.
I’m gonna eat at the welcome table,
I’m gonna eat at the welcome table, Alleluia.
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus,
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus, Alleluia
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus,
I’m gonna eat and drink with my Jesus, Alleluia.
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers,
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers, Alleluia.
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers,
I’m gonna join with sisters, brothers, Alleluia
.
Here all the world will find a welcome,
Here all the world will find a welcome, Alleluia.
Here all the world will find a welcome,
Here all the world will find a welcome, Alleluia.
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey,
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey, Alleluia.
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey,
We’re gonna feast on milk and honey, Alleluia
| Bulletin for TRINITY SUNDAY JUNE 7, 2020 12:00 PM Zoom Service |
SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you have searched us and known us; be the light of our discerning, be the wings of our imagining, be the worker of our wonder, be the breath of our conversation, be the ground of our journey, now and forever. Amen.
Living the Heart of Christianity: A Guide to Putting Your Faith into Action, Marcus Borg and Time Scorer, pg. 20.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 JOHN 3:16-20
16 We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. 17 How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?
18 Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. 19 And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him 20 whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:16-20
Along with all the media about protests, injustices, and racism are stories of amazing love people are showing for one another. The writer of 1 John gives us the reasons we are able to love one another freely: we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him.
We believe that God will hold us accountable for our lives. I always imagine the questions for me will be: “Did I love God with everything I am? Did I love my neighbor, truly more than I love myself?”
We can all say the words but too often cannot bring ourselves to act. We are tired, disillusioned and don’t see the point. Others are acting so much better than I ever could; so I will sit this one out. Then I hear that question from 1 John: How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? I know so many who refuse to believe that there is white privilege in this country; but as white women and men, we live with it all the time and frankly, cannot imagine acknowledging it much less doing anything about it.
So we need to examine our hearts. We need to find ways to take action, to live differently. We need to trust God, who indeed knows everything.
HYMN 215 WHAT WONDROUS LOVE IS THIS American Folk Hymn
What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.
When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down beneath God's righteous frown,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul.
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing.
To God and to the Lamb Who is the great 'I am';
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;
While millions join the theme, I will sing.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing and joyful be;
And through eternity, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And through eternity, I'll sing on.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you have searched us and known us; be the light of our discerning, be the wings of our imagining, be the worker of our wonder, be the breath of our conversation, be the ground of our journey, now and forever. Amen.
Living the Heart of Christianity: A Guide to Putting Your Faith into Action, Marcus Borg and Time Scorer, pg. 20.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 JOHN 3:16-20
16 We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. 17 How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?
18 Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. 19 And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him 20 whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:16-20
Along with all the media about protests, injustices, and racism are stories of amazing love people are showing for one another. The writer of 1 John gives us the reasons we are able to love one another freely: we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him.
We believe that God will hold us accountable for our lives. I always imagine the questions for me will be: “Did I love God with everything I am? Did I love my neighbor, truly more than I love myself?”
We can all say the words but too often cannot bring ourselves to act. We are tired, disillusioned and don’t see the point. Others are acting so much better than I ever could; so I will sit this one out. Then I hear that question from 1 John: How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? I know so many who refuse to believe that there is white privilege in this country; but as white women and men, we live with it all the time and frankly, cannot imagine acknowledging it much less doing anything about it.
So we need to examine our hearts. We need to find ways to take action, to live differently. We need to trust God, who indeed knows everything.
HYMN 215 WHAT WONDROUS LOVE IS THIS American Folk Hymn
What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.
When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down beneath God's righteous frown,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul.
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing.
To God and to the Lamb Who is the great 'I am';
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;
While millions join the theme, I will sing.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on.
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing and joyful be;
And through eternity, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And through eternity, I'll sing on.
FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Set us free, O God, from our many sins and failures that we might feel as though a burden has been lifted and we’re breathing free again; bless all the ways in which you shape our attitudes and lives. Visit us with goodness and give us eyes to see that goodness. Lead us and help us to follow you. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING MATTHEW 18:15-17
15 “If another member of the church[a] sins against you,[b] go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one.[c] 16 But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 18:15-17
This is a process of reconciliation. I used to think this would not work, that it was wishful thinking. But I now know of several instances when the process was used successfully. It is not easy to reconcile with someone who has sinned against you as Matthew puts it. There is even a way out if the process doesn’t work: let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
What if the process works, and there is reconciliation? How does a relationship then come to a place where there is mutual respect and trust? Do we forgive but not forget? In many ways, this is more difficult that the process itself. The hard work begins with forgiveness, but continues as we forge ahead in what is hopefully a new and better relationship. The result is worth the hard work.
The reconciliation we are offered from God is the same. Our work to repent and to become closer to God happens because of God’s grace. The work we do is our response to that grace. God loves us and does not want to cast us out!
HYMN 53 O GOD, WHO GIVES US LIFE Carl P. Daw
O God who gives us life and breath, who shapes us in the womb,
who guards our lives from birth to death, then leads us from the tomb:
deliver us from fears that kill the life we have from you;
help us to know your Spirit still is making all things new.
O God who calls your people out, to venture and to dare,
to plumb the bleak abyss of doubt and find you even there:
when we despair in wandering through wastes of empty lies,
refresh us with the living spring of hope that never dies.
O God of covenant and law, revealed in cloud and flame,
your mighty deeds evoke our awe; we dare not speak your Name.
Yet we by faith are drawn to you and will your people prove,
as on our hearts you write anew the covenant of love
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Set us free, O God, from our many sins and failures that we might feel as though a burden has been lifted and we’re breathing free again; bless all the ways in which you shape our attitudes and lives. Visit us with goodness and give us eyes to see that goodness. Lead us and help us to follow you. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING MATTHEW 18:15-17
15 “If another member of the church[a] sins against you,[b] go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one.[c] 16 But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 18:15-17
This is a process of reconciliation. I used to think this would not work, that it was wishful thinking. But I now know of several instances when the process was used successfully. It is not easy to reconcile with someone who has sinned against you as Matthew puts it. There is even a way out if the process doesn’t work: let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
What if the process works, and there is reconciliation? How does a relationship then come to a place where there is mutual respect and trust? Do we forgive but not forget? In many ways, this is more difficult that the process itself. The hard work begins with forgiveness, but continues as we forge ahead in what is hopefully a new and better relationship. The result is worth the hard work.
The reconciliation we are offered from God is the same. Our work to repent and to become closer to God happens because of God’s grace. The work we do is our response to that grace. God loves us and does not want to cast us out!
HYMN 53 O GOD, WHO GIVES US LIFE Carl P. Daw
O God who gives us life and breath, who shapes us in the womb,
who guards our lives from birth to death, then leads us from the tomb:
deliver us from fears that kill the life we have from you;
help us to know your Spirit still is making all things new.
O God who calls your people out, to venture and to dare,
to plumb the bleak abyss of doubt and find you even there:
when we despair in wandering through wastes of empty lies,
refresh us with the living spring of hope that never dies.
O God of covenant and law, revealed in cloud and flame,
your mighty deeds evoke our awe; we dare not speak your Name.
Yet we by faith are drawn to you and will your people prove,
as on our hearts you write anew the covenant of love
THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, you teach us in your word that love is the fulfilling of the law: grant that we may love you with all our heart and our neighbors as ourselves. Save us, Jesus, from hurrying away because we do not wish to help, be we know not how to help, because we dare not. Inspire us to use our lives serving one another.
Jesus Christ, you have taught us that what we do to each other, we do to you; make us quick to help and slow to hurt, knowing that in our neighbor it is you who receive our love or our neglect. Amen.\
A New Zealand Prayer Book, Collect for the 23 rd Sunday after Pentecost
SCRIPTURE READING 2 CORINTHIANS 5:16-21
16 From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view;[b] even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view,[c] we know him no longer in that way. 17 So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself,[d] not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. 20 So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
MEDITATION ON 2 CORINTHIANS 5:11-21
What would our world be like if we truly looked at one another as new creations, made in the image of God? What does it mean to view one another from “a human point of view?” As I have watched the news for the past week, I don’t think much of human points of view. Violence, greed and anger have detracted or covered over the very real pain and attempts to peacefully engage each other for change. Revenge is a motive as well; but then…
A voice speaks up for the dignity of each human being. Video footage shows white policemen and black women hugging, sharing tears. Another voice speaks of a vision unity and respect, of sharing one another’s burdens. There is also righteous indignation about what has happened – the inexcusable killing of George Floyd, the shameful use of the Bible and St. John’s Episcopal church for a photo op.
Paul writes that we are ambassadors of Christ. Sometimes, ambassadors for Christ need to stand up, speak up and work for reconciliation that will bring change. Maybe we need to keep those questions in front of us as we discern what we can do in the present crisis. What would our world be like if we truly looked at one another as new creations, made in the image of God?
HYMN 366 LOVE DIVINE, ALL LOVES EXCELLING Charles Wesley
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.
Breathe, O Breath thy loving Spirit into every troubled breast;
Let us all in thee inherit; let us find the promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning; Alpha and Omega be;
End of faith, as its beginning, set our hearts at liberty.
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.
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.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, you teach us in your word that love is the fulfilling of the law: grant that we may love you with all our heart and our neighbors as ourselves. Save us, Jesus, from hurrying away because we do not wish to help, be we know not how to help, because we dare not. Inspire us to use our lives serving one another.
Jesus Christ, you have taught us that what we do to each other, we do to you; make us quick to help and slow to hurt, knowing that in our neighbor it is you who receive our love or our neglect. Amen.\
A New Zealand Prayer Book, Collect for the 23 rd Sunday after Pentecost
SCRIPTURE READING 2 CORINTHIANS 5:16-21
16 From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view;[b] even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view,[c] we know him no longer in that way. 17 So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself,[d] not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. 20 So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
MEDITATION ON 2 CORINTHIANS 5:11-21
What would our world be like if we truly looked at one another as new creations, made in the image of God? What does it mean to view one another from “a human point of view?” As I have watched the news for the past week, I don’t think much of human points of view. Violence, greed and anger have detracted or covered over the very real pain and attempts to peacefully engage each other for change. Revenge is a motive as well; but then…
A voice speaks up for the dignity of each human being. Video footage shows white policemen and black women hugging, sharing tears. Another voice speaks of a vision unity and respect, of sharing one another’s burdens. There is also righteous indignation about what has happened – the inexcusable killing of George Floyd, the shameful use of the Bible and St. John’s Episcopal church for a photo op.
Paul writes that we are ambassadors of Christ. Sometimes, ambassadors for Christ need to stand up, speak up and work for reconciliation that will bring change. Maybe we need to keep those questions in front of us as we discern what we can do in the present crisis. What would our world be like if we truly looked at one another as new creations, made in the image of God?
HYMN 366 LOVE DIVINE, ALL LOVES EXCELLING Charles Wesley
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.
Breathe, O Breath thy loving Spirit into every troubled breast;
Let us all in thee inherit; let us find the promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning; Alpha and Omega be;
End of faith, as its beginning, set our hearts at liberty.
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.
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.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Empower us, O God, with the power of your Spirit. We do not seek the power of this world that seduces us to greed, control, and selfishness. We seek instead the power of your righteousness and your justice. We seek your power of compassion and humility. Then may we be true disciples of Jesus Christ, seeking to participate in the peace of your kingdom. Amen.
Inclusive/Expansive Language Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010), Rev. Dr Nancy Young.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 SAMUEL 18:6-9
6 As they were coming home, when David returned from killing the Philistine, the women came out of all the towns of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with songs of joy, and with musical instruments.[b] 7 And the women sang to one another as they made merry,
“Saul has killed his thousands,
and David his ten thousands.”
8 Saul was very angry, for this saying displeased him. He said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed thousands; what more can he have but the kingdom?” 9 So Saul eyed David from that day on.
2 SAMUEL 1:11-12
11 Then David took hold of his clothes and tore them; and all the men who were with him did the same. 12 They mourned and wept, and fasted until evening for Saul and for his son Jonathan, and for the army of the Lord and for the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.
MEDITATION ON 1 SAMUEL 18:6-9, 2 Samuel 1:11-12
This is the beginning of the stories of Saul and David’s relationship. It sours quickly; David is praised for killing ten thousands of the enemy and Saul is jealous. Saul is insecure and plots at various times against David. His jealousy grows as David becomes more and more popular. Saul is confident that David will eventually be killed by the Philistines; but that does not happen.
There is no reconciliation here; just envy, lack of trust, and competition. Human beings easily fall into the trap of envy and lack of self-esteem to the point that behavior in our relationships becomes irrational and destructive. Israel and the Philistines continue in battle until this final battle when Saul and his three sons die. Could this outcome have been different? What role did the relationship of Saul and David play in this part of the history of Israel?
Perhaps we will never really know. But we do know that unresolved conflicts cannot lead to peace or justice. We as people of faith cannot shrug our shoulders and say. “God’s in charge. Let God fix this. If not – it is meant to be.” God gave us intelligence, compassion and the creative capabilities to find reconciliation. Perhaps the learning from the stories of Saul and David is that we need to participate in the healing, in the reconciliation and in the mercy that we have been given from God.
HYMN 346 FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS Fred Kaan
For the healing of the nations, Lord, we pray with one accord;
For a just and equal sharing of the things that earth affords;
To a life of love in action help us rise and pledge our word.
Lead us forward into freedom; from despair your world release,
That, redeemed from war and hatred, all may come and go in peace.
Show us how through care and goodness fear will died and hope increase.
All that kills abundant living, let it from the earth be banned:
Pride of status, race or schooling, dogmas that obscure your plan.
In our common quest for justice may we hallow life’s brief span.
You, Creator God, have written your great name on humankind;
For our growing in your likeness, bring the life of Christ to mind,
That by our response and service earth its destiny may find.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Empower us, O God, with the power of your Spirit. We do not seek the power of this world that seduces us to greed, control, and selfishness. We seek instead the power of your righteousness and your justice. We seek your power of compassion and humility. Then may we be true disciples of Jesus Christ, seeking to participate in the peace of your kingdom. Amen.
Inclusive/Expansive Language Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010), Rev. Dr Nancy Young.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 SAMUEL 18:6-9
6 As they were coming home, when David returned from killing the Philistine, the women came out of all the towns of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with songs of joy, and with musical instruments.[b] 7 And the women sang to one another as they made merry,
“Saul has killed his thousands,
and David his ten thousands.”
8 Saul was very angry, for this saying displeased him. He said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed thousands; what more can he have but the kingdom?” 9 So Saul eyed David from that day on.
2 SAMUEL 1:11-12
11 Then David took hold of his clothes and tore them; and all the men who were with him did the same. 12 They mourned and wept, and fasted until evening for Saul and for his son Jonathan, and for the army of the Lord and for the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.
MEDITATION ON 1 SAMUEL 18:6-9, 2 Samuel 1:11-12
This is the beginning of the stories of Saul and David’s relationship. It sours quickly; David is praised for killing ten thousands of the enemy and Saul is jealous. Saul is insecure and plots at various times against David. His jealousy grows as David becomes more and more popular. Saul is confident that David will eventually be killed by the Philistines; but that does not happen.
There is no reconciliation here; just envy, lack of trust, and competition. Human beings easily fall into the trap of envy and lack of self-esteem to the point that behavior in our relationships becomes irrational and destructive. Israel and the Philistines continue in battle until this final battle when Saul and his three sons die. Could this outcome have been different? What role did the relationship of Saul and David play in this part of the history of Israel?
Perhaps we will never really know. But we do know that unresolved conflicts cannot lead to peace or justice. We as people of faith cannot shrug our shoulders and say. “God’s in charge. Let God fix this. If not – it is meant to be.” God gave us intelligence, compassion and the creative capabilities to find reconciliation. Perhaps the learning from the stories of Saul and David is that we need to participate in the healing, in the reconciliation and in the mercy that we have been given from God.
HYMN 346 FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS Fred Kaan
For the healing of the nations, Lord, we pray with one accord;
For a just and equal sharing of the things that earth affords;
To a life of love in action help us rise and pledge our word.
Lead us forward into freedom; from despair your world release,
That, redeemed from war and hatred, all may come and go in peace.
Show us how through care and goodness fear will died and hope increase.
All that kills abundant living, let it from the earth be banned:
Pride of status, race or schooling, dogmas that obscure your plan.
In our common quest for justice may we hallow life’s brief span.
You, Creator God, have written your great name on humankind;
For our growing in your likeness, bring the life of Christ to mind,
That by our response and service earth its destiny may find.
TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, when we are anxious speak to us a word of peace, when we are bewildered about which way to go speak to us a word of direction, when we wonder about the meaning of life grant us wisdom and enough light to see one step ahead. We are dependent upon you. Open our eyes that we might see the glimpses of truth that you have for us. Where we are wrong, correct us, where we are right, confirm us, but give us a sense of adventure and the joy of the journey. Amen.
Prayers for the Journey, Rev. Dr. Robert Young
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 12:14-15
14 Pursue peace with everyone, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and through it many become defiled.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 12:14-15
The phrase that caught me in these verses from Hebrews was the idea that we need to pursue holiness. Holiness enables others to see God through us. I have never seen the value of fire and brimstone preaching. People will not come to a healthy relationship with Jesus Christ through abusive threats. In the same way, we will not have peace with each other if we are patronizing and smug about our faith. Everyone can receive God’s grace and everyone can receive the gift of faith.
However, I get caught by the idea that not only do I need to pursue peace, but holiness. “Holy” is not a word I would use to describe myself. John Wesley taught that through faith we experience holiness and sanctification and move towards what he called ‘Christian perfection.’ Perfection is a process; and so is holiness.
Pursuing holiness means I have responsibility. The writer of Hebrews writes in the imperative: See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God… The reason is that we want to avoid bitterness, trouble and the potential for conflict. The ongoing struggle to be faithful, loving and to practice all those wonderful gifts of the spirit is not simply about becoming a better person. The struggle is extended outside of ourselves to include the people we know and love. Our relationships with others and indeed with the world are where we are to find holiness. This is not easy.
In our world of divisions and conflict, we need to take a deep breath and stand firm for peace, for holiness and a strong hold on the grace of God.
HYMN 313 LORD, MAKE US MORE HOLY African American Spiritual
Lord, make us more holy; Lord, make us more holy;
Lord make us more holy, until we meet again:
Holy, holy, holy, until we meet again.
Lord, make us more loving; Lord, make us more loving;
Lord, make us more living, until we meet again.
Loving, loving, loving, until we meet again.
Lord, make us more patient; Lord, make us more patient;
Lord, make us more patient, until we meet again.
Patient, patient, patient, until we meet again.
Lord, make us more faithful, Lord, make us more faithful;
Lord, make us more faithful, until we meet again.
Faithful, faithful, faithful, until we meet again
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, when we are anxious speak to us a word of peace, when we are bewildered about which way to go speak to us a word of direction, when we wonder about the meaning of life grant us wisdom and enough light to see one step ahead. We are dependent upon you. Open our eyes that we might see the glimpses of truth that you have for us. Where we are wrong, correct us, where we are right, confirm us, but give us a sense of adventure and the joy of the journey. Amen.
Prayers for the Journey, Rev. Dr. Robert Young
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 12:14-15
14 Pursue peace with everyone, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and through it many become defiled.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 12:14-15
The phrase that caught me in these verses from Hebrews was the idea that we need to pursue holiness. Holiness enables others to see God through us. I have never seen the value of fire and brimstone preaching. People will not come to a healthy relationship with Jesus Christ through abusive threats. In the same way, we will not have peace with each other if we are patronizing and smug about our faith. Everyone can receive God’s grace and everyone can receive the gift of faith.
However, I get caught by the idea that not only do I need to pursue peace, but holiness. “Holy” is not a word I would use to describe myself. John Wesley taught that through faith we experience holiness and sanctification and move towards what he called ‘Christian perfection.’ Perfection is a process; and so is holiness.
Pursuing holiness means I have responsibility. The writer of Hebrews writes in the imperative: See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God… The reason is that we want to avoid bitterness, trouble and the potential for conflict. The ongoing struggle to be faithful, loving and to practice all those wonderful gifts of the spirit is not simply about becoming a better person. The struggle is extended outside of ourselves to include the people we know and love. Our relationships with others and indeed with the world are where we are to find holiness. This is not easy.
In our world of divisions and conflict, we need to take a deep breath and stand firm for peace, for holiness and a strong hold on the grace of God.
HYMN 313 LORD, MAKE US MORE HOLY African American Spiritual
Lord, make us more holy; Lord, make us more holy;
Lord make us more holy, until we meet again:
Holy, holy, holy, until we meet again.
Lord, make us more loving; Lord, make us more loving;
Lord, make us more living, until we meet again.
Loving, loving, loving, until we meet again.
Lord, make us more patient; Lord, make us more patient;
Lord, make us more patient, until we meet again.
Patient, patient, patient, until we meet again.
Lord, make us more faithful, Lord, make us more faithful;
Lord, make us more faithful, until we meet again.
Faithful, faithful, faithful, until we meet again
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, we live and move and have our being in you. Yet always in the midst of this creation-glory, we see sin’s shadow and feel death’s darkness: around us in the earth, sea and sky, the abuse of matter; beside us in the broken, the hungry and the poor, the betrayal of one another; and often, deep within us, a striving against your Spirit.
O Trinity of love, forgive us that we may forgive one another, heal us that we may be people of healing, and renew us that we also may be makers of peace. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING EPHESIANS 4:25-32
25 So then, putting away falsehood, let all of us speak the truth to our neighbors, for we are members of one another. 26 Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and do not make room for the devil. 28 Thieves must give up stealing; rather let them labor and work honestly with their own hands, so as to have something to share with the needy. 29 Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up,[b] as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with which you were marked with a seal for the day of redemption. 31 Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, 32 and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.
MEDITATION ON EPHESIANS 4:25-32
Presiding Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Church was interviewed this morning regarding the protests and violence resulting from the death of George Floyd. When asked how we can deal with such anger and violence, Bishop Curry replied, “It all starts with a choice. We have to make a decision to change. And it is all about love.” He went on to give a definition of love; it is not a feeling or sentiment. Love is when we make decisions and choices that are for the good for someone other than ourselves. The opposite of love is selfishness.
Too many times pride, anger and selfishness feed a conflict to the point we cannot reconcile. Paul writes in this letter to the Ephesians, Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. What would our relationships with one another be like if we spoke words that give grace to one another? The impact of this could change everything.
In Flint, Michigan, the sheriff and his staff came out with helmets, vests, etc. to confront the protestors. The sheriff realized that meeting the anger and grief of the protestors like this was not going to be helpful. He removed his helmet and gear, and held out his arms to the protestors. Then he and his staff marched in a peaceful protest, arms around the protestors.
We all need to cultivate Bishop Curry’s definition of love. The anger, bitterness, prejudice – these things do nothing good for anyone else and certainly not for ourselves. We can be reconciled in love.
HYMN 372 O FOR A WORLD Miriam Therese Winter
O for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways
Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise.
O for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved,
Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved.
We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice
That opens us to unity and gives our vision voice.
The poor are rich; the weak are strong; the foolish ones are wise.
Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise.
O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace,
Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, we live and move and have our being in you. Yet always in the midst of this creation-glory, we see sin’s shadow and feel death’s darkness: around us in the earth, sea and sky, the abuse of matter; beside us in the broken, the hungry and the poor, the betrayal of one another; and often, deep within us, a striving against your Spirit.
O Trinity of love, forgive us that we may forgive one another, heal us that we may be people of healing, and renew us that we also may be makers of peace. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING EPHESIANS 4:25-32
25 So then, putting away falsehood, let all of us speak the truth to our neighbors, for we are members of one another. 26 Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and do not make room for the devil. 28 Thieves must give up stealing; rather let them labor and work honestly with their own hands, so as to have something to share with the needy. 29 Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up,[b] as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with which you were marked with a seal for the day of redemption. 31 Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, 32 and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.
MEDITATION ON EPHESIANS 4:25-32
Presiding Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Church was interviewed this morning regarding the protests and violence resulting from the death of George Floyd. When asked how we can deal with such anger and violence, Bishop Curry replied, “It all starts with a choice. We have to make a decision to change. And it is all about love.” He went on to give a definition of love; it is not a feeling or sentiment. Love is when we make decisions and choices that are for the good for someone other than ourselves. The opposite of love is selfishness.
Too many times pride, anger and selfishness feed a conflict to the point we cannot reconcile. Paul writes in this letter to the Ephesians, Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. What would our relationships with one another be like if we spoke words that give grace to one another? The impact of this could change everything.
In Flint, Michigan, the sheriff and his staff came out with helmets, vests, etc. to confront the protestors. The sheriff realized that meeting the anger and grief of the protestors like this was not going to be helpful. He removed his helmet and gear, and held out his arms to the protestors. Then he and his staff marched in a peaceful protest, arms around the protestors.
We all need to cultivate Bishop Curry’s definition of love. The anger, bitterness, prejudice – these things do nothing good for anyone else and certainly not for ourselves. We can be reconciled in love.
HYMN 372 O FOR A WORLD Miriam Therese Winter
O for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways
Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise.
O for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved,
Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved.
We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice
That opens us to unity and gives our vision voice.
The poor are rich; the weak are strong; the foolish ones are wise.
Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise.
O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace,
Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease
| Bulletin for PENTECOST SUNDAY MAY 31, 2020 Zoom Service at 12:00 noon |
SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
As you cause the sun to rise, O God, bring the light of Christ to dawn in our souls and dispel all darkness.
Give us grace to reflect Christ’s glory; and let his love show in our deeds, his peace shine in our words, and his healing in our touch, that all may give him praise, now and forever. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 2:42-47
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
43 Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44 All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45 they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds[a] to all, as any had need. 46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home[b] and ate their food with glad and generous[c] hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 2:42-47
Study, fellowship, the sacraments and worship. These are the activities of a Christian community. Out of this life comes generosity, taking care of the needy and always praising God.
This can all get muddled and lost if a community creates barriers for those who yearn to be part of this life. There are many who long for community and for relationships that are authentic and genuine. How do we show the world that is the kind of community we are? When we live as Jesus taught us, those who encounter us will want to know how we learned to live as we do. We pay attention to the world around us give respect and dignity and kindness to everyone we meet. Witnessing to the kind of Christian community and the hospitality we practice is what we do.
HYMN 188 JESUS LOVES ME! Anna Bartlett Warner David Rutherford McGuire
Jesus loves me! This I know; for the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to him belong. They are weak and he is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! This I know; as he loved so long ago,
Taking children on his knee saying, “Let them come to me.”
Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
As you cause the sun to rise, O God, bring the light of Christ to dawn in our souls and dispel all darkness.
Give us grace to reflect Christ’s glory; and let his love show in our deeds, his peace shine in our words, and his healing in our touch, that all may give him praise, now and forever. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 2:42-47
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
43 Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44 All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45 they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds[a] to all, as any had need. 46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home[b] and ate their food with glad and generous[c] hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 2:42-47
Study, fellowship, the sacraments and worship. These are the activities of a Christian community. Out of this life comes generosity, taking care of the needy and always praising God.
This can all get muddled and lost if a community creates barriers for those who yearn to be part of this life. There are many who long for community and for relationships that are authentic and genuine. How do we show the world that is the kind of community we are? When we live as Jesus taught us, those who encounter us will want to know how we learned to live as we do. We pay attention to the world around us give respect and dignity and kindness to everyone we meet. Witnessing to the kind of Christian community and the hospitality we practice is what we do.
HYMN 188 JESUS LOVES ME! Anna Bartlett Warner David Rutherford McGuire
Jesus loves me! This I know; for the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to him belong. They are weak and he is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! This I know; as he loved so long ago,
Taking children on his knee saying, “Let them come to me.”
Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.
FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Gentle God, I want to thank you for giving me the wonderful circle of friends that I have. You have surrounded me with people that really love you and that want to know me more each day! Thank you, Lord, for they have all shown me so much love and I am truly grateful for their friendship. Thank you for providing me with friends that hold me accountable in my walk with You as I hold them accountable as well. Lord, I praise Your holy name for blessing me with such amazing friends! Amen
SCRIPTURE READING ECCLESIASTES 4:9-12
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help. 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? 12 And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.
MEDITATION ON ECCLESIASTES 4:9-12
When my brother and I would disagree and fight, my mother handed each of us a bucket of vinegar water and some newspapers. The big picture window in the front of our house was made up of 3 X 6 inch panes – 64 in the middle, 48 on either side. One of us worked outside, the other inside. My mother had the cleanest windows in town; and we had to look at each other as we worked. Al though the work was meant as a consequence for our behavior, we quickly started to laugh and the work went quickly.
In this short text about friendship, a case is made for sharing work, warmth, encouragement and loyalty.
We are not created to be alone. God saw that Adam was alone, and made sure he would have a helpmate in Eve. Infants and small children do not thrive if they are ignored and not given the loving relationship of a caring adult. Most of us can remember a childhood friend who was our companion in games and imagination.
Families (and congregations) are as healthy as the relationships between the members. And, if you are blessed with a wise mother, you will learn to wash windows and laugh with a sibling!
HYMN 686 GOD OF OUR LIFE Hugh Thomson Kerr
God of our life, through circling years, we trust in thee.
In all the past, through all our hopes and fears, thy hand we see.
With each new day, when morning lifts the veil,
We own thy mercies, Lord, which never fail.
God of the past, our times are in thy hand. With us abide.
Lead us by faith to hope’s true promised land. Be thou our guide.
With thee to bless, the darkness shines as light,
And faith’s fair vision changes into sight.
God of the coming years, through path unknown we follow thee.
When we are strong, Lord, leave us not alone. Our refuge be.
Be thou for us in life our daily bread,
Our heart’s true home when all our years have sped.UGH hUG
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Gentle God, I want to thank you for giving me the wonderful circle of friends that I have. You have surrounded me with people that really love you and that want to know me more each day! Thank you, Lord, for they have all shown me so much love and I am truly grateful for their friendship. Thank you for providing me with friends that hold me accountable in my walk with You as I hold them accountable as well. Lord, I praise Your holy name for blessing me with such amazing friends! Amen
SCRIPTURE READING ECCLESIASTES 4:9-12
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help. 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? 12 And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.
MEDITATION ON ECCLESIASTES 4:9-12
When my brother and I would disagree and fight, my mother handed each of us a bucket of vinegar water and some newspapers. The big picture window in the front of our house was made up of 3 X 6 inch panes – 64 in the middle, 48 on either side. One of us worked outside, the other inside. My mother had the cleanest windows in town; and we had to look at each other as we worked. Al though the work was meant as a consequence for our behavior, we quickly started to laugh and the work went quickly.
In this short text about friendship, a case is made for sharing work, warmth, encouragement and loyalty.
We are not created to be alone. God saw that Adam was alone, and made sure he would have a helpmate in Eve. Infants and small children do not thrive if they are ignored and not given the loving relationship of a caring adult. Most of us can remember a childhood friend who was our companion in games and imagination.
Families (and congregations) are as healthy as the relationships between the members. And, if you are blessed with a wise mother, you will learn to wash windows and laugh with a sibling!
HYMN 686 GOD OF OUR LIFE Hugh Thomson Kerr
God of our life, through circling years, we trust in thee.
In all the past, through all our hopes and fears, thy hand we see.
With each new day, when morning lifts the veil,
We own thy mercies, Lord, which never fail.
God of the past, our times are in thy hand. With us abide.
Lead us by faith to hope’s true promised land. Be thou our guide.
With thee to bless, the darkness shines as light,
And faith’s fair vision changes into sight.
God of the coming years, through path unknown we follow thee.
When we are strong, Lord, leave us not alone. Our refuge be.
Be thou for us in life our daily bread,
Our heart’s true home when all our years have sped.UGH hUG
THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, bless your people.
Give us your peace, your help, and your love, for we are the sheep of your pasture. Let us be united in your peace – one in the Body, one in the Spirit, and one in the hope of our calling, all through the gift of your endless grace. Amen.
Based on the liturgy of St. Mark (2nd century), Book of Common Prayer Daily Prayer
SCRIPTURE READING ROMANS 12:3-7
3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; 7 ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; 8 the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.
MEDITATION ON ROMANS 12:3-7
I have been thinking often of something someone wrote to me: “You will never see a face of someone God does not love.” It is clear that Paul is advocating community that does not judge, does not diminish other’s gifts and always values what grace has been extended to those of the community. I have also been using a small book by Sr. Joan Chittister, We Are One Reflections on Unity, community and Commitment to Each Other. She writes:’ The quality of any society depends on the integrity and commitment of its members. All the ideals in the world will not substitute for strength when strength is needed and for courage when courage is necessary. Otherwise, that population is simply a herd, not a society.”
Communities and societies are held together by commitment; but also by the sometimes surprising and extraordinary gifts of each individual. Those gifts are given by God for the betterment of the whole community. I can think of so many friends and mentors who generously shared their gifts with me; it is humbling to think of the grace I have received from so many gifted people. Paul probably saw more than enough people who were so egotistical that the concepts of Christian community – the generosity, compassion, etc. were beyond their comprehension. Fortunately, God is persistent and so was Paul. These gifts have been handed down for generations, and we are the recipients of these valuable teachings. So let us build community with one another and rejoice!
HYMN 767 TOGETHER WE SERVE Daniel Charles Damon
Together we serve, united by love,
Inviting God’s world to the glorious feat.
We work and we pray through sorrow and joy,
Extending God’s love to the last and the least.
We seek to become a beacon of hope,
A lamp for the heart and a light for the feet.
We learn, year by year, to let love shine through
Until we see Christ in each person we meet.
We welcome the scarred, the wealthy, the poor,
The busy, the lonely, and all who need care.
We offer a home to those who will come,
Our hands quick to help, our hearts ready to dare.
Together by grace, we witness and work,
Remembering Jesus, in whom we grow strong.
Together we serve in Spirit and truth,
remembering love is the strength of our song
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, bless your people.
Give us your peace, your help, and your love, for we are the sheep of your pasture. Let us be united in your peace – one in the Body, one in the Spirit, and one in the hope of our calling, all through the gift of your endless grace. Amen.
Based on the liturgy of St. Mark (2nd century), Book of Common Prayer Daily Prayer
SCRIPTURE READING ROMANS 12:3-7
3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; 7 ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; 8 the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.
MEDITATION ON ROMANS 12:3-7
I have been thinking often of something someone wrote to me: “You will never see a face of someone God does not love.” It is clear that Paul is advocating community that does not judge, does not diminish other’s gifts and always values what grace has been extended to those of the community. I have also been using a small book by Sr. Joan Chittister, We Are One Reflections on Unity, community and Commitment to Each Other. She writes:’ The quality of any society depends on the integrity and commitment of its members. All the ideals in the world will not substitute for strength when strength is needed and for courage when courage is necessary. Otherwise, that population is simply a herd, not a society.”
Communities and societies are held together by commitment; but also by the sometimes surprising and extraordinary gifts of each individual. Those gifts are given by God for the betterment of the whole community. I can think of so many friends and mentors who generously shared their gifts with me; it is humbling to think of the grace I have received from so many gifted people. Paul probably saw more than enough people who were so egotistical that the concepts of Christian community – the generosity, compassion, etc. were beyond their comprehension. Fortunately, God is persistent and so was Paul. These gifts have been handed down for generations, and we are the recipients of these valuable teachings. So let us build community with one another and rejoice!
HYMN 767 TOGETHER WE SERVE Daniel Charles Damon
Together we serve, united by love,
Inviting God’s world to the glorious feat.
We work and we pray through sorrow and joy,
Extending God’s love to the last and the least.
We seek to become a beacon of hope,
A lamp for the heart and a light for the feet.
We learn, year by year, to let love shine through
Until we see Christ in each person we meet.
We welcome the scarred, the wealthy, the poor,
The busy, the lonely, and all who need care.
We offer a home to those who will come,
Our hands quick to help, our hearts ready to dare.
Together by grace, we witness and work,
Remembering Jesus, in whom we grow strong.
Together we serve in Spirit and truth,
remembering love is the strength of our song
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, bless your people.
Give us your peace, your help, and your love, for we are the sheep of your pasture. Let us be united in your peace – one in the Body, one in the Spirit, and one in the hope of our calling, all through the gift of your endless grace. Amen.
Based on the liturgy of St. Mark (2nd century), Book of Common Prayer Daily Prayer
SCRIPTURE READING ROMANS 12:3-7
3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; 7 ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; 8 the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.
MEDITATION ON ROMANS 12:3-7
I have been thinking often of something someone wrote to me: “You will never see a face of someone God does not love.” It is clear that Paul is advocating community that does not judge, does not diminish other’s gifts and always values what grace has been extended to those of the community. I have also been using a small book by Sr. Joan Chittister, We Are One Reflections on Unity, community and Commitment to Each Other. She writes:’ The quality of any society depends on the integrity and commitment of its members. All the ideals in the world will not substitute for strength when strength is needed and for courage when courage is necessary. Otherwise, that population is simply a herd, not a society.”
Communities and societies are held together by commitment; but also by the sometimes surprising and extraordinary gifts of each individual. Those gifts are given by God for the betterment of the whole community. I can think of so many friends and mentors who generously shared their gifts with me; it is humbling to think of the grace I have received from so many gifted people. Paul probably saw more than enough people who were so egotistical that the concepts of Christian community – the generosity, compassion, etc. were beyond their comprehension. Fortunately, God is persistent and so was Paul. These gifts have been handed down for generations, and we are the recipients of these valuable teachings. So let us build community with one another and rejoice!
HYMN 767 TOGETHER WE SERVE Daniel Charles Damon
Together we serve, united by love,
Inviting God’s world to the glorious feat.
We work and we pray through sorrow and joy,
Extending God’s love to the last and the least.
We seek to become a beacon of hope,
A lamp for the heart and a light for the feet.
We learn, year by year, to let love shine through
Until we see Christ in each person we meet.
We welcome the scarred, the wealthy, the poor,
The busy, the lonely, and all who need care.
We offer a home to those who will come,
Our hands quick to help, our hearts ready to dare.
Together by grace, we witness and work,
Remembering Jesus, in whom we grow strong.
Together we serve in Spirit and truth,
remembering love is the strength of our song
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, bless your people.
Give us your peace, your help, and your love, for we are the sheep of your pasture. Let us be united in your peace – one in the Body, one in the Spirit, and one in the hope of our calling, all through the gift of your endless grace. Amen.
Based on the liturgy of St. Mark (2nd century), Book of Common Prayer Daily Prayer
SCRIPTURE READING ROMANS 12:3-7
3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; 7 ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; 8 the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.
MEDITATION ON ROMANS 12:3-7
I have been thinking often of something someone wrote to me: “You will never see a face of someone God does not love.” It is clear that Paul is advocating community that does not judge, does not diminish other’s gifts and always values what grace has been extended to those of the community. I have also been using a small book by Sr. Joan Chittister, We Are One Reflections on Unity, community and Commitment to Each Other. She writes:’ The quality of any society depends on the integrity and commitment of its members. All the ideals in the world will not substitute for strength when strength is needed and for courage when courage is necessary. Otherwise, that population is simply a herd, not a society.”
Communities and societies are held together by commitment; but also by the sometimes surprising and extraordinary gifts of each individual. Those gifts are given by God for the betterment of the whole community. I can think of so many friends and mentors who generously shared their gifts with me; it is humbling to think of the grace I have received from so many gifted people. Paul probably saw more than enough people who were so egotistical that the concepts of Christian community – the generosity, compassion, etc. were beyond their comprehension. Fortunately, God is persistent and so was Paul. These gifts have been handed down for generations, and we are the recipients of these valuable teachings. So let us build community with one another and rejoice!
