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