Watchword for the Week
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down;
the Lord loves the righteous.
(Psalm 146:8)
(Moravian Daily Texts 2015)
ORGAN PRELUDE
WELCOME and CALL to WORSHIP
(Psalm 127)
Unless the LORD builds the house,
they labour in vain who build it.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the sentries stand guard in vain.
It is in vain to work so hard for a one’s bread,
getting up early and going to bed late.
For the LORD provides for those he loves
while they are asleep.
Children are a gift from the LORD;
and the fruit of the womb is a blessing.
The children of one’s youth
are like arrows in a soldier’s hand.
Happy is the one who has many such arrows.
Such a one will not be put to shame
when contending with enemies at the gate.
Hymn 184 * Sing to the Lord a joyful song
People’s Choice Hymns are marked with an asterisk (*)
PRAYER of ADORATION and CONFESSION
God of hope,
lead all who are vulnerable
to places of sanctuary
where life may be sustained
and hope may be found.
Bind us together in love
as a community of your people,
and strengthen us to serve you
in all we say and do.
O God, sometimes we cannot help but notice
those who give large gifts.
We want to treat them with deference;
we want to give them places of prominence.
There are times, too, when we scoff at those
who are not able to do as much or give as
much, making them feel as if their contributions
are somehow less in your sight.
Forgive us, God, when we are more concerned
with the size of the gift than with the size of the
heart that has offered it. Help us find ways to be
affirming of the gifts of others, and to seek ways
in which we can value all people.
In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
ASSURANCE of FORGIVENESS
When we turn to God in honest confession,
God smiles upon us. God dusts us off,
forgives us, and invites us to set yesterday aside
and embark into a new tomorrow.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
CHILDREN’S TIME
Hymn 174 God of great and God of small
SHARING GOD’S PEACE
(Children may go to the halls next door for Kids’ Church)
SCRIPTURE READINGS