HYMN 767 TOGETHER WE SERVE Daniel Charles Damon
Together we serve, united by love,
Inviting God’s world to the glorious feat.
We work and we pray through sorrow and joy,
Extending God’s love to the last and the least.
We seek to become a beacon of hope,
A lamp for the heart and a light for the feet.
We learn, year by year, to let love shine through
Until we see Christ in each person we meet.
We welcome the scarred, the wealthy, the poor,
The busy, the lonely, and all who need care.
We offer a home to those who will come,
Our hands quick to help, our hearts ready to dare.
Together by grace, we witness and work,
Remembering Jesus, in whom we grow strong.
Together we serve in Spirit and truth,
remembering love is the strength of our song
TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, we thank you for this place in which we dwell,, for the love that unites us, for the peace given us this day; for the hope with which we expect the morrow; for the health, the work, the food and the bright skies that make our lives delightful; for our friends in all parts of the world.
Give us courage and joy and peace of mind and heart. Bless us in all our endeavors; give us the strength to endure whatever comes.
For whatever comes our way, fortify our sense of community and give us a vision of your will for us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING GALATIANS 6:1-10
My friends,[a] if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill[b] the law of Christ. 3 For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. 4 All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor’s work, will become a cause for pride. 5 For all must carry their own loads.
6 Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher.
7 Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. 8 If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. 9 So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. 10 So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.
MEDITATION ON GALATIANS 6:1-10
This is part of the last section of Paul’s letter to the community of Galatia. He began the letter with harsh words because the community has become divided and distracted. Some teachers came after Paul and changed the teachings that came from Paul. Paul is exacerbated, frustrated and annoyed and viewed the teaching and preaching of these other teachers as a perversion of the gospel.
By the time we get to chapter 6, Paul has passionately encouraged the Galatians to be of one mind and to adhere to the gospel given to them by Paul. Here in these te verses, Paul outlines how the community is to live by the Spirit. Paul’s words are powerful and challenging, laying out a dynamic that is very much not that of the way of the flesh or world. Paul describes the life of people who live by the Spirit looks like. The baptized, those brought into ancient people of God in a new way are to fulfill a new law, that of Christ, by bearing one another’s burdens. Paul describes the radical mutuality of such a life. Assist one another and evaluate only yourself. Do what is given you to do on behalf of your neighbor, as God on behalf of God’s people did what needed to be done for them. By exhorting his hearers not to grow tired, Paul reminds us that this is indeed a hard way to live. Such a life needs graciousness, perseverance, a constant cheerful sowing, and a refusal to judge who is worthy of help and who not.
My guess is many of us have learned lessons about community; from living together in close proximity to those who have sheltered in place alone and desire community. Most of all, we need to live by the Spirit of God who is in our midst and creates our community. The Spirit infuses the community with all those amazing gifts –patience, kindness, hospitality, generosity, and love.
HYMN 759 O GOD, WE BEAR THE IMPRINT Shirley Erena Murray
O God, we bear the imprint of your face:
the colors of our skin as your design,
And what we have of beauty in our race
as man or woman, you alone define,
Who stretched a living fabric on our frame
and gave to each a language and a name.
Where we are torn and pulled apart by hate
Because our race, our skin is not the same,
While we are judged unequal by the state
And victims made because we own our name,
Humanity reduced to little worth,
Dishonored is your living face on earth.
O God, we share the image of the One
whose flesh and blood are ours, whatever skin;
In Christ’s humanity we find our own,
And in his family our proper kin:
Christ is the brother we still crucify,
His love the language we must learn or die
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, we thank you for this place in which we dwell,, for the love that unites us, for the peace given us this day; for the hope with which we expect the morrow; for the health, the work, the food and the bright skies that make our lives delightful; for our friends in all parts of the world.
Give us courage and joy and peace of mind and heart. Bless us in all our endeavors; give us the strength to endure whatever comes.
For whatever comes our way, fortify our sense of community and give us a vision of your will for us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING GALATIANS 6:1-10
My friends,[a] if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill[b] the law of Christ. 3 For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. 4 All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor’s work, will become a cause for pride. 5 For all must carry their own loads.
6 Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher.
7 Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. 8 If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. 9 So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. 10 So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.
MEDITATION ON GALATIANS 6:1-10
This is part of the last section of Paul’s letter to the community of Galatia. He began the letter with harsh words because the community has become divided and distracted. Some teachers came after Paul and changed the teachings that came from Paul. Paul is exacerbated, frustrated and annoyed and viewed the teaching and preaching of these other teachers as a perversion of the gospel.
By the time we get to chapter 6, Paul has passionately encouraged the Galatians to be of one mind and to adhere to the gospel given to them by Paul. Here in these te verses, Paul outlines how the community is to live by the Spirit. Paul’s words are powerful and challenging, laying out a dynamic that is very much not that of the way of the flesh or world. Paul describes the life of people who live by the Spirit looks like. The baptized, those brought into ancient people of God in a new way are to fulfill a new law, that of Christ, by bearing one another’s burdens. Paul describes the radical mutuality of such a life. Assist one another and evaluate only yourself. Do what is given you to do on behalf of your neighbor, as God on behalf of God’s people did what needed to be done for them. By exhorting his hearers not to grow tired, Paul reminds us that this is indeed a hard way to live. Such a life needs graciousness, perseverance, a constant cheerful sowing, and a refusal to judge who is worthy of help and who not.
My guess is many of us have learned lessons about community; from living together in close proximity to those who have sheltered in place alone and desire community. Most of all, we need to live by the Spirit of God who is in our midst and creates our community. The Spirit infuses the community with all those amazing gifts –patience, kindness, hospitality, generosity, and love.
HYMN 759 O GOD, WE BEAR THE IMPRINT Shirley Erena Murray
O God, we bear the imprint of your face:
the colors of our skin as your design,
And what we have of beauty in our race
as man or woman, you alone define,
Who stretched a living fabric on our frame
and gave to each a language and a name.
Where we are torn and pulled apart by hate
Because our race, our skin is not the same,
While we are judged unequal by the state
And victims made because we own our name,
Humanity reduced to little worth,
Dishonored is your living face on earth.
O God, we share the image of the One
whose flesh and blood are ours, whatever skin;
In Christ’s humanity we find our own,
And in his family our proper kin:
Christ is the brother we still crucify,
His love the language we must learn or die
MONDAY, MAY 25, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of strength and love,
Thank you for this Memorial Day weekend. Help us not to merely look at this weekend as the unofficial start to summer but reflect that it is a weekend in which we can honor and recognize those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our great nation. Lord, as we begin to reopen from the quarantine set in order from COVID-19 we pray for safety. We pray for the wise and brave caretakers in medical centers, clinics, nursing homes and those who serve as EMTs, firefighters, and law officers. We pray safety for those who choose to meet in person that they would be shielded from becoming sick. We pray for those traveling for safe roads and journeys as they embark to see those they have missed so much. We pray for the cities as they slowly turn back on the lights to return to a sense of normalcy that it would be a shield of protection over our cities and towns as they reopen. May your blessings fall upon all of us and shield us from harm.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen
SCRIPTURE READING – JOHN 15:12-14
This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. MEDITATION ON JOHN 1512-14
Today is Memorial Day, the day we remember and honor our veterans, who certainly offered up their lives for others. They are the heroes, and should not be forgotten.
We have discovered other heroes in this time of COVID. Nurses, doctors, hospital cleaning and cooking staff, those who make sure that what supplies we have are used well. The heart-breaking sacrifice of medical personnel, necessary service personnel, of families and friends creates heroes in our midst.
Jesus makes it clear to us that love wins over everything else. In Matthew, he tells his followers to love God and love one another, because on these two commandments hang all the prophets and the laws. In other words, all of life depends upon our love for God and one another. Very few of us are called upon to willingly lay down our lives for others. Give thanks today for all the heroes , those we know and those we do not know. Give thanks to God for such strength and courage.
HYMN 315 WHERE CHARITY AND LOVE PREVAIL 8th century Latin hymn
Where charity and love prevail, there God is ever found;
Brought here together by Christ’s love, by love we thus are bound.
Let us recall that in our midst dwells Christ, God’s holy Son.
As members of each body joined, in him we are made one.
Let strive among us be unknown; let all contentions cease.
Be God’s the glory that we seek; be his our only peace.
Let us forgive each other’s faults as we our own confess,
That we may love each other well in Christian gentleness.
Love can exclude no race or creed if honored by God’s name;
Our common life embraces all whose Maker is the same.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of strength and love,
Thank you for this Memorial Day weekend. Help us not to merely look at this weekend as the unofficial start to summer but reflect that it is a weekend in which we can honor and recognize those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our great nation. Lord, as we begin to reopen from the quarantine set in order from COVID-19 we pray for safety. We pray for the wise and brave caretakers in medical centers, clinics, nursing homes and those who serve as EMTs, firefighters, and law officers. We pray safety for those who choose to meet in person that they would be shielded from becoming sick. We pray for those traveling for safe roads and journeys as they embark to see those they have missed so much. We pray for the cities as they slowly turn back on the lights to return to a sense of normalcy that it would be a shield of protection over our cities and towns as they reopen. May your blessings fall upon all of us and shield us from harm.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen
SCRIPTURE READING – JOHN 15:12-14
This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. MEDITATION ON JOHN 1512-14
Today is Memorial Day, the day we remember and honor our veterans, who certainly offered up their lives for others. They are the heroes, and should not be forgotten.
We have discovered other heroes in this time of COVID. Nurses, doctors, hospital cleaning and cooking staff, those who make sure that what supplies we have are used well. The heart-breaking sacrifice of medical personnel, necessary service personnel, of families and friends creates heroes in our midst.
Jesus makes it clear to us that love wins over everything else. In Matthew, he tells his followers to love God and love one another, because on these two commandments hang all the prophets and the laws. In other words, all of life depends upon our love for God and one another. Very few of us are called upon to willingly lay down our lives for others. Give thanks today for all the heroes , those we know and those we do not know. Give thanks to God for such strength and courage.
HYMN 315 WHERE CHARITY AND LOVE PREVAIL 8th century Latin hymn
Where charity and love prevail, there God is ever found;
Brought here together by Christ’s love, by love we thus are bound.
Let us recall that in our midst dwells Christ, God’s holy Son.
As members of each body joined, in him we are made one.
Let strive among us be unknown; let all contentions cease.
Be God’s the glory that we seek; be his our only peace.
Let us forgive each other’s faults as we our own confess,
That we may love each other well in Christian gentleness.
Love can exclude no race or creed if honored by God’s name;
Our common life embraces all whose Maker is the same.
| Bulletin for THE SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ASCENSION MAY 24, 2020 Zoom Service at Noon |
SATURDAY, MAY 23, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, We thank you for the created world in which we live – for its sights and sounds and colors and all the wonderful things to engage in that challenge our minds and elicit creativity. Shape our attitudes, our thoughts and our actions that they might be more like those of Jesus Christ. Give us purpose that sustains us and may we play our part in the long march of the human race and never lose sight of the goal toward which we move – the City of God. Amen
SCRIPTURE REVELATION 22:1-5
Then the angel[a] showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life[b] with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. 3 Nothing accursed will be found there any more. But the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants[c] will worship him; 4 they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 And there will be no more night; they need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.
MEDITATION ON REVELATION 22:1-5
This vision is at the very end of Revelation. It is reminiscent of the description of Eden in Genesis, but it is not meant to harken backwards to creation, rather forward to the new heaven and the new earth. We hear in Revelation 21 that “the home[a] of God is among mortals. He will dwell[b] with them; they will be his peoples,[c] and God himself will be with them;[d] 4 he will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”
These beautiful visions are our to look forward to as we move through this life. If we are so broken that it seems nothing can heal us, God dwells with us and brings us to the city of God where we will find crystal clear water and a tree that blossoms and bears fruit all year long. The leaves of this tree are for the healing of the nations. This is transformation that is cosmic and real and yet so imminent and present. The healing of God transcends this world and awaits us in the kingdom of God.
This is like a perfect summer day, with subtle warmth and sweet breezes and the scent of grass and flowers all around. We will laugh and enjoy friends and family, and we will give thanks and praise to God without end!
HYMN 375 SHALL WE GATHER AT THE RIVER Robert Lowry
Shall we gather at the river, where bright angel feet have trod,
With its crystal tide forever flowing by the throne of God?
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God.
On the margin of the river, washing up its silver spray,
We will walk and worship ever, all the happy golden day.
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God.
Ere we reach the shining river, lay we every burden donw;
Grace our spirits will deliver, and provide a robe and crown.
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God.
Soon we’ll reach the shining river, soon our pilgrimage will cease;
Soon our happy hearts will quiver with the melody of peace.
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, We thank you for the created world in which we live – for its sights and sounds and colors and all the wonderful things to engage in that challenge our minds and elicit creativity. Shape our attitudes, our thoughts and our actions that they might be more like those of Jesus Christ. Give us purpose that sustains us and may we play our part in the long march of the human race and never lose sight of the goal toward which we move – the City of God. Amen
SCRIPTURE REVELATION 22:1-5
Then the angel[a] showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life[b] with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. 3 Nothing accursed will be found there any more. But the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants[c] will worship him; 4 they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 And there will be no more night; they need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.
MEDITATION ON REVELATION 22:1-5
This vision is at the very end of Revelation. It is reminiscent of the description of Eden in Genesis, but it is not meant to harken backwards to creation, rather forward to the new heaven and the new earth. We hear in Revelation 21 that “the home[a] of God is among mortals. He will dwell[b] with them; they will be his peoples,[c] and God himself will be with them;[d] 4 he will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”
These beautiful visions are our to look forward to as we move through this life. If we are so broken that it seems nothing can heal us, God dwells with us and brings us to the city of God where we will find crystal clear water and a tree that blossoms and bears fruit all year long. The leaves of this tree are for the healing of the nations. This is transformation that is cosmic and real and yet so imminent and present. The healing of God transcends this world and awaits us in the kingdom of God.
This is like a perfect summer day, with subtle warmth and sweet breezes and the scent of grass and flowers all around. We will laugh and enjoy friends and family, and we will give thanks and praise to God without end!
HYMN 375 SHALL WE GATHER AT THE RIVER Robert Lowry
Shall we gather at the river, where bright angel feet have trod,
With its crystal tide forever flowing by the throne of God?
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God.
On the margin of the river, washing up its silver spray,
We will walk and worship ever, all the happy golden day.
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God.
Ere we reach the shining river, lay we every burden donw;
Grace our spirits will deliver, and provide a robe and crown.
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God.
Soon we’ll reach the shining river, soon our pilgrimage will cease;
Soon our happy hearts will quiver with the melody of peace.
Refrain
Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne of God
FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, our God, we commit to you the sick and the infirm, children who suffer, men and women unable to work, the elderly with failing strength, and all those in agony. Enlighten and sustain them, so that in faith they may find some meaning for their suffering and commit themselves to you. Deliver them in your mercy.
Have pity on those who suffer lack of nervous equilibrium, and even in the midst of the darkness of sickness, let your light shine.
Sustain and guide those to whom you have entrusted the care of the sick and those who watch over the health of their neighbors. Give to the men and women whom you have called into the medical profession, as well as to their assistants, devotion, tact, and discernment. Let theirs be healing hands’ give them the heart that encourages, the word that consoles. Amen.
Andre Schlemmer (11890-1973), A book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice & Lamar Williamson, Jr.
SCRIPTURE MARK 2:1-12
When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. 2 So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door; and he was speaking the word to them. 3 Then some people[a] came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. 4 And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this fellow speak in this way? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 At once Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were discussing these questions among themselves; and he said to them, “Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? 9 Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and take your mat and walk’? 10 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— 11 “I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.” 12 And he stood up, and immediately took the mat and went out before all of them; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”
MEDITATION ON MARK 2:1-12
Healing is more than curing an illness or taking care of an injury. Here Jesus heals more than the physical ailments of the paralytic. He forgives sins, healing the heart and the soul.
I am amazed at the faith of the four friends that gave them the courage to climb up on someone’s roof, get the stretcher with the paralyzed man up to the roof, and then dig a hole – not just a small opening – but a huge hole in the roof! It is their faith that moves Jesus to say to the man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”
The healings of Jesus (and later of his disciples and Paul) are miraculous in themselves. However, the healings are also signs of something more significant. When Jesus heals, it is a sign of his authority. He has divine authority on earth, and can forgive our sins, love us when we see ourselves as unlovable, and heal our deepest wounds. Jesus can bring us wholeness.
HYMN 661 WHY SHOULD I FEEL DISCOURAGED? Civilla Durfee Martin
Why should I feel discouraged? Why should the shadows come?
Why should my heart be lonely and long for heaven and home,
when Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is he:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Refrain
I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,
For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
“Let not your heart be troubled,” his tender word I hear,
And resting on his goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path he leadeth, but one step I may see:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Refrain
I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,
For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,
When song give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,
I draw the closer to him; from care he sets me free:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Refrain
I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,
For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord, our God, we commit to you the sick and the infirm, children who suffer, men and women unable to work, the elderly with failing strength, and all those in agony. Enlighten and sustain them, so that in faith they may find some meaning for their suffering and commit themselves to you. Deliver them in your mercy.
Have pity on those who suffer lack of nervous equilibrium, and even in the midst of the darkness of sickness, let your light shine.
Sustain and guide those to whom you have entrusted the care of the sick and those who watch over the health of their neighbors. Give to the men and women whom you have called into the medical profession, as well as to their assistants, devotion, tact, and discernment. Let theirs be healing hands’ give them the heart that encourages, the word that consoles. Amen.
Andre Schlemmer (11890-1973), A book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice & Lamar Williamson, Jr.
SCRIPTURE MARK 2:1-12
When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. 2 So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door; and he was speaking the word to them. 3 Then some people[a] came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. 4 And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this fellow speak in this way? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 At once Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were discussing these questions among themselves; and he said to them, “Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? 9 Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and take your mat and walk’? 10 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— 11 “I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.” 12 And he stood up, and immediately took the mat and went out before all of them; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”
MEDITATION ON MARK 2:1-12
Healing is more than curing an illness or taking care of an injury. Here Jesus heals more than the physical ailments of the paralytic. He forgives sins, healing the heart and the soul.
I am amazed at the faith of the four friends that gave them the courage to climb up on someone’s roof, get the stretcher with the paralyzed man up to the roof, and then dig a hole – not just a small opening – but a huge hole in the roof! It is their faith that moves Jesus to say to the man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”
The healings of Jesus (and later of his disciples and Paul) are miraculous in themselves. However, the healings are also signs of something more significant. When Jesus heals, it is a sign of his authority. He has divine authority on earth, and can forgive our sins, love us when we see ourselves as unlovable, and heal our deepest wounds. Jesus can bring us wholeness.
HYMN 661 WHY SHOULD I FEEL DISCOURAGED? Civilla Durfee Martin
Why should I feel discouraged? Why should the shadows come?
Why should my heart be lonely and long for heaven and home,
when Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is he:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Refrain
I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,
For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
“Let not your heart be troubled,” his tender word I hear,
And resting on his goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path he leadeth, but one step I may see:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Refrain
I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,
For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,
When song give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,
I draw the closer to him; from care he sets me free:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
Refrain
I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,
For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Healing God, when it seemed there was no hope I have seen your light in the eyes of a child. When it seemed there was no joy I have heard your delight in the voice of a friend. When it seemed that life was stale I have smelled the freshness of sunlight on my skin. When all seemed emptiness I have touched your presence in the hand of a stranger.
Thanks be to you, O God, for your embodied love. Open my senses to your presence that I may love you and care for you in all things. Amen.
Celtic Benediction Morning and Evening Prayer, J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE MATTHEW 10:1
Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness.
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 10:1
This begins the account of Jesus sending the twelve out to share the good news of the kingdom of God, to cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers cast out demons.
What is important is that Jesus gave the disciples authority to do all these things. We really don’t know what they were able to accomplish; they must have felt empowered. They were being sent out by Jesus to do the same mission work he was doing.
We are also commissioned for the work of Jesus. We know the great commandments from the teaching of Jesus: love God and love our neighbor. So guided by those commandments we do have the authority and responsibility for each other, for all of God’s children, and for God’s creation.
We may not actually be able to cure the sick, raise the dead, cast out demons, etc. But we can love one another. We can speak words of hope to one another. In these things – love and hope – we can bring a healing word to those who are filled with anxiety, grief or despair. We can be Christ to one another; and in doing so, we can heal the ‘sin-sick soul.’
HYMN 792 THERE IS A BALM IN GILEAD African American Spiritual
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
Sometimes I feel discouraged, and think my work’s in vain,
But then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again.
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
Don’t ever feel discouraged, for Jesus is your friend,
And if you lack for knowledge, he’ll not refuse to lend.
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
If you cannot preach like Peter, if you cannot pray like Paul,
You can tell the love of Jesus and say, “He died for all.”
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Healing God, when it seemed there was no hope I have seen your light in the eyes of a child. When it seemed there was no joy I have heard your delight in the voice of a friend. When it seemed that life was stale I have smelled the freshness of sunlight on my skin. When all seemed emptiness I have touched your presence in the hand of a stranger.
Thanks be to you, O God, for your embodied love. Open my senses to your presence that I may love you and care for you in all things. Amen.
Celtic Benediction Morning and Evening Prayer, J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE MATTHEW 10:1
Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness.
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 10:1
This begins the account of Jesus sending the twelve out to share the good news of the kingdom of God, to cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers cast out demons.
What is important is that Jesus gave the disciples authority to do all these things. We really don’t know what they were able to accomplish; they must have felt empowered. They were being sent out by Jesus to do the same mission work he was doing.
We are also commissioned for the work of Jesus. We know the great commandments from the teaching of Jesus: love God and love our neighbor. So guided by those commandments we do have the authority and responsibility for each other, for all of God’s children, and for God’s creation.
We may not actually be able to cure the sick, raise the dead, cast out demons, etc. But we can love one another. We can speak words of hope to one another. In these things – love and hope – we can bring a healing word to those who are filled with anxiety, grief or despair. We can be Christ to one another; and in doing so, we can heal the ‘sin-sick soul.’
HYMN 792 THERE IS A BALM IN GILEAD African American Spiritual
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
Sometimes I feel discouraged, and think my work’s in vain,
But then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again.
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
Don’t ever feel discouraged, for Jesus is your friend,
And if you lack for knowledge, he’ll not refuse to lend.
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
If you cannot preach like Peter, if you cannot pray like Paul,
You can tell the love of Jesus and say, “He died for all.”
Refrain
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Watch, O Lord, with all those awake this night.
Watch, O Lord, with all those who weep.
Give your angels and saints charge over all.
Tend your ailing ones, in your love, Lord.
Rest your weary ones, in your love, Lord.
Bless your dying ones, in your love, O Lord of all.
Sooth your suffering ones, heal afflicted ones, shield your joyous ones, in your love, O Lord of all.
Hold your grieving ones, raise your fallen ones, mend your broken ones, in your love, O Lord of all.
Guard your little ones, guide your searching ones, grant us all your peace, in your love, O Lord of all.
Adapted from Augustine of Hippo in Turn My Heart, Ed. Susan Briehl & Marty Haugen
SCRIPTURE PSALM 146
1Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!
2I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
3Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help.
4When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans perish.
5Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God,
6who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps faith forever;
7who executes justice for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets the prisoners free;
8the Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous.
9The Lord watches over the strangers; he upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
10The Lord will reign forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the Lord!
MEDITATION ON PSALM 146
We read a psalm every week in worship. Presbyterians and other faith communities in the Reformed tradition did not always sing hymns and songs; psalms were the staple of our music and congregational singing. This psalm is particularly uplifting and offers some good advice. Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help. (verse 3). Anywhere we look, there is advice and ‘information’ about the virus and what we need to do. We need to be wise and listen to those who have our best interests at heart. As we read verses 5-9, it becomes clear that what God wants for us is the best. This is healing and wholeness of the highest order.
So who do we listen to, who do we follow? I would follow someone who takes these gifts of healing and wholeness from God seriously. Are the decisions being made just for everyone? Are the hungry being fed – and fed with the best of foods? Are those who are broken by illness, despair, hopelessness being lifted up and supported? If not, then we need to look for another voice, another leader.
HYMN 806 I’LL PRAISE MY MAKER (Ps. 146) Isaac Watts
I’ll praise my Maker while I’ve breath;
and when my voice is lost in death,
Praise shall employ my nobler powers.
My days of praise shall ne’er be past
while life and thought and being last,
or immortality endures.
How happy they whose hopes rely on Israel’s God,
who made the sky
And earth and seas with all their train;
Whose truth forever stands secure,
Who saves the oppressed and feeds the poor,
and none shall find God’s promise vain.
The Lord pours eyesight on the blind;
the Lord supports the fainting mind
And sends the laboring conscience peace.
God helps the stranger in distress,
The widowed and the parentless,
and grants the prisoner sweet release.
I’ll praise my Maker while I’ve breath;
and when my voice is lost in death,
Praise shall employ my nobler powers.
My days of praise shall ne’er be past
while life and thought and being last,
or immortality endures.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Watch, O Lord, with all those awake this night.
Watch, O Lord, with all those who weep.
Give your angels and saints charge over all.
Tend your ailing ones, in your love, Lord.
Rest your weary ones, in your love, Lord.
Bless your dying ones, in your love, O Lord of all.
Sooth your suffering ones, heal afflicted ones, shield your joyous ones, in your love, O Lord of all.
Hold your grieving ones, raise your fallen ones, mend your broken ones, in your love, O Lord of all.
Guard your little ones, guide your searching ones, grant us all your peace, in your love, O Lord of all.
Adapted from Augustine of Hippo in Turn My Heart, Ed. Susan Briehl & Marty Haugen
SCRIPTURE PSALM 146
1Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!
2I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
3Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help.
4When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans perish.
5Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God,
6who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps faith forever;
7who executes justice for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets the prisoners free;
8the Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous.
9The Lord watches over the strangers; he upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
10The Lord will reign forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the Lord!
MEDITATION ON PSALM 146
We read a psalm every week in worship. Presbyterians and other faith communities in the Reformed tradition did not always sing hymns and songs; psalms were the staple of our music and congregational singing. This psalm is particularly uplifting and offers some good advice. Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help. (verse 3). Anywhere we look, there is advice and ‘information’ about the virus and what we need to do. We need to be wise and listen to those who have our best interests at heart. As we read verses 5-9, it becomes clear that what God wants for us is the best. This is healing and wholeness of the highest order.
So who do we listen to, who do we follow? I would follow someone who takes these gifts of healing and wholeness from God seriously. Are the decisions being made just for everyone? Are the hungry being fed – and fed with the best of foods? Are those who are broken by illness, despair, hopelessness being lifted up and supported? If not, then we need to look for another voice, another leader.
HYMN 806 I’LL PRAISE MY MAKER (Ps. 146) Isaac Watts
I’ll praise my Maker while I’ve breath;
and when my voice is lost in death,
Praise shall employ my nobler powers.
My days of praise shall ne’er be past
while life and thought and being last,
or immortality endures.
How happy they whose hopes rely on Israel’s God,
who made the sky
And earth and seas with all their train;
Whose truth forever stands secure,
Who saves the oppressed and feeds the poor,
and none shall find God’s promise vain.
The Lord pours eyesight on the blind;
the Lord supports the fainting mind
And sends the laboring conscience peace.
God helps the stranger in distress,
The widowed and the parentless,
and grants the prisoner sweet release.
I’ll praise my Maker while I’ve breath;
and when my voice is lost in death,
Praise shall employ my nobler powers.
My days of praise shall ne’er be past
while life and thought and being last,
or immortality endures.
TUESDAY, MAY 19, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
When the world of our daily existence is suddenly turned upside down, O God, and suffering has come to us in a way we had never imagined possible, remind us that even such experiences as these can be a strengthening gift of your grace. In your mercy let them bring into our lives a deeper faith, a more genuine compassion, and a stronger witness to the suffering love of Christ, who leads us through the darkness to the dawning of a new day. It is in his name and his love that we pray. Amen.
Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, Mark H. Landfried
SCRIPTURE MARK 5:25-34
25Now there was a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years. 26She had endured much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had; and she was no better, but rather grew worse. 27She had heard about Jesus, and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28for she said, “If I but touch his clothes, I will be made well.” 29Immediately her hemorrhage stopped; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. 30Immediately aware that power had gone forth from him, Jesus turned about in the crowd and said, “Who touched my clothes?” 31And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing in on you; how can you say, ‘Who touched me?’” 32He looked all around to see who had done it. 33But the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came in fear and trembling, fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. 34He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.”
MEDITATION ON MARK 5:25-34
There are many stories of healing, especially in the New Testament, where Jesus proclaims that “faith has made you well”. But this story always strikes me as a little different. This woman has been hemorrhaging for 12 years, which means she has been unclean for 12 years. Her family and friends must avoid touching her, she cannot eat with anyone; indeed, there are many restrictions placed upon her. My guess is she tried many ways to be healed, but obviously none of them worked. When she decides to simply touch Jesus’ garment, she does so with a faith that is determined and true.
So many of us are suffering in one way or another; we have lost friends and family members, jobs, and opportunities. It is so easy to become discouraged and disheartened.
Would we be willing to simply reach out to Jesus? It can’t be that easy, can it? One of the differences between Jesus and other so-called healers of his day is that Jesus doesn’t use any gimmicks. There are no magic words, no medications. Instead, Jesus looks for faith. Can our faith grow in the midst of crisis so that we do have something to present to Jesus as we look for healing? Food for thought.
HYMN 178 THE WOMAN HIDING IN THE CROWD J. Dudley Weaver
The woman hiding in the crowd reached for Christ’s garment hem
That simply by the touch of it she might be healed within.
From Christ went forth the healing grace, her health and life restored.
“Who touched my clothes?” the Savior asked, but no one said a word.
The woman knelt before him then with joy and anxious fear,
And Jesus blessed her lovingly: “in peace go forth from here.”
The burdens now that weigh us down, the sins we fear to speak,
The ache of heart and empty soul we lay before your feet.
So touch us, Lord, with healing grace and make us whole again
That we may always live in you and know your peace within.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
When the world of our daily existence is suddenly turned upside down, O God, and suffering has come to us in a way we had never imagined possible, remind us that even such experiences as these can be a strengthening gift of your grace. In your mercy let them bring into our lives a deeper faith, a more genuine compassion, and a stronger witness to the suffering love of Christ, who leads us through the darkness to the dawning of a new day. It is in his name and his love that we pray. Amen.
Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, Mark H. Landfried
SCRIPTURE MARK 5:25-34
25Now there was a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years. 26She had endured much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had; and she was no better, but rather grew worse. 27She had heard about Jesus, and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28for she said, “If I but touch his clothes, I will be made well.” 29Immediately her hemorrhage stopped; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. 30Immediately aware that power had gone forth from him, Jesus turned about in the crowd and said, “Who touched my clothes?” 31And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing in on you; how can you say, ‘Who touched me?’” 32He looked all around to see who had done it. 33But the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came in fear and trembling, fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. 34He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.”
MEDITATION ON MARK 5:25-34
There are many stories of healing, especially in the New Testament, where Jesus proclaims that “faith has made you well”. But this story always strikes me as a little different. This woman has been hemorrhaging for 12 years, which means she has been unclean for 12 years. Her family and friends must avoid touching her, she cannot eat with anyone; indeed, there are many restrictions placed upon her. My guess is she tried many ways to be healed, but obviously none of them worked. When she decides to simply touch Jesus’ garment, she does so with a faith that is determined and true.
So many of us are suffering in one way or another; we have lost friends and family members, jobs, and opportunities. It is so easy to become discouraged and disheartened.
Would we be willing to simply reach out to Jesus? It can’t be that easy, can it? One of the differences between Jesus and other so-called healers of his day is that Jesus doesn’t use any gimmicks. There are no magic words, no medications. Instead, Jesus looks for faith. Can our faith grow in the midst of crisis so that we do have something to present to Jesus as we look for healing? Food for thought.
HYMN 178 THE WOMAN HIDING IN THE CROWD J. Dudley Weaver
The woman hiding in the crowd reached for Christ’s garment hem
That simply by the touch of it she might be healed within.
From Christ went forth the healing grace, her health and life restored.
“Who touched my clothes?” the Savior asked, but no one said a word.
The woman knelt before him then with joy and anxious fear,
And Jesus blessed her lovingly: “in peace go forth from here.”
The burdens now that weigh us down, the sins we fear to speak,
The ache of heart and empty soul we lay before your feet.
So touch us, Lord, with healing grace and make us whole again
That we may always live in you and know your peace within.
MONDAY, MAY 18, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you cradle the mountains and hold the mighty waters in the hollow of your hand. You carry the weak in your bosom and tend each leaf and living thing.
I place myself into your keeping, my body, my soul, and all that I am, for you are my help, you are my hope, you are my highest praise.
Write my name upon your palm, hold me near your side, for by your wounds, I am healed, and in your hands, I am home, where all will be well. All will be well in you. Amen.
Turn My Heart A Sacred Journey from Brokenness to Healing Susan Briehl and Marty Haugen
SCRIPTURE JAMES 5:13-16
13Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. 14Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. 16Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective.
MEDITATION ON JAMES 5:13-16
Everyone should read the accounts of nurses and physicians who take care of COVID-19 patients. I believe that then there would be no protests, no parading around demanding our personal, private, constitutional rights. This is a virus that can devastate the human body and leave a swath of death or permanent physical damage.
I also believe that medical personnel –from those who clean the sheets and mop the floors to those who do all the essential and desperate research – they are the answers God provides to our prayers.
The sins are in the deflection and creation of political reasons for the virus. There is no hoax, no political gain in this virus; only death, and pain, and sorrow. The writer of James calls on us to pray, and pray we shall. And God will answer with compassion, wisdom and with hope. We must pray. In this situation, prayer is action, and God will be present in our prayers.
HYMN 796 WE COME TO YOU FOR HEALING, LORD Herman G. Stuemple, Jr. We come to you for healing, Lord, of body, mind, and soul,
And pray that by your Spirit’s touch we may again be whole.
As once you walked through ancient streets and reached toward those in pain,
We know you come among us still with power to heal again.
You touch us through physicians’ skills, through nurses’ gifts of care,
And through the love of faithful friends who lift our lives in prayer.
Through nights of pain and wakefulness, through days when strength runs low,
Grant us your gift of patience, Lord, your calming peace to know.
We come to you, O loving Lord, in our distress and pain,
In trust that through our nights and days your grace will heal, sustain
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you cradle the mountains and hold the mighty waters in the hollow of your hand. You carry the weak in your bosom and tend each leaf and living thing.
I place myself into your keeping, my body, my soul, and all that I am, for you are my help, you are my hope, you are my highest praise.
Write my name upon your palm, hold me near your side, for by your wounds, I am healed, and in your hands, I am home, where all will be well. All will be well in you. Amen.
Turn My Heart A Sacred Journey from Brokenness to Healing Susan Briehl and Marty Haugen
SCRIPTURE JAMES 5:13-16
13Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. 14Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. 16Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective.
MEDITATION ON JAMES 5:13-16
Everyone should read the accounts of nurses and physicians who take care of COVID-19 patients. I believe that then there would be no protests, no parading around demanding our personal, private, constitutional rights. This is a virus that can devastate the human body and leave a swath of death or permanent physical damage.
I also believe that medical personnel –from those who clean the sheets and mop the floors to those who do all the essential and desperate research – they are the answers God provides to our prayers.
The sins are in the deflection and creation of political reasons for the virus. There is no hoax, no political gain in this virus; only death, and pain, and sorrow. The writer of James calls on us to pray, and pray we shall. And God will answer with compassion, wisdom and with hope. We must pray. In this situation, prayer is action, and God will be present in our prayers.
HYMN 796 WE COME TO YOU FOR HEALING, LORD Herman G. Stuemple, Jr. We come to you for healing, Lord, of body, mind, and soul,
And pray that by your Spirit’s touch we may again be whole.
As once you walked through ancient streets and reached toward those in pain,
We know you come among us still with power to heal again.
You touch us through physicians’ skills, through nurses’ gifts of care,
And through the love of faithful friends who lift our lives in prayer.
Through nights of pain and wakefulness, through days when strength runs low,
Grant us your gift of patience, Lord, your calming peace to know.
We come to you, O loving Lord, in our distress and pain,
In trust that through our nights and days your grace will heal, sustain
| THE SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER MAY 17, 2020 Bulletin for the Noon Zoom service |
THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord of life and love, help us to come to you and see you in the holiness of beauty, that perhaps some beauty of holiness may appear in us. Quiet our souls in your presence with the stillness of a wise trust and an overwhelming sense of your grace. Lift us above dark moods, that we may find your will for our lives. Be our center, be a constant presence in our midst. Amen.
SCRIPTURE 2 Cor. 12:6-10
6But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what is seen in me or heard from me, 7even considering the exceptional character of the revelations. Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated. 8Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, 9but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 10Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.
MEDITATION ON 2 Cor. 12:6-10
This short passage from Paul’s 2nd letter to the Corinthians gives us some insights into Paul. He writes that he has been given a ‘thorn in the flesh’ to keep him from being too proud, too full of himself. For Paul, the grace of God is sufficient, and in weakness is his strength.
Perhaps the more vulnerable we realize that we really are, the more open we make ourselves to the presence of God, and the deeper our faith and our sense of God’s grace. Pride, arrogance, a sense of self-importance all make us the center of life; and God present only on the peripheral. It is only when God is at the center that we can claim to be free and living in the grace of God.
HYMN 835 JUST A CLOSER WALK WITH THEE
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
I am weak, but thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I’ll be satisfied as long as I walk, let me walk close to thee.
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
Through this world of toils and snares, if I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares? None but thee, dear Lord, none but thee.
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
When my feeble life is o‘er, time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely o’er toi thy shore, dear Lord, to thy shore.
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord of life and love, help us to come to you and see you in the holiness of beauty, that perhaps some beauty of holiness may appear in us. Quiet our souls in your presence with the stillness of a wise trust and an overwhelming sense of your grace. Lift us above dark moods, that we may find your will for our lives. Be our center, be a constant presence in our midst. Amen.
SCRIPTURE 2 Cor. 12:6-10
6But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what is seen in me or heard from me, 7even considering the exceptional character of the revelations. Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated. 8Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, 9but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 10Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.
MEDITATION ON 2 Cor. 12:6-10
This short passage from Paul’s 2nd letter to the Corinthians gives us some insights into Paul. He writes that he has been given a ‘thorn in the flesh’ to keep him from being too proud, too full of himself. For Paul, the grace of God is sufficient, and in weakness is his strength.
Perhaps the more vulnerable we realize that we really are, the more open we make ourselves to the presence of God, and the deeper our faith and our sense of God’s grace. Pride, arrogance, a sense of self-importance all make us the center of life; and God present only on the peripheral. It is only when God is at the center that we can claim to be free and living in the grace of God.
HYMN 835 JUST A CLOSER WALK WITH THEE
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
I am weak, but thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I’ll be satisfied as long as I walk, let me walk close to thee.
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
Through this world of toils and snares, if I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares? None but thee, dear Lord, none but thee.
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
When my feeble life is o‘er, time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely o’er toi thy shore, dear Lord, to thy shore.
Refrain
Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to thee: let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Weaver of truth, fashioner of grace, friend of the lost and the forsaken. Holy God, we come into your presence to give praise and adoration, celebrating your redeeming and recreating love. We come hopefully, we come expectantly, with pilgrims and sojourners of all ages to meet again your message, O God, of unremitting grace. Through him who is the Christ, Amen. Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, Raymond Hearn
SCRIPTURE Romans 3:19-25
19Now we know that whatever the law says, it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. 20For “no human being will be justified in his sight” by deeds prescribed by the law, for through the law comes the knowledge of sin. 21But now, apart from law, the righteousness of God has been disclosed, and is attested by the law and the prophets, 22the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction, 23since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; 24they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith.
MEDITATION ON Romans 3:19-25
Christians have debated the balance or predominance of law and grace. I have never understood the style of evangelism or preaching that proclaims hell and damnation for everyone who does not follow the ‘law’. Amazing Grace author John Newton was a slaver; when he recognized the error of this ways, he became a passionate abolitionist and wrote those wonderful words about grace. I assume people would be at least curious if not attracted to a gospel that preaches love, forgiveness and the amazing gift of God’s grace for all.
There is an historic document from the Synod of Dort (1619), which was held by the Dutch Reformed Church to deal with a heresy. The document lays out the five points of John Calvin: Total depravity of humanity; unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints. Irresistible grace comes from an internal call from the Spirit; the grace of God sustains us and we cannot turn aside from such grace.
The next time you hear someone preach or teach that you are sinful, damned and not fit for the kingdom of God, walk away. And while you are walking away – sing Amazing
Grace to yourself.
HYMN 436 GOD OF COMPASSION, IN MERCY BEFRIEND US John J. Moment
God of compassion, in mercy befriend us;
Giver of grace for our needs all availing;
Wisdom and strength for each day ever send us,
Patience untiring and courage unfailing.
Though we are lost, you have sought us and found us,
Stilled our rude hearts with your word consoling,
Wrap now your peace, like a mantle, around us,
Guarding our thoughts and our passions controlling.
How shall we stray, with your hand to direct us,
You who the stars in their courses are guiding?
What shall we fear, with Thy power to protect us,
We who walk forth in your greatness confiding?
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Weaver of truth, fashioner of grace, friend of the lost and the forsaken. Holy God, we come into your presence to give praise and adoration, celebrating your redeeming and recreating love. We come hopefully, we come expectantly, with pilgrims and sojourners of all ages to meet again your message, O God, of unremitting grace. Through him who is the Christ, Amen. Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship, Raymond Hearn
SCRIPTURE Romans 3:19-25
19Now we know that whatever the law says, it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. 20For “no human being will be justified in his sight” by deeds prescribed by the law, for through the law comes the knowledge of sin. 21But now, apart from law, the righteousness of God has been disclosed, and is attested by the law and the prophets, 22the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction, 23since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; 24they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith.
MEDITATION ON Romans 3:19-25
Christians have debated the balance or predominance of law and grace. I have never understood the style of evangelism or preaching that proclaims hell and damnation for everyone who does not follow the ‘law’. Amazing Grace author John Newton was a slaver; when he recognized the error of this ways, he became a passionate abolitionist and wrote those wonderful words about grace. I assume people would be at least curious if not attracted to a gospel that preaches love, forgiveness and the amazing gift of God’s grace for all.
There is an historic document from the Synod of Dort (1619), which was held by the Dutch Reformed Church to deal with a heresy. The document lays out the five points of John Calvin: Total depravity of humanity; unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints. Irresistible grace comes from an internal call from the Spirit; the grace of God sustains us and we cannot turn aside from such grace.
The next time you hear someone preach or teach that you are sinful, damned and not fit for the kingdom of God, walk away. And while you are walking away – sing Amazing
Grace to yourself.
HYMN 436 GOD OF COMPASSION, IN MERCY BEFRIEND US John J. Moment
God of compassion, in mercy befriend us;
Giver of grace for our needs all availing;
Wisdom and strength for each day ever send us,
Patience untiring and courage unfailing.
Though we are lost, you have sought us and found us,
Stilled our rude hearts with your word consoling,
Wrap now your peace, like a mantle, around us,
Guarding our thoughts and our passions controlling.
How shall we stray, with your hand to direct us,
You who the stars in their courses are guiding?
What shall we fear, with Thy power to protect us,
We who walk forth in your greatness confiding?
MONDAY, MAY 11, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Help me, Lord, to live one day at a time. Thank you that your grace is sufficient for today and that I don’t need to worry about tomorrow, because your grace will be sufficient for tomorrow also. Father, if you will, you can use even me. Make me willing to be looked upon as foolish by the world, if people should consider me so. Amen.
This Day Is the Lord’s, Corrie ten Boom
SCRIPTURE NUMBERS 6:22-27
22The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 23Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the Israelites: You shall say to them, 24The Lord bless you and keep you; 25the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; 26the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. 27So they shall put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.
MEDITATION ON NUMBERS 6:22-27
This is the well known blessing of Aaron, still widely used in Jewish and Christian traditions. It follows a long detailed description of the requirements for nazarites, who made a vow to God to live by the rules outlined in Numbers 6. This bless seems to come from nowhere in particular, but perhaps is for those who cannot make the strict vows of the nazarites.
The images in the blessing are powerful: the shining face of God, a blessing of the countenance of God upon us, and a hope for peace. There is also a request that the Lord will be gracious. This week, all the texts are going to focus on grace and the many ways that grace of God is given to us and what it means for our living today.
In the Hebrew, the word for grace is chen. The Hebrew understanding is unmerited favor, kindness, righteousness.
Grace is a word we use so often in our language for worship, prayer, descriptions of God’s actions, that we can forget the amazing gift that is bound up in the word and its meanings. We do not earn God’s grace; as Fred Craddock, a beloved Southern Presbyterian pastor and preacher once wrote, “Grace just comes. Like grits. Grace is love in action.”
So be attentive this week for ‘love in action’. God’s grace is given freely and is not cheap, but valuable beyond anything we can imagine!
HYMN 649 AMAZING GRACE John Newton
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 that 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 hath brought me safe thus far And Grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me. His Word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be As long as life endures.
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.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Help me, Lord, to live one day at a time. Thank you that your grace is sufficient for today and that I don’t need to worry about tomorrow, because your grace will be sufficient for tomorrow also. Father, if you will, you can use even me. Make me willing to be looked upon as foolish by the world, if people should consider me so. Amen.
This Day Is the Lord’s, Corrie ten Boom
SCRIPTURE NUMBERS 6:22-27
22The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 23Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the Israelites: You shall say to them, 24The Lord bless you and keep you; 25the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; 26the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. 27So they shall put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.
MEDITATION ON NUMBERS 6:22-27
This is the well known blessing of Aaron, still widely used in Jewish and Christian traditions. It follows a long detailed description of the requirements for nazarites, who made a vow to God to live by the rules outlined in Numbers 6. This bless seems to come from nowhere in particular, but perhaps is for those who cannot make the strict vows of the nazarites.
The images in the blessing are powerful: the shining face of God, a blessing of the countenance of God upon us, and a hope for peace. There is also a request that the Lord will be gracious. This week, all the texts are going to focus on grace and the many ways that grace of God is given to us and what it means for our living today.
In the Hebrew, the word for grace is chen. The Hebrew understanding is unmerited favor, kindness, righteousness.
Grace is a word we use so often in our language for worship, prayer, descriptions of God’s actions, that we can forget the amazing gift that is bound up in the word and its meanings. We do not earn God’s grace; as Fred Craddock, a beloved Southern Presbyterian pastor and preacher once wrote, “Grace just comes. Like grits. Grace is love in action.”
So be attentive this week for ‘love in action’. God’s grace is given freely and is not cheap, but valuable beyond anything we can imagine!
HYMN 649 AMAZING GRACE John Newton
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 that 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 hath brought me safe thus far And Grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me. His Word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be As long as life endures.
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.
| Bulletin for THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER May 10, 2020 NOONTIME ZOOM MEETING |
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of grace, we pray for those who do not love themselves, who cannot face the turmoil in their souls, who put themselves down and call it selflessness, for those who make themselves ill with bitterness, who become sick with self-loathing. Restore them and help them to live with themselves that they may joyfully live with each other. And we pray for ourselves, for the times when ‘they’ include us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE TITUS 3:4-8
4But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 6This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8The saying is sure. I desire that you insist on these things, so that those who have come to believe in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable to everyone.
MEDITATION ON TITUS 3:4-8
This is one of the pastoral letters credited to Paul; Titus, a fellow traveler and Christian, was left behind on Crete. The letter is short, to the point: good theology matters, witnessing to the unbelievers matters and ethics matter. The writer of the letter to Titus makes it clear that we are saved, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. Again, we are hearing of the amazing mercy of God. I believe the mercy of God not only is essential for our salvation, but also for the way we live.
In this time of division and suspicion, God’s mercy teaches us a way of living with one another. Mercy becomes a way of life if we are truly following the teachings of Jesus. We may disagree with one another; some to the point of violence and horrible anger. What is our Christian response to such brokenness in the world, and such unacceptable behavior? God’s mercy is ever present. Perhaps our call as disciples of Jesus Christ at this crucial time in history is to be and to speak of such mercy. This is not an easy call but there it is. We who strive to live in God’s mercy will be changed, and only for the better.
HYMN 764 HELP US ACCEPT EACH OTHER Fred Kaan
Help us accept each other as Christ accepted us;
teach us as sister, brother, each person to embrace.
Be present, Lord, among us and bring us to believe
we are ourselves accepted and meant to love and live.
Teach us, O Lord, your lessons, as in our daily life
we struggle to be human and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for people, for all not just for some,
to love them as we find them or as they may be come.
Let your acceptance change us, so that we may be moved
in living situations to do the truth in love;
to practice your acceptance until we know by heart
the table of forgiveness and laughter's healing art.
Lord, for today's encounters with all who are in need,
who hunger for acceptance, for righteousness and bread,
we need new eyes for seeing, new hands for holding on:
renew us with your Spirit; Lord, free us, make us one!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of grace, we pray for those who do not love themselves, who cannot face the turmoil in their souls, who put themselves down and call it selflessness, for those who make themselves ill with bitterness, who become sick with self-loathing. Restore them and help them to live with themselves that they may joyfully live with each other. And we pray for ourselves, for the times when ‘they’ include us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE TITUS 3:4-8
4But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 6This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8The saying is sure. I desire that you insist on these things, so that those who have come to believe in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable to everyone.
MEDITATION ON TITUS 3:4-8
This is one of the pastoral letters credited to Paul; Titus, a fellow traveler and Christian, was left behind on Crete. The letter is short, to the point: good theology matters, witnessing to the unbelievers matters and ethics matter. The writer of the letter to Titus makes it clear that we are saved, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. Again, we are hearing of the amazing mercy of God. I believe the mercy of God not only is essential for our salvation, but also for the way we live.
In this time of division and suspicion, God’s mercy teaches us a way of living with one another. Mercy becomes a way of life if we are truly following the teachings of Jesus. We may disagree with one another; some to the point of violence and horrible anger. What is our Christian response to such brokenness in the world, and such unacceptable behavior? God’s mercy is ever present. Perhaps our call as disciples of Jesus Christ at this crucial time in history is to be and to speak of such mercy. This is not an easy call but there it is. We who strive to live in God’s mercy will be changed, and only for the better.
HYMN 764 HELP US ACCEPT EACH OTHER Fred Kaan
Help us accept each other as Christ accepted us;
teach us as sister, brother, each person to embrace.
Be present, Lord, among us and bring us to believe
we are ourselves accepted and meant to love and live.
Teach us, O Lord, your lessons, as in our daily life
we struggle to be human and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for people, for all not just for some,
to love them as we find them or as they may be come.
Let your acceptance change us, so that we may be moved
in living situations to do the truth in love;
to practice your acceptance until we know by heart
the table of forgiveness and laughter's healing art.
Lord, for today's encounters with all who are in need,
who hunger for acceptance, for righteousness and bread,
we need new eyes for seeing, new hands for holding on:
renew us with your Spirit; Lord, free us, make us one!
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of the spirit of kindness, in the glory of earth and sea and stars, in the kaleidoscope of color and shade and shapeliness, in the patterns of humor and tenderness and touch, we celebrate your generosity.
Forgive us when we forget the gift in our every breath, the care that sustains our every moment, that grace that can transform our every day.
Set us free from the prison of grudging hearts, mean desires, resentful spirits, give us the courage to act with justice and generosity, and draw us into love that does not calculate or keep scores. Amen.
SCRIPTURE MICAH 7:14-20
14Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock that belongs to you, which lives alone in a forest in the midst of a garden land; let them feed in Bashan and Gilead as in the days of old. 15As in the days when you came out of the land of Egypt, show us marvelous things. 16The nations shall see and be ashamed of all their might; they shall lay their hands on their mouths; their ears shall be deaf; 17they shall lick dust like a snake, like the crawling things of the earth; they shall come trembling out of their fortresses; they shall turn in dread to the Lord our God, and they shall stand in fear of you. 18Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of your possession? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in showing mercy. 19He will again have compassion upon us; he will tread our iniquities under foot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. 20You will show faithfulness to Jacob and unswerving loyalty to Abraham, as you have sworn to our ancestors from the days of old.
MEDITATION ON MICAH 7:14-20
We moved to Princeton so my husband could start his seminary studies; our sons were three years old and six weeks. We named the baby Micah, thinking of that wonderful passage, Micah 6:6:” 8He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” It is a beautiful verse to give a child.
We lived in married housing and we were all divided up into deacons’ groups. We socialized, put together food coops, babysitting coops, and made friends who are still dear to us. The first Bible study we did with our new group was a study of Micah. To our horror, Micah came across as a bloodthirsty prophet and we began to question the wisdom of naming our child after the prophet.
However, these verses for today are the last words of the book of Micah. God is lifted up as the shepherd, remembered as the redeemer and the one who forgives and delights in mercy. Micah ends on a good note.
In the midst of uncertainty and ambiguous information about this pandemic and how we are to live going forward, it is good to remember (as Micah the prophet did) That God does good. God is forgiving, redeeming, delights in mercy and lets go of anger. God is faithful.
We strive for these qualities, some days doing so with greater or lesser success. God doesn’t fail or fall behind in love and mercy and compassion. That is a solid promise that is ours through all the chaos.
HYMN 366 LOVE DIVINE, ALL LOVES EXCELLING Charles Wesley
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.
Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit, Into every troubled breast!
Let us all in Thee inherit; Let us find that promised rest.
Take away our bent to sinning; Alpha and Omega be;
End of faith, as its Beginning, Set our hearts at liberty.
Come, Almighty to deliver, Let us all Thy life receive;
Suddenly return and never, Never more 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.
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, 'Til in heaven we take our place,
'Til we cast our crowns before Thee, Lost in wonder, love, and praise.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of the spirit of kindness, in the glory of earth and sea and stars, in the kaleidoscope of color and shade and shapeliness, in the patterns of humor and tenderness and touch, we celebrate your generosity.
Forgive us when we forget the gift in our every breath, the care that sustains our every moment, that grace that can transform our every day.
Set us free from the prison of grudging hearts, mean desires, resentful spirits, give us the courage to act with justice and generosity, and draw us into love that does not calculate or keep scores. Amen.
SCRIPTURE MICAH 7:14-20
14Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock that belongs to you, which lives alone in a forest in the midst of a garden land; let them feed in Bashan and Gilead as in the days of old. 15As in the days when you came out of the land of Egypt, show us marvelous things. 16The nations shall see and be ashamed of all their might; they shall lay their hands on their mouths; their ears shall be deaf; 17they shall lick dust like a snake, like the crawling things of the earth; they shall come trembling out of their fortresses; they shall turn in dread to the Lord our God, and they shall stand in fear of you. 18Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of your possession? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in showing mercy. 19He will again have compassion upon us; he will tread our iniquities under foot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. 20You will show faithfulness to Jacob and unswerving loyalty to Abraham, as you have sworn to our ancestors from the days of old.
MEDITATION ON MICAH 7:14-20
We moved to Princeton so my husband could start his seminary studies; our sons were three years old and six weeks. We named the baby Micah, thinking of that wonderful passage, Micah 6:6:” 8He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” It is a beautiful verse to give a child.
We lived in married housing and we were all divided up into deacons’ groups. We socialized, put together food coops, babysitting coops, and made friends who are still dear to us. The first Bible study we did with our new group was a study of Micah. To our horror, Micah came across as a bloodthirsty prophet and we began to question the wisdom of naming our child after the prophet.
However, these verses for today are the last words of the book of Micah. God is lifted up as the shepherd, remembered as the redeemer and the one who forgives and delights in mercy. Micah ends on a good note.
In the midst of uncertainty and ambiguous information about this pandemic and how we are to live going forward, it is good to remember (as Micah the prophet did) That God does good. God is forgiving, redeeming, delights in mercy and lets go of anger. God is faithful.
We strive for these qualities, some days doing so with greater or lesser success. God doesn’t fail or fall behind in love and mercy and compassion. That is a solid promise that is ours through all the chaos.
HYMN 366 LOVE DIVINE, ALL LOVES EXCELLING Charles Wesley
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.
Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit, Into every troubled breast!
Let us all in Thee inherit; Let us find that promised rest.
Take away our bent to sinning; Alpha and Omega be;
End of faith, as its Beginning, Set our hearts at liberty.
Come, Almighty to deliver, Let us all Thy life receive;
Suddenly return and never, Never more 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.
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, 'Til in heaven we take our place,
'Til we cast our crowns before Thee, Lost in wonder, love, and praise.
THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Before I awaken this morning you are with me, Lord,
And even as I open my eyes you greet me with the gift of this new day.
May I take this certainty of your presence with me into all this day can hold.
Be with me now as I go forth – as a deep and true awareness within;
an awareness which is constantly opening my heart
to mercy, to hope, to trust, to sharing and giving,
to the call of the needs of my fellow-creatures;
an awareness which is constantly opening all of my senses
to the hidden joys, the tiny discoveries,
the lesser celebrations and the over-arching wonder of your gift of life. Amen.
SCRIPTURE HEBREWS 4:14-16
14Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 4:14-16
I wonder how this time of the pandemic and quarantine will be recalled in history; or even in family stories. Our reactions to the whole situation are as diverse as we are. Who in the next generations will understand? How will we perceive God’s role? How will we explain God’s presence with us?
These few verses in Hebrews are part of a larger ‘sermon’. The conclusion is that Jesus is the great high priest who intercedes for us and understands us and the situations of the human condition. Whew! I find that idea very helpful; I always have. Jesus is the human incarnation of God, who is our creator and who loves us enough to live among us. Jesus knows what it is to be hungry, tired, happy, sad, angry – in a very human way. He knows our weaknesses, our frustrations, our joys. Because of this, says the writer of Hebrews, we may boldly come before God seeking mercy.
We need mercy, and we need grace. We hang on to the news in hopes that the latest predictions are correct (or not, depending on what they are). We hear about one more acquaintance or friend or family member who is sick, and we panic inside, hoping this is not serious.
God’s mercy does not put a protective bubble over us and the ones we love. God’s mercy announces that we are not alone, that we are loved and whatever is in the future, God is with us. What will we tell our grandchildren? We can tell them the story of how we were sustained and nurtured by the mercy of God.
HYMN 807 WHEN WE MUST BEAR PERSISTENT PAIN Ruth Duck
1. When we must bear persistent pain and suffer with no cure in sight,
Come, Holy Presence, breath your peace with gifts of warmth and healing light.
2. Support us as we learn new ways to care for bodies newly frail.
Help us to endure, and live and love. Hear our complaint when patience fails.
3. We thank you for the better days when we may smile to greet the sun,
To do your work with clearing mind, and bless your name when day is done.
4. In ease or pain, in life and death, to you our fragile lives belong,
And so we trust you in all things. You are our hope, our health, our song
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Before I awaken this morning you are with me, Lord,
And even as I open my eyes you greet me with the gift of this new day.
May I take this certainty of your presence with me into all this day can hold.
Be with me now as I go forth – as a deep and true awareness within;
an awareness which is constantly opening my heart
to mercy, to hope, to trust, to sharing and giving,
to the call of the needs of my fellow-creatures;
an awareness which is constantly opening all of my senses
to the hidden joys, the tiny discoveries,
the lesser celebrations and the over-arching wonder of your gift of life. Amen.
SCRIPTURE HEBREWS 4:14-16
14Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 4:14-16
I wonder how this time of the pandemic and quarantine will be recalled in history; or even in family stories. Our reactions to the whole situation are as diverse as we are. Who in the next generations will understand? How will we perceive God’s role? How will we explain God’s presence with us?
These few verses in Hebrews are part of a larger ‘sermon’. The conclusion is that Jesus is the great high priest who intercedes for us and understands us and the situations of the human condition. Whew! I find that idea very helpful; I always have. Jesus is the human incarnation of God, who is our creator and who loves us enough to live among us. Jesus knows what it is to be hungry, tired, happy, sad, angry – in a very human way. He knows our weaknesses, our frustrations, our joys. Because of this, says the writer of Hebrews, we may boldly come before God seeking mercy.
We need mercy, and we need grace. We hang on to the news in hopes that the latest predictions are correct (or not, depending on what they are). We hear about one more acquaintance or friend or family member who is sick, and we panic inside, hoping this is not serious.
God’s mercy does not put a protective bubble over us and the ones we love. God’s mercy announces that we are not alone, that we are loved and whatever is in the future, God is with us. What will we tell our grandchildren? We can tell them the story of how we were sustained and nurtured by the mercy of God.
HYMN 807 WHEN WE MUST BEAR PERSISTENT PAIN Ruth Duck
1. When we must bear persistent pain and suffer with no cure in sight,
Come, Holy Presence, breath your peace with gifts of warmth and healing light.
2. Support us as we learn new ways to care for bodies newly frail.
Help us to endure, and live and love. Hear our complaint when patience fails.
3. We thank you for the better days when we may smile to greet the sun,
To do your work with clearing mind, and bless your name when day is done.
4. In ease or pain, in life and death, to you our fragile lives belong,
And so we trust you in all things. You are our hope, our health, our song
WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Listen, God, you who said you would hear a sinner’s prayer. We come as sinners – each and everyone, and all of us as sinners together.
We come as the true children of Adam and Eve, deciding that we, too, will do things our way. And doing things our way we come with lives twisted and warped. We see what we’ve done to ourselves and we despise it. Yet we must come to you just as we are.
So, Lord, we come seeking unity, mercy, while mercy may be found.
With our relationship with you broken, we are alienated within ourselves. We, who should love ourselves with a healthy love, detest ourselves and are sick at the world we have hurt.In this shape, we cannot truly love our fellow human beings, so we live in wretched human relations.
We throw ourselves on your grace, seeking your forgiveness. In your forgiving, enable us to have peace with ourselves. With inner peace, may we have reconciliation with our brothers and sisters.
Truly, Lord, may we find mercy while mercy is to be found.
And my we live in such ways that others may see Christ in us and seek to know the joys of fellowship with him. Amen.
SCRIPTURE MATTHEW 5:1-12
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. 2Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
3“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. 8“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 5:1-12
So many times we read and hear these Beatitudes as prescriptive, as what we are supposed to do and be. If we envision grace and mercy as principles that can be used to create systems or programs, then salvation becomes the goal, the purpose of such systemic thinking and leads us to view texts like the Beatitudes simply as ethical teachings.
What if we read them as descriptive, descriptions of what life should be like among people gathered around Jesus? What if we saw these as the marks of the new life in Christ? If these qualities reflect a life in Christ, we can find ourselves living lives of radical discipleship. The whole Sermon on the Mount can be understood not simply as a list of ethical rules. Instead, as Dietrich Bonhoeffer claims, “Action in accord with Christ does not originate in some ethical principles, but in the very person of Jesus Christ”. (Ethics, 2005. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, pg. 231)
In other words – mercy, grace, love, purity, kindness – all the qualities we value as Christians are not a checklist that lead us to salvation. It is only the one who speaks the words, who is the Word, who leads us to salvation.
HYMN 172 BLEST ARE THEY David Haas
Blest are they, the poor in spirit; theirs is the kingdom of God.
Blest are they, full of sorrow; they shall be consoled.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
Blest are they, the lowly ones: they shall inherit the earth.
Blest are they, who hunger and thirst; they shall have their fill.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
3. Blest are they, who show mercy; mercy shall be theirs.
Blest are they, the pure of heart; they shall see God!
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
4. Blest are they, who seek peace; they are the children of God.
Blest are they who suffer in faith; the glory of God is theirs.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
5. Blest are you, who suffer hate, all because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, yours is the kingdom of God; shine for all to see.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Listen, God, you who said you would hear a sinner’s prayer. We come as sinners – each and everyone, and all of us as sinners together.
We come as the true children of Adam and Eve, deciding that we, too, will do things our way. And doing things our way we come with lives twisted and warped. We see what we’ve done to ourselves and we despise it. Yet we must come to you just as we are.
So, Lord, we come seeking unity, mercy, while mercy may be found.
With our relationship with you broken, we are alienated within ourselves. We, who should love ourselves with a healthy love, detest ourselves and are sick at the world we have hurt.In this shape, we cannot truly love our fellow human beings, so we live in wretched human relations.
We throw ourselves on your grace, seeking your forgiveness. In your forgiving, enable us to have peace with ourselves. With inner peace, may we have reconciliation with our brothers and sisters.
Truly, Lord, may we find mercy while mercy is to be found.
And my we live in such ways that others may see Christ in us and seek to know the joys of fellowship with him. Amen.
SCRIPTURE MATTHEW 5:1-12
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. 2Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
3“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. 8“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 5:1-12
So many times we read and hear these Beatitudes as prescriptive, as what we are supposed to do and be. If we envision grace and mercy as principles that can be used to create systems or programs, then salvation becomes the goal, the purpose of such systemic thinking and leads us to view texts like the Beatitudes simply as ethical teachings.
What if we read them as descriptive, descriptions of what life should be like among people gathered around Jesus? What if we saw these as the marks of the new life in Christ? If these qualities reflect a life in Christ, we can find ourselves living lives of radical discipleship. The whole Sermon on the Mount can be understood not simply as a list of ethical rules. Instead, as Dietrich Bonhoeffer claims, “Action in accord with Christ does not originate in some ethical principles, but in the very person of Jesus Christ”. (Ethics, 2005. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, pg. 231)
In other words – mercy, grace, love, purity, kindness – all the qualities we value as Christians are not a checklist that lead us to salvation. It is only the one who speaks the words, who is the Word, who leads us to salvation.
HYMN 172 BLEST ARE THEY David Haas
Blest are they, the poor in spirit; theirs is the kingdom of God.
Blest are they, full of sorrow; they shall be consoled.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
Blest are they, the lowly ones: they shall inherit the earth.
Blest are they, who hunger and thirst; they shall have their fill.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
3. Blest are they, who show mercy; mercy shall be theirs.
Blest are they, the pure of heart; they shall see God!
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
4. Blest are they, who seek peace; they are the children of God.
Blest are they who suffer in faith; the glory of God is theirs.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
5. Blest are you, who suffer hate, all because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, yours is the kingdom of God; shine for all to see.
Rejoice, and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are
you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the kingdom of God!
TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord our God, by the resurrection of your Son, you have forever illumined the world. Through the power of your Spirit, grant that those who still sit in darkness and in the shadow of death may be born anew. May your light of mercy shine upon us, bringing us in close communion with you and with one another. We give you our worship with grateful hearts, and long for your loving mercy to remain with us always. Amen.
The Glenstal Book of Prayer,Glenstal Abbey, Murroe, County Limverick, Ireland
SCRIPTURE 2 CHRONICLES 30:6-9
6So couriers went throughout all Israel and Judah with letters from the king and his officials, as the king had commanded, saying, “O people of Israel, return to the Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, so that he may turn again to the remnant of you who have escaped from the hand of the kings of Assyria. 7Do not be like your ancestors and your kindred, who were faithless to the Lord God of their ancestors, so that he made them a desolation, as you see. 8Do not now be stiff-necked as your ancestors were, but yield yourselves to the Lord and come to his sanctuary, which he has sanctified forever, and serve the Lord your God, so that his fierce anger may turn away from you. 9For as you return to the Lord, your kindred and your children will find compassion with their captors, and return to this land. For the Lord your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him.”
MEDITATION ON 2 CHRONICLES 30:6-9
This text is from a letter from King Hezekiah to the people of Israel and Judah. King Ahaz had done evil and the temple and all it contained were unclean. The priests – with the help of the Levites – had ritually cleaned everything, and made many sacrifices. Singing and the playing of instruments were heard as the right worship of God resumed. The people must have been nervous and afraid to come before the LORD in the temple; but King Hezekiah reassures them that God is gracious and merciful even when the people have been disobedient.
God always give room for repentance Even though they had forgotten God He had not forgotten them. Even though they had made and worshipped idols which were only carven images, He told them that He would be merciful to them if they returned to Him. He promised to not “turn away His face” from them if they would repent.
We know that God’s grace is abundant and is a free gift. Mercy comes out of God’s love and compassion for us; Mercy leads to forgiveness.
When we lift up prayers of gratitude and praise, we can do so as we recognize God’s mercy in our lives. Our fears and anxieties can lead us to be impatient, unloving, and selfish. Mercy appears from God, and we can only be grateful for such constancy and overwhelming love.
HYMN 475 COME, THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING Robert Robinson
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 unchanging love!
Here I raise my Ebenezer; 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, interposed His precious blood.
Oh, to grace how great a debtor daily I'm constrained to be!
Let that grace now, 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.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Lord our God, by the resurrection of your Son, you have forever illumined the world. Through the power of your Spirit, grant that those who still sit in darkness and in the shadow of death may be born anew. May your light of mercy shine upon us, bringing us in close communion with you and with one another. We give you our worship with grateful hearts, and long for your loving mercy to remain with us always. Amen.
The Glenstal Book of Prayer,Glenstal Abbey, Murroe, County Limverick, Ireland
SCRIPTURE 2 CHRONICLES 30:6-9
6So couriers went throughout all Israel and Judah with letters from the king and his officials, as the king had commanded, saying, “O people of Israel, return to the Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, so that he may turn again to the remnant of you who have escaped from the hand of the kings of Assyria. 7Do not be like your ancestors and your kindred, who were faithless to the Lord God of their ancestors, so that he made them a desolation, as you see. 8Do not now be stiff-necked as your ancestors were, but yield yourselves to the Lord and come to his sanctuary, which he has sanctified forever, and serve the Lord your God, so that his fierce anger may turn away from you. 9For as you return to the Lord, your kindred and your children will find compassion with their captors, and return to this land. For the Lord your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him.”
MEDITATION ON 2 CHRONICLES 30:6-9
This text is from a letter from King Hezekiah to the people of Israel and Judah. King Ahaz had done evil and the temple and all it contained were unclean. The priests – with the help of the Levites – had ritually cleaned everything, and made many sacrifices. Singing and the playing of instruments were heard as the right worship of God resumed. The people must have been nervous and afraid to come before the LORD in the temple; but King Hezekiah reassures them that God is gracious and merciful even when the people have been disobedient.
God always give room for repentance Even though they had forgotten God He had not forgotten them. Even though they had made and worshipped idols which were only carven images, He told them that He would be merciful to them if they returned to Him. He promised to not “turn away His face” from them if they would repent.
We know that God’s grace is abundant and is a free gift. Mercy comes out of God’s love and compassion for us; Mercy leads to forgiveness.
When we lift up prayers of gratitude and praise, we can do so as we recognize God’s mercy in our lives. Our fears and anxieties can lead us to be impatient, unloving, and selfish. Mercy appears from God, and we can only be grateful for such constancy and overwhelming love.
HYMN 475 COME, THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING Robert Robinson
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 unchanging love!
Here I raise my Ebenezer; 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, interposed His precious blood.
Oh, to grace how great a debtor daily I'm constrained to be!
Let that grace now, 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.
MONDAY, MAY 4, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of mercy, we no longer look for Jesus among the dead, for he is alive and has become the Lord of life. From the waters of death you raise us with him and renew your gift of life within us. Increase in our hearts and minds the risen life we share with Christ, and help us to grow as your people toward the fullness of eternal life with you, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
SCRIPTURE Matthew 9:9-13 9As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 10And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and were sitting with him and his disciples. 11When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12But when he heard this, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.”
MEDITATION ON PSALM 42:9-11
Jesus was saying this to the Pharisees. They scorned Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners. They completely missed the point. Jesus was a friend of sinners but an enemy to those who were “religious” or self-righteous. Jesus’ point was that He came to save that which was lost and not to those who believed that they were already righteous. There is more hope for a murderer than one who thinks that they don’t need forgiveness because they religious leaders believed that their works were a sufficient sacrifice to God. Those who don’t believe they need mercy will not receive it but those who know they need it, will.
Who are the modern day Pharisees, especially in this time of a pandemic? I don’t know the answer. I do know I get impatient with those who expect life to return to ‘normal’ tomorrow so they can have what they want. There is an air of entitlement in our country; we are the best, we are the strongest, we deserve more. We deserve mercy, along with everything else we want.
However, if we want to eat with Jesus, if we want to be known as the followers and friends of Jesus, we need to remember that we are, as Jesus says, the sick in need of a physician. We are not the righteous or the entitled; we are the sinners. We are the ones who should cry, “Lord, have mercy on us.”
HYMN 435 THERE’S A WIDENESS IN GOD’S MERCY
There’s a wideness in God’s mercy, Like the wideness of the sea;
There’s a kindness in His justice, Which is more than liberty.
There is no place where earth’s sorrows Are more felt than up in Heaven;
There is no place where earth’s failings Have such kindly judgment given.
For the love of God is broader Than the measure of our mind;
And the heart of the Eternal Is most wonderfully kind.
There is plentiful redemption In the blood that has been shed;
There is joy for all the members In the sorrows of the Head.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of mercy, we no longer look for Jesus among the dead, for he is alive and has become the Lord of life. From the waters of death you raise us with him and renew your gift of life within us. Increase in our hearts and minds the risen life we share with Christ, and help us to grow as your people toward the fullness of eternal life with you, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
SCRIPTURE Matthew 9:9-13 9As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 10And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and were sitting with him and his disciples. 11When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12But when he heard this, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.”
MEDITATION ON PSALM 42:9-11
Jesus was saying this to the Pharisees. They scorned Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners. They completely missed the point. Jesus was a friend of sinners but an enemy to those who were “religious” or self-righteous. Jesus’ point was that He came to save that which was lost and not to those who believed that they were already righteous. There is more hope for a murderer than one who thinks that they don’t need forgiveness because they religious leaders believed that their works were a sufficient sacrifice to God. Those who don’t believe they need mercy will not receive it but those who know they need it, will.
Who are the modern day Pharisees, especially in this time of a pandemic? I don’t know the answer. I do know I get impatient with those who expect life to return to ‘normal’ tomorrow so they can have what they want. There is an air of entitlement in our country; we are the best, we are the strongest, we deserve more. We deserve mercy, along with everything else we want.
However, if we want to eat with Jesus, if we want to be known as the followers and friends of Jesus, we need to remember that we are, as Jesus says, the sick in need of a physician. We are not the righteous or the entitled; we are the sinners. We are the ones who should cry, “Lord, have mercy on us.”
HYMN 435 THERE’S A WIDENESS IN GOD’S MERCY
There’s a wideness in God’s mercy, Like the wideness of the sea;
There’s a kindness in His justice, Which is more than liberty.
There is no place where earth’s sorrows Are more felt than up in Heaven;
There is no place where earth’s failings Have such kindly judgment given.
For the love of God is broader Than the measure of our mind;
And the heart of the Eternal Is most wonderfully kind.
There is plentiful redemption In the blood that has been shed;
There is joy for all the members In the sorrows of the Head.
| Bulletin for THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER May 3, 2020 Zoom meeting aT 12:00 noon |
Saturday, May 2
O Lord open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
PRAYER
O God, you cradle the mountains and hold the might waters in the hollow of your hand. You carry the weak in your bosom and tend each leaf and living thing.
I place myself into your keeping, my body, my soul, and all that I am., for you are my help, you are my hope, you are my highest praise.
Write my name upon your palm, hold me near your side, for by your wounds, I am healed, and in your hands, I am home, where all will be well.
All will be well in you. Amen.
SCRIPTURE 1 PETER 1:10-13
10Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that was to be yours made careful search and inquiry, 11inquiring about the person or time that the Spirit of Christ within them indicated when it testified in advance to the sufferings destined for Christ and the subsequent glory. 12It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in regard to the things that have now been announced to you through those who brought you good news by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look!
13Therefore prepare your minds for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed.
MEDITATION ON 1 PETER 1:10-13
This little text from 1 Peter gives us an image of prophets at work; doing careful research and inquiry so that they can put out good news. In the midst of their work, they receive a revelation that all this work is not for themselves, but for believers in other places and times. And we receive good news, so good that even the angels long to know.
We could use some good news. Tomorrow the parks, golf courses and a few other places will be open again, with common sense restrictions and guidelines. I like to think that the decisions have been made in our state and all over the country and the world by consulting medical experts. Will this be safe? Then, perhaps, consultation with behaviorists: Will people be willing to wear masks in order to keep others safe? Will these openings of places we love help the general anxiety and frustration we see?
It seems to me the answer to many of our questions are in the last two lines of the passage: Therefore prepare your mind for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed.
Good news means we have the opportunity and the gifts needed to care for one another, for creation and to create again a normal that is safe and healthy. In the meantime, we live one day at a time, and we always live in hope.
HYMN 401 HERE IN THIS PLACE Marty Haugen
Here in this place new light is streaming;
Now is the darkness vanished away;
See in this space our fears and our dreamings
Brought here to you in the light of this day.
Gather us in, the lost and forsaken;
Gather us in, the blind and the lame;
Call to us now and we shall awaken;
We shall arise at the sound of our name.
We are the young, our lives are a mystery.
We are the old who yearn for your face.
We have been sung throughout all of history,
Called to be light to the whole human race.
Gather us in, the rich and the haughty;
Gather us in, the proud and the strong;
Give us a heart so meek and so lowly;
Give us the courage to enter the song.
Here we will take the wine and the water;
Here we will take the bread of new birth.
Here you shall call your sons and your daughters,
Call us anew to be salt for the earth.
Give us to drink the wine of compassion;
Give us to eat the bread that is you;
Nourish us well and teach us to fashion
Lives that are holy and hearts that are true.
Not in the dark of buildings confining,
Not in some heaven, light years away:
Here in this place the new light is shining;
Now is the kingdom, now is the day.
Gather us in and hold us forever;
Gather us in and make us your own;
Gather us in, all peoples together,
Fire of love in our flesh and our bone.
O Lord open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
PRAYER
O God, you cradle the mountains and hold the might waters in the hollow of your hand. You carry the weak in your bosom and tend each leaf and living thing.
I place myself into your keeping, my body, my soul, and all that I am., for you are my help, you are my hope, you are my highest praise.
Write my name upon your palm, hold me near your side, for by your wounds, I am healed, and in your hands, I am home, where all will be well.
All will be well in you. Amen.
SCRIPTURE 1 PETER 1:10-13
10Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that was to be yours made careful search and inquiry, 11inquiring about the person or time that the Spirit of Christ within them indicated when it testified in advance to the sufferings destined for Christ and the subsequent glory. 12It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in regard to the things that have now been announced to you through those who brought you good news by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look!
13Therefore prepare your minds for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed.
MEDITATION ON 1 PETER 1:10-13
This little text from 1 Peter gives us an image of prophets at work; doing careful research and inquiry so that they can put out good news. In the midst of their work, they receive a revelation that all this work is not for themselves, but for believers in other places and times. And we receive good news, so good that even the angels long to know.
We could use some good news. Tomorrow the parks, golf courses and a few other places will be open again, with common sense restrictions and guidelines. I like to think that the decisions have been made in our state and all over the country and the world by consulting medical experts. Will this be safe? Then, perhaps, consultation with behaviorists: Will people be willing to wear masks in order to keep others safe? Will these openings of places we love help the general anxiety and frustration we see?
It seems to me the answer to many of our questions are in the last two lines of the passage: Therefore prepare your mind for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed.
Good news means we have the opportunity and the gifts needed to care for one another, for creation and to create again a normal that is safe and healthy. In the meantime, we live one day at a time, and we always live in hope.
HYMN 401 HERE IN THIS PLACE Marty Haugen
Here in this place new light is streaming;
Now is the darkness vanished away;
See in this space our fears and our dreamings
Brought here to you in the light of this day.
Gather us in, the lost and forsaken;
Gather us in, the blind and the lame;
Call to us now and we shall awaken;
We shall arise at the sound of our name.
We are the young, our lives are a mystery.
We are the old who yearn for your face.
We have been sung throughout all of history,
Called to be light to the whole human race.
Gather us in, the rich and the haughty;
Gather us in, the proud and the strong;
Give us a heart so meek and so lowly;
Give us the courage to enter the song.
Here we will take the wine and the water;
Here we will take the bread of new birth.
Here you shall call your sons and your daughters,
Call us anew to be salt for the earth.
Give us to drink the wine of compassion;
Give us to eat the bread that is you;
Nourish us well and teach us to fashion
Lives that are holy and hearts that are true.
Not in the dark of buildings confining,
Not in some heaven, light years away:
Here in this place the new light is shining;
Now is the kingdom, now is the day.
Gather us in and hold us forever;
Gather us in and make us your own;
Gather us in, all peoples together,
Fire of love in our flesh and our bone.
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O most high, glorious God, how great is my dilemma! In your awful presence silence seems best. And yet, if I keep my peace, the rocks themselves will cry out. But it I do speak, what will I say?
It is Love that calls forth my speech, thought it still feels like stammering. I love you, Lord God. I adore you. I worship you. I bow down before you.
Thank you for your gifts of grace:
In the name of him whose adoration never failed. Amen.
Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home, Richard Foster
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 42: 9-11
9I say to God, my rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I walk about mournfully because the enemy oppresses me?”
10As with a deadly wound in my body, my adversaries taunt me, while they say to me continually, “Where is your God?”
11Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 42:9-11
The psalmist seems to view the broken world around him as a personal burden. I often wonder what the peoples of the Biblical world would make of all our media; the sheer volume of it is a burden. But the psalmist is bold enough to ask: “Why must I walk about mournfully? Why is my soul cast down, filled with despair and restless within me?”
While there are answers given (the enemy oppresses me, my adversaries taunt me, etc.), the ultimate answer is to disregard all these things and hope in God.
Are we hoping in God? I do not believe God caused or willed this pandemic. We had plenty of warning; but human arrogance and hubris kept us from paying attention and adequately preparing. I still hold to the idea that we do not look for ‘God’s plan,’ but instead look for the presence of God all around us. That takes persistence, courage, and hope.
When both our sons lived in Manhattan, we asked what their emergency plans were (I think this was after Sandy hit). They both grinned and said they had plans in case of a zombie invasion. They would walk to the George Washington Bridge and into New Jersey, where we would be waiting to pick them up. At least it was a plan!
Perhaps the best plan we can have is to be smart about what we do, and not give up hope. Like the psalmist, we can hope in God and praise God for being our very present help in time of trouble.
HYMN 35 PRAISE YE THE LORD, THE ALMIGHTY Joachim Neander
Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!
All ye who hear, now to His temple draw near;
Praise Him in glad adoration.
Praise Ye the Lord, Who over all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen how thy desires ever have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?
Praise Ye the Lord, O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the amen sound from His people again,
Gladly for aye we adore Him.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O most high, glorious God, how great is my dilemma! In your awful presence silence seems best. And yet, if I keep my peace, the rocks themselves will cry out. But it I do speak, what will I say?
It is Love that calls forth my speech, thought it still feels like stammering. I love you, Lord God. I adore you. I worship you. I bow down before you.
Thank you for your gifts of grace:
- The consistency of sunrise and sunset,
- The wonder of colors,
- The solace of voices I know.
In the name of him whose adoration never failed. Amen.
Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home, Richard Foster
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 42: 9-11
9I say to God, my rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I walk about mournfully because the enemy oppresses me?”
10As with a deadly wound in my body, my adversaries taunt me, while they say to me continually, “Where is your God?”
11Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 42:9-11
The psalmist seems to view the broken world around him as a personal burden. I often wonder what the peoples of the Biblical world would make of all our media; the sheer volume of it is a burden. But the psalmist is bold enough to ask: “Why must I walk about mournfully? Why is my soul cast down, filled with despair and restless within me?”
While there are answers given (the enemy oppresses me, my adversaries taunt me, etc.), the ultimate answer is to disregard all these things and hope in God.
Are we hoping in God? I do not believe God caused or willed this pandemic. We had plenty of warning; but human arrogance and hubris kept us from paying attention and adequately preparing. I still hold to the idea that we do not look for ‘God’s plan,’ but instead look for the presence of God all around us. That takes persistence, courage, and hope.
When both our sons lived in Manhattan, we asked what their emergency plans were (I think this was after Sandy hit). They both grinned and said they had plans in case of a zombie invasion. They would walk to the George Washington Bridge and into New Jersey, where we would be waiting to pick them up. At least it was a plan!
Perhaps the best plan we can have is to be smart about what we do, and not give up hope. Like the psalmist, we can hope in God and praise God for being our very present help in time of trouble.
HYMN 35 PRAISE YE THE LORD, THE ALMIGHTY Joachim Neander
Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!
All ye who hear, now to His temple draw near;
Praise Him in glad adoration.
Praise Ye the Lord, Who over all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen how thy desires ever have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?
Praise Ye the Lord, O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the amen sound from His people again,
Gladly for aye we adore Him.
WEDNESDAY APRIL 29, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY The Three
In name of the Father,
In name of the Son,
In name of the Spirit,
Three in One:
Father cherish me,
Son cherish me,
Spirit cherish me,
Three all-kindly.
God make me holy,
Christ make me holy,
Spirit make me holy,
Three all-holy.
Three aid my hope,
Three aid my love,
Three and mine eye,
And my knee from stumbling,
My knee from stumbling.
The Celtic Vision: Prayers and Blessings from the Outer Hebrides, Ed. Esther de Waal
SCRIPTURE READING 1 THESSALONIANS 2:17-20
17As for us, brothers and sisters, when, for a short time, we were made orphans by being separated from you—in person, not in heart—we longed with great eagerness to see you face to face. 18For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, wanted to again and again—but Satan blocked our way. 19For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20Yes, you are our glory and joy!
MEDITATION ON 1 THESSALONIANS 2:17-20
1 THESSALONIANS 2:17-20
Like Paul and his beloved Thessalonians, we are separated from one another. This short letter is filled with encouragement and love from Paul for the Thessalonians. Paul also writes as though Jesus will be returning any day, and all the faithful will be together again.
More and more, I am asked when we will be together again, in the church building, worship side by side. I can’t answer that question with any certainty; It may be summer before we are together again. Like Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, we are eager to see each other face to face. In the meantime, we must find ways to be faithful and above all to have hope. Paul writes that the hope and joy is found in each other; he writes to the Thessalonians, “Yes, you are our glory and joy!”
As strange as life is right now, I look forward to Zoom meetings, especially worship and bible study. I see faces that give me hope and joy; and I know we will see each other again soon. For like the Thessalonians and Paul and friends, we are only separated in person, not in heart. Thanks be to God!
HYMN 734 HOPE OF THE WORLD Georgia Harkness
Hope of the world, thou Christ of great compassion:
speak to our fearful hearts by conflict rent;
save us, thy people, from consuming passion,
who by our own false hopes and aims are spent.
Hope of the world, God's gift from highest heaven,
bringing to hungry souls the bread of life:
still let thy Spirit unto us be given
to heal earth's wounds and end her bitter strife.
Hope of the world, afoot on dusty highways,
showing to wandering souls the path of light:
walk thou beside us, lest the tempting byways
lure us away from thee to endless night.
Hope of the world, who by thy cross did save us
from death and dark despair, from sin and guilt:
we render back the love thy mercy gave us;
take thou our lives and use them as you will.
Hope of the world, O Christ, o'er death victorious,
who by this sign didst conquer grief and pain:
we would be faithful to thy gospel glorious;
thou are our Lord! Thou dost forever reign!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY The Three
In name of the Father,
In name of the Son,
In name of the Spirit,
Three in One:
Father cherish me,
Son cherish me,
Spirit cherish me,
Three all-kindly.
God make me holy,
Christ make me holy,
Spirit make me holy,
Three all-holy.
Three aid my hope,
Three aid my love,
Three and mine eye,
And my knee from stumbling,
My knee from stumbling.
The Celtic Vision: Prayers and Blessings from the Outer Hebrides, Ed. Esther de Waal
SCRIPTURE READING 1 THESSALONIANS 2:17-20
17As for us, brothers and sisters, when, for a short time, we were made orphans by being separated from you—in person, not in heart—we longed with great eagerness to see you face to face. 18For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, wanted to again and again—but Satan blocked our way. 19For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20Yes, you are our glory and joy!
MEDITATION ON 1 THESSALONIANS 2:17-20
1 THESSALONIANS 2:17-20
Like Paul and his beloved Thessalonians, we are separated from one another. This short letter is filled with encouragement and love from Paul for the Thessalonians. Paul also writes as though Jesus will be returning any day, and all the faithful will be together again.
More and more, I am asked when we will be together again, in the church building, worship side by side. I can’t answer that question with any certainty; It may be summer before we are together again. Like Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, we are eager to see each other face to face. In the meantime, we must find ways to be faithful and above all to have hope. Paul writes that the hope and joy is found in each other; he writes to the Thessalonians, “Yes, you are our glory and joy!”
As strange as life is right now, I look forward to Zoom meetings, especially worship and bible study. I see faces that give me hope and joy; and I know we will see each other again soon. For like the Thessalonians and Paul and friends, we are only separated in person, not in heart. Thanks be to God!
HYMN 734 HOPE OF THE WORLD Georgia Harkness
Hope of the world, thou Christ of great compassion:
speak to our fearful hearts by conflict rent;
save us, thy people, from consuming passion,
who by our own false hopes and aims are spent.
Hope of the world, God's gift from highest heaven,
bringing to hungry souls the bread of life:
still let thy Spirit unto us be given
to heal earth's wounds and end her bitter strife.
Hope of the world, afoot on dusty highways,
showing to wandering souls the path of light:
walk thou beside us, lest the tempting byways
lure us away from thee to endless night.
Hope of the world, who by thy cross did save us
from death and dark despair, from sin and guilt:
we render back the love thy mercy gave us;
take thou our lives and use them as you will.
Hope of the world, O Christ, o'er death victorious,
who by this sign didst conquer grief and pain:
we would be faithful to thy gospel glorious;
thou are our Lord! Thou dost forever reign!
TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and al just work do proceed: Give unto your servants that peace which the world cannot give; that our hearts may be set to obey your commandments, and that also by you we, being defended from the fear of our enemies, may pass our time in rest and quietness by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen
The Book of Worship
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 10:34-11:1
34For you had compassion for those who were in prison, and you cheerfully accepted the plundering of your possessions, knowing that you yourselves possessed something better and more lasting. 35Do not, therefore, abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward. 36For you need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. 37For yet “in a very little while, the one who is coming will come and will not delay; 38but my righteous one will live by faith. My soul takes no pleasure in anyone who shrinks back.” 39But we are not among those who shrink back and so are lost, but among those who have faith and so are saved. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 10:34-11:1
The writer of Hebrews writes words of encouragement. Do not abandon confidence, continue to endure and live by your faith. For faith is the assurance of hope, of what we cannot see but we know by faith.
I watch very little news; I find I would rather read sources that I can rely upon. But I have watched enough news to hear of governors, mayors and other officials around the country who are coming up with plans to reopen businesses, parks, theater, etc. My fear is that we will grow lax and assume all is well. People will continue to contract the virus and people will continue to die. It does not take courage to want to move back into the lifestyle we miss so much.
What does it take for us to reorganize our priorities? What are we willing to put up against a human life? As much as we want our old lives back, there are no guarantees. In fact, the possibility is more likely that life will continue to be difficult and unpredictable whether remain in quarantine or move freely around wherever we wish.
All we do have is hope. We cannot know what the future holds, but this little passage from Hebrews makes it clear that we have faith and thus we should have hope. We hope that all will be well, and we faith in God who loves us and wants only the best for us. For our part, let us be wise, faithful – and always hopeful.
HYMN 370 This Is My Father’s World Maltbie D. Babcock
This is my Father’s world, and to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings, the music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world; I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas, his hand the wonders wrought.
This is my Father’s world, O let me ne’er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world. The battle is not done;
Jesus who died shall be satisfied, and earth and heaven be one.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and al just work do proceed: Give unto your servants that peace which the world cannot give; that our hearts may be set to obey your commandments, and that also by you we, being defended from the fear of our enemies, may pass our time in rest and quietness by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen
The Book of Worship
SCRIPTURE READING HEBREWS 10:34-11:1
34For you had compassion for those who were in prison, and you cheerfully accepted the plundering of your possessions, knowing that you yourselves possessed something better and more lasting. 35Do not, therefore, abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward. 36For you need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. 37For yet “in a very little while, the one who is coming will come and will not delay; 38but my righteous one will live by faith. My soul takes no pleasure in anyone who shrinks back.” 39But we are not among those who shrink back and so are lost, but among those who have faith and so are saved. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 10:34-11:1
The writer of Hebrews writes words of encouragement. Do not abandon confidence, continue to endure and live by your faith. For faith is the assurance of hope, of what we cannot see but we know by faith.
I watch very little news; I find I would rather read sources that I can rely upon. But I have watched enough news to hear of governors, mayors and other officials around the country who are coming up with plans to reopen businesses, parks, theater, etc. My fear is that we will grow lax and assume all is well. People will continue to contract the virus and people will continue to die. It does not take courage to want to move back into the lifestyle we miss so much.
What does it take for us to reorganize our priorities? What are we willing to put up against a human life? As much as we want our old lives back, there are no guarantees. In fact, the possibility is more likely that life will continue to be difficult and unpredictable whether remain in quarantine or move freely around wherever we wish.
All we do have is hope. We cannot know what the future holds, but this little passage from Hebrews makes it clear that we have faith and thus we should have hope. We hope that all will be well, and we faith in God who loves us and wants only the best for us. For our part, let us be wise, faithful – and always hopeful.
HYMN 370 This Is My Father’s World Maltbie D. Babcock
This is my Father’s world, and to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings, the music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world; I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas, his hand the wonders wrought.
This is my Father’s world, O let me ne’er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world. The battle is not done;
Jesus who died shall be satisfied, and earth and heaven be one.
MONDAY APRIL 27, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Assure us there is a purpose in life, that all things work together for good for those who love you. Give us the confidence that we do not walk alone or make our decisions unaided. Help us to treat life as a gift, understand the process as an adventure, and live in faith that acceptance through Christ is assured. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Robert E. Young, Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship
SCRIPTURE READING JEREMIAH 29:8-14
8For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let the prophets and the diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream, 9for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, says the Lord. 10For thus says the Lord: Only when Babylon’s seventy years are completed will I visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place. 11For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 13When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, 14I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
MEDITATION ON JEREMIAH 29:8-14
This short passage is part of a letter from Jeremiah to the people living in Babylon. The king and the court officials had left Jerusalem for Babylon; the letter was taken by the hand of Elasah son of Shaphan and Gemariah son of Hilkiah, whom King Zedekiah of Judah sent to Babylon to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.
Jeremiah, speaking for the Lord, essentially tells the people to make themselves at home in Babylon – get married, have families, build houses and gardens and pray for the welfare of the city in which they lived. For God would wait a generation to come to them and bring them home. God’s intent for God’s people is not harm, but goodness. Here the people in exile are promised a future with hope.
We have been homebound for about six weeks. In our culture of individualism and a strong work ethic, these six weeks may seem like six years. How do we find our way back to “normal”? What does normal look like after all this is over? The people of God did go back to Jerusalem after a generation – 70+ years. Life resumed, but it was very different from the life before the exile.
Jeremiah’s words were honest and encouraging; they were not like the lying dreams of false prophets. The words speak to us: a future with hope. When we search for God, God will be found, especially if we seek with all our hearts. In the meantime – life will continue. God is present, we have community and families to care for and to build upon. We have hope.
HYMN 748 Go With Us, Lord Mary Jackon Cathey
Go with us, Lord, and guide the way
through this and every coming day,
that in your Spirit strong and true
our lives may be our gift to you.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Assure us there is a purpose in life, that all things work together for good for those who love you. Give us the confidence that we do not walk alone or make our decisions unaided. Help us to treat life as a gift, understand the process as an adventure, and live in faith that acceptance through Christ is assured. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Robert E. Young, Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship
SCRIPTURE READING JEREMIAH 29:8-14
8For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let the prophets and the diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream, 9for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, says the Lord. 10For thus says the Lord: Only when Babylon’s seventy years are completed will I visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place. 11For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 13When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, 14I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
MEDITATION ON JEREMIAH 29:8-14
This short passage is part of a letter from Jeremiah to the people living in Babylon. The king and the court officials had left Jerusalem for Babylon; the letter was taken by the hand of Elasah son of Shaphan and Gemariah son of Hilkiah, whom King Zedekiah of Judah sent to Babylon to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.
Jeremiah, speaking for the Lord, essentially tells the people to make themselves at home in Babylon – get married, have families, build houses and gardens and pray for the welfare of the city in which they lived. For God would wait a generation to come to them and bring them home. God’s intent for God’s people is not harm, but goodness. Here the people in exile are promised a future with hope.
We have been homebound for about six weeks. In our culture of individualism and a strong work ethic, these six weeks may seem like six years. How do we find our way back to “normal”? What does normal look like after all this is over? The people of God did go back to Jerusalem after a generation – 70+ years. Life resumed, but it was very different from the life before the exile.
Jeremiah’s words were honest and encouraging; they were not like the lying dreams of false prophets. The words speak to us: a future with hope. When we search for God, God will be found, especially if we seek with all our hearts. In the meantime – life will continue. God is present, we have community and families to care for and to build upon. We have hope.
HYMN 748 Go With Us, Lord Mary Jackon Cathey
Go with us, Lord, and guide the way
through this and every coming day,
that in your Spirit strong and true
our lives may be our gift to you.
| |||
SATURDAY APRIL 25, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Praise to you, O God, for surrounding us with the moving wind of your Spirit. You blow through our weariness and bring us new life. You inspire us to new hopes and urge us to be witnesses and practitioners of your righteousness and justice in the world. Through your Spirit you walk with us, move us, and bring your to your people.
Our songs of joy and praise rise to you, O God, for gathering us into community. We are grateful yo have called us to follow and given us the gifts necessary to be disciples of Christ in the world. We sing your praises: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010) Rev. Dr. Nancy K. Young
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 116
1I love the Lord, because he has heard my voice and my supplications.
2Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
3The snares of death encompassed me; the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me; I suffered distress and anguish.
4Then I called on the name of the Lord: “O Lord, I pray, save my life!”
5Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; our God is merciful.
6The Lord protects the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me.
7Return, O my soul, to your rest, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.
8For you have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling.
9I walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
10I kept my faith, even when I said, “I am greatly afflicted”;
11I said in my consternation, “Everyone is a liar.”
12What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me?
13I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord,
14I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.
15Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones.
16O Lord, I am your servant; I am your servant, the child of your serving girl. You have loosed my bonds.
17I will offer to you a thanksgiving sacrifice and call on the name of the Lord.
18I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people,
19in the courts of the house of the Lord, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the Lord!
MEDITATION ON PSALM 116
This is the lectionary psalm for today according to the daily lectionary. As I read through it, it struck me as a psalm of faithfulness. Surrounded by the snares of death, affliction, liars and those who betray, faith is still what I cling to. In the midst of the pandemic, we can cry to the Lord: “What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me?”
Most of us have a safe place to stay, food enough, company enough, all that we need. Enough so that when we see others who do not have enough, we can share with gladness and generosity. There is so much we cannot do; and yet, I am not willing to mourn the loss of haircuts, browsing through a shop, or finding a bargain online. Our lives are defined as so much more than what we had before the pandemic. The faces we see online are so beloved, so welcome! The food we can eat each day is a gift from God.
I look out my window and see all kinds of birds flocking to our bird feeder. Life goes on, a gift from God. And I offer thanks to God, and praise to the Lord!
HYMN 655 What Shall I Render to the Lord
The New Metrical Version of the Psalms
What shall I render to the Lord; what shall my offering be,
For all the gracious benefits God hat bestowed on me?
Salvation’s cup my soul shall take while to the Lord I pray,
And with God’s people I will meet, my thankful vows to pay.
Not lightly dost thou, Lord, permit thy chose saints to die;
From death thou has delivered me; thy servant, Lord am I.
Within God’s house, the house of prayer, my soul shall bless the Lord,
And praises to God’s holy name let all the saints accord.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Praise to you, O God, for surrounding us with the moving wind of your Spirit. You blow through our weariness and bring us new life. You inspire us to new hopes and urge us to be witnesses and practitioners of your righteousness and justice in the world. Through your Spirit you walk with us, move us, and bring your to your people.
Our songs of joy and praise rise to you, O God, for gathering us into community. We are grateful yo have called us to follow and given us the gifts necessary to be disciples of Christ in the world. We sing your praises: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010) Rev. Dr. Nancy K. Young
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 116
1I love the Lord, because he has heard my voice and my supplications.
2Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
3The snares of death encompassed me; the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me; I suffered distress and anguish.
4Then I called on the name of the Lord: “O Lord, I pray, save my life!”
5Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; our God is merciful.
6The Lord protects the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me.
7Return, O my soul, to your rest, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.
8For you have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling.
9I walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
10I kept my faith, even when I said, “I am greatly afflicted”;
11I said in my consternation, “Everyone is a liar.”
12What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me?
13I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord,
14I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.
15Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones.
16O Lord, I am your servant; I am your servant, the child of your serving girl. You have loosed my bonds.
17I will offer to you a thanksgiving sacrifice and call on the name of the Lord.
18I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people,
19in the courts of the house of the Lord, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the Lord!
MEDITATION ON PSALM 116
This is the lectionary psalm for today according to the daily lectionary. As I read through it, it struck me as a psalm of faithfulness. Surrounded by the snares of death, affliction, liars and those who betray, faith is still what I cling to. In the midst of the pandemic, we can cry to the Lord: “What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me?”
Most of us have a safe place to stay, food enough, company enough, all that we need. Enough so that when we see others who do not have enough, we can share with gladness and generosity. There is so much we cannot do; and yet, I am not willing to mourn the loss of haircuts, browsing through a shop, or finding a bargain online. Our lives are defined as so much more than what we had before the pandemic. The faces we see online are so beloved, so welcome! The food we can eat each day is a gift from God.
I look out my window and see all kinds of birds flocking to our bird feeder. Life goes on, a gift from God. And I offer thanks to God, and praise to the Lord!
HYMN 655 What Shall I Render to the Lord
The New Metrical Version of the Psalms
What shall I render to the Lord; what shall my offering be,
For all the gracious benefits God hat bestowed on me?
Salvation’s cup my soul shall take while to the Lord I pray,
And with God’s people I will meet, my thankful vows to pay.
Not lightly dost thou, Lord, permit thy chose saints to die;
From death thou has delivered me; thy servant, Lord am I.
Within God’s house, the house of prayer, my soul shall bless the Lord,
And praises to God’s holy name let all the saints accord.
FRIDAY APRIL 24, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of truth, we confess that being right becomes the most important part of our work. We no longer look for your righteousness when we are entrenched in our own rightness. Open our hearts with your passion for righteousness and justice so that we may continue to be your hands, your feet, your voice, your eyes, your heart in all we do. Amen.
Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010) Rev. Dr. Nancy K. Young
SCRIPTURE READING – ACTS 19:11-20
11God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 12so that when the handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, their diseases left them, and the evil spirits came out of them.
13Then some itinerant Jewish exorcists tried to use the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.” 14Seven sons of a Jewish high priest named Sceva were doing this. 15But the evil spirit said to them in reply, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” 16Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, mastered them all, and so overpowered them that they fled out of the house naked and wounded. 17When this became known to all residents of Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks, everyone was awestruck; and the name of the Lord Jesus was praised. 18Also many of those who became believers confessed and disclosed their practices. 19A number of those who practiced magic collected their books and burned them publicly; when the value of these books was calculated, it was found to come to fifty thousand silver coins. 20So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 19:11-20There is a prohibition against using magic or witchcraft found in Deuteronomy 18:10-12: 10No one shall be found among you who makes a son or daughter pass through fire, or who practices divination, or is a soothsayer, or an augur, or a sorcerer, 11or one who casts spells, or who consults ghosts or spirits, or who seeks oracles from the dead. 12For whoever does these things is abhorrent to the Lord; it is because of such abhorrent practices that the Lord your God is driving them out before you.
This passage from Acts 19 does not show up in the lectionary, so most of us have never heard it or thought too much about it. The seven sons of the high priest Sceva are making a living by travelling around and performing exorcisms. They obviously heard about Paul and his preaching and teaching about Jesus; so they decide to use the name of Jesus to enhance their exorcism practices. This backfired; and they were driven out by a man who was possessed. I have to smile at the image of the seven sons running out of the house without any clothing.
Why didn’t this work for them? All we have to do is call on the name of Jesus, right?
However, these seven sons did not believe; they heard Paul and others and did not believe. They were the equivalent of modern ‘con men’. Their experience served as a warning to others who practiced magic – and who repented. What does this have to do with us? If we look at social media, watch or read the news, we are offered all kinds of remedies and theories about the virus and how to ‘cure’ it. How much do we believe what is offered?
My father is a pharmacist and owned a drugstore on main street. I spent my growing up years dusting shelves, stocking shelves, etc. There remained some homemade remedies from the founding pharmacist: asthma cigarettes, strange throat lozenges made out of mystery ingredients, etc. My father removed most of these things, but every so often someone would come into the store and ask for a product that had no healing value and was now in the garbage can. Dad would suggest another product, and gently explain the research and science behind it.
We want to believe in everything being said; but even the evil spirit in this passage recognizes the con game the seven sons are perpetuating. So let us be, as Jesus suggests, Wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Common sense and good practices should prevail.
HYMN 451 Open My Eyes, That I May See Clara H. Scott
Open my eyes, that I may see glimpses of truth thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!
Open my ears, that I may hear voices of truth thou sendest clear;
And while the wave notes fall on my ear, everything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my ears, illumine me, Spirit divine!
Open my mouth, and let me bear gladly the warm truth everywhere;
Open my heart and let me prepare love with thy children thus to share.
Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my heart, illumine me, Spirit divine!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of truth, we confess that being right becomes the most important part of our work. We no longer look for your righteousness when we are entrenched in our own rightness. Open our hearts with your passion for righteousness and justice so that we may continue to be your hands, your feet, your voice, your eyes, your heart in all we do. Amen.
Prayers for the 219th General Assembly (2010) Rev. Dr. Nancy K. Young
SCRIPTURE READING – ACTS 19:11-20
11God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 12so that when the handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, their diseases left them, and the evil spirits came out of them.
13Then some itinerant Jewish exorcists tried to use the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.” 14Seven sons of a Jewish high priest named Sceva were doing this. 15But the evil spirit said to them in reply, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” 16Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, mastered them all, and so overpowered them that they fled out of the house naked and wounded. 17When this became known to all residents of Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks, everyone was awestruck; and the name of the Lord Jesus was praised. 18Also many of those who became believers confessed and disclosed their practices. 19A number of those who practiced magic collected their books and burned them publicly; when the value of these books was calculated, it was found to come to fifty thousand silver coins. 20So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 19:11-20There is a prohibition against using magic or witchcraft found in Deuteronomy 18:10-12: 10No one shall be found among you who makes a son or daughter pass through fire, or who practices divination, or is a soothsayer, or an augur, or a sorcerer, 11or one who casts spells, or who consults ghosts or spirits, or who seeks oracles from the dead. 12For whoever does these things is abhorrent to the Lord; it is because of such abhorrent practices that the Lord your God is driving them out before you.
This passage from Acts 19 does not show up in the lectionary, so most of us have never heard it or thought too much about it. The seven sons of the high priest Sceva are making a living by travelling around and performing exorcisms. They obviously heard about Paul and his preaching and teaching about Jesus; so they decide to use the name of Jesus to enhance their exorcism practices. This backfired; and they were driven out by a man who was possessed. I have to smile at the image of the seven sons running out of the house without any clothing.
Why didn’t this work for them? All we have to do is call on the name of Jesus, right?
However, these seven sons did not believe; they heard Paul and others and did not believe. They were the equivalent of modern ‘con men’. Their experience served as a warning to others who practiced magic – and who repented. What does this have to do with us? If we look at social media, watch or read the news, we are offered all kinds of remedies and theories about the virus and how to ‘cure’ it. How much do we believe what is offered?
My father is a pharmacist and owned a drugstore on main street. I spent my growing up years dusting shelves, stocking shelves, etc. There remained some homemade remedies from the founding pharmacist: asthma cigarettes, strange throat lozenges made out of mystery ingredients, etc. My father removed most of these things, but every so often someone would come into the store and ask for a product that had no healing value and was now in the garbage can. Dad would suggest another product, and gently explain the research and science behind it.
We want to believe in everything being said; but even the evil spirit in this passage recognizes the con game the seven sons are perpetuating. So let us be, as Jesus suggests, Wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Common sense and good practices should prevail.
HYMN 451 Open My Eyes, That I May See Clara H. Scott
Open my eyes, that I may see glimpses of truth thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!
Open my ears, that I may hear voices of truth thou sendest clear;
And while the wave notes fall on my ear, everything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my ears, illumine me, Spirit divine!
Open my mouth, and let me bear gladly the warm truth everywhere;
Open my heart and let me prepare love with thy children thus to share.
Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my heart, illumine me, Spirit divine!
THURSDAY APRIL 23, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY--National Council of Churches
Gracious God, your amazing love extends through all time and space, to all parts of your creation, which you created and called good. You made a covenant with Noah and his family, putting a rainbow in the sky to symbolize your promise of love and blessing to every living creature, and to all successive generations. You made a covenant with Abraham and Sarah, blessing them and their descendants throughout the generations. You made a covenant with Moses and the Israelite people to all generations, giving them the 10 commandments and challenging them to choose life. In Jesus, you invite us to enter into a new covenant, in communion with all who seek to be faithful to you.
As people of faith, we are called into covenant. Your covenant of faithfulness and love extends to the whole creation. We pray for the healing of the earth, that present and future generations may enjoy the fruits of creation, and continue to glorify and praise you.
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 8 The Message (MSG)
A David Psalm
8 God, brilliant Lord,
yours is a household name.
2 Nursing infants gurgle choruses about you;
toddlers shout the songs
That drown out enemy talk,
and silence atheist babble.
3-4 I look up at your macro-skies, dark and enormous,
your handmade sky-jewelry,
Moon and stars mounted in their settings.
Then I look at my micro-self and wonder,
Why do you bother with us?
Why take a second look our way?
5-8 Yet we’ve so narrowly missed being gods,
bright with Eden’s dawn light.
You put us in charge of your handcrafted world,
repeated to us your Genesis-charge,
Made us lords of sheep and cattle,
even animals out in the wild,
Birds flying and fish swimming,
whales singing in the ocean deeps.
9 God, brilliant Lord,
your name echoes around the world.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 8
I am writing this on April 22, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. I think, of course, of the Genesis stories of creation, but also of this psalm. I like Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase (The Message) because his language is so visual.
I also read Pope Francis’ words for Earth Day; based I think on his new encyclical about climate change. Here are the words that I found most powerful:
“We are fashioned from the Earth, and fruit of the Earth sustains our life,” he said, adding that the biblical book of Genesis lays out our obligation as carriers of the “breath of life that comes from God" that we thus "live in this common home as one human family in biodiversity with God’s other creatures.”
This means “we are called to have care and respect for all creatures, and to offer love and compassion to our brothers and sisters, especially the most vulnerable among us, in imitation of God’s love for us,” he said. “We need only take a frank look at the facts to see that our common home is falling into serious disrepair. We have polluted and we have despoiled it, endangering our very lives… Restoring a “harmonious relationship with the Earth and with the rest of humanity” is not the work of some ethereal spirit, but lies in “our relationship with people, with our neighbor, with the poor," Francis said. “We need a new way of looking at our common home.”
HYMN 664 Morning Has Broken Eleanor Farjoen
Morning has broken like the first morning;
Blackbird has spoken like the first bird.
Praise for the singing! Praise for the morning!
Praise for them springing fresh from the Word!
Sweet the rain's new fall, sunlit from heaven,
Like the first dew fall on the first grass.
Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness where God’s feet pass.
Mine is the sunlight! Mine is the morning,
Born of the one light Eden saw play!
Praise with elation; praise every morning,
God's recreation of the new day!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY--National Council of Churches
Gracious God, your amazing love extends through all time and space, to all parts of your creation, which you created and called good. You made a covenant with Noah and his family, putting a rainbow in the sky to symbolize your promise of love and blessing to every living creature, and to all successive generations. You made a covenant with Abraham and Sarah, blessing them and their descendants throughout the generations. You made a covenant with Moses and the Israelite people to all generations, giving them the 10 commandments and challenging them to choose life. In Jesus, you invite us to enter into a new covenant, in communion with all who seek to be faithful to you.
As people of faith, we are called into covenant. Your covenant of faithfulness and love extends to the whole creation. We pray for the healing of the earth, that present and future generations may enjoy the fruits of creation, and continue to glorify and praise you.
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 8 The Message (MSG)
A David Psalm
8 God, brilliant Lord,
yours is a household name.
2 Nursing infants gurgle choruses about you;
toddlers shout the songs
That drown out enemy talk,
and silence atheist babble.
3-4 I look up at your macro-skies, dark and enormous,
your handmade sky-jewelry,
Moon and stars mounted in their settings.
Then I look at my micro-self and wonder,
Why do you bother with us?
Why take a second look our way?
5-8 Yet we’ve so narrowly missed being gods,
bright with Eden’s dawn light.
You put us in charge of your handcrafted world,
repeated to us your Genesis-charge,
Made us lords of sheep and cattle,
even animals out in the wild,
Birds flying and fish swimming,
whales singing in the ocean deeps.
9 God, brilliant Lord,
your name echoes around the world.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 8
I am writing this on April 22, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. I think, of course, of the Genesis stories of creation, but also of this psalm. I like Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase (The Message) because his language is so visual.
I also read Pope Francis’ words for Earth Day; based I think on his new encyclical about climate change. Here are the words that I found most powerful:
“We are fashioned from the Earth, and fruit of the Earth sustains our life,” he said, adding that the biblical book of Genesis lays out our obligation as carriers of the “breath of life that comes from God" that we thus "live in this common home as one human family in biodiversity with God’s other creatures.”
This means “we are called to have care and respect for all creatures, and to offer love and compassion to our brothers and sisters, especially the most vulnerable among us, in imitation of God’s love for us,” he said. “We need only take a frank look at the facts to see that our common home is falling into serious disrepair. We have polluted and we have despoiled it, endangering our very lives… Restoring a “harmonious relationship with the Earth and with the rest of humanity” is not the work of some ethereal spirit, but lies in “our relationship with people, with our neighbor, with the poor," Francis said. “We need a new way of looking at our common home.”
HYMN 664 Morning Has Broken Eleanor Farjoen
Morning has broken like the first morning;
Blackbird has spoken like the first bird.
Praise for the singing! Praise for the morning!
Praise for them springing fresh from the Word!
Sweet the rain's new fall, sunlit from heaven,
Like the first dew fall on the first grass.
Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness where God’s feet pass.
Mine is the sunlight! Mine is the morning,
Born of the one light Eden saw play!
Praise with elation; praise every morning,
God's recreation of the new day!
WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Grant, o God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart, that the barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease, and that, with our divisions healed, we might live in justice and peace. Give us good cause and mercy to care for one another, to keep the health and safety of others utmost in our thoughts and actions. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING -1 JOHN 3:11-18
11For this is the message you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 12We must not be like Cain who was from the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous. 13Do not be astonished, brothers and sisters, that the world hates you.
14We know that we have passed from death to life because we love one another. Whoever does not love abides in death. 15All who hate a brother or sister are murderers, and you know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding in them. 16We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. 17How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? 18Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:11-18
As I listened to the interviews with some of the protesters in Missouri, Kentucky and other places, I heard a lot of rhetoric. People are angry and scared and frustrated (though I don’t understand why going golfing and getting haircuts is enough to bring them out to protest the quarantines). I heard something from two of the protesters: “I am responsible for taking care of myself. I don’t have to care about you or make sure you are okay.”
My guess is many of the protesters self-identify as Christians. I get a grinding feeling in the pit of my stomach when I think about the lack of care for the other, the lack of responsibility for the welfare of those who may be compromised by selfish behavior.
So, we should take a deep breath and keep reminding ourselves that we love, not only in word or speech, but in truth and action HYMN 710 We Lift Our Voices
We lift our voices; we lift our hands;
We lift our lives up to you: we are an offering.
Lord, use our voices; Lord, use our hands;
Lord, use our lives; they are yours; we are an offering.
All that we have, all that we are,
All that we hope to be, we give to you, we give to you.
We lift our voices; we lift our hands;
We lift our lives up to you: we are an offering.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Grant, o God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart, that the barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease, and that, with our divisions healed, we might live in justice and peace. Give us good cause and mercy to care for one another, to keep the health and safety of others utmost in our thoughts and actions. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING -1 JOHN 3:11-18
11For this is the message you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 12We must not be like Cain who was from the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous. 13Do not be astonished, brothers and sisters, that the world hates you.
14We know that we have passed from death to life because we love one another. Whoever does not love abides in death. 15All who hate a brother or sister are murderers, and you know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding in them. 16We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. 17How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? 18Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:11-18
As I listened to the interviews with some of the protesters in Missouri, Kentucky and other places, I heard a lot of rhetoric. People are angry and scared and frustrated (though I don’t understand why going golfing and getting haircuts is enough to bring them out to protest the quarantines). I heard something from two of the protesters: “I am responsible for taking care of myself. I don’t have to care about you or make sure you are okay.”
My guess is many of the protesters self-identify as Christians. I get a grinding feeling in the pit of my stomach when I think about the lack of care for the other, the lack of responsibility for the welfare of those who may be compromised by selfish behavior.
So, we should take a deep breath and keep reminding ourselves that we love, not only in word or speech, but in truth and action HYMN 710 We Lift Our Voices
We lift our voices; we lift our hands;
We lift our lives up to you: we are an offering.
Lord, use our voices; Lord, use our hands;
Lord, use our lives; they are yours; we are an offering.
All that we have, all that we are,
All that we hope to be, we give to you, we give to you.
We lift our voices; we lift our hands;
We lift our lives up to you: we are an offering.
TUESDAY APRIL 21, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of the ages, you have always been faithful to your people. Be with us now, we pray. Give comfort and courage to those who are suffering. Give strength and skill to those who are working to save and to heal. Give us your peace that passes all understanding in these moments of shock and sorrow, and open our eyes, hearts, and hands to the movements of your Spirit, that we might be comforted and comfort others in the name of Christ, our healer and our light. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING MATTHEW 28:16-20
16Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 28:16-20
I read John Pavlovitz whenever I can. His writing is thoughtful and relevant. This meditation comes from one of his latest postings titled, No, This Pandemic Is Not God’s Plan. He read a Christian musician’s claim that the pandemic is “all part of God’s plan. . . that the Almighty is engineering these days as a way of bringing humanity closer to him”. Part of Pavlovitz’ response to this claim is here. He says it so much better than I could; and all I could think of was Jesus’ promise to be with us always, to the end of the age.
“So, rather than God’s plan, which is much too great a task to see from the street level, I look for God’s presence: for the compassion and mercy and love and goodness that feel like whatever God is supposed to feel like.
Right now, I see that presence in the bruises around the eyes of nurses who’ve slept in hospital supply closets.
I see that presence in the creativity of school teachers, needing to transform their curricula and teaching styles in a matter of weeks.
I see that presence in musicians singing on their high-rise balconies, to sleepless cities starved for songs of hope.
I see that presence in strangers anonymously dropping off diapers and toilet paper and rice in neighbor’s mailboxes.
I see that presence in the small acts of kindness and benevolence that remind people who feel unloved of their belovedness, that make isolated people feel less alone, that offer some healing to broken bodies, that bring some peace to assailed minds.
Again, I may be wrong, but I don’t believe whatever or whoever god is, that such devastation and death are part of the plan. The best guess I have right now, is that this season of suffering (like all moments), is the sacred space for we who claim faith to live what we believe: to persevere and to give and to heal—and above all, to love.
That love, is the only plan.”
No, This Pandemic Is Not God’s Plan, John Pavlovitz
HYMN 177 I Will Come to You David Haas
I will come to you in the silence; I will lift you from all your fear.
You will hear my voice; I claim you as my choice.
Be still and know I am here.
I am hope for all who are hopeless; I am eyes for all who long to see.
In the shadows of the night, I will be your light.
Come and rest in me.
Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name.
Come and follow me, I will bring you home;
I love you and you are mine.
I am the strength for all the despairing, healing for the ones who dwell in shame.
All the blind will see; the male will all run free,
And all will know my name.
Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name.
Come and follow me, I will bring you home;
I love you and you are mine.
I am the Word that leads all to freedom; I am the peace the world cannot give.
I will call your name, embracing all your pain.
Stand up, now walk and live!
Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name.
Come and follow me, I will bring you home;
I love you and you are mine.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of the ages, you have always been faithful to your people. Be with us now, we pray. Give comfort and courage to those who are suffering. Give strength and skill to those who are working to save and to heal. Give us your peace that passes all understanding in these moments of shock and sorrow, and open our eyes, hearts, and hands to the movements of your Spirit, that we might be comforted and comfort others in the name of Christ, our healer and our light. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING MATTHEW 28:16-20
16Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
MEDITATION ON MATTHEW 28:16-20
I read John Pavlovitz whenever I can. His writing is thoughtful and relevant. This meditation comes from one of his latest postings titled, No, This Pandemic Is Not God’s Plan. He read a Christian musician’s claim that the pandemic is “all part of God’s plan. . . that the Almighty is engineering these days as a way of bringing humanity closer to him”. Part of Pavlovitz’ response to this claim is here. He says it so much better than I could; and all I could think of was Jesus’ promise to be with us always, to the end of the age.
“So, rather than God’s plan, which is much too great a task to see from the street level, I look for God’s presence: for the compassion and mercy and love and goodness that feel like whatever God is supposed to feel like.
Right now, I see that presence in the bruises around the eyes of nurses who’ve slept in hospital supply closets.
I see that presence in the creativity of school teachers, needing to transform their curricula and teaching styles in a matter of weeks.
I see that presence in musicians singing on their high-rise balconies, to sleepless cities starved for songs of hope.
I see that presence in strangers anonymously dropping off diapers and toilet paper and rice in neighbor’s mailboxes.
I see that presence in the small acts of kindness and benevolence that remind people who feel unloved of their belovedness, that make isolated people feel less alone, that offer some healing to broken bodies, that bring some peace to assailed minds.
Again, I may be wrong, but I don’t believe whatever or whoever god is, that such devastation and death are part of the plan. The best guess I have right now, is that this season of suffering (like all moments), is the sacred space for we who claim faith to live what we believe: to persevere and to give and to heal—and above all, to love.
That love, is the only plan.”
No, This Pandemic Is Not God’s Plan, John Pavlovitz
HYMN 177 I Will Come to You David Haas
I will come to you in the silence; I will lift you from all your fear.
You will hear my voice; I claim you as my choice.
Be still and know I am here.
I am hope for all who are hopeless; I am eyes for all who long to see.
In the shadows of the night, I will be your light.
Come and rest in me.
Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name.
Come and follow me, I will bring you home;
I love you and you are mine.
I am the strength for all the despairing, healing for the ones who dwell in shame.
All the blind will see; the male will all run free,
And all will know my name.
Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name.
Come and follow me, I will bring you home;
I love you and you are mine.
I am the Word that leads all to freedom; I am the peace the world cannot give.
I will call your name, embracing all your pain.
Stand up, now walk and live!
Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name.
Come and follow me, I will bring you home;
I love you and you are mine.
| Bulletin for THE SECOND SUNDAY of EASTER, Zoom service April 19, at 12 noon |
SATURDAY APRIL 18, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY A Prayer for Deliverance
You know, O God, how hard it is to survive captivity without any hope of the Holy City. Sing to us, O God, the songs of the promised land. Serve us your manna in the desert, and give us your grace to enjoy our day of rest as an expression of our trust.
Let there be, in some place, a community of men, women, elderly, children, and new-born babies as a first fruit, as a sign of your faithfulness and love, and an embrace of the future. Amen.
Rubem A. Alves, With All God’s People, World Council of Churches Publication.
SCRIPTURE READING ISAIAH 65:17-25
17For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind. 18But be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating; for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight. 19I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and delight in my people; no more shall the sound of weeping be heard in it, or the cry of distress. 20No more shall there be in it an infant that lives but a few days, or an old person who does not live out a lifetime; for one who dies at a hundred years will be considered a youth, and one who falls short of a hundred will be considered accursed. 21They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. 22They shall not build and another inhabit; they shall not plant and another eat; for like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands. 23They shall not labor in vain, or bear children for calamity; for they shall be offspring blessed by the Lord— and their descendants as well. 24Before they call I will answer, while they are yet speaking I will hear. 25The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, the lion shall eat straw like the ox; but the serpent—its food shall be dust! They shall not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain, says the Lord.
MEDITATION ON Isaiah 65:17-25
Just when life seems hopeless and there is no vision for the future, this passage comes to mind. Here God is reminding the people that they have been brought home and what God has in store for them is amazing: no more shall the sound of weeping be heard in it, or the cry of distress. 20No more shall there be in it an infant that lives but a few days, or an old person who does not live out a lifetime. We need to hear these words of hope and encouragement; we need to believe that God has only the best intentions for us. Our response is to be glad and rejoice forever. God’s creation is beautiful and we have the privilege of living in and caring for what God has created.
We are at a point in the pandemic where we are beginning to wonder if anything will ever be the same. Protesters are showing up with angry signs and without masks and gloves or distance from one another. We hear of people dying and bodies being left without any care. As followers of Jesus Christ, we can take another path. Stay home, wear masks and gloves, maintain our distance, and do what we can for the sick and dying. We can see humanity as the children of the Lord, blessed and loved.
I hope things will not return to what they were before all this began. I hope we remember who is our creator, and what we were created for: to love God and one another. That would be a vision and hope to which we can cling.
HYMN 643 Now Thank We All Our God Martin Rinkart
(1586-1649)
Martin Rinkart was a choir boy at the famous St. Thomas Church in Leipzig. After graduating from university, he rose through the church to become the archbishop in Eilenberg. Because Eilenberg was a walled town, it became the refuge for many who were fleeing the violence of the Thirty Years’ War. Finally, during the great pestilence fo 1637, all of the other clergy in the town perished, leaving Rinkart to deal with the dead. He read the burial service for 40 – 50 people every day; his wife was one of the 8000 who died. This hymn was originally titled Tisch-Gebetlein, or “a short Grace before meals.”
In the midst of death and disease and the violence of war, this is Rinkart’s hymn to a loving God.
Now thank we all our God with heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things hath done, in whom this world rejoices;
Who from our mothers’ arms, hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love, and still is ours today.
O may this bounteous God through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts and blessed peace to cheer us;
And keep us in God’s grace, and guide us when perplexed,
And free us from all ills in this world and the next.
All praise and thanks to God, who reigns in highest heaven,
To Father and to Son and Spirit now be given:
The one eternal God, whom heaven and earth adore,
The God who was, and is, and shall be evermore.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY A Prayer for Deliverance
You know, O God, how hard it is to survive captivity without any hope of the Holy City. Sing to us, O God, the songs of the promised land. Serve us your manna in the desert, and give us your grace to enjoy our day of rest as an expression of our trust.
Let there be, in some place, a community of men, women, elderly, children, and new-born babies as a first fruit, as a sign of your faithfulness and love, and an embrace of the future. Amen.
Rubem A. Alves, With All God’s People, World Council of Churches Publication.
SCRIPTURE READING ISAIAH 65:17-25
17For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind. 18But be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating; for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight. 19I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and delight in my people; no more shall the sound of weeping be heard in it, or the cry of distress. 20No more shall there be in it an infant that lives but a few days, or an old person who does not live out a lifetime; for one who dies at a hundred years will be considered a youth, and one who falls short of a hundred will be considered accursed. 21They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. 22They shall not build and another inhabit; they shall not plant and another eat; for like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands. 23They shall not labor in vain, or bear children for calamity; for they shall be offspring blessed by the Lord— and their descendants as well. 24Before they call I will answer, while they are yet speaking I will hear. 25The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, the lion shall eat straw like the ox; but the serpent—its food shall be dust! They shall not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain, says the Lord.
MEDITATION ON Isaiah 65:17-25
Just when life seems hopeless and there is no vision for the future, this passage comes to mind. Here God is reminding the people that they have been brought home and what God has in store for them is amazing: no more shall the sound of weeping be heard in it, or the cry of distress. 20No more shall there be in it an infant that lives but a few days, or an old person who does not live out a lifetime. We need to hear these words of hope and encouragement; we need to believe that God has only the best intentions for us. Our response is to be glad and rejoice forever. God’s creation is beautiful and we have the privilege of living in and caring for what God has created.
We are at a point in the pandemic where we are beginning to wonder if anything will ever be the same. Protesters are showing up with angry signs and without masks and gloves or distance from one another. We hear of people dying and bodies being left without any care. As followers of Jesus Christ, we can take another path. Stay home, wear masks and gloves, maintain our distance, and do what we can for the sick and dying. We can see humanity as the children of the Lord, blessed and loved.
I hope things will not return to what they were before all this began. I hope we remember who is our creator, and what we were created for: to love God and one another. That would be a vision and hope to which we can cling.
HYMN 643 Now Thank We All Our God Martin Rinkart
(1586-1649)
Martin Rinkart was a choir boy at the famous St. Thomas Church in Leipzig. After graduating from university, he rose through the church to become the archbishop in Eilenberg. Because Eilenberg was a walled town, it became the refuge for many who were fleeing the violence of the Thirty Years’ War. Finally, during the great pestilence fo 1637, all of the other clergy in the town perished, leaving Rinkart to deal with the dead. He read the burial service for 40 – 50 people every day; his wife was one of the 8000 who died. This hymn was originally titled Tisch-Gebetlein, or “a short Grace before meals.”
In the midst of death and disease and the violence of war, this is Rinkart’s hymn to a loving God.
Now thank we all our God with heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things hath done, in whom this world rejoices;
Who from our mothers’ arms, hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love, and still is ours today.
O may this bounteous God through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts and blessed peace to cheer us;
And keep us in God’s grace, and guide us when perplexed,
And free us from all ills in this world and the next.
All praise and thanks to God, who reigns in highest heaven,
To Father and to Son and Spirit now be given:
The one eternal God, whom heaven and earth adore,
The God who was, and is, and shall be evermore.
FRIDAY APRIL 17, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY Prayer of St Benedict.
O Lord, I place myself in your hands and dedicate myself to you. I pledge myself to do your will in all things: To love the Lord God with all my heart, all my soul, all my strength. Not to kill. Not to steal. Not to covet. Not to bear false witness. To honor all persons. Not to do to another what I would not wish done to myself. To chastise the body. Not to seek after pleasures. To love fasting. To relieve the poor. To clothe the naked. To visit the sick. To bury the dead. To help in trouble. To console the sorrowing. To hold myself aloof from worldly ways. To prefer nothing to the love of Christ. Not to give way to anger. Not to foster a desire for revenge. Not to entertain deceit in the heart. Not to make a false peace. Not to forsake charity. Not to swear, lest I swear falsely. To speak the truth with heart and tongue. Not to return evil for evil. To do no injury: yea, even to bear patiently any injury done to me. To love my enemies. Not to curse those who curse me, but rather to bless them. To bear persecution for justice’ sake. Not to be proud. Not to be given to intoxicating drink. Not to be an over-eater. Not to be lazy. Not to be slothful. Not to be a murmurer. Not to be a detractor. To put my trust in God. To refer the good I see in myself to God. To refer any evil in myself to myself. To fear the Day of Judgment. To be in dread of hell. To desire eternal life with spiritual longing. To keep death before my eyes daily. To keep constant watch over my actions. To remember that God sees me everywhere. To call upon Christ for defense against evil thoughts that arises in my heart. To guard my tongue against wicked speech. To avoid much speaking. To avoid idle talk. To read only what is good to read. To look at only what is good to see. To pray often. To ask forgiveness daily for my sins, and to seek ways to amend my life. To obey my superiors in all things rightful. Not to desire to be thought holy, but to seek holiness. To fulfill the commandments of God by good works. To love chastity. To hate no one. Not to be jealous or envious of anyone. Not to love strife. Not to love pride. To honor the aged. To pray for my enemies. To make peace after a quarrel, before the setting of the sun. Never to despair of your mercy, O God of Mercy. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING A reading from the Rule of Benedict: Prologue
Listen carefully, my child, to my instructions, and attend to them with the ear of your heart. This is advice from one who loves you; welcome it and faithfully put it into practice. The labor of obedience will bring you back to God from whom you had drifted through the sloth of disobedience. This message of mine is for you, then, if you are ready to give up your own will, once and for all, and armed with the strong and noble weapons of obedience to do battle for Jesus, the Christ.
MEDITATION ON Rule of Benedict: Prologue
I read the Rule everyday. It is portioned out so that it can be read three times each year. This, the Prologue, is the very beginning of the Rule; I especially like it because it is so encouraging and asks that we listen with “the ear of the heart.”
The Rule is short and clear; it covers so many aspects of communal life and of personal practices. I am amazed at the relevance for life in the 21st century; it was written around 500 AD and still speaks to us today. Esther de Waal, the wife of a dean of Canterbury Cathedral. She became fascinated with the Rule of Benedict and wrote a great deal about how the Rule can be lived by laypeople, although it was originally written for monastic communities.
The invitation of the Prologue is to fall into the loving arms of God and to find a path of living that follows the will of God. This is not easy, and I can understand why it should be done in community rather than on one’s own.
The prayer of St. Benedict is overwhelming, but encompasses most of what is written in the Rule.
In this time of anxiety and the unknown, we need a word of hope and we need a way of living that centers on the love of God. The Rule of Benedict is such a way for me.
HYMN 205 Live in Charity (Ubi caritas) Latin, 8th century
Live in charity and steadfast love.
Live in charity; God will dwell with you.
Ubi caritas et amor,
Ubi caritas Deus ibi est.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY Prayer of St Benedict.
O Lord, I place myself in your hands and dedicate myself to you. I pledge myself to do your will in all things: To love the Lord God with all my heart, all my soul, all my strength. Not to kill. Not to steal. Not to covet. Not to bear false witness. To honor all persons. Not to do to another what I would not wish done to myself. To chastise the body. Not to seek after pleasures. To love fasting. To relieve the poor. To clothe the naked. To visit the sick. To bury the dead. To help in trouble. To console the sorrowing. To hold myself aloof from worldly ways. To prefer nothing to the love of Christ. Not to give way to anger. Not to foster a desire for revenge. Not to entertain deceit in the heart. Not to make a false peace. Not to forsake charity. Not to swear, lest I swear falsely. To speak the truth with heart and tongue. Not to return evil for evil. To do no injury: yea, even to bear patiently any injury done to me. To love my enemies. Not to curse those who curse me, but rather to bless them. To bear persecution for justice’ sake. Not to be proud. Not to be given to intoxicating drink. Not to be an over-eater. Not to be lazy. Not to be slothful. Not to be a murmurer. Not to be a detractor. To put my trust in God. To refer the good I see in myself to God. To refer any evil in myself to myself. To fear the Day of Judgment. To be in dread of hell. To desire eternal life with spiritual longing. To keep death before my eyes daily. To keep constant watch over my actions. To remember that God sees me everywhere. To call upon Christ for defense against evil thoughts that arises in my heart. To guard my tongue against wicked speech. To avoid much speaking. To avoid idle talk. To read only what is good to read. To look at only what is good to see. To pray often. To ask forgiveness daily for my sins, and to seek ways to amend my life. To obey my superiors in all things rightful. Not to desire to be thought holy, but to seek holiness. To fulfill the commandments of God by good works. To love chastity. To hate no one. Not to be jealous or envious of anyone. Not to love strife. Not to love pride. To honor the aged. To pray for my enemies. To make peace after a quarrel, before the setting of the sun. Never to despair of your mercy, O God of Mercy. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING A reading from the Rule of Benedict: Prologue
Listen carefully, my child, to my instructions, and attend to them with the ear of your heart. This is advice from one who loves you; welcome it and faithfully put it into practice. The labor of obedience will bring you back to God from whom you had drifted through the sloth of disobedience. This message of mine is for you, then, if you are ready to give up your own will, once and for all, and armed with the strong and noble weapons of obedience to do battle for Jesus, the Christ.
MEDITATION ON Rule of Benedict: Prologue
I read the Rule everyday. It is portioned out so that it can be read three times each year. This, the Prologue, is the very beginning of the Rule; I especially like it because it is so encouraging and asks that we listen with “the ear of the heart.”
The Rule is short and clear; it covers so many aspects of communal life and of personal practices. I am amazed at the relevance for life in the 21st century; it was written around 500 AD and still speaks to us today. Esther de Waal, the wife of a dean of Canterbury Cathedral. She became fascinated with the Rule of Benedict and wrote a great deal about how the Rule can be lived by laypeople, although it was originally written for monastic communities.
The invitation of the Prologue is to fall into the loving arms of God and to find a path of living that follows the will of God. This is not easy, and I can understand why it should be done in community rather than on one’s own.
The prayer of St. Benedict is overwhelming, but encompasses most of what is written in the Rule.
In this time of anxiety and the unknown, we need a word of hope and we need a way of living that centers on the love of God. The Rule of Benedict is such a way for me.
HYMN 205 Live in Charity (Ubi caritas) Latin, 8th century
Live in charity and steadfast love.
Live in charity; God will dwell with you.
Ubi caritas et amor,
Ubi caritas Deus ibi est.
THURSDAY APRIL 16, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Steal, Jesus, steal from us the grudge we will not let go, the pain we will not let heal, the sin we most condemn in others and most disguise in ourselves.
Liberate, Jesus, liberate in us the hands that care for only one body, the eyes that focus on what they want to see, the tongues that condemn the petty, but never challenge the powerful.
Join, Jesus, join in us the frayed ends of broken temper, the notion of conviction to the practice of commitment, the tip of our fingers to the hem of your garment.
Love, Jesus, love in us the self we despair about, the self we hide, the self we throw at others because we cannot live with it on our own.
And when you have stolen the sin from us, liberated our potentials, mended our brokenness and love our withered selves, give us the grace to do for others what you have done for us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 4:32-37
32Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. 33With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. 34There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. 35They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. 36There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”). 37He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 32-37
Someone suggested that when we get our assistance checks from the government, we use the 80 -10-10 rule. We keep 80% to pay some bills, give 10% to the church, and the other 10% to assistance for those working with the COVID emergency. That is not a bad formula to use.
Barnabas sold a field and gave the entire proceeds to the apostles. We don’t if this was the only thing Barnabas owned, or one field of many. Either way, it was a generous gift. What would the early Christian communities need with money? First, they took care of widows and orphans (See Acts 6). The early church took Jesus’ words in Matthew 25 very seriously, and made sure all around them were fed, sheltered and taken care of. Then various apostles and teachers went out to preach and teach in the synagogues; eventually this included Paul and others who travelled all over the Roman empire. The money would help them as they travelled.
When Jerusalem was in need of food and provisions, money was collected from the churches in Asia Minor and Greece. Without the connectional church – the fellowship of believers from one community to another – people would have starved.
The best part of this passage is verse 33: great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There is great power in sharing all that we have; it becomes our witness to the world of God’s love and grace. In times like these, we need to be able to trust in God’s faithfulness to us; and we need to be able to trust one another.
HYMN 22 God of the Sparrow
God of the sparrow God of the whale God of the swirling stars
How does the creature say Awe? How does the creature say Praise?
God of the earthquake God of the storm God of the trumpet blast
How does the creation cry Woe? How does the creature cry Save?
God of the rainbow God of the cross God of the empty grave
How does the creature say Grace? How does the creature say Thanks?
God of the hungry God of the sick God of the prodigal
How does the creature say Care? How does the creature say Life?
God of the neighbor God of the foe God of the pruning hook
How does the creature say Love? How does the creature say Peace?
God of the ages God near at hand God of the loving heart
How do your children say Joy? How do your children say Home
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Steal, Jesus, steal from us the grudge we will not let go, the pain we will not let heal, the sin we most condemn in others and most disguise in ourselves.
Liberate, Jesus, liberate in us the hands that care for only one body, the eyes that focus on what they want to see, the tongues that condemn the petty, but never challenge the powerful.
Join, Jesus, join in us the frayed ends of broken temper, the notion of conviction to the practice of commitment, the tip of our fingers to the hem of your garment.
Love, Jesus, love in us the self we despair about, the self we hide, the self we throw at others because we cannot live with it on our own.
And when you have stolen the sin from us, liberated our potentials, mended our brokenness and love our withered selves, give us the grace to do for others what you have done for us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 4:32-37
32Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. 33With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. 34There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. 35They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. 36There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”). 37He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
MEDITATION ON ACTS 32-37
Someone suggested that when we get our assistance checks from the government, we use the 80 -10-10 rule. We keep 80% to pay some bills, give 10% to the church, and the other 10% to assistance for those working with the COVID emergency. That is not a bad formula to use.
Barnabas sold a field and gave the entire proceeds to the apostles. We don’t if this was the only thing Barnabas owned, or one field of many. Either way, it was a generous gift. What would the early Christian communities need with money? First, they took care of widows and orphans (See Acts 6). The early church took Jesus’ words in Matthew 25 very seriously, and made sure all around them were fed, sheltered and taken care of. Then various apostles and teachers went out to preach and teach in the synagogues; eventually this included Paul and others who travelled all over the Roman empire. The money would help them as they travelled.
When Jerusalem was in need of food and provisions, money was collected from the churches in Asia Minor and Greece. Without the connectional church – the fellowship of believers from one community to another – people would have starved.
The best part of this passage is verse 33: great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There is great power in sharing all that we have; it becomes our witness to the world of God’s love and grace. In times like these, we need to be able to trust in God’s faithfulness to us; and we need to be able to trust one another.
HYMN 22 God of the Sparrow
God of the sparrow God of the whale God of the swirling stars
How does the creature say Awe? How does the creature say Praise?
God of the earthquake God of the storm God of the trumpet blast
How does the creation cry Woe? How does the creature cry Save?
God of the rainbow God of the cross God of the empty grave
How does the creature say Grace? How does the creature say Thanks?
God of the hungry God of the sick God of the prodigal
How does the creature say Care? How does the creature say Life?
God of the neighbor God of the foe God of the pruning hook
How does the creature say Love? How does the creature say Peace?
God of the ages God near at hand God of the loving heart
How do your children say Joy? How do your children say Home
WEDNESDAY APRIL 15, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, bless my homestead,
Bless Thou all therein.
O God, bless my kindred,
Bless Thou my substance.
O God, bless my words,
Bless Thou my converse.
O God lessen my sin,
Increase Thou my trust.
O God, ward from me distress,
Ward Thou from me misfortune.
O God, shield me from guilt,
Fill Thou me with joy.
And, O God, let naught to my body
That shall do harm to my soul
When I enter the fellowship
Of the great Son of Mary. Amen.
The Homestead from The Celtic Vision Prayers and Blessings from the Outer Hebrides
Selections form the Carmina Gadelica, ed. By Esther deWaal
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 2:42-47
42They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, 47praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
MEDITATION ON Acts 2:42-47
These few verses are a description of life in the community of faith created at Pentecost. It is clear that this became a way of life. Teaching, fellowship, sacraments and prayer in worship to God are the priorities and joys of life in this community. The results of such a community was the generosity and sharing of goods as people had need; and then praising God with glad and generous hearts. The text ends here with the words: And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
The picture is of people wanting to be like those who lived in this community. There are no offers of money, notoriety, or power – only the gifts of communal living and care.
We are breaking bread at home, and sharing what we have with one another. Will we remember the generosity of God when we are free to return to our usual schedules? Will we continue to give thanks for enough to eat, shelter, for good health and especially for those who have done so much to keep us safe and healthy?
This model of community is for us, whether we are home for weeks on end or living in our cities and towns. Our witness to the gospel, like the early believers, is how we live and what we are willing to share.
HYMN 310 Let Us Build a House
Let us build a house where love can dwell and all can safely live,
Al place where saints and children tell how hearts learn to forgive.
Built of hopes and dreams and visions, rock of faith and vault of grace;
Here the love of Christ shall end divisions:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where prophets speak, and words are strong and true,
Where all God’s children dare to seek to dream God’s reign anew.
Here the cross shall stand as witness and as symbol of God’s grace;
Here as one we claim the faith of Jesus:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where love is found in water, wine, and wheat;
A banquet hall on holy ground where peace and justice meet.
Here the love of God, through Jesus, is revealed in time and space;
As we share in Christ the feast that frees us:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where hands will reach beyond the wood and stone
To heal and strengthen, serve and teach, and live the Word they’ve known.
Here the outcast and the stranger bear the image of God’s face;
Let us bring an end to fear and danger:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where all are named, their songs and visions heard
And loved and treasured, taught and claimed as words within the Word.
Built of tears and cries and laughter, prayers of faith and songs of grace;
Let this house proclaim from floor to rafter:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, bless my homestead,
Bless Thou all therein.
O God, bless my kindred,
Bless Thou my substance.
O God, bless my words,
Bless Thou my converse.
O God lessen my sin,
Increase Thou my trust.
O God, ward from me distress,
Ward Thou from me misfortune.
O God, shield me from guilt,
Fill Thou me with joy.
And, O God, let naught to my body
That shall do harm to my soul
When I enter the fellowship
Of the great Son of Mary. Amen.
The Homestead from The Celtic Vision Prayers and Blessings from the Outer Hebrides
Selections form the Carmina Gadelica, ed. By Esther deWaal
SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 2:42-47
42They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, 47praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
MEDITATION ON Acts 2:42-47
These few verses are a description of life in the community of faith created at Pentecost. It is clear that this became a way of life. Teaching, fellowship, sacraments and prayer in worship to God are the priorities and joys of life in this community. The results of such a community was the generosity and sharing of goods as people had need; and then praising God with glad and generous hearts. The text ends here with the words: And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
The picture is of people wanting to be like those who lived in this community. There are no offers of money, notoriety, or power – only the gifts of communal living and care.
We are breaking bread at home, and sharing what we have with one another. Will we remember the generosity of God when we are free to return to our usual schedules? Will we continue to give thanks for enough to eat, shelter, for good health and especially for those who have done so much to keep us safe and healthy?
This model of community is for us, whether we are home for weeks on end or living in our cities and towns. Our witness to the gospel, like the early believers, is how we live and what we are willing to share.
HYMN 310 Let Us Build a House
Let us build a house where love can dwell and all can safely live,
Al place where saints and children tell how hearts learn to forgive.
Built of hopes and dreams and visions, rock of faith and vault of grace;
Here the love of Christ shall end divisions:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where prophets speak, and words are strong and true,
Where all God’s children dare to seek to dream God’s reign anew.
Here the cross shall stand as witness and as symbol of God’s grace;
Here as one we claim the faith of Jesus:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where love is found in water, wine, and wheat;
A banquet hall on holy ground where peace and justice meet.
Here the love of God, through Jesus, is revealed in time and space;
As we share in Christ the feast that frees us:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where hands will reach beyond the wood and stone
To heal and strengthen, serve and teach, and live the Word they’ve known.
Here the outcast and the stranger bear the image of God’s face;
Let us bring an end to fear and danger:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place.
Let us build a house where all are named, their songs and visions heard
And loved and treasured, taught and claimed as words within the Word.
Built of tears and cries and laughter, prayers of faith and songs of grace;
Let this house proclaim from floor to rafter:
All are welcome; all are welcome; all are welcome in this place
TUESDAY APRIL 14, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of thy promises; where we have been weak, grant us thy strength; where we have been confused, grant us thy guidance; where we have been distraught, grant us thy comfort; where we have been dead, grant us thy life. Apart from thee, O Lord, we are nothing, in and with thee, we can do all things. Amen.
United Church of Canada, Service Book for the Use of the People (1969)
SCRIPTURE READING John 21:15-19
15When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” 19(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow me.”
MEDITATION ON John 21:15-19
This is one of my favorite passages from the gospel of John. At first read, it appears to be straightforward: ‘Peter, do you love me?’
What fascinates me is the word love. We see two Greek words for love, agapos and phileos. When Jesus asks Peter that all important question the first and second time, he asks, ‘Peter do you agapos me?’ Agape love is divine, of a high and holy level of love. It is usually used as the love God has for us. Peter responds both times, ‘Yes, Lord, I phileos you.” Phileo love is brotherly love (thing the city of Philadelphia), love of companions and dear friends.
Finally, the third time Jesus asks Peter, ‘ Do you phileos me?’ To which Peter replies, ‘ Yes Lord, I phileo you!’
It seems an small thing; but the writer of the gospel John was intentional about this. Peter just doesn’t seem to get it; what he does understand is that Jesus has been his dear friend and has remained so even when Peter betrayed him.
The theologian John Calvin beings his Institutes of the Christian Religion with a large section about knowing God. He contends that we cannot know God without God making some accommodations to our limited understandings. Jesus is the fullest accommodation; God becomes human in the incarnation of Jesus Christ and provides us with the means to know God, at least as much as Christ shows us.
To me, this is an intimate and powerful demonstration of Jesus accommodating the limits of Peter’s abilities and understanding. This is where our hope and our joy is – God will always make a way for us!
HYMN 726 WILL YOU COME AND FOLLOW ME John Bell & Graham Maule
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?
Lord, 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.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of thy promises; where we have been weak, grant us thy strength; where we have been confused, grant us thy guidance; where we have been distraught, grant us thy comfort; where we have been dead, grant us thy life. Apart from thee, O Lord, we are nothing, in and with thee, we can do all things. Amen.
United Church of Canada, Service Book for the Use of the People (1969)
SCRIPTURE READING John 21:15-19
15When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” 19(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow me.”
MEDITATION ON John 21:15-19
This is one of my favorite passages from the gospel of John. At first read, it appears to be straightforward: ‘Peter, do you love me?’
What fascinates me is the word love. We see two Greek words for love, agapos and phileos. When Jesus asks Peter that all important question the first and second time, he asks, ‘Peter do you agapos me?’ Agape love is divine, of a high and holy level of love. It is usually used as the love God has for us. Peter responds both times, ‘Yes, Lord, I phileos you.” Phileo love is brotherly love (thing the city of Philadelphia), love of companions and dear friends.
Finally, the third time Jesus asks Peter, ‘ Do you phileos me?’ To which Peter replies, ‘ Yes Lord, I phileo you!’
It seems an small thing; but the writer of the gospel John was intentional about this. Peter just doesn’t seem to get it; what he does understand is that Jesus has been his dear friend and has remained so even when Peter betrayed him.
The theologian John Calvin beings his Institutes of the Christian Religion with a large section about knowing God. He contends that we cannot know God without God making some accommodations to our limited understandings. Jesus is the fullest accommodation; God becomes human in the incarnation of Jesus Christ and provides us with the means to know God, at least as much as Christ shows us.
To me, this is an intimate and powerful demonstration of Jesus accommodating the limits of Peter’s abilities and understanding. This is where our hope and our joy is – God will always make a way for us!
HYMN 726 WILL YOU COME AND FOLLOW ME John Bell & Graham Maule
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?
Lord, 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.
MONDAY APRIL 13, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, through the rising of your Son from the grave, you broke the power of the grave, you broke the power of death and condemned death itself to die. As we celebrate this great triumph may we also make it the model of our living.
Help us to identify in our lives all that should rightly die – redundant habits, fruitless longings. Resurrect in our lives faith, hope and love as surely as you raised Jesus Christ from the grave. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 21:1-19
21After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he showed himself in this way. 2Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. 3Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish, have you?” They answered him, “No.” 6He said to them, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. 7That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and jumped into the sea. 8But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off. 9When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. 10Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. 12Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. 13Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
15When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” 19(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow me.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 21:1-19 From The Wild Goose Worship Group
Alison Adams and Graham Maule.
Peter: There was nothing else to do, so I went back to fishing.
We knew he was alive; we had seen him and then he went away without leaving
instructions.
So I said, ‘Let’s go back to the fishing,’ and the others agreed.
I mean, we had to feed ourselves somehow.
You can’t just exist on fresh air and memories.
So we went back to the fishing and caught nothing.
I wondered if we had lost our touch or if . . . and I hesitate to say this . . .
It was some kind of punishment from God.
And then, in the morning,
somebody shouted that our nets were on the wrong side.
‘What does he know?’ I had grunted.
Now I knew who ‘he’ was, and knew that he knew everything.
And when the net began to strain,
I had this funny feeling in the pit of my stomach.
‘What does he know?’ I had grunted.
Now I knew who ‘he’ was, and knew that he knew everything.
When we got back to the shore he didn’t give me or any of us a row.
He just said, ‘Would like some breakfast?’
And then he fed us so that . . .
I only realized why he had fed us when, in a private moment,
He looked me straight in the face three times and said,
‘Do you love me, Peter?’
The first time I was embarrassed; the second time I was annoyed;
The third time I was convinced.
‘Yes, I love you . . .you know I do!’
Then feed my lambs
And feed my lambs
And feed my sheep.
And then I realized that he had fed us, so that we could feed others;
And that he loved us, so that we could love others the same way.
HYMN 316 Where Charity and Love Prevail 8th century Latin
Where charity and love prevail, there God is ever found;
Brought here together by Christ’s love, by love we thus are bound.
Let us recall that in our midst dwells Christ, God’s holy Son.
As members of each body joined, in him we are made one.
Let strife among us be unknown; let all contentions cease.
Be God’s the glory that we seek; be his our only peace.
Let us forgive each other’s faults as we our own confess,
That we may love each other well in Christian gentleness.
Love can exclude no race or creed if honored be God’s name;
Our common life embraces all whose Maker is the same.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Almighty God, through the rising of your Son from the grave, you broke the power of the grave, you broke the power of death and condemned death itself to die. As we celebrate this great triumph may we also make it the model of our living.
Help us to identify in our lives all that should rightly die – redundant habits, fruitless longings. Resurrect in our lives faith, hope and love as surely as you raised Jesus Christ from the grave. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 21:1-19
21After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he showed himself in this way. 2Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. 3Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish, have you?” They answered him, “No.” 6He said to them, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. 7That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and jumped into the sea. 8But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off. 9When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. 10Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. 12Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. 13Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
15When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” 19(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow me.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 21:1-19 From The Wild Goose Worship Group
Alison Adams and Graham Maule.
Peter: There was nothing else to do, so I went back to fishing.
We knew he was alive; we had seen him and then he went away without leaving
instructions.
So I said, ‘Let’s go back to the fishing,’ and the others agreed.
I mean, we had to feed ourselves somehow.
You can’t just exist on fresh air and memories.
So we went back to the fishing and caught nothing.
I wondered if we had lost our touch or if . . . and I hesitate to say this . . .
It was some kind of punishment from God.
And then, in the morning,
somebody shouted that our nets were on the wrong side.
‘What does he know?’ I had grunted.
Now I knew who ‘he’ was, and knew that he knew everything.
And when the net began to strain,
I had this funny feeling in the pit of my stomach.
‘What does he know?’ I had grunted.
Now I knew who ‘he’ was, and knew that he knew everything.
When we got back to the shore he didn’t give me or any of us a row.
He just said, ‘Would like some breakfast?’
And then he fed us so that . . .
I only realized why he had fed us when, in a private moment,
He looked me straight in the face three times and said,
‘Do you love me, Peter?’
The first time I was embarrassed; the second time I was annoyed;
The third time I was convinced.
‘Yes, I love you . . .you know I do!’
Then feed my lambs
And feed my lambs
And feed my sheep.
And then I realized that he had fed us, so that we could feed others;
And that he loved us, so that we could love others the same way.
HYMN 316 Where Charity and Love Prevail 8th century Latin
Where charity and love prevail, there God is ever found;
Brought here together by Christ’s love, by love we thus are bound.
Let us recall that in our midst dwells Christ, God’s holy Son.
As members of each body joined, in him we are made one.
Let strife among us be unknown; let all contentions cease.
Be God’s the glory that we seek; be his our only peace.
Let us forgive each other’s faults as we our own confess,
That we may love each other well in Christian gentleness.
Love can exclude no race or creed if honored be God’s name;
Our common life embraces all whose Maker is the same.
| 20-04-12 Easter Sunday (at Noon) Bulletin for the Zoom Service |
SATURDAY APRIL 11, 2020 O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY God Remembers
God remembers pain:
Nail by nail, thorn by thorn, hunger thirst, and muscles torn.
Time may dull our griefs and heal our lesser wounds,
But in eternal Love yesterday is now,
and pain is in the heart of God.
God remembers joy:
Touch of live, taste of food, all our senses know is good.
Love and life flow by and precious days are gone,
But in eternal Love every day is now,
And joy is in the heart of God.
God remembers us:
All we were, all we are, lives within our Lover’s care.
Time may dull our minds and death will take us all,
But in eternal Love every life is now:
Our life is hid with Christ in God.
Brian Wren
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 19:38-42
38After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body. 39Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. 40They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews. 41Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. 42And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 19:38-42
Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are secret and careful disciples of Jesus. Joseph is secret because he fears retribution from the Jewish authorities. Nicodemus, who came to Jesus by night, is one of the Jewish authorities. Somehow both men have walked away from the restrictions of fear and are lovingly and faithfully taking care of the body of Jesus.
Caution is good, but when our fears govern our actions we have lost before we have even begun to act. Fear is like farmland depleted of its nutrients. The same crop has grown there for so long that eventually the land has lost its ability to produce.
I recently read a thoughtful essay on the “flight or fight” instinct that all human beings have in the face of danger. The author suggested a third instinct: freeze. When we are in danger, or facing a crisis, we can choose flight, fight - or we can freeze in place.
This is Holy Saturday, part of the ancient tradition of the Holy Tridium that begins with Maundy Thursday and ends Saturday evening with Easter Vigil. It is a time for prayer, self reflection and meditation on the coming gift of the resurrection. If we are frozen in our fears, we are hampered from prayer and meditation. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are somewhat minor characters in the passion story – but they are essential. They are models of living outside our fear.
HYMN 228 Were You There?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
PRAYER OF THE DAY God Remembers
God remembers pain:
Nail by nail, thorn by thorn, hunger thirst, and muscles torn.
Time may dull our griefs and heal our lesser wounds,
But in eternal Love yesterday is now,
and pain is in the heart of God.
God remembers joy:
Touch of live, taste of food, all our senses know is good.
Love and life flow by and precious days are gone,
But in eternal Love every day is now,
And joy is in the heart of God.
God remembers us:
All we were, all we are, lives within our Lover’s care.
Time may dull our minds and death will take us all,
But in eternal Love every life is now:
Our life is hid with Christ in God.
Brian Wren
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 19:38-42
38After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body. 39Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. 40They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews. 41Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. 42And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 19:38-42
Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are secret and careful disciples of Jesus. Joseph is secret because he fears retribution from the Jewish authorities. Nicodemus, who came to Jesus by night, is one of the Jewish authorities. Somehow both men have walked away from the restrictions of fear and are lovingly and faithfully taking care of the body of Jesus.
Caution is good, but when our fears govern our actions we have lost before we have even begun to act. Fear is like farmland depleted of its nutrients. The same crop has grown there for so long that eventually the land has lost its ability to produce.
I recently read a thoughtful essay on the “flight or fight” instinct that all human beings have in the face of danger. The author suggested a third instinct: freeze. When we are in danger, or facing a crisis, we can choose flight, fight - or we can freeze in place.
This is Holy Saturday, part of the ancient tradition of the Holy Tridium that begins with Maundy Thursday and ends Saturday evening with Easter Vigil. It is a time for prayer, self reflection and meditation on the coming gift of the resurrection. If we are frozen in our fears, we are hampered from prayer and meditation. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are somewhat minor characters in the passion story – but they are essential. They are models of living outside our fear.
HYMN 228 Were You There?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
FRIDAY APRIL 10, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Savior of the world, what have you done to deserve this? And what have we done to deserve you?
Strung up between criminals, cursed and spat upon, you wait for death, and look for us, for us whose sin has crucified you.
To the mystery of underserved suffering, you bring the deeper mystery of unmerited love.
Forgive us for not knowing what we have done; open our eyes to what we are doing now, as, through wood and nails, you disempower our depravity and transform us by your grace. Amen .
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 22
1My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?
2O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but find no rest.
3Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.
4In you our ancestors trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them.
5To you they cried, and were saved; in you they trusted, and were not put to shame.
6But I am a worm, and not human; scorned by others, and despised by the people.
7All who see me mock at me; they make mouths at me, they shake their heads;
8“Commit your cause to the Lord; let him deliver— let him rescue the one in whom he delights!”
9Yet it was you who took me from the womb; you kept me safe on my mother’s breast.
10On you I was cast from my birth, and since my mother bore me you have been my God.
11Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.
12Many bulls encircle me, strong bulls of Bashan surround me;
13they open wide their mouths at me, like a ravening and roaring lion.
14I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast;
15my mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death.
16For dogs are all around me; a company of evildoers encircles me. My hands and feet have shriveled;
17I can count all my bones. They stare and gloat over me;
18they divide my clothes among themselves, and for my clothing they cast lots.
19But you, O Lord, do not be far away! O my help, come quickly to my aid!
20Deliver my soul from the sword, my life from the power of the dog!
21Save me from the mouth of the lion! From the horns of the wild oxen you have rescued me.
22I will tell of your name to my brothers and sisters; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:
23You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him; stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!
24For he did not despise or abhor the affliction of the afflicted; he did not hide his face from me, but heard when I cried to him.
25From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear him.
26The poor shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord. May your hearts live forever!
27All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord; and all the families of the nations shall worship before him.
28For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations.
29To him, indeed, shall all who sleep in the earth bow down; before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, and I shall live for him.
30Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord,
31and proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn, saying that he has done it.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 22
Whenever we assume that to be a good Christian means to be happy and compliant all the time, we need to read the psalms. The psalmists write of real human experience: anger, grief, joy, satisfaction. It becomes clear that we can let out our worst emotions and throw them at God; and God will stand firm.
Psalm 22 comes out of a gut-wrenching anguish. It is the cry of one who knows what it is to be bullied by his enemies, rejected by his community, and abandoned by God. Jesus speaks words from Psalm 22 on the cross, and they are fitting his suffering and death by crucifixion. The images are lurid and seem exaggerated in the psalm; but human experience tells us that we can inflict such horrific acts upon one another. The psalm reminds us that we have the potential not only to experience suffering, but to inflict it.
And yet, by the end of the psalm, the psalmist praises God and proclaims a trusting faith that will not falter. Any faithful person at the foot of the cross would have recognized this psalm coming from the lips of Jesus. For all the grief, there is also hope.
HYMN 227 Jesus, Remember Me
Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.
Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Savior of the world, what have you done to deserve this? And what have we done to deserve you?
Strung up between criminals, cursed and spat upon, you wait for death, and look for us, for us whose sin has crucified you.
To the mystery of underserved suffering, you bring the deeper mystery of unmerited love.
Forgive us for not knowing what we have done; open our eyes to what we are doing now, as, through wood and nails, you disempower our depravity and transform us by your grace. Amen .
SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 22
1My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?
2O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but find no rest.
3Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.
4In you our ancestors trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them.
5To you they cried, and were saved; in you they trusted, and were not put to shame.
6But I am a worm, and not human; scorned by others, and despised by the people.
7All who see me mock at me; they make mouths at me, they shake their heads;
8“Commit your cause to the Lord; let him deliver— let him rescue the one in whom he delights!”
9Yet it was you who took me from the womb; you kept me safe on my mother’s breast.
10On you I was cast from my birth, and since my mother bore me you have been my God.
11Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.
12Many bulls encircle me, strong bulls of Bashan surround me;
13they open wide their mouths at me, like a ravening and roaring lion.
14I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast;
15my mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death.
16For dogs are all around me; a company of evildoers encircles me. My hands and feet have shriveled;
17I can count all my bones. They stare and gloat over me;
18they divide my clothes among themselves, and for my clothing they cast lots.
19But you, O Lord, do not be far away! O my help, come quickly to my aid!
20Deliver my soul from the sword, my life from the power of the dog!
21Save me from the mouth of the lion! From the horns of the wild oxen you have rescued me.
22I will tell of your name to my brothers and sisters; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:
23You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him; stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!
24For he did not despise or abhor the affliction of the afflicted; he did not hide his face from me, but heard when I cried to him.
25From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear him.
26The poor shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord. May your hearts live forever!
27All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord; and all the families of the nations shall worship before him.
28For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations.
29To him, indeed, shall all who sleep in the earth bow down; before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, and I shall live for him.
30Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord,
31and proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn, saying that he has done it.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 22
Whenever we assume that to be a good Christian means to be happy and compliant all the time, we need to read the psalms. The psalmists write of real human experience: anger, grief, joy, satisfaction. It becomes clear that we can let out our worst emotions and throw them at God; and God will stand firm.
Psalm 22 comes out of a gut-wrenching anguish. It is the cry of one who knows what it is to be bullied by his enemies, rejected by his community, and abandoned by God. Jesus speaks words from Psalm 22 on the cross, and they are fitting his suffering and death by crucifixion. The images are lurid and seem exaggerated in the psalm; but human experience tells us that we can inflict such horrific acts upon one another. The psalm reminds us that we have the potential not only to experience suffering, but to inflict it.
And yet, by the end of the psalm, the psalmist praises God and proclaims a trusting faith that will not falter. Any faithful person at the foot of the cross would have recognized this psalm coming from the lips of Jesus. For all the grief, there is also hope.
HYMN 227 Jesus, Remember Me
Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.
Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.
| 20-04-10 Good Friday Bulletin for Zoom Online Service |
THURSDAY APRIL 9, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY Surely Not I?
Surely.
I would never betray you, never deny you.
Surely?
Beloved,
give me the faith to doubt
my righteousness.
Give me the assurance to question,
to examine myself honestly,
to ask.
Give me the confidence to wonder
how I might betray your perfect love,
to see.
Give me grace to confess
how my promises are broken, my heart
broken.
Give me the peace to be troubled
by my smugness,
and repent.
Open my eyes to see that you see,
you know, and knowing, you keep right on
eating with me.
Pastor Steve Garnaas-Holmes, posted on unfoldinglight.net
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 13:36-38
36Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered, “Where I am going, you cannot follow me now; but you will follow afterward.” 37Peter said to him, “Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” 38Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Very truly, I tell you, before the cock crows, you will have denied me three times.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 13:36-38
I often think how soul-crushing, how heart breaking it was for Peter to realize after that rooster crowed for the third time. His bravado and naïve arrogance comes through his words to Jesus: “why can’t I follow you now? I would lay down my life for you.” I would like to say that Peter’s resolve and self awareness changed him after that awful night. But he would go on to be at odds with Paul, especially over the question of Gentile believers. The council in Jerusalem demanded that Gentiles become ‘Jewish’ (circumcision, dietary laws, etc.) before they could be considered part of the new faith community; Peter really couldn’t make up his mind. He was easily swayed by both sides of the issue.
Although there is no archeological or textual evidence, the story of Peter takes him to Rome, where he founded the church in Rome and because the first bishop. He was also crucified upside down under the reign of Emperor Nero. His tomb is said to be under the basilica of St. Peter’s.
When my daughter, Molly, went to Rome with the choir of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception to sing at several cathedrals and churches and for the Pope, they were given a special tour of the spaces below St. Peter’s. Through a small window, they could get a look at what they were told were St. Peter’s bones. Molly, a good Presbyterian, remarked later that for the first time on the tour, she felt she belonged. Whether the bones were those of St. Peter or not, the place was holy. She said later, “I realized this is my church, too; my faith, whether I am a Catholic or a Protestant.”
Jesus imparts holiness and grace to all of us, even when we deny him. Thanks be to God!
HYMN 417 Lord Jesus, Think on Me Synesius of Cyrene, 5th. Century
Lord Jesus, think on me, and purge away my sin.
From earthborn passions set me free, and make me pure within.
Lord Jesus, think on me, amid the battle’s strife.
In all my pain and misery be thou my health and life.
Lord Jesus, think on me, nor let me go astray.
Through darkness and perplexity point thou the heavenly way.
Lord Jesus, think on me, that, when this life is past,
I may the eternal brightness see, share thy joy at last.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY Surely Not I?
Surely.
I would never betray you, never deny you.
Surely?
Beloved,
give me the faith to doubt
my righteousness.
Give me the assurance to question,
to examine myself honestly,
to ask.
Give me the confidence to wonder
how I might betray your perfect love,
to see.
Give me grace to confess
how my promises are broken, my heart
broken.
Give me the peace to be troubled
by my smugness,
and repent.
Open my eyes to see that you see,
you know, and knowing, you keep right on
eating with me.
Pastor Steve Garnaas-Holmes, posted on unfoldinglight.net
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 13:36-38
36Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered, “Where I am going, you cannot follow me now; but you will follow afterward.” 37Peter said to him, “Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” 38Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Very truly, I tell you, before the cock crows, you will have denied me three times.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 13:36-38
I often think how soul-crushing, how heart breaking it was for Peter to realize after that rooster crowed for the third time. His bravado and naïve arrogance comes through his words to Jesus: “why can’t I follow you now? I would lay down my life for you.” I would like to say that Peter’s resolve and self awareness changed him after that awful night. But he would go on to be at odds with Paul, especially over the question of Gentile believers. The council in Jerusalem demanded that Gentiles become ‘Jewish’ (circumcision, dietary laws, etc.) before they could be considered part of the new faith community; Peter really couldn’t make up his mind. He was easily swayed by both sides of the issue.
Although there is no archeological or textual evidence, the story of Peter takes him to Rome, where he founded the church in Rome and because the first bishop. He was also crucified upside down under the reign of Emperor Nero. His tomb is said to be under the basilica of St. Peter’s.
When my daughter, Molly, went to Rome with the choir of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception to sing at several cathedrals and churches and for the Pope, they were given a special tour of the spaces below St. Peter’s. Through a small window, they could get a look at what they were told were St. Peter’s bones. Molly, a good Presbyterian, remarked later that for the first time on the tour, she felt she belonged. Whether the bones were those of St. Peter or not, the place was holy. She said later, “I realized this is my church, too; my faith, whether I am a Catholic or a Protestant.”
Jesus imparts holiness and grace to all of us, even when we deny him. Thanks be to God!
HYMN 417 Lord Jesus, Think on Me Synesius of Cyrene, 5th. Century
Lord Jesus, think on me, and purge away my sin.
From earthborn passions set me free, and make me pure within.
Lord Jesus, think on me, amid the battle’s strife.
In all my pain and misery be thou my health and life.
Lord Jesus, think on me, nor let me go astray.
Through darkness and perplexity point thou the heavenly way.
Lord Jesus, think on me, that, when this life is past,
I may the eternal brightness see, share thy joy at last.
| 20-04-09 Maundy Thursday Bulletin for Zoom online servicef |
WEDNESDAY APRIL 8, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
That truth has been inscribed into my heart and into the heart of every human being, there to be read and reverenced, thanks be to you, O God. That here are ways of seeing and sensitivities of knowing hidden deep in the palace of the soul, waiting to be discovered, ready to be set free, thanks be to you, O God.
Open my senses to wisdom’s inner promptings that I may give voice to what I hear in my soul and be changed for the healing of the world, that I may listen for truth in every living soul and be changed for the well-being of the world. Amen.
Sounds of the Eternal A Celtic Psalter J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 13:21-32
21After saying this Jesus was troubled in spirit, and declared, “Very truly, I tell you, one of you will betray me.” 22The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he was speaking. 23One of his disciples—the one whom Jesus loved—was reclining next to him; 24Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask Jesus of whom he was speaking. 25So while reclining next to Jesus, he asked him, “Lord, who is it?” 26Jesus answered, “It is the one to whom I give this piece of bread when I have dipped it in the dish.” So when he had dipped the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot. 27After he received the piece of bread, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “Do quickly what you are going to do.” 28Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. 29Some thought that, because Judas had the common purse, Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the festival”; or, that he should give something to the poor. 30So, after receiving the piece of bread, he immediately went out. And it was night.
31When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 13:21-32
Jesus also knows who is about to betray him and he is very troubled by this knowledge. How does he respond? He announces the imminent betrayal to his disciples, and then proceeds to feed the betrayer: “So when he had dipped the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot” Judas then leaves to do his dirty work, and the narrator adds, “and it was night”. What would you do if your betrayer was at table with you?
Why don’t some of the disciples follow Judas out, find out what he is going to do, and stop him?
But here is what we have: “When he had gone out, Jesus said … ” Jesus talks again about the glory that is to come. We might expect a speech about how evil Judas is and how awful the consequences of his actions will be for him. But Jesus instead focuses on his mission and preparing his disciples for what is to come. He speaks of being glorified and of glorifying God, which can be understood to a reference to his elevation on a cross.
I find myself hoping the disciples are so stunned, so puzzled by what Jesus is saying that they cannot respond.
Will they see glory in the crucifixion? Probably not. Most of them have run away, and if they are present, they are observing the crucifixion from a distance. Glory will come later, when Jesus appears in their midst, when he is with them until the ascension. And of course, Pentecost comes. The Glory of God is all around them and among them. But Thursday night is darkness, thick and impenetrable in the minds of the disciples.
HYMN 450 Be Thou My Vision Trad. Irish Powm
Be Thou my vision, oh Lord 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
Be Thou my wisdom and Thou my true word
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord
thou my soul’s shelter, and thou my high tower;
Raise thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.
Riches I heed not, nor vain, empty praise;
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and thou only be first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my treasure thou art.
High king of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys, bright heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
That truth has been inscribed into my heart and into the heart of every human being, there to be read and reverenced, thanks be to you, O God. That here are ways of seeing and sensitivities of knowing hidden deep in the palace of the soul, waiting to be discovered, ready to be set free, thanks be to you, O God.
Open my senses to wisdom’s inner promptings that I may give voice to what I hear in my soul and be changed for the healing of the world, that I may listen for truth in every living soul and be changed for the well-being of the world. Amen.
Sounds of the Eternal A Celtic Psalter J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 13:21-32
21After saying this Jesus was troubled in spirit, and declared, “Very truly, I tell you, one of you will betray me.” 22The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he was speaking. 23One of his disciples—the one whom Jesus loved—was reclining next to him; 24Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask Jesus of whom he was speaking. 25So while reclining next to Jesus, he asked him, “Lord, who is it?” 26Jesus answered, “It is the one to whom I give this piece of bread when I have dipped it in the dish.” So when he had dipped the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot. 27After he received the piece of bread, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “Do quickly what you are going to do.” 28Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. 29Some thought that, because Judas had the common purse, Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the festival”; or, that he should give something to the poor. 30So, after receiving the piece of bread, he immediately went out. And it was night.
31When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 13:21-32
Jesus also knows who is about to betray him and he is very troubled by this knowledge. How does he respond? He announces the imminent betrayal to his disciples, and then proceeds to feed the betrayer: “So when he had dipped the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot” Judas then leaves to do his dirty work, and the narrator adds, “and it was night”. What would you do if your betrayer was at table with you?
Why don’t some of the disciples follow Judas out, find out what he is going to do, and stop him?
But here is what we have: “When he had gone out, Jesus said … ” Jesus talks again about the glory that is to come. We might expect a speech about how evil Judas is and how awful the consequences of his actions will be for him. But Jesus instead focuses on his mission and preparing his disciples for what is to come. He speaks of being glorified and of glorifying God, which can be understood to a reference to his elevation on a cross.
I find myself hoping the disciples are so stunned, so puzzled by what Jesus is saying that they cannot respond.
Will they see glory in the crucifixion? Probably not. Most of them have run away, and if they are present, they are observing the crucifixion from a distance. Glory will come later, when Jesus appears in their midst, when he is with them until the ascension. And of course, Pentecost comes. The Glory of God is all around them and among them. But Thursday night is darkness, thick and impenetrable in the minds of the disciples.
HYMN 450 Be Thou My Vision Trad. Irish Powm
Be Thou my vision, oh Lord 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
Be Thou my wisdom and Thou my true word
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord
thou my soul’s shelter, and thou my high tower;
Raise thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.
Riches I heed not, nor vain, empty praise;
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and thou only be first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my treasure thou art.
High king of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys, bright heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.
TUESDAY APRIL 7, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Let thy love so warm our souls, O Lord, that we may gladly surrender ourselves with all we are and have unto Thee. Let Thy love fall as fire from heaven upon the altar of our hearts; teach us to guard it heedfully by continual devotion and quietness of minds, and to cherish with anxious care every spark of its holy flame, with which Thy good Spirit would quicken us, so that neither height, nor depth, things present, nor things to come, may ever separate us therefrom. Strengthen Thou our wills, animate our cold hearts with Thy warmth and tenderness that we may no more live as in a dream, but walk before Thee as pilgrims in earth to reach their home. And grant us all at last to meet with Thy holy saints before Thy throne, and there rejoice in Thy love. Amen.
Gerhard Tersteegen (1697-1769), A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice and Lamar Williamson, Jr.
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 12:20-36
20Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. 21They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” 22Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus. 23Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor.
27“Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say—‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. 28Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” 29The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” 30Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for mine. 31Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out. 32And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” 33He said this to indicate the kind of death he was to die. 34The crowd answered him, “We have heard from the law that the Messiah remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?” 35Jesus said to them, “The light is with you for a little longer. Walk while you have the light, so that the darkness may not overtake you. If you walk in the darkness, you do not know where you are going. 36While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light.” After Jesus had said this, he departed and hid from them.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 12:20-36
In the middle of the festival preparations, ‘some Greeks’ approach Philip; they want to see Jesus. They don’t want a sermon, or prayers or even a new members’ class. They simply want to see Jesus. As we continue reading, we realize we don’t know what happened to the Greeks. Did they see Jesus? Talk to him? Or simply catch sight of him, and move on through the crowds?
Jesus begins to speak of glory and the cross. If the Greeks did hang around and hear him, they would have walked away with something to think about. Glory they may understand, but not in connection with the cross. The crowd that is around Jesus doesn’t understand what he is talking about either. Try to imagine what it was like; hearing Jesus talk about the ruler of this world driven out, he himself being lifted up and drawing all people with him. Finally, he talks about light and darkness, and announces that those around him must stay and believe in the light.
What is it that we want to see during Holy Week? During this crisis of the pandemic? And if we get to see what we desire, can we listen with our hearts so that we can have some understanding of what is being shared?
I chose the Tersteegen prayer because of that line “animate our cold hearts with Thy warmth and tenderness that we may no more live as in a dream but walk before these as pilgrims in earth to reach their home.” The language is typical of an 18th century prayer, but it holds great meaning. Seeing Jesus is possible – in the love we have for one another and letting our hearts be filled.
HYMN 673 Jesus, Light of Joy David Gambrell
Jesus, light of joy, surround us; let your splendid glory shine:
Source of every earthly blessing, heaven’s everlasting sign.
Alleluia, alleluia, we adore you, light divine.
Now the shadows fall around us; now the evening has begun;
Still your gracious light is with us, brighter than the morning sun.
Alleluia, alleluia, God of glory, Three-in-One.
With the saints we lift our voices, God of power, God of might.
All creation shines with glory, singing praises day and night:
Alleluia, alleluia, holy, holy, holy light
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Let thy love so warm our souls, O Lord, that we may gladly surrender ourselves with all we are and have unto Thee. Let Thy love fall as fire from heaven upon the altar of our hearts; teach us to guard it heedfully by continual devotion and quietness of minds, and to cherish with anxious care every spark of its holy flame, with which Thy good Spirit would quicken us, so that neither height, nor depth, things present, nor things to come, may ever separate us therefrom. Strengthen Thou our wills, animate our cold hearts with Thy warmth and tenderness that we may no more live as in a dream, but walk before Thee as pilgrims in earth to reach their home. And grant us all at last to meet with Thy holy saints before Thy throne, and there rejoice in Thy love. Amen.
Gerhard Tersteegen (1697-1769), A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice and Lamar Williamson, Jr.
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 12:20-36
20Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. 21They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” 22Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus. 23Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor.
27“Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say—‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. 28Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” 29The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” 30Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for mine. 31Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out. 32And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” 33He said this to indicate the kind of death he was to die. 34The crowd answered him, “We have heard from the law that the Messiah remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?” 35Jesus said to them, “The light is with you for a little longer. Walk while you have the light, so that the darkness may not overtake you. If you walk in the darkness, you do not know where you are going. 36While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light.” After Jesus had said this, he departed and hid from them.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 12:20-36
In the middle of the festival preparations, ‘some Greeks’ approach Philip; they want to see Jesus. They don’t want a sermon, or prayers or even a new members’ class. They simply want to see Jesus. As we continue reading, we realize we don’t know what happened to the Greeks. Did they see Jesus? Talk to him? Or simply catch sight of him, and move on through the crowds?
Jesus begins to speak of glory and the cross. If the Greeks did hang around and hear him, they would have walked away with something to think about. Glory they may understand, but not in connection with the cross. The crowd that is around Jesus doesn’t understand what he is talking about either. Try to imagine what it was like; hearing Jesus talk about the ruler of this world driven out, he himself being lifted up and drawing all people with him. Finally, he talks about light and darkness, and announces that those around him must stay and believe in the light.
What is it that we want to see during Holy Week? During this crisis of the pandemic? And if we get to see what we desire, can we listen with our hearts so that we can have some understanding of what is being shared?
I chose the Tersteegen prayer because of that line “animate our cold hearts with Thy warmth and tenderness that we may no more live as in a dream but walk before these as pilgrims in earth to reach their home.” The language is typical of an 18th century prayer, but it holds great meaning. Seeing Jesus is possible – in the love we have for one another and letting our hearts be filled.
HYMN 673 Jesus, Light of Joy David Gambrell
Jesus, light of joy, surround us; let your splendid glory shine:
Source of every earthly blessing, heaven’s everlasting sign.
Alleluia, alleluia, we adore you, light divine.
Now the shadows fall around us; now the evening has begun;
Still your gracious light is with us, brighter than the morning sun.
Alleluia, alleluia, God of glory, Three-in-One.
With the saints we lift our voices, God of power, God of might.
All creation shines with glory, singing praises day and night:
Alleluia, alleluia, holy, holy, holy light
MONDAY APRIL 6, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 12:1-11
Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 2There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. 3Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, 5“Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” 6(He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) 7Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. 8You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” 9When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came not only because of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death as well, 11since it was on account of him that many of the Jews were deserting and were believing in Jesus.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 12:1-11
Anyone who works with a philanthropic agency – the church, any agency of the United Way, or a nonprofit knows that poverty, violence, abuse, addiction are all cyclical. It seems as though the same people come back to the food pantry, or to the church for gas cars, rent assistance. And if not the same people as last month, then their children, and their children’s children. Breaking the cycle is nearly impossible for so many people.
Judas has a good point; why spend money on expensive perfume when we could give to the poor? But Jesus also makes a point. The poor are, indeed, always present—today and throughout Jesus’ ministry. And Jesus always attended to their needs, spoke up for the voiceless and oppressed. Jesus never rejects or dismisses the needs of those at the margins of society as insignificant or not worthy of concern. Such an interpretation would be a misreading of John’s text—a manipulation for the purpose of political (or personal) gain.
Jesus does not call out Judas for complaining about Mary’s extravagant gift. It is as though Mary recognized an immediate need – her own need? A need on the part of Jesus? She recognized that the need was to focus on Jesus and the preparation for death. It is quite likely she intended the expensive nard to be used to anoint Jesus’ body after death, but she changes her mind. She is in the moment, not thinking of consequences nor of anything to be gained.
This Holy Week, may we take time to be extravagant with one another. In doing so, we are claiming that we are breaking a cycle and focusing on Jesus, who is love, and who will die because of that love.
HYMN 630 Fairest Lord Jesus
Fairest Lord Jesus, ruler of all nature
O thou of God and man the Son
Thee will I cherish, Thee will I honor
Thou, my soul's glory, joy, and crown
Fair are the meadows, fairer still the woodlands
Robed in the blooming garb of spring
Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer
Who makes the woeful heart to sing
Fair is the sunshine, fairer still the moonlight
And all the twinkling starry host
Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer
Than all the angels heaven can boast
Beautiful Savior! Lord of all the nations
Son of God and Son of Man
Glory and honor, praise, adoration
Now and forevermore be thine.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
SCRIPTURE READING JOHN 12:1-11
Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 2There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. 3Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, 5“Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” 6(He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) 7Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. 8You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” 9When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came not only because of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death as well, 11since it was on account of him that many of the Jews were deserting and were believing in Jesus.
MEDITATION ON JOHN 12:1-11
Anyone who works with a philanthropic agency – the church, any agency of the United Way, or a nonprofit knows that poverty, violence, abuse, addiction are all cyclical. It seems as though the same people come back to the food pantry, or to the church for gas cars, rent assistance. And if not the same people as last month, then their children, and their children’s children. Breaking the cycle is nearly impossible for so many people.
Judas has a good point; why spend money on expensive perfume when we could give to the poor? But Jesus also makes a point. The poor are, indeed, always present—today and throughout Jesus’ ministry. And Jesus always attended to their needs, spoke up for the voiceless and oppressed. Jesus never rejects or dismisses the needs of those at the margins of society as insignificant or not worthy of concern. Such an interpretation would be a misreading of John’s text—a manipulation for the purpose of political (or personal) gain.
Jesus does not call out Judas for complaining about Mary’s extravagant gift. It is as though Mary recognized an immediate need – her own need? A need on the part of Jesus? She recognized that the need was to focus on Jesus and the preparation for death. It is quite likely she intended the expensive nard to be used to anoint Jesus’ body after death, but she changes her mind. She is in the moment, not thinking of consequences nor of anything to be gained.
This Holy Week, may we take time to be extravagant with one another. In doing so, we are claiming that we are breaking a cycle and focusing on Jesus, who is love, and who will die because of that love.
HYMN 630 Fairest Lord Jesus
Fairest Lord Jesus, ruler of all nature
O thou of God and man the Son
Thee will I cherish, Thee will I honor
Thou, my soul's glory, joy, and crown
Fair are the meadows, fairer still the woodlands
Robed in the blooming garb of spring
Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer
Who makes the woeful heart to sing
Fair is the sunshine, fairer still the moonlight
And all the twinkling starry host
Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer
Than all the angels heaven can boast
Beautiful Savior! Lord of all the nations
Son of God and Son of Man
Glory and honor, praise, adoration
Now and forevermore be thine.
| Palm Sunday April 5 2020 Bulletin for Zoom Online Service |
SATURDAY APRIL 4, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Help us to magnify your name until your presence in our lives is bigger than our problems. Give us the confidence that you are with us and have promised in covenant to never leave us nor forsake us. Give us the joy of the journey that doing your will shall have its own enticements and rewards. Grant us your peace and a contentment that you have the whole world in your hands.
Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING - John 12:44-50
44Then Jesus cried aloud: “Whoever believes in me believes not in me but in him who sent me. 45And whoever sees me sees him who sent me. 46I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness. 47I do not judge anyone who hears my words and does not keep them, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. 48The one who rejects me and does not receive my word has a judge; on the last day the word that I have spoken will serve as judge, 49for I have not spoken on my own, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment about what to say and what to speak. 50And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I speak, therefore, I speak just as the Father has told me.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 12:44-50
This text from John follows a time of confusion in the temple; some scoff at Jesus in spite of the signs shown, others believe but do not want the authorities to know. Jesus claims that belief in him is belief in God; seeing Jesus is seeing God. The verse that grabs me is verse 47: 47I do not judge anyone who hears my words and does not keep them, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. I am reminded of the man who says, I believe, help my unbelief. (Mark 9:24)
Despite all the efforts of some Christians to paint Jesus as a vengeful judge, this passage is where Jesus makes it clear that he is not going to judge the world, but rather do everything he can to save it. When we fail, when we slip up, Jesus is still there. I find that immensely comforting.
As we move into a situation that seemingly has no finish line, we can lose heart. A good cry, a bit of a rant, and even just trying to give up – all these things are okay. We will recover, Jesus will still be with us, his teachings and his presence assuring us that he loves us and will not leave us.
HYMN 662 Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies Charles Wesley
Christ, whose glory fills the skies; Christ the true, the only light;
Sun of Righteousness, arise; triumph o’er the shades of night;
Dayspring from on high, be near; Daystar, in my heart appear.
Dark and cheerless is the morn unaccompanied by thee;
Joyless is the day’s return till thy mercy’s beams I see;
Till they inward light impart, cheer my eyes and warm my heart.
Visit them this soul of mine; pierce the gloom of sin and grief;
Fill me, radiancy divine; scatter all my unbelief;
More and more thyself display, shining to the perfect day.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Help us to magnify your name until your presence in our lives is bigger than our problems. Give us the confidence that you are with us and have promised in covenant to never leave us nor forsake us. Give us the joy of the journey that doing your will shall have its own enticements and rewards. Grant us your peace and a contentment that you have the whole world in your hands.
Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING - John 12:44-50
44Then Jesus cried aloud: “Whoever believes in me believes not in me but in him who sent me. 45And whoever sees me sees him who sent me. 46I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness. 47I do not judge anyone who hears my words and does not keep them, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. 48The one who rejects me and does not receive my word has a judge; on the last day the word that I have spoken will serve as judge, 49for I have not spoken on my own, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment about what to say and what to speak. 50And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I speak, therefore, I speak just as the Father has told me.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 12:44-50
This text from John follows a time of confusion in the temple; some scoff at Jesus in spite of the signs shown, others believe but do not want the authorities to know. Jesus claims that belief in him is belief in God; seeing Jesus is seeing God. The verse that grabs me is verse 47: 47I do not judge anyone who hears my words and does not keep them, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. I am reminded of the man who says, I believe, help my unbelief. (Mark 9:24)
Despite all the efforts of some Christians to paint Jesus as a vengeful judge, this passage is where Jesus makes it clear that he is not going to judge the world, but rather do everything he can to save it. When we fail, when we slip up, Jesus is still there. I find that immensely comforting.
As we move into a situation that seemingly has no finish line, we can lose heart. A good cry, a bit of a rant, and even just trying to give up – all these things are okay. We will recover, Jesus will still be with us, his teachings and his presence assuring us that he loves us and will not leave us.
HYMN 662 Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies Charles Wesley
Christ, whose glory fills the skies; Christ the true, the only light;
Sun of Righteousness, arise; triumph o’er the shades of night;
Dayspring from on high, be near; Daystar, in my heart appear.
Dark and cheerless is the morn unaccompanied by thee;
Joyless is the day’s return till thy mercy’s beams I see;
Till they inward light impart, cheer my eyes and warm my heart.
Visit them this soul of mine; pierce the gloom of sin and grief;
Fill me, radiancy divine; scatter all my unbelief;
More and more thyself display, shining to the perfect day.
FRIDAY APRIL 3, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Great Bunji God, you sent your Son Jesus to be our Savior, our Guide and our Friend. At the dawn of this new day we pray for strength to follow in his steps, and to be true witnesses for him among our people who love the great earth mother, your gift to them from the dreamtime. We pray for all people of all countries, that they may become one great family with Jesus as Savior.
AS we come to the evening of this day, may we go to our rest in the quiet hours of the night knowing that, in spite of our human weaknesses, we have truly walked with Jesus. This prayer we offer in the name of Jesus, our Good Friend, Amralba. Amen.
Lazurus Lamilami (1910-1977), From the Uniting Church in Australia. A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice and Lamar Williamson, Jr.
SCRIPTURE READING - John 10:11-18
11“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away—and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. 14I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 16I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it up again. I have received this command from my Father.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 10:11-18
This passage, spoken by Jesus to his followers, brings vivid images to mind. Shepherds are warriors; my favorite picture of a shepherd is a young man, clinging to the side of a hill, with a sword at the ready. He will fight lions, wolves, and any other creature who will threaten the sheep.
I also think of the pictures and descriptions I have seen of remote sheep farms in Australia. I imagine a shepherd in Australia saying the prayer by Lazurus Lamilami, a Methodist pastor who was a member of the Maung tribe of Aboriginal people. Like our tradition of cowboys who would spend days alone watching over the herds in their charge, the Australian shepherds experienced loneliness.
We are sheltering in place, with all that we need. Shepherds and cowboys faced being alone and often without human company, offering their energy, time, and sometimes their lives to protect the sheep. So it is with our shepherd.
HYMN 187 Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us
Savior, like a shepherd lead us, Much we need Thy tender care;
In Thy pleasant pastures feed us, For our use thy folds prepare:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou has brought us, Thine we are;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou has brought us, Thine we are.
We are Thine, do Thou befriends us, Be the guardian of our way;
Keep Thy flock, from sin defend us, See us when we go astray.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Hear O hear us when we pray;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Hear O hear us when we pray.
Thou has promised to receive us, Poor and sinful though we be;
Thou hast mercy to relieve us, Grace to cleanse, and pow’r to free:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Early let us turn to Thee;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Early let us turn to Thee.
Early let us seek Thy favor, Early let us do Thy will;
Blessed Lord and only Savior, With Thy love our bosoms fill:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou hast loved us, love us still;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou has loved us, love us still
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Great Bunji God, you sent your Son Jesus to be our Savior, our Guide and our Friend. At the dawn of this new day we pray for strength to follow in his steps, and to be true witnesses for him among our people who love the great earth mother, your gift to them from the dreamtime. We pray for all people of all countries, that they may become one great family with Jesus as Savior.
AS we come to the evening of this day, may we go to our rest in the quiet hours of the night knowing that, in spite of our human weaknesses, we have truly walked with Jesus. This prayer we offer in the name of Jesus, our Good Friend, Amralba. Amen.
Lazurus Lamilami (1910-1977), From the Uniting Church in Australia. A Book of Reformed Prayers, ed. Howard Rice and Lamar Williamson, Jr.
SCRIPTURE READING - John 10:11-18
11“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away—and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. 14I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 16I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it up again. I have received this command from my Father.”
MEDITATION ON JOHN 10:11-18
This passage, spoken by Jesus to his followers, brings vivid images to mind. Shepherds are warriors; my favorite picture of a shepherd is a young man, clinging to the side of a hill, with a sword at the ready. He will fight lions, wolves, and any other creature who will threaten the sheep.
I also think of the pictures and descriptions I have seen of remote sheep farms in Australia. I imagine a shepherd in Australia saying the prayer by Lazurus Lamilami, a Methodist pastor who was a member of the Maung tribe of Aboriginal people. Like our tradition of cowboys who would spend days alone watching over the herds in their charge, the Australian shepherds experienced loneliness.
We are sheltering in place, with all that we need. Shepherds and cowboys faced being alone and often without human company, offering their energy, time, and sometimes their lives to protect the sheep. So it is with our shepherd.
HYMN 187 Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us
Savior, like a shepherd lead us, Much we need Thy tender care;
In Thy pleasant pastures feed us, For our use thy folds prepare:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou has brought us, Thine we are;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou has brought us, Thine we are.
We are Thine, do Thou befriends us, Be the guardian of our way;
Keep Thy flock, from sin defend us, See us when we go astray.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Hear O hear us when we pray;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Hear O hear us when we pray.
Thou has promised to receive us, Poor and sinful though we be;
Thou hast mercy to relieve us, Grace to cleanse, and pow’r to free:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Early let us turn to Thee;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Early let us turn to Thee.
Early let us seek Thy favor, Early let us do Thy will;
Blessed Lord and only Savior, With Thy love our bosoms fill:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou hast loved us, love us still;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, Thou has loved us, love us still
THURSDAY APRIL 2, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Safeguard your faithful people in the sanctuary of your Love, O God, shelter them in this time in the shelter of the saints. God to enfold them, God to surround them, God in their watching, God in their hoping, God in their sleeping, God in their ever-living souls.
Grant to me, O Trinity of grace, from whom all life freely flows that no barrier can be between me and Thee. May creation be as it was, as it is, as it shall be evermore, with the ebb, with the flow, O Trinity of grace. Amen.
Celtic Prayers from Iona, J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING John 10:1-10
“Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. 2The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. 7So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. 9I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
MEDITATION ON John 10:1-10
I spent over a year meditating on John 10:10. When this text came up in the daily lectionary for today, I was reminded of how much the words of Jesus meant to me: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
And then the questions come: Is this abundant life? Is this the best there is for us? And then I saw a photo of a family – mom, dad and three small children – living in a small tent in a refugee camp in Greece. When the virus comes to the camp, there is little chance of anyone avoiding it. Once again, I realize we live lives of “conspicuous consumption;” our biggest problems are not getting to the gym, doing without dining out as often as we would like, or not going to the theatre. It is an opportunity to truly discover what abundant life is.
Abundant life is life what we receive from the shepherd who cares for us. We can become caretakers of one another, finding goodness and compassion of God and living into those gifts. We can offer prayers of gratitude for all that we have received, and prayers of thanksgiving that we can share all we have with the rest of God’s children.
HYMN 215 What Wondrous Love Is This
What wondrous Love is this, O my soul, O my soul,
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul!
When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down;
When I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul!
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing,
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, who is the great I AM,
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing,
While millions join the theme, I will sing!
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on;
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be,
And through eternity I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
And through eternity I’ll sing on!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Safeguard your faithful people in the sanctuary of your Love, O God, shelter them in this time in the shelter of the saints. God to enfold them, God to surround them, God in their watching, God in their hoping, God in their sleeping, God in their ever-living souls.
Grant to me, O Trinity of grace, from whom all life freely flows that no barrier can be between me and Thee. May creation be as it was, as it is, as it shall be evermore, with the ebb, with the flow, O Trinity of grace. Amen.
Celtic Prayers from Iona, J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING John 10:1-10
“Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. 2The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. 7So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. 9I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
MEDITATION ON John 10:1-10
I spent over a year meditating on John 10:10. When this text came up in the daily lectionary for today, I was reminded of how much the words of Jesus meant to me: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
And then the questions come: Is this abundant life? Is this the best there is for us? And then I saw a photo of a family – mom, dad and three small children – living in a small tent in a refugee camp in Greece. When the virus comes to the camp, there is little chance of anyone avoiding it. Once again, I realize we live lives of “conspicuous consumption;” our biggest problems are not getting to the gym, doing without dining out as often as we would like, or not going to the theatre. It is an opportunity to truly discover what abundant life is.
Abundant life is life what we receive from the shepherd who cares for us. We can become caretakers of one another, finding goodness and compassion of God and living into those gifts. We can offer prayers of gratitude for all that we have received, and prayers of thanksgiving that we can share all we have with the rest of God’s children.
HYMN 215 What Wondrous Love Is This
What wondrous Love is this, O my soul, O my soul,
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul!
When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down;
When I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul!
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing,
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, who is the great I AM,
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing,
While millions join the theme, I will sing!
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on;
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be,
And through eternity I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
And through eternity I’ll sing on!
WEDNESDAY APRIL 1, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Open our eyes that we might see that you are not far from any one of us; you are our God, our Savior, our guide, our friend, our sure defense, our leader in the troubles of life, our consoler in times of grief, our inspiration when we call for courage. O God of many names, of infinite attributes, be present to your people in tome of need. Be Thou our vision. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
16From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. 17So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; 19that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. 20So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
MEDITATION ON 2 CORINTHIANS 5:16-21
The great mystics of the faith often encourage us to see the face of Christ in everyone we meet. If we are able to see Christ’s face, we are changed in how we relate to one another.
Early last evening, our son drove to Branchville from Chester, NY (about 45 minutes) to pick up some tools he was borrowing from his father. We also had birthday and Easter gifts for him to take back to our granddaughters as well as several of those miscellaneous boxes we all keep for years and years for our children. As I watched him pack up the car, I realized I could see the toddler, the teenager, the young man in him. Now I could see the wonderful father and husband he has become, ready and determined to safeguard his family.
If we look at our family and friends with new vision and look for the face of Christ, we fulfill the claim from this scripture reading; there are new creations, what has been has passed away, everything, everyone becomes new! Perhaps this is a gift to us while we are quarantined. May you look at those around you – or who are at a distance – and see them with new eyes.
HYMN 361 O Christ, the Great Foundation Timothy T’inglang Lew
O Christ, the great foundation on which your people stand
To preach your true salvation in every age and land;
Pour out your Holy Sprit to make us strong and pure,
To keep the faith unbroken as long as worlds endure.
Baptized in one confession, one church in all the earth,
We bear our Lord’s impression, the sign of second birth;
One holy people gathered in love beyond our own,
By grace we were invited; by grace we make you known.
Where tyrants’ hold is tightened, where strong devour the weak,
We bear our Lord’s impression, the sign of second birth;
There let your church awaking attack the powers of sin
And, all their ramparts breaking, with you the victory win.
This is the moment glorious when he who once was dead
Shall lead his church victorious, their champion and their head.
The Lord of all creation his heavenly kingdom brings;
The final consummation, the glory of all things.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Open our eyes that we might see that you are not far from any one of us; you are our God, our Savior, our guide, our friend, our sure defense, our leader in the troubles of life, our consoler in times of grief, our inspiration when we call for courage. O God of many names, of infinite attributes, be present to your people in tome of need. Be Thou our vision. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
16From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. 17So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; 19that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. 20So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
MEDITATION ON 2 CORINTHIANS 5:16-21
The great mystics of the faith often encourage us to see the face of Christ in everyone we meet. If we are able to see Christ’s face, we are changed in how we relate to one another.
Early last evening, our son drove to Branchville from Chester, NY (about 45 minutes) to pick up some tools he was borrowing from his father. We also had birthday and Easter gifts for him to take back to our granddaughters as well as several of those miscellaneous boxes we all keep for years and years for our children. As I watched him pack up the car, I realized I could see the toddler, the teenager, the young man in him. Now I could see the wonderful father and husband he has become, ready and determined to safeguard his family.
If we look at our family and friends with new vision and look for the face of Christ, we fulfill the claim from this scripture reading; there are new creations, what has been has passed away, everything, everyone becomes new! Perhaps this is a gift to us while we are quarantined. May you look at those around you – or who are at a distance – and see them with new eyes.
HYMN 361 O Christ, the Great Foundation Timothy T’inglang Lew
O Christ, the great foundation on which your people stand
To preach your true salvation in every age and land;
Pour out your Holy Sprit to make us strong and pure,
To keep the faith unbroken as long as worlds endure.
Baptized in one confession, one church in all the earth,
We bear our Lord’s impression, the sign of second birth;
One holy people gathered in love beyond our own,
By grace we were invited; by grace we make you known.
Where tyrants’ hold is tightened, where strong devour the weak,
We bear our Lord’s impression, the sign of second birth;
There let your church awaking attack the powers of sin
And, all their ramparts breaking, with you the victory win.
This is the moment glorious when he who once was dead
Shall lead his church victorious, their champion and their head.
The Lord of all creation his heavenly kingdom brings;
The final consummation, the glory of all things.
TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, assure us there is a purpose to life, that all things work together for good for those who love you. Give us the confidence that we do not walk alone or make our decisions unaided. Help us to treat life as a gift, to understand the process as an adventure, and live in faith that acceptance through Christ is assured. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Robert D. Young
SCRIPTURE READING 2 Corinthians 5:6-10
So we are always confident; even though we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord – for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we do have confidence, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. For all of us must appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each may receive recompense for what has been done in the body, whether good or evil.
MEDITATION ON 2 Corinthians 5:6-10
As I read through this reading from 2 Corinthians, I was struck by how many times Paul mentions being “at home”. Paul is setting up this duality of home and of being in the Lord. Paul claims that we can be confident of God’s grace whether we are at home or in the presence of God. God’s love and care is always present. Think of the 8th chapter of Romans, where Paul writes that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39)
If we appear before the seat of Christ for judgment, that is not necessarily a punishment. We will receive also the grace and mercy of God, who knows what good or evil we do. Nothing can separate us from the love of God!
HYMN 840 When Peace Like a River
When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll,
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul;
It is well; it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed his own blood for my soul.
Refrain
He lives; O the bliss of this glorious thought.
My sin, not in part, but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
Refrain
Lord, hasten the day when our faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll,
The trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descend;
Even so it is well with my soul.
Refrain
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, assure us there is a purpose to life, that all things work together for good for those who love you. Give us the confidence that we do not walk alone or make our decisions unaided. Help us to treat life as a gift, to understand the process as an adventure, and live in faith that acceptance through Christ is assured. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Robert D. Young
SCRIPTURE READING 2 Corinthians 5:6-10
So we are always confident; even though we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord – for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we do have confidence, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. For all of us must appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each may receive recompense for what has been done in the body, whether good or evil.
MEDITATION ON 2 Corinthians 5:6-10
As I read through this reading from 2 Corinthians, I was struck by how many times Paul mentions being “at home”. Paul is setting up this duality of home and of being in the Lord. Paul claims that we can be confident of God’s grace whether we are at home or in the presence of God. God’s love and care is always present. Think of the 8th chapter of Romans, where Paul writes that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39)
If we appear before the seat of Christ for judgment, that is not necessarily a punishment. We will receive also the grace and mercy of God, who knows what good or evil we do. Nothing can separate us from the love of God!
HYMN 840 When Peace Like a River
When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll,
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul;
It is well; it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed his own blood for my soul.
Refrain
He lives; O the bliss of this glorious thought.
My sin, not in part, but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
Refrain
Lord, hasten the day when our faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll,
The trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descend;
Even so it is well with my soul.
Refrain
MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Lift our darkness, give us hope of a new day, call us from our wavering, call us from the depths, call us to higher ground, call us to yourself, call us to that confident position where you are our rock and our salvation, call us to follow you always, call us to persistent and courageous living, call us to your peace. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 Kings 17:8-24
8Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 9“Go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and live there; for I have commanded a widow there to feed you.” 10So he set out and went to Zarephath. When he came to the gate of the town, a widow was there gathering sticks; he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, so that I may drink.” 11As she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.” 12But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of meal in a jar, and a little oil in a jug; I am now gathering a couple of sticks, so that I may go home and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it, and die.” 13Elijah said to her, “Do not be afraid; go and do as you have said; but first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterwards make something for yourself and your son. 14For thus says the Lord the God of Israel: The jar of meal will not be emptied and the jug of oil will not fail until the day that the Lord sends rain on the earth.” 15She went and did as Elijah said, so that she as well as he and her household ate for many days. 16The jar of meal was not emptied, neither did the jug of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah.
17After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill; his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. 18She then said to Elijah, “What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son!” 19But he said to her, “Give me your son.” He took him from her bosom, carried him up into the upper chamber where he was lodging, and laid him on his own bed. 20He cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I am staying, by killing her son?” 21Then he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, let this child’s life come into him again.” 22The Lord listened to the voice of Elijah; the life of the child came into him again, and he revived. 23Elijah took the child, brought him down from the upper chamber into the house, and gave him to his mother; then Elijah said, “See, your son is alive.” 24So the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.”
MEDITATION ON 1 KINGS 17:8-24
This story appears in the midst of the history of 1 Kings and points to Elijah and the powers he has, the authority given to him by God. The widow is prepared for death for herself and her son; Elijah brings her a miraculous gift: there is a never ending supply of meal. They will not die.
But then, things get complicated. The widow's son falls ill, so terribly ill that there was no breath left in him (1 Kgs. 17:17); he is dead. Immediately, the widow shouts in her grief that Elijah has entered her house not to help her at all, but to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son (1 Kgs. 17:18). This is a terrible accusation in two ways. First, the widow makes the assumption that something she has done in her life has brought about the death of her child. Second, she blames Elijah, the prophet who somehow has reminded her of a sin, a horrible deed that she now believes has, in effect, murdered her son. Perhaps she assumed Elijah with his powers to be so pure and holy that she then concludes that her son's death was precisely her fault.
We are all capable of making bargains with God or find blame in the times of grief and loss. How many times do we read in the news of a prominent Christian declaring that the most recent disaster is because of a certain group of people’s behavior?! This pandemic is not different. We hear blame being placed upon individuals and groups of people. It is so much easier to handle our fears and our grief if we have a designated target. In this story, the woman turns the blame upon herself. God works through Elijah, and the child does not die.
There are no guarantees. We are hearing stories of tragic illness and death. We are also hearing stories of amazing recoveries, and of the incredible generosity and dedication of those who work with the afflicted. The illness is indiscriminate; rich or poor, old or young, we are all vulnerable. We need to be proactive in our defenses and generous in spirit. We are God’s people, and we can trust in the compassion of God for this life and for the next.
Do not be afraid. There is enough. In God’s abundant mercy, there is more than enough. Thanks be to God.
HYMN 803 MY SHEPHERD WILL SUPPLY MY NEED Isaac Watts
My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his name.
In pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream.
He brings my wandering spirit back when I forsake his ways,
And leads me, for his mercy’s sake, in paths of truth and grace.
When I walk through the shades of death your presence is my stay;
One word of your supporting breath drives all my fears away.
Your hand, in sight of all my foes, does still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows; your oil anoints my head.
The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days;
O may your house be my abode, and all my works be praise.
There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come;
no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Lift our darkness, give us hope of a new day, call us from our wavering, call us from the depths, call us to higher ground, call us to yourself, call us to that confident position where you are our rock and our salvation, call us to follow you always, call us to persistent and courageous living, call us to your peace. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 Kings 17:8-24
8Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 9“Go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and live there; for I have commanded a widow there to feed you.” 10So he set out and went to Zarephath. When he came to the gate of the town, a widow was there gathering sticks; he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, so that I may drink.” 11As she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.” 12But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of meal in a jar, and a little oil in a jug; I am now gathering a couple of sticks, so that I may go home and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it, and die.” 13Elijah said to her, “Do not be afraid; go and do as you have said; but first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterwards make something for yourself and your son. 14For thus says the Lord the God of Israel: The jar of meal will not be emptied and the jug of oil will not fail until the day that the Lord sends rain on the earth.” 15She went and did as Elijah said, so that she as well as he and her household ate for many days. 16The jar of meal was not emptied, neither did the jug of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah.
17After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill; his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. 18She then said to Elijah, “What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son!” 19But he said to her, “Give me your son.” He took him from her bosom, carried him up into the upper chamber where he was lodging, and laid him on his own bed. 20He cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I am staying, by killing her son?” 21Then he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, let this child’s life come into him again.” 22The Lord listened to the voice of Elijah; the life of the child came into him again, and he revived. 23Elijah took the child, brought him down from the upper chamber into the house, and gave him to his mother; then Elijah said, “See, your son is alive.” 24So the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.”
MEDITATION ON 1 KINGS 17:8-24
This story appears in the midst of the history of 1 Kings and points to Elijah and the powers he has, the authority given to him by God. The widow is prepared for death for herself and her son; Elijah brings her a miraculous gift: there is a never ending supply of meal. They will not die.
But then, things get complicated. The widow's son falls ill, so terribly ill that there was no breath left in him (1 Kgs. 17:17); he is dead. Immediately, the widow shouts in her grief that Elijah has entered her house not to help her at all, but to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son (1 Kgs. 17:18). This is a terrible accusation in two ways. First, the widow makes the assumption that something she has done in her life has brought about the death of her child. Second, she blames Elijah, the prophet who somehow has reminded her of a sin, a horrible deed that she now believes has, in effect, murdered her son. Perhaps she assumed Elijah with his powers to be so pure and holy that she then concludes that her son's death was precisely her fault.
We are all capable of making bargains with God or find blame in the times of grief and loss. How many times do we read in the news of a prominent Christian declaring that the most recent disaster is because of a certain group of people’s behavior?! This pandemic is not different. We hear blame being placed upon individuals and groups of people. It is so much easier to handle our fears and our grief if we have a designated target. In this story, the woman turns the blame upon herself. God works through Elijah, and the child does not die.
There are no guarantees. We are hearing stories of tragic illness and death. We are also hearing stories of amazing recoveries, and of the incredible generosity and dedication of those who work with the afflicted. The illness is indiscriminate; rich or poor, old or young, we are all vulnerable. We need to be proactive in our defenses and generous in spirit. We are God’s people, and we can trust in the compassion of God for this life and for the next.
Do not be afraid. There is enough. In God’s abundant mercy, there is more than enough. Thanks be to God.
HYMN 803 MY SHEPHERD WILL SUPPLY MY NEED Isaac Watts
My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his name.
In pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream.
He brings my wandering spirit back when I forsake his ways,
And leads me, for his mercy’s sake, in paths of truth and grace.
When I walk through the shades of death your presence is my stay;
One word of your supporting breath drives all my fears away.
Your hand, in sight of all my foes, does still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows; your oil anoints my head.
The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days;
O may your house be my abode, and all my works be praise.
There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come;
no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Lift our darkness, give us hope of a new day, call us from our wavering, call us from the depths, call us to higher ground, call us to yourself, call us to that confident position where you are our rock and our salvation, call us to follow you always, call us to persistent and courageous living, call us to your peace. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 Kings 17:8-24
8Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 9“Go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and live there; for I have commanded a widow there to feed you.” 10So he set out and went to Zarephath. When he came to the gate of the town, a widow was there gathering sticks; he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, so that I may drink.” 11As she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.” 12But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of meal in a jar, and a little oil in a jug; I am now gathering a couple of sticks, so that I may go home and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it, and die.” 13Elijah said to her, “Do not be afraid; go and do as you have said; but first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterwards make something for yourself and your son. 14For thus says the Lord the God of Israel: The jar of meal will not be emptied and the jug of oil will not fail until the day that the Lord sends rain on the earth.” 15She went and did as Elijah said, so that she as well as he and her household ate for many days. 16The jar of meal was not emptied, neither did the jug of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah.
17After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill; his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. 18She then said to Elijah, “What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son!” 19But he said to her, “Give me your son.” He took him from her bosom, carried him up into the upper chamber where he was lodging, and laid him on his own bed. 20He cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I am staying, by killing her son?” 21Then he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, let this child’s life come into him again.” 22The Lord listened to the voice of Elijah; the life of the child came into him again, and he revived. 23Elijah took the child, brought him down from the upper chamber into the house, and gave him to his mother; then Elijah said, “See, your son is alive.” 24So the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.”
MEDITATION ON 1 KINGS 17:8-24
This story appears in the midst of the history of 1 Kings and points to Elijah and the powers he has, the authority given to him by God. The widow is prepared for death for herself and her son; Elijah brings her a miraculous gift: there is a never ending supply of meal. They will not die.
But then, things get complicated. The widow's son falls ill, so terribly ill that there was no breath left in him (1 Kgs. 17:17); he is dead. Immediately, the widow shouts in her grief that Elijah has entered her house not to help her at all, but to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son (1 Kgs. 17:18). This is a terrible accusation in two ways. First, the widow makes the assumption that something she has done in her life has brought about the death of her child. Second, she blames Elijah, the prophet who somehow has reminded her of a sin, a horrible deed that she now believes has, in effect, murdered her son. Perhaps she assumed Elijah with his powers to be so pure and holy that she then concludes that her son's death was precisely her fault.
We are all capable of making bargains with God or find blame in the times of grief and loss. How many times do we read in the news of a prominent Christian declaring that the most recent disaster is because of a certain group of people’s behavior?! This pandemic is not different. We hear blame being placed upon individuals and groups of people. It is so much easier to handle our fears and our grief if we have a designated target. In this story, the woman turns the blame upon herself. God works through Elijah, and the child does not die.
There are no guarantees. We are hearing stories of tragic illness and death. We are also hearing stories of amazing recoveries, and of the incredible generosity and dedication of those who work with the afflicted. The illness is indiscriminate; rich or poor, old or young, we are all vulnerable. We need to be proactive in our defenses and generous in spirit. We are God’s people, and we can trust in the compassion of God for this life and for the next.
Do not be afraid. There is enough. In God’s abundant mercy, there is more than enough. Thanks be to God.
HYMN 803 MY SHEPHERD WILL SUPPLY MY NEED Isaac Watts
My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his name.
In pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream.
He brings my wandering spirit back when I forsake his ways,
And leads me, for his mercy’s sake, in paths of truth and grace.
When I walk through the shades of death your presence is my stay;
One word of your supporting breath drives all my fears away.
Your hand, in sight of all my foes, does still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows; your oil anoints my head.
The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days;
O may your house be my abode, and all my works be praise.
There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come;
no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Lift our darkness, give us hope of a new day, call us from our wavering, call us from the depths, call us to higher ground, call us to yourself, call us to that confident position where you are our rock and our salvation, call us to follow you always, call us to persistent and courageous living, call us to your peace. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING 1 Kings 17:8-24
8Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 9“Go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and live there; for I have commanded a widow there to feed you.” 10So he set out and went to Zarephath. When he came to the gate of the town, a widow was there gathering sticks; he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, so that I may drink.” 11As she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.” 12But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of meal in a jar, and a little oil in a jug; I am now gathering a couple of sticks, so that I may go home and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it, and die.” 13Elijah said to her, “Do not be afraid; go and do as you have said; but first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterwards make something for yourself and your son. 14For thus says the Lord the God of Israel: The jar of meal will not be emptied and the jug of oil will not fail until the day that the Lord sends rain on the earth.” 15She went and did as Elijah said, so that she as well as he and her household ate for many days. 16The jar of meal was not emptied, neither did the jug of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah.
17After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill; his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. 18She then said to Elijah, “What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son!” 19But he said to her, “Give me your son.” He took him from her bosom, carried him up into the upper chamber where he was lodging, and laid him on his own bed. 20He cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I am staying, by killing her son?” 21Then he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried out to the Lord, “O Lord my God, let this child’s life come into him again.” 22The Lord listened to the voice of Elijah; the life of the child came into him again, and he revived. 23Elijah took the child, brought him down from the upper chamber into the house, and gave him to his mother; then Elijah said, “See, your son is alive.” 24So the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.”
MEDITATION ON 1 KINGS 17:8-24
This story appears in the midst of the history of 1 Kings and points to Elijah and the powers he has, the authority given to him by God. The widow is prepared for death for herself and her son; Elijah brings her a miraculous gift: there is a never ending supply of meal. They will not die.
But then, things get complicated. The widow's son falls ill, so terribly ill that there was no breath left in him (1 Kgs. 17:17); he is dead. Immediately, the widow shouts in her grief that Elijah has entered her house not to help her at all, but to bring my sin to remembrance, and to cause the death of my son (1 Kgs. 17:18). This is a terrible accusation in two ways. First, the widow makes the assumption that something she has done in her life has brought about the death of her child. Second, she blames Elijah, the prophet who somehow has reminded her of a sin, a horrible deed that she now believes has, in effect, murdered her son. Perhaps she assumed Elijah with his powers to be so pure and holy that she then concludes that her son's death was precisely her fault.
We are all capable of making bargains with God or find blame in the times of grief and loss. How many times do we read in the news of a prominent Christian declaring that the most recent disaster is because of a certain group of people’s behavior?! This pandemic is not different. We hear blame being placed upon individuals and groups of people. It is so much easier to handle our fears and our grief if we have a designated target. In this story, the woman turns the blame upon herself. God works through Elijah, and the child does not die.
There are no guarantees. We are hearing stories of tragic illness and death. We are also hearing stories of amazing recoveries, and of the incredible generosity and dedication of those who work with the afflicted. The illness is indiscriminate; rich or poor, old or young, we are all vulnerable. We need to be proactive in our defenses and generous in spirit. We are God’s people, and we can trust in the compassion of God for this life and for the next.
Do not be afraid. There is enough. In God’s abundant mercy, there is more than enough. Thanks be to God.
HYMN 803 MY SHEPHERD WILL SUPPLY MY NEED Isaac Watts
My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his name.
In pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream.
He brings my wandering spirit back when I forsake his ways,
And leads me, for his mercy’s sake, in paths of truth and grace.
When I walk through the shades of death your presence is my stay;
One word of your supporting breath drives all my fears away.
Your hand, in sight of all my foes, does still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows; your oil anoints my head.
The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days;
O may your house be my abode, and all my works be praise.
There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come;
no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.
Worship on Sunday March 29, 2020 (Lent 5A) was held as a Zoom Cloud HD Online Meeting. If you need information on how to attend future events, please send an e-mail to officefpcr@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, March 28, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Be present with us, O God of peace. Our hours and moments are in your hands, and you alone provide the peace and wisdom we need to make our time fruitful. Take away all competing distractions and keep us focused on the work you set before us. Make all things new, stirring in us wonder and awe as we are called to participate in the life you have given to us. We give you thanks for abiding care, your never ending love, and the abundance of grace you grant to us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING Luke 24:13-32
13Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, 16but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. 18Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” 19He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. 21But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. 22Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, 23and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. 24Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” 25Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! 26Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” 27Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. 28As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. 29But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. 30When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. 32They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?”
MEDITATION ON Luk3 24:131-32
I recently read an article that addresses our tendencies to join in, jump on the band wagon – a kind of mob mentality. In newborn nurseries in hospitals and birthing centers, a baby will begin to cry and soon all the babies are crying. It is called "social crying." We do this so easily; one complaint in the workplace is contagious and soon everyone joins in.
We can imagine the followers of Jesus falling into this trap after the crucifixion. No one could believe he would really return; dead is dead. When the two disciples are on the road to Emmaus, they are talking about the events of the past few days: the crucifixion, the hopes and dreams of all of the followers of Jesus. When Jesus begins to walk with them, they cannot see who he is; their eyes were kept from recognizing him. The conversation continues with Jesus explaining things about himself and about what has happened. They still do not see him. In fact, they do not know who he is until bread is broken and blessed. Then, with hindsight, they say to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?”
We are not adept at seeing what is in front of us when we have been told over and over again what is “true”. In this time of the pandemic, with the news changing the stories by the hour, we need to be able to be open to listening, thinking and discerning what is going on. The voice in our head that says, “Nothing will ever be the same” “The world is beyond saving” – we need to stop listening to that voice and recognize that this is God’s world, God is in charge.
I remember sitting for my Hebrew final exam in seminary. I looked down at the page and couldn’t recognize a single thing. Dr. Seow came by, put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Don’t worry. Don’t be anxious.” I looked down at my test paper, and realized I could read and translate every word.
Don’t worry. Don’t be anxious. The presence of Christ with us on this journey gives the strength to say no to the overwhelming negative messages that come at us. We are witnesses to God’s work in the world – the risen Christ walking beside us. That is good news.
HYMN 800 Sometimes a Light Surprises Thomas Cowper
Sometimes a light surprises the child of God who sings;
It is the Lord who rises with healing in his wings;
When comforts are declining, he grants the soul again
A season of clear shining to cheer it after rain.
In holy contemplation we sweetly then pursue
The theme of God’s salvation and find it ever new;
Set free from present sorrow, we cheerfully can say,
“Let the unknown tomorrow bring with it what it may.”
It can bring with it nothing but he will bear us through;
Who gives the lilies clothing will clothe his people, too;
Beneath the spreading heavens no creature but is fed;
And he who feeds the ravens will give his children bread.
Though vine nor fig tree neither their longed-for fruit should bear,
Though all the fields should wither, nor flocks nor herds be there,
Yet God the same abiding, his praise shall tune my voice;
for while in him confiding I cannot but rejoice.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Be present with us, O God of peace. Our hours and moments are in your hands, and you alone provide the peace and wisdom we need to make our time fruitful. Take away all competing distractions and keep us focused on the work you set before us. Make all things new, stirring in us wonder and awe as we are called to participate in the life you have given to us. We give you thanks for abiding care, your never ending love, and the abundance of grace you grant to us. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING Luke 24:13-32
13Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, 16but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. 18Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” 19He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. 21But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. 22Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, 23and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. 24Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” 25Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! 26Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” 27Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. 28As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. 29But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. 30When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. 32They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?”
MEDITATION ON Luk3 24:131-32
I recently read an article that addresses our tendencies to join in, jump on the band wagon – a kind of mob mentality. In newborn nurseries in hospitals and birthing centers, a baby will begin to cry and soon all the babies are crying. It is called "social crying." We do this so easily; one complaint in the workplace is contagious and soon everyone joins in.
We can imagine the followers of Jesus falling into this trap after the crucifixion. No one could believe he would really return; dead is dead. When the two disciples are on the road to Emmaus, they are talking about the events of the past few days: the crucifixion, the hopes and dreams of all of the followers of Jesus. When Jesus begins to walk with them, they cannot see who he is; their eyes were kept from recognizing him. The conversation continues with Jesus explaining things about himself and about what has happened. They still do not see him. In fact, they do not know who he is until bread is broken and blessed. Then, with hindsight, they say to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?”
We are not adept at seeing what is in front of us when we have been told over and over again what is “true”. In this time of the pandemic, with the news changing the stories by the hour, we need to be able to be open to listening, thinking and discerning what is going on. The voice in our head that says, “Nothing will ever be the same” “The world is beyond saving” – we need to stop listening to that voice and recognize that this is God’s world, God is in charge.
I remember sitting for my Hebrew final exam in seminary. I looked down at the page and couldn’t recognize a single thing. Dr. Seow came by, put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Don’t worry. Don’t be anxious.” I looked down at my test paper, and realized I could read and translate every word.
Don’t worry. Don’t be anxious. The presence of Christ with us on this journey gives the strength to say no to the overwhelming negative messages that come at us. We are witnesses to God’s work in the world – the risen Christ walking beside us. That is good news.
HYMN 800 Sometimes a Light Surprises Thomas Cowper
Sometimes a light surprises the child of God who sings;
It is the Lord who rises with healing in his wings;
When comforts are declining, he grants the soul again
A season of clear shining to cheer it after rain.
In holy contemplation we sweetly then pursue
The theme of God’s salvation and find it ever new;
Set free from present sorrow, we cheerfully can say,
“Let the unknown tomorrow bring with it what it may.”
It can bring with it nothing but he will bear us through;
Who gives the lilies clothing will clothe his people, too;
Beneath the spreading heavens no creature but is fed;
And he who feeds the ravens will give his children bread.
Though vine nor fig tree neither their longed-for fruit should bear,
Though all the fields should wither, nor flocks nor herds be there,
Yet God the same abiding, his praise shall tune my voice;
for while in him confiding I cannot but rejoice.
FRIDAY, March 27, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of our lives, give us strength for the journey ahead. As we walk together, be a constant companion and inspiration for us. Keep us from moving too fast or too slow; keep us on the path towards the goals you have set before us. Show us your grace so that we shall not grow weary or stumble. We travel with the sure confidence of faith in you, and with eagerness for the work ahead. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 12:1-3
Every time I see a flock of birds soaring overhead, I think of Hebrews 12:1. That great cloud of witnesses surrounds us by the power of the Holy Spirit. In our Book of Confessions, we read in the Westminster Confessions of the universal and invisible church made up of those gathered under Christ; and the visible church made up of all those in the world who profess faith in the true Christ. Together, we are the church – the saints who have gone before and all who confess Christ in the world. Although we are isolated as we practice “social” or physical distance, we are part of this great number. We do not take this journey alone, we cannot grow weary or lose heart!
Imagine the power of prayer and of faith in action around the world. I am heartened and encouraged by stories of courage, of generosity and faithful discipleship on the part of God’s people around the world. The writer of Hebrews claims that Jesus endured the cross and knew before hand the joy that was to come. Our work as disciples of Jesus Christ is to continue to run the race and look ahead with hope and joy. May it be so!
HYMN 772 Live Into Hope Jane Parker Huber
Live into hope of captives freed, of sight regained, the end of greed.
The oppressed shall be the first to see the year of God’s own jubilee!
Live into hope! The blind shall see with insight and with clarity,
Removing shades of pride and fear, a vision of our God brought near.
Live into hope of liberty, the right to speak, the right to be,
The right to have one’s daily bread, to hear God’s word and thus be fed.
Live into hope of captives freed from chains of fear or want or greed.
God now proclaims our full release to faith and hope and joy and peace.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
God of our lives, give us strength for the journey ahead. As we walk together, be a constant companion and inspiration for us. Keep us from moving too fast or too slow; keep us on the path towards the goals you have set before us. Show us your grace so that we shall not grow weary or stumble. We travel with the sure confidence of faith in you, and with eagerness for the work ahead. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.
MEDITATION ON HEBREWS 12:1-3
Every time I see a flock of birds soaring overhead, I think of Hebrews 12:1. That great cloud of witnesses surrounds us by the power of the Holy Spirit. In our Book of Confessions, we read in the Westminster Confessions of the universal and invisible church made up of those gathered under Christ; and the visible church made up of all those in the world who profess faith in the true Christ. Together, we are the church – the saints who have gone before and all who confess Christ in the world. Although we are isolated as we practice “social” or physical distance, we are part of this great number. We do not take this journey alone, we cannot grow weary or lose heart!
Imagine the power of prayer and of faith in action around the world. I am heartened and encouraged by stories of courage, of generosity and faithful discipleship on the part of God’s people around the world. The writer of Hebrews claims that Jesus endured the cross and knew before hand the joy that was to come. Our work as disciples of Jesus Christ is to continue to run the race and look ahead with hope and joy. May it be so!
HYMN 772 Live Into Hope Jane Parker Huber
Live into hope of captives freed, of sight regained, the end of greed.
The oppressed shall be the first to see the year of God’s own jubilee!
Live into hope! The blind shall see with insight and with clarity,
Removing shades of pride and fear, a vision of our God brought near.
Live into hope of liberty, the right to speak, the right to be,
The right to have one’s daily bread, to hear God’s word and thus be fed.
Live into hope of captives freed from chains of fear or want or greed.
God now proclaims our full release to faith and hope and joy and peace.
THURSDAY, March 26, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
SCRIPTURE READING
Luke 18:1-8
Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart. 2He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor had respect for people. 3In that city there was a widow who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Grant me justice against my opponent.’ 4For a while he refused; but later he said to himself, ‘Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone, 5yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will grant her justice, so that she may not wear me out by continually coming.’” 6And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? 8I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them. And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
MEDITATION ON Luke 18:1-8
“I never promised you a rose garden.” I remember Lynn Anderson singing this song in the early 70’s: “I beg your pardon, I never promised you a rose garden.” That idea always stayed with me, because so often we are promised that if we have faith, our lives will be easy and wonderful. How frustrating to realize that we have to deal with all the ‘stuff’ of life just like everyone else! I soon realized as an adult that faith means I do not have to deal with the turmoil and chaos of human living by myself. To “pray without ceasing”, as Paul writes to the Thessalonians, is acknowledge that prayer is part of the ongoing struggle.
In this parable Jesus encourages us to persevere, for we will endure and even be blessed by the grace of God. Be always hopeful and take heart. If you find hope difficult to sustain, remember this has been the experience of men and women of faith in every age If prayer seems like a struggle with little reward, know that the persistent attempt is in itself a prayer.
Each day gets us closer to the end of this pandemic. We have no idea how many days are ahead of us; what we do know is that we move through each day hoping for good news, hoping for health and hoping we have not been abandoned. As justice is quickly granted to those who cry to God day and night, so justice will come to God’s people now. We pray in confidence, we pray in hope. Let our eyes be fixed there – on a God who loves God’s people; in that is our hope and redemption. Do not lose heart.
HYMN 39 Great Is Thy Thankfulness Thomas Chisolm, 1923
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.
[Chorus]
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
[Chorus]
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
[Chorus]
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
SCRIPTURE READING
Luke 18:1-8
Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart. 2He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor had respect for people. 3In that city there was a widow who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Grant me justice against my opponent.’ 4For a while he refused; but later he said to himself, ‘Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone, 5yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will grant her justice, so that she may not wear me out by continually coming.’” 6And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? 8I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them. And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
MEDITATION ON Luke 18:1-8
“I never promised you a rose garden.” I remember Lynn Anderson singing this song in the early 70’s: “I beg your pardon, I never promised you a rose garden.” That idea always stayed with me, because so often we are promised that if we have faith, our lives will be easy and wonderful. How frustrating to realize that we have to deal with all the ‘stuff’ of life just like everyone else! I soon realized as an adult that faith means I do not have to deal with the turmoil and chaos of human living by myself. To “pray without ceasing”, as Paul writes to the Thessalonians, is acknowledge that prayer is part of the ongoing struggle.
In this parable Jesus encourages us to persevere, for we will endure and even be blessed by the grace of God. Be always hopeful and take heart. If you find hope difficult to sustain, remember this has been the experience of men and women of faith in every age If prayer seems like a struggle with little reward, know that the persistent attempt is in itself a prayer.
Each day gets us closer to the end of this pandemic. We have no idea how many days are ahead of us; what we do know is that we move through each day hoping for good news, hoping for health and hoping we have not been abandoned. As justice is quickly granted to those who cry to God day and night, so justice will come to God’s people now. We pray in confidence, we pray in hope. Let our eyes be fixed there – on a God who loves God’s people; in that is our hope and redemption. Do not lose heart.
HYMN 39 Great Is Thy Thankfulness Thomas Chisolm, 1923
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.
[Chorus]
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
[Chorus]
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
[Chorus]
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
For the night skies opening outwards star upon star, expanse after expanse, thanks be to you, O God. For the mystery of your presence in and beyond all that can be seen, thanks be to you, O God.
Guide me further into the inner universe of my soul, ever opening inwards, light upon light, new depth after new depth.
Guide me through strange and fearful spaces towards the place of your eternal dwelling and assure me again that in drawing closer to you I draw closer to the heart of every living being; that in drawing closer to you I approach the heart of life. Amen.
Celtic Benediction Morning and Evening Prayer J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING
Isaiah 60:17-22
17Instead of bronze I will bring gold, instead of iron I will bring silver; instead of wood, bronze, instead of stones, iron. I will appoint Peace as your overseer and Righteousness as your taskmaster. 18Violence shall no more be heard in your land, devastation or destruction within your borders; you shall call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise. 19The sun shall no longer be your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you by night; but the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. 20Your sun shall no more go down, or your moon withdraw itself; for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended. 21Your people shall all be righteous; they shall possess the land forever. They are the shoot that I planted, the work of my hands, so that I might be glorified. 22The least of them shall become a clan, and the smallest one a mighty nation; I am the Lord; in its time I will accomplish it quickly.
MEDITATION ON Isaiah 60:17-22
Chapters 60-62 are the heart of the third section of Isaiah (56-66). The community of returned exiles struggled to believe that God was still working in their midst The promises recorded in the second section of Isaiah during the exile (40-55) pointed to a great future for God’s people). They had regained possession of the land as promised. But they were barely existing. The community of God’s people was in no condition to be a light to the nations (42:5-7).
This portion of chapter 60 is a vision of what God will do for the people. It is difficult to imagine what it was like for the people to return to Jerusalem after over 70 years of living in Babylon. Babylon was a powerful city with resources and all the necessities for good living. Now the people return, and find themselves living in the ruins of the city. Even the temple is destroyed. Everything needs to be rebuilt, not only the city and the temple, but the flocks, crops, etc. for basic sustenance.
God is faithful, and promises that all will be renewed, all will be well. We need to hold on to that promise. We can also give thanks to God that we have places to shelter, food for the journey and a faith community that surrounds us with prayer and love.
HYMN 753 Make Me a Channel of Your Peace (Prayer of St. Francis)
Make me a channel of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me bring your love.
Where there is injury, your pardon Lord,
And where there’s doubt, true faith in you.
Make me a channel of your peace.
Where there’s despair in life, let me bring hope.
Where there is darkness, only light,
And where there’s sadness, ever joy.
O Master, grant that I may never seek
So much to be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love with all my soul.
Make me a channel of your peace.
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
In giving of ourselves that we receive,
And in dying that we’re born to eternal life
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
For the night skies opening outwards star upon star, expanse after expanse, thanks be to you, O God. For the mystery of your presence in and beyond all that can be seen, thanks be to you, O God.
Guide me further into the inner universe of my soul, ever opening inwards, light upon light, new depth after new depth.
Guide me through strange and fearful spaces towards the place of your eternal dwelling and assure me again that in drawing closer to you I draw closer to the heart of every living being; that in drawing closer to you I approach the heart of life. Amen.
Celtic Benediction Morning and Evening Prayer J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING
Isaiah 60:17-22
17Instead of bronze I will bring gold, instead of iron I will bring silver; instead of wood, bronze, instead of stones, iron. I will appoint Peace as your overseer and Righteousness as your taskmaster. 18Violence shall no more be heard in your land, devastation or destruction within your borders; you shall call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise. 19The sun shall no longer be your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you by night; but the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. 20Your sun shall no more go down, or your moon withdraw itself; for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended. 21Your people shall all be righteous; they shall possess the land forever. They are the shoot that I planted, the work of my hands, so that I might be glorified. 22The least of them shall become a clan, and the smallest one a mighty nation; I am the Lord; in its time I will accomplish it quickly.
MEDITATION ON Isaiah 60:17-22
Chapters 60-62 are the heart of the third section of Isaiah (56-66). The community of returned exiles struggled to believe that God was still working in their midst The promises recorded in the second section of Isaiah during the exile (40-55) pointed to a great future for God’s people). They had regained possession of the land as promised. But they were barely existing. The community of God’s people was in no condition to be a light to the nations (42:5-7).
This portion of chapter 60 is a vision of what God will do for the people. It is difficult to imagine what it was like for the people to return to Jerusalem after over 70 years of living in Babylon. Babylon was a powerful city with resources and all the necessities for good living. Now the people return, and find themselves living in the ruins of the city. Even the temple is destroyed. Everything needs to be rebuilt, not only the city and the temple, but the flocks, crops, etc. for basic sustenance.
God is faithful, and promises that all will be renewed, all will be well. We need to hold on to that promise. We can also give thanks to God that we have places to shelter, food for the journey and a faith community that surrounds us with prayer and love.
HYMN 753 Make Me a Channel of Your Peace (Prayer of St. Francis)
Make me a channel of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me bring your love.
Where there is injury, your pardon Lord,
And where there’s doubt, true faith in you.
Make me a channel of your peace.
Where there’s despair in life, let me bring hope.
Where there is darkness, only light,
And where there’s sadness, ever joy.
O Master, grant that I may never seek
So much to be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love with all my soul.
Make me a channel of your peace.
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
In giving of ourselves that we receive,
And in dying that we’re born to eternal life
Tuesday, MARCH 24, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
As I utter these prayers from my mouth, O God, in my soul may I feel your presence. The knee that is stiff O Healer make pliant. The heart that is hard, make warm beneath your wing. The wound that is giving me pain, O best of Healers, make whole. May my hopes and my fears find a listening place with you.
O great God, grant me your light. O great God, grant me your grace. O great God, grant me your joy this day and let me be made pure in the well of your love. Amen.
Celtic Prayers from Iona, J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING
Colossians 1:9-14
For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God. 11May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully12giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13He has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
MEDITATION ON Colossians 1:9-14
Our prayers of the people are spoken every Sunday. They are usually intercessory prayers. The Book of Common Worship says these prayers “we acknowledge God’s presence in the world and in daily life.” It goes on to say we prayer for the church universal, the world, all who have authority, and for those in need. “We pray for the world because God loves it. God created the world and cares for it”.
I remember learning as a child that prayers – these prayers in particular – should include adoration, thanksgiving, supplication and intercession. The writer of Colossians announces that his or her community will be praying without ceasing so that all may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, for spiritual wisdom and understanding. There is also a strong element of thanksgiving and adoration to God for all that is done for us.
So many pray in this time of uncertainty. We pray for the health of family and friends, for our daily needs, for those who are ill, for those who are spending incredibly long hours in medical care and the necessary jobs for our daily living.
This short passage from Colossians is a wonderful model for our prayers. Think about how you structure your prayers and remember to always give thanks
HYMN 795 Healer of Our Every Ill Marty Haugen
Refrain:
Healer of our every ill, light of each tomorrow,
Give us peace beyond our fear, and hope beyond our sorrow.
You who know our fears and sadness, grace us with your peace and gladness;
Spirit of all comfort, fill our hearts. (Refrain)
In the pain and joy beholding now your grace is still unfolding,
Give us all your vision, God of love. (Refrain)
Give us strength to love each other, every sister, every brother;
Spirit of all kindness, be our guide. (Refrain)
You who know each thought and feeling, teach us all your way of healing;
Spirit of compassion, fill each heart. (Refrain)
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
As I utter these prayers from my mouth, O God, in my soul may I feel your presence. The knee that is stiff O Healer make pliant. The heart that is hard, make warm beneath your wing. The wound that is giving me pain, O best of Healers, make whole. May my hopes and my fears find a listening place with you.
O great God, grant me your light. O great God, grant me your grace. O great God, grant me your joy this day and let me be made pure in the well of your love. Amen.
Celtic Prayers from Iona, J. Philip Newell
SCRIPTURE READING
Colossians 1:9-14
For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God. 11May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully12giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13He has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
MEDITATION ON Colossians 1:9-14
Our prayers of the people are spoken every Sunday. They are usually intercessory prayers. The Book of Common Worship says these prayers “we acknowledge God’s presence in the world and in daily life.” It goes on to say we prayer for the church universal, the world, all who have authority, and for those in need. “We pray for the world because God loves it. God created the world and cares for it”.
I remember learning as a child that prayers – these prayers in particular – should include adoration, thanksgiving, supplication and intercession. The writer of Colossians announces that his or her community will be praying without ceasing so that all may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, for spiritual wisdom and understanding. There is also a strong element of thanksgiving and adoration to God for all that is done for us.
So many pray in this time of uncertainty. We pray for the health of family and friends, for our daily needs, for those who are ill, for those who are spending incredibly long hours in medical care and the necessary jobs for our daily living.
This short passage from Colossians is a wonderful model for our prayers. Think about how you structure your prayers and remember to always give thanks
HYMN 795 Healer of Our Every Ill Marty Haugen
Refrain:
Healer of our every ill, light of each tomorrow,
Give us peace beyond our fear, and hope beyond our sorrow.
You who know our fears and sadness, grace us with your peace and gladness;
Spirit of all comfort, fill our hearts. (Refrain)
In the pain and joy beholding now your grace is still unfolding,
Give us all your vision, God of love. (Refrain)
Give us strength to love each other, every sister, every brother;
Spirit of all kindness, be our guide. (Refrain)
You who know each thought and feeling, teach us all your way of healing;
Spirit of compassion, fill each heart. (Refrain)
MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
For the morning light and its irresistible dawning, for your untamable utterances of life in the boundless stretches of space and in the strength of the waves of the sea, I give you thanks, o God.
Release in me the power of your Spirit that my soul may be free and my spirit strong. Release in me the freedom of your Spirit that I may be bridled by nothing but love, that I may be bridled by nothing but love. Amen.
Psalm 139
1O Lord, you have searched me and known me.
2You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from far away.
3You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.
4Even before a word is on my tongue, O Lord, you know it completely.
5You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.
6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it.
7Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence?
8If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.
9If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea,
10even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast.
11If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light around me become night,”
12even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you.
13For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well.
15My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16Your eyes beheld my unformed substance. In your book were written all the days that were formed for me, when none of them as yet existed.
17How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
18I try to count them—they are more than the sand; I come to the end—I am still with you.
19O that you would kill the wicked, O God, and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me--
20those who speak of you maliciously, and lift themselves up against you for evil!
21Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?
22I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies.
23Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.
24See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 139
In times of distress or anxiety, this psalm reassures us with its claim that this is God’s world. There is no where we can hide from God and that is good. God knows us so thoroughly, from the parts of who we are to our thoughts and desires. The psalmist is grateful that God is in charge and willing to acknowledge all that God has done and will do.
As we are confined to our homes or places of safety, our fears can seem to grow and become overwhelming. This psalm reminds us that God cares for each of us from the time we were formed in our mother’s womb through all of our lives. No one, no other person, knows us as thoroughly as God does.
We are invited into an intensely personal relationship with God, and yet this relationship is not exclusive. This invitation is extended to all humanity, and subsequently to all of us in our relationships with one another. Imagine looking at every human being knowing that God loves them and knows them with the intensity we hear from this psalm! Each human life is formed and known by God.
Our relationship with God is personal, but not necessarily private. We have a need to connect with others, especially knowing how each human is beloved by God. In this time of isolation, we can be grateful for our modern technology; send an email, make a phone call, gather together with others on various media to talk, pray and laugh. That will be a blessing to all of us!
HYMN 488 I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry John C. Ylvisaker
I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well
In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell.
When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong.
If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one,
I'll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk 'till rising sun.
In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young,
I'll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I've begun.
When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes,
I'll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise.
Refrain
was there to hear your borning cry,
I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized,
to see your life unfold.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
For the morning light and its irresistible dawning, for your untamable utterances of life in the boundless stretches of space and in the strength of the waves of the sea, I give you thanks, o God.
Release in me the power of your Spirit that my soul may be free and my spirit strong. Release in me the freedom of your Spirit that I may be bridled by nothing but love, that I may be bridled by nothing but love. Amen.
Psalm 139
1O Lord, you have searched me and known me.
2You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from far away.
3You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.
4Even before a word is on my tongue, O Lord, you know it completely.
5You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.
6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it.
7Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence?
8If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.
9If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea,
10even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast.
11If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light around me become night,”
12even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you.
13For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well.
15My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16Your eyes beheld my unformed substance. In your book were written all the days that were formed for me, when none of them as yet existed.
17How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
18I try to count them—they are more than the sand; I come to the end—I am still with you.
19O that you would kill the wicked, O God, and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me--
20those who speak of you maliciously, and lift themselves up against you for evil!
21Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?
22I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies.
23Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.
24See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 139
In times of distress or anxiety, this psalm reassures us with its claim that this is God’s world. There is no where we can hide from God and that is good. God knows us so thoroughly, from the parts of who we are to our thoughts and desires. The psalmist is grateful that God is in charge and willing to acknowledge all that God has done and will do.
As we are confined to our homes or places of safety, our fears can seem to grow and become overwhelming. This psalm reminds us that God cares for each of us from the time we were formed in our mother’s womb through all of our lives. No one, no other person, knows us as thoroughly as God does.
We are invited into an intensely personal relationship with God, and yet this relationship is not exclusive. This invitation is extended to all humanity, and subsequently to all of us in our relationships with one another. Imagine looking at every human being knowing that God loves them and knows them with the intensity we hear from this psalm! Each human life is formed and known by God.
Our relationship with God is personal, but not necessarily private. We have a need to connect with others, especially knowing how each human is beloved by God. In this time of isolation, we can be grateful for our modern technology; send an email, make a phone call, gather together with others on various media to talk, pray and laugh. That will be a blessing to all of us!
HYMN 488 I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry John C. Ylvisaker
I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well
In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell.
When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong.
If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one,
I'll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk 'till rising sun.
In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young,
I'll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I've begun.
When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes,
I'll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise.
Refrain
was there to hear your borning cry,
I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized,
to see your life unfold.
MARCH 22, 2020 LENT 4A
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY (based on Psalm 139)
All-knowing God, We gather together with praise and thanksgiving
for who You are, and for all that You have done for us.
You know us better than we know ourselves— all our thoughts and actions--
and yet You love us.
No matter where we go or what we do, Your love encircles us—ahead and behind— gently leading and guiding and blessing.
We praise You for Your love and Your faithful presence in our lives.
May Your Spirit move in our hearts and minds as we worship together—
examine our attitudes and actions, lay bare the things we need to confess,
challenge us with Your Word, and guide us on to paths that lead to life.
For we are Your people, called by Your name.
Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING
John 9:1-41
9As he walked along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him. 4We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work. 5As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on the man’s eyes, 7saying to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). Then he went and washed and came back able to see.
8The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar began to ask, “Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?” 9Some were saying, “It is he.” Others were saying, “No, but it is someone like him.” He kept saying, “I am the man.” 10But they kept asking him, “Then how were your eyes opened?” 11He answered, “The man called Jesus made mud, spread it on my eyes, and said to me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash.’ Then I went and washed and received my sight.” 12They said to him, “Where is he?” He said, “I do not know.”
13They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. 14Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. 15Then the Pharisees also began to ask him how he had received his sight. He said to them, “He put mud on my eyes. Then I washed, and now I see.” 16Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not observe the sabbath.” But others said, “How can a man who is a sinner perform such signs?” And they were divided. 17So they said again to the blind man, “What do you say about him? It was your eyes he opened.” He said, “He is a prophet.” 18The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight 19and asked them, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” 20His parents answered, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; 21but we do not know how it is that now he sees, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age. He will speak for himself.” 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews; for the Jews had already agreed that anyone who confessed Jesus to be the Messiah would be put out of the synagogue. 23Therefore his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.” 24So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and they said to him, “Give glory to God! We know that this man is a sinner.” 25He answered, “I do not know whether he is a sinner. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” 26They said to him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” 27He answered them, “I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?” 28Then they reviled him, saying, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. 29We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from.” 30The man answered, “Here is an astonishing thing! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. 31We know that God does not listen to sinners, but he does listen to one who worships him and obeys his will. 32Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” 34They answered him, “You were born entirely in sins, and are you trying to teach us?” And they drove him out.
35Jesus heard that they had driven him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36He answered, “And who is he, sir? Tell me, so that I may believe in him.” 37Jesus said to him, “You have seen him, and the one speaking with you is he.” 38He said, “Lord, I believe.” And he worshiped him.
39Jesus said, “I came into this world for judgment so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.” 40Some of the Pharisees near him heard this and said to him, “Surely we are not blind, are we?” 41Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now that you say, ‘We see,’ your sin remains.’
MEDITATION Do You See?
749 Come! Live in the Light!
Come! Live in the light!
Shine with the joy and the love of the Lord!
We are called to be light for the kingdom,
to live in the freedom of the city of God.
We are called to act with justice, we are called to love tenderly,
We are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.
Come! Open your heart!
Show your mercy to all those in fear!
We are called to be hope for the hopeless
So hatred and violence will be no more.
We are called to act with justice, we are called to love tenderly,
We are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.
Song! Sing a new song!
Sing of that great day when all will be one!
God will reign and we’ll walk with each other
As sisters and brothers united in love.
We are called to act with justice, we are called to love tenderly,
We are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
CHARGE AND BLESSING
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY (based on Psalm 139)
All-knowing God, We gather together with praise and thanksgiving
for who You are, and for all that You have done for us.
You know us better than we know ourselves— all our thoughts and actions--
and yet You love us.
No matter where we go or what we do, Your love encircles us—ahead and behind— gently leading and guiding and blessing.
We praise You for Your love and Your faithful presence in our lives.
May Your Spirit move in our hearts and minds as we worship together—
examine our attitudes and actions, lay bare the things we need to confess,
challenge us with Your Word, and guide us on to paths that lead to life.
For we are Your people, called by Your name.
Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING
John 9:1-41
9As he walked along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him. 4We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work. 5As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on the man’s eyes, 7saying to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). Then he went and washed and came back able to see.
8The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar began to ask, “Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?” 9Some were saying, “It is he.” Others were saying, “No, but it is someone like him.” He kept saying, “I am the man.” 10But they kept asking him, “Then how were your eyes opened?” 11He answered, “The man called Jesus made mud, spread it on my eyes, and said to me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash.’ Then I went and washed and received my sight.” 12They said to him, “Where is he?” He said, “I do not know.”
13They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. 14Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. 15Then the Pharisees also began to ask him how he had received his sight. He said to them, “He put mud on my eyes. Then I washed, and now I see.” 16Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not observe the sabbath.” But others said, “How can a man who is a sinner perform such signs?” And they were divided. 17So they said again to the blind man, “What do you say about him? It was your eyes he opened.” He said, “He is a prophet.” 18The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight 19and asked them, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” 20His parents answered, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; 21but we do not know how it is that now he sees, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age. He will speak for himself.” 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews; for the Jews had already agreed that anyone who confessed Jesus to be the Messiah would be put out of the synagogue. 23Therefore his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.” 24So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and they said to him, “Give glory to God! We know that this man is a sinner.” 25He answered, “I do not know whether he is a sinner. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” 26They said to him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” 27He answered them, “I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?” 28Then they reviled him, saying, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. 29We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from.” 30The man answered, “Here is an astonishing thing! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. 31We know that God does not listen to sinners, but he does listen to one who worships him and obeys his will. 32Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” 34They answered him, “You were born entirely in sins, and are you trying to teach us?” And they drove him out.
35Jesus heard that they had driven him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36He answered, “And who is he, sir? Tell me, so that I may believe in him.” 37Jesus said to him, “You have seen him, and the one speaking with you is he.” 38He said, “Lord, I believe.” And he worshiped him.
39Jesus said, “I came into this world for judgment so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.” 40Some of the Pharisees near him heard this and said to him, “Surely we are not blind, are we?” 41Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now that you say, ‘We see,’ your sin remains.’
MEDITATION Do You See?
749 Come! Live in the Light!
Come! Live in the light!
Shine with the joy and the love of the Lord!
We are called to be light for the kingdom,
to live in the freedom of the city of God.
We are called to act with justice, we are called to love tenderly,
We are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.
Come! Open your heart!
Show your mercy to all those in fear!
We are called to be hope for the hopeless
So hatred and violence will be no more.
We are called to act with justice, we are called to love tenderly,
We are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.
Song! Sing a new song!
Sing of that great day when all will be one!
God will reign and we’ll walk with each other
As sisters and brothers united in love.
We are called to act with justice, we are called to love tenderly,
We are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
CHARGE AND BLESSING
Here is a Toccata on the organ for today, Sunday, March 22nd. May the music lift your spirits and touch your heart through the grace of God.
SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Holy and Gracious God, you call us by name, Beloved One, and beckon us to follow you. May we do so through your grace.
Like a shepherd tending the flock you tend to our needs. Be present with those who struggle, suffer, are in pain or sorrow. Guide those who are lost, or filled with worry and fear. Protect those who are in harm’s way heal those who are ill, mend those who are broken, as only your love can.
God of peace, watch over those who lead us in our various governments and churches. Fill our leaders with wisdom, patience, insight, and mercy. Help them to lead with kindness and strength.
God of love, fill our hearts with the knowledge of You that we can turn from the distractions of life and be more like You. May we be agents of your compassion,
offering kindness to those we meet this day.
God of all blessings, we thank you for all the gifts of life. For your Son, our Savior, our great Good Shepherd, the one who stands at the gate of all life's challenges and joys, calling out to us in love.
Naming us, Beloved. Amen.
Rev. Terri C. Pilarsk
For all this, and more we pray.
Amen.
PSALM 23
1The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters;
3he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.
4Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me.
5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 23
Many of us can recite this psalm from memory – and probably in the King James translation. The familiar words evoke a variety of images for us: the beauty of ‘still waters’, the comforting presence of God in dark and difficult times, a feast set for us with overflowing dishes of the finest foods and drinks.
Because it is so familiar, I love to read other versions of it. One of my favorites is the hymn selection for today. The story is that Isaac Watts as a young boy was walking home from church with his father. He complained about the psalm settings; they were boring and difficult to sing. His father challenged him to do better with the settings of the psalms, and young Isaac Watts became one of the finest writers of psalms to be sung. His paraphrase of Psalm 23 is especially beautiful. When you have a chance, look his name up in the back of the hymnal so you can read some of his other works. My favorite line in this version is the last: no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.
We are separated from our church family. We know, though, that when we are able to return to gathering for worship, we will greet each other not as strangers or guests, but like family. Like children of God, coming home.
HYMN 803 My Shepherd Will Supply My Need Isaac Watts
My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his name.
In pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream.
He brings my wandering spirit back when I forsake his ways,
And leads me, for his mercy’s sake, in paths of truth and grace.
When I walk through the shades of death your presence is my stay;
One word of your supporting breath drives all my fears away.
Your hand, in sight of all my foes, does still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows; your oil anoints my head.
The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days;
O may your house be my abode, and all my works be praise.
There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come;
no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Holy and Gracious God, you call us by name, Beloved One, and beckon us to follow you. May we do so through your grace.
Like a shepherd tending the flock you tend to our needs. Be present with those who struggle, suffer, are in pain or sorrow. Guide those who are lost, or filled with worry and fear. Protect those who are in harm’s way heal those who are ill, mend those who are broken, as only your love can.
God of peace, watch over those who lead us in our various governments and churches. Fill our leaders with wisdom, patience, insight, and mercy. Help them to lead with kindness and strength.
God of love, fill our hearts with the knowledge of You that we can turn from the distractions of life and be more like You. May we be agents of your compassion,
offering kindness to those we meet this day.
God of all blessings, we thank you for all the gifts of life. For your Son, our Savior, our great Good Shepherd, the one who stands at the gate of all life's challenges and joys, calling out to us in love.
Naming us, Beloved. Amen.
Rev. Terri C. Pilarsk
For all this, and more we pray.
Amen.
PSALM 23
1The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters;
3he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.
4Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me.
5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long.
MEDITATION ON PSALM 23
Many of us can recite this psalm from memory – and probably in the King James translation. The familiar words evoke a variety of images for us: the beauty of ‘still waters’, the comforting presence of God in dark and difficult times, a feast set for us with overflowing dishes of the finest foods and drinks.
Because it is so familiar, I love to read other versions of it. One of my favorites is the hymn selection for today. The story is that Isaac Watts as a young boy was walking home from church with his father. He complained about the psalm settings; they were boring and difficult to sing. His father challenged him to do better with the settings of the psalms, and young Isaac Watts became one of the finest writers of psalms to be sung. His paraphrase of Psalm 23 is especially beautiful. When you have a chance, look his name up in the back of the hymnal so you can read some of his other works. My favorite line in this version is the last: no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.
We are separated from our church family. We know, though, that when we are able to return to gathering for worship, we will greet each other not as strangers or guests, but like family. Like children of God, coming home.
HYMN 803 My Shepherd Will Supply My Need Isaac Watts
My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his name.
In pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream.
He brings my wandering spirit back when I forsake his ways,
And leads me, for his mercy’s sake, in paths of truth and grace.
When I walk through the shades of death your presence is my stay;
One word of your supporting breath drives all my fears away.
Your hand, in sight of all my foes, does still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows; your oil anoints my head.
The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days;
O may your house be my abode, and all my works be praise.
There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come;
no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home.
FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Come to us today, O God, in the wonder of your love. Live in the secret places of our hearts where we have tried so hard to keep you out, those places where you know us as we really are. Fill us with your Spirit, and by your grace send us out into the mix of whatever this day will bring in order to show your compassionate and strengthening love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Mark H. Landfried
1 JOHN 5:14-21
14And this is the boldness we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made of him. 16If you see your brother or sister committing what is not a mortal sin, you will ask, and God will give life to such a one—to those whose sin is not mortal. There is sin that is mortal; I do not say that you should pray about that. 17All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that is not mortal.
18We know that those who are born of God do not sin, but the one who was born of God protects them, and the evil one does not touch them. 19We know that we are God’s children, and that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one. 20And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. 21Little children, keep yourselves from idols.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 54-21
If you listen to the news or read social media, you know that all kinds of information is available on how to defeat COVID -19. Our fears and uncertainties can lead us to read that we should drink water every 15 minutes, perhaps with bleach in it…not a good idea, and certainly not an effective response to the virus.
The writer of 1 John claims that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one. The temptation to give credence to all the claims about the virus is powerful. But the writer of 1 John goes on to write: 20And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. The alternative to fear and temptation and the lure of the evil one is to remember who we are, children of God, and who is always with us. Jesus is the incarnation of God and is Immanuel, God with us. This is our strength and our hope!
HYMN 465 What a Friend We Have in Jesus
What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit; o what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.
Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer!
Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge; take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he’ll take and shield thee; thou wilt find a solace there.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Come to us today, O God, in the wonder of your love. Live in the secret places of our hearts where we have tried so hard to keep you out, those places where you know us as we really are. Fill us with your Spirit, and by your grace send us out into the mix of whatever this day will bring in order to show your compassionate and strengthening love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Mark H. Landfried
1 JOHN 5:14-21
14And this is the boldness we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made of him. 16If you see your brother or sister committing what is not a mortal sin, you will ask, and God will give life to such a one—to those whose sin is not mortal. There is sin that is mortal; I do not say that you should pray about that. 17All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that is not mortal.
18We know that those who are born of God do not sin, but the one who was born of God protects them, and the evil one does not touch them. 19We know that we are God’s children, and that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one. 20And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. 21Little children, keep yourselves from idols.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 54-21
If you listen to the news or read social media, you know that all kinds of information is available on how to defeat COVID -19. Our fears and uncertainties can lead us to read that we should drink water every 15 minutes, perhaps with bleach in it…not a good idea, and certainly not an effective response to the virus.
The writer of 1 John claims that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one. The temptation to give credence to all the claims about the virus is powerful. But the writer of 1 John goes on to write: 20And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. The alternative to fear and temptation and the lure of the evil one is to remember who we are, children of God, and who is always with us. Jesus is the incarnation of God and is Immanuel, God with us. This is our strength and our hope!
HYMN 465 What a Friend We Have in Jesus
What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit; o what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.
Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer!
Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge; take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he’ll take and shield thee; thou wilt find a solace there.
Dear friends,
Here is the meditation for Thursday, March 19. It occurred to me that the hymn may not be familiar or you may not wish to sing it. Often the words of a hymn have such power; so I have included the words to the hymn at then end – it is the ‘closing prayer’ for our time together.
God bless,
Pastor Nancy
Here is the meditation for Thursday, March 19. It occurred to me that the hymn may not be familiar or you may not wish to sing it. Often the words of a hymn have such power; so I have included the words to the hymn at then end – it is the ‘closing prayer’ for our time together.
God bless,
Pastor Nancy
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, we look and we listen for a word from you that will give us courage, that will give us a point of view which is more than our own, that will give us strength for the journey, for however long the journey will be. Help us to walk faithfully not minding the far-off scene, but willing to take one step at a time. Amen.
Dr. Robert Young
1 JOHN 4:4-21
Little children, you are from God, and have conquered them; for the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5They are from the world; therefore what they say is from the world, and the world listens to them. 6We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us, and whoever is not from God does not listen to us. From this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
7Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. 10In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. 12No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us. 13By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.
14And we have seen and do testify that the Father has sent his Son as the Savior of the world. 15God abides in those who confess that Jesus is the Son of God, and they abide in God. 16So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them.
17Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness on the day of judgment, because as he is, so are we in this world. 18There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. 19We love because he first loved us. 20Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. 21The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 4:4-21
Each day we watch or listen to the news, waiting to hear that we are moving to the other side of the crisis of this pandemic. Instead, we hear of weeks, months of continued social distancing. We hear the reality that we do not have enough equipment in our hospitals, we do not have enough beds for the sick, and the medical staff is already worn out. The numbers of those who are testing positive for COVID-19 rises each day.
However, we also hear stories of amazing kindness, compassion and generosity. We can look at videos on social media of people in their homes providing music for us; we see joy and hope on faces in the midst of the unknown.
The verses in this passage from 1 John that speaks to me today are these:
17Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness on the day of judgment, because as he is, so are we in this world. 18There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. In the face of all that could frighten us, God’s love makes us bold to live, and to live well. God’s love is pervasive and will continue to surround us, embolden us and lift us up even when we are afraid. Know that we are loved!
HYMN 316 Where Charity and Love Prevail
Where charity and love prevail, there God is ever bound;
Brought here together by Christ’s love, by love we thus are bound.
Let us recall that in our midst dwells Christ, God’s holy Son.
As members of each body joined, in him we are made one.
Let strife among us be unknown; let all contentions cease.
Be God’s the glory that we seek; be his our only peace.
Let us forgive each other’s faults as we our own confess,
That we may love each other well in Christian gentleness.
Love can exclude no race or creed if honored be God’s name;
Our common life embraces all whose Maker is the same.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, we look and we listen for a word from you that will give us courage, that will give us a point of view which is more than our own, that will give us strength for the journey, for however long the journey will be. Help us to walk faithfully not minding the far-off scene, but willing to take one step at a time. Amen.
Dr. Robert Young
1 JOHN 4:4-21
Little children, you are from God, and have conquered them; for the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5They are from the world; therefore what they say is from the world, and the world listens to them. 6We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us, and whoever is not from God does not listen to us. From this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
7Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. 10In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. 12No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us. 13By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.
14And we have seen and do testify that the Father has sent his Son as the Savior of the world. 15God abides in those who confess that Jesus is the Son of God, and they abide in God. 16So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them.
17Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness on the day of judgment, because as he is, so are we in this world. 18There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. 19We love because he first loved us. 20Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. 21The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 4:4-21
Each day we watch or listen to the news, waiting to hear that we are moving to the other side of the crisis of this pandemic. Instead, we hear of weeks, months of continued social distancing. We hear the reality that we do not have enough equipment in our hospitals, we do not have enough beds for the sick, and the medical staff is already worn out. The numbers of those who are testing positive for COVID-19 rises each day.
However, we also hear stories of amazing kindness, compassion and generosity. We can look at videos on social media of people in their homes providing music for us; we see joy and hope on faces in the midst of the unknown.
The verses in this passage from 1 John that speaks to me today are these:
17Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness on the day of judgment, because as he is, so are we in this world. 18There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. In the face of all that could frighten us, God’s love makes us bold to live, and to live well. God’s love is pervasive and will continue to surround us, embolden us and lift us up even when we are afraid. Know that we are loved!
HYMN 316 Where Charity and Love Prevail
Where charity and love prevail, there God is ever bound;
Brought here together by Christ’s love, by love we thus are bound.
Let us recall that in our midst dwells Christ, God’s holy Son.
As members of each body joined, in him we are made one.
Let strife among us be unknown; let all contentions cease.
Be God’s the glory that we seek; be his our only peace.
Let us forgive each other’s faults as we our own confess,
That we may love each other well in Christian gentleness.
Love can exclude no race or creed if honored be God’s name;
Our common life embraces all whose Maker is the same.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
We praise you, O God, for the compassionate love we have seen in our Lord: That love that will not give up on us even when we do nothing except boast about our loyalty and then run away when the going gets rough; that love that forgives us and calls us to new life in your presence. Thank you, God. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
Mark H. Landfried
1 John 3:14-24
We know that we have passed from death to life because we love one another. Whoever does not love abides in death. 15All who hate a brother or sister are murderers, and you know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding in them. 16We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. 17How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? 18Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. 19And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him 20whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 21Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have boldness before God; 22and we receive from him whatever we ask, because we obey his commandments and do what pleases him.
23And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. 24All who obey his commandments abide in him, and he abides in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:14-24
Much of the news and the social media emphasizes the need to be especially protective of the elderly. My parents are sequestered in their house; one of my nieces shops for them and leaves their groceries, prescriptions, etc. outside the front door.
This passage from 1 John 3 focuses on loving one another. The question is asked, “How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?” Along with the elderly, we are beginning to realize other populations are also in precarious situations. Children are missing breakfast and lunch because of school closures, parents and spouses are losing patience while being sequestered at home.
This is an opportunity to realize we have lives of abundance; we have access to the world’s goods as well as to the strength and compassion that are gifts from God. Make some phone calls, send notes of encouragement, and share the abundance we have.
The writer of 1 John answers the question posed in verse 17: “Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.”
HYMN 754 Help Us Accept Each Other
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
We praise you, O God, for the compassionate love we have seen in our Lord: That love that will not give up on us even when we do nothing except boast about our loyalty and then run away when the going gets rough; that love that forgives us and calls us to new life in your presence. Thank you, God. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
Mark H. Landfried
1 John 3:14-24
We know that we have passed from death to life because we love one another. Whoever does not love abides in death. 15All who hate a brother or sister are murderers, and you know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding in them. 16We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. 17How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? 18Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. 19And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him 20whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 21Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have boldness before God; 22and we receive from him whatever we ask, because we obey his commandments and do what pleases him.
23And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. 24All who obey his commandments abide in him, and he abides in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:14-24
Much of the news and the social media emphasizes the need to be especially protective of the elderly. My parents are sequestered in their house; one of my nieces shops for them and leaves their groceries, prescriptions, etc. outside the front door.
This passage from 1 John 3 focuses on loving one another. The question is asked, “How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?” Along with the elderly, we are beginning to realize other populations are also in precarious situations. Children are missing breakfast and lunch because of school closures, parents and spouses are losing patience while being sequestered at home.
This is an opportunity to realize we have lives of abundance; we have access to the world’s goods as well as to the strength and compassion that are gifts from God. Make some phone calls, send notes of encouragement, and share the abundance we have.
The writer of 1 John answers the question posed in verse 17: “Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.”
HYMN 754 Help Us Accept Each Other
TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2020
Good morning, friends –
I hope you take time (10:00 am?) to pray with our faith family from 1st Presbyterian of Rockaway. The Prayer of the Day comes from Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship. There is a large section of prayers written by my father-in-law, Dr. Robert Young. He is my favorite preacher and has an amazing gift with words.
Stay safe and healthy and know that you are loved
Pastor Nancy
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Open our eyes that we might see that you are not far from any one of us. You are our God, our savior, our guide, our friend, our sure defense, our leader in troubles of life, our consoler in times of grief, our inspiration when we call for courage. O God of many names, of infinite attributes, be present to your people in time of need. Be thou our vision. Amen.
1 John 3:1-7
3See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. 3And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
4Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. 5You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 6No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has either seen him or known him. 7Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:1-7
This section of 1 John begins with the announcement that we are the children of God; it is not a vision or hope for the future, but a firm claim for the present. We are the children of God because of God’s love for us.
What does this mean? Paul writes in Romans 8:14, 16-17 that all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God… it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
We know that fulfillment will come, but the writer of 1 John emphasizes that we are God’s children now. Our present goal is to live into the model of Jesus, to do our best to be like Jesus. Will we be sinless? That is a contradicting tension in this text. Other biblical passages firmly claim our sinful nature. Perhaps that is the future vision we have as children of God – a time when we are transformed by the grace and forgiveness of God.
In the meantime – we are children of God. We have the gift of faith, the sure belief that God is with us and will remain with us. As we enter into this time of restructured living, hold fast to the presence of the God who has claimed us and loves us.
Good morning, friends –
I hope you take time (10:00 am?) to pray with our faith family from 1st Presbyterian of Rockaway. The Prayer of the Day comes from Let Us Pray Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship. There is a large section of prayers written by my father-in-law, Dr. Robert Young. He is my favorite preacher and has an amazing gift with words.
Stay safe and healthy and know that you are loved
Pastor Nancy
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Dear God, Open our eyes that we might see that you are not far from any one of us. You are our God, our savior, our guide, our friend, our sure defense, our leader in troubles of life, our consoler in times of grief, our inspiration when we call for courage. O God of many names, of infinite attributes, be present to your people in time of need. Be thou our vision. Amen.
1 John 3:1-7
3See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. 3And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
4Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. 5You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 6No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has either seen him or known him. 7Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous.
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:1-7
This section of 1 John begins with the announcement that we are the children of God; it is not a vision or hope for the future, but a firm claim for the present. We are the children of God because of God’s love for us.
What does this mean? Paul writes in Romans 8:14, 16-17 that all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God… it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
We know that fulfillment will come, but the writer of 1 John emphasizes that we are God’s children now. Our present goal is to live into the model of Jesus, to do our best to be like Jesus. Will we be sinless? That is a contradicting tension in this text. Other biblical passages firmly claim our sinful nature. Perhaps that is the future vision we have as children of God – a time when we are transformed by the grace and forgiveness of God.
In the meantime – we are children of God. We have the gift of faith, the sure belief that God is with us and will remain with us. As we enter into this time of restructured living, hold fast to the presence of the God who has claimed us and loves us.
MONDAY, MARCH 16, 2020
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Come to us today, O God, on the wonder of your love. Live in the secret places of our hearts where we have tried so hard to keep you out, those places where you know us as we really are. Fill us with your Spirit, and by your grace send us out into the mix of whatever this day will bring in order to show your compassionate and strengthening love. We pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Psalm 81
1Sing aloud to God our strength; shout for joy to the God of Jacob.
2Raise a song, sound the tambourine, the sweet lyre with the harp.
3Blow the trumpet at the new moon, at the full moon, on our festal day.
4For it is a statute for Israel, an ordinance of the God of Jacob.
5He made it a decree in Joseph, when he went out over the land of Egypt. I hear a voice I had not known:
6“I relieved your shoulder of the burden; your hands were freed from the basket.
7In distress you called, and I rescued you; I answered you in the secret place of thunder; I tested you at the waters of Meribah.
8Hear, O my people, while I admonish you; O Israel, if you would but listen to me!
9There shall be no strange god among you; you shall not bow down to a foreign god.
10I am the Lord your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide and I will fill it.
11“But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me.
12So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts, to follow their own counsels.
13O that my people would listen to me, that Israel would walk in my ways!
14Then I would quickly subdue their enemies, and turn my hand against their foes.
15Those who hate the Lord would cringe before him, and their doom would last forever.
16I would feed you with the finest of the wheat, and with honey from the rock I would satisfy you.”
1 John 3:1-73See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. 3And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
4Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. 5You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 6No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has either seen him or known him. 7Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:1-7
The three short letters that appear just before Revelation are thought to be written by the same author or a follower of the gospel of John.
1 John is written with two purposes in mind: to nurture and deepen the spiritual life of the followers of Jesus and to warn against heretical teachings. It was probably written around 100 AD. In those 100 years since the birth of Christ, there was an explosion of teachings in the middle east. It is possible that the writer of the John letters was especially concerned about a rising heresy, Docetism, that taught Jesus was a spirit and did not have an earthly body. The writer urges the readers to remain faithful to the teachings that have been shared since the beginning, and not to be swayed by wrongful heresies.
Like the gospel of John, the writer of 1 John contrasts light and darkness. Vs. 5: “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all.”
As we are separated from one another, these words from 1 John speak directly to us: “we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his son Jesus Christ.” (vs. 3)
In the darkness, God is our light. We are connected to one another by the power of the Holy Spirit and we are in fellowship
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Come to us today, O God, on the wonder of your love. Live in the secret places of our hearts where we have tried so hard to keep you out, those places where you know us as we really are. Fill us with your Spirit, and by your grace send us out into the mix of whatever this day will bring in order to show your compassionate and strengthening love. We pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Psalm 81
1Sing aloud to God our strength; shout for joy to the God of Jacob.
2Raise a song, sound the tambourine, the sweet lyre with the harp.
3Blow the trumpet at the new moon, at the full moon, on our festal day.
4For it is a statute for Israel, an ordinance of the God of Jacob.
5He made it a decree in Joseph, when he went out over the land of Egypt. I hear a voice I had not known:
6“I relieved your shoulder of the burden; your hands were freed from the basket.
7In distress you called, and I rescued you; I answered you in the secret place of thunder; I tested you at the waters of Meribah.
8Hear, O my people, while I admonish you; O Israel, if you would but listen to me!
9There shall be no strange god among you; you shall not bow down to a foreign god.
10I am the Lord your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide and I will fill it.
11“But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me.
12So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts, to follow their own counsels.
13O that my people would listen to me, that Israel would walk in my ways!
14Then I would quickly subdue their enemies, and turn my hand against their foes.
15Those who hate the Lord would cringe before him, and their doom would last forever.
16I would feed you with the finest of the wheat, and with honey from the rock I would satisfy you.”
1 John 3:1-73See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. 3And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
4Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. 5You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 6No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has either seen him or known him. 7Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as
MEDITATION ON 1 JOHN 3:1-7
The three short letters that appear just before Revelation are thought to be written by the same author or a follower of the gospel of John.
1 John is written with two purposes in mind: to nurture and deepen the spiritual life of the followers of Jesus and to warn against heretical teachings. It was probably written around 100 AD. In those 100 years since the birth of Christ, there was an explosion of teachings in the middle east. It is possible that the writer of the John letters was especially concerned about a rising heresy, Docetism, that taught Jesus was a spirit and did not have an earthly body. The writer urges the readers to remain faithful to the teachings that have been shared since the beginning, and not to be swayed by wrongful heresies.
Like the gospel of John, the writer of 1 John contrasts light and darkness. Vs. 5: “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all.”
As we are separated from one another, these words from 1 John speak directly to us: “we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his son Jesus Christ.” (vs. 3)
In the darkness, God is our light. We are connected to one another by the power of the Holy Spirit and we are in fellowship
First Presbyterian Church of Rockaway
35 Church Street, Rockaway, NJ 07866-3027
Phone: 973-627-1059 Fax: 973-983-0090
E-mail: office@fpcrockaway.org
Website: www.fpcrockaway.org
35 Church Street, Rockaway, NJ 07866-3027
Phone: 973-627-1059 Fax: 973-983-0090
E-mail: office@fpcrockaway.org
Website: www.fpcrockaway.org