This web page records the anthems and special music used during worship at St. Stephen Presbyterian Church.

Recent Services

September 5, 2010

Sermon Title: Getting the Healing We Need (Guest Preacher: Ed Peterson)

¹A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. ²So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. ³Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. ⁴Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. ⁵When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven." ⁶Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, ⁷"Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" ⁸Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, "Why are you thinking these things? ⁹Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, take your mat and walk'? ¹⁰But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...." He said to the paralytic, ¹¹"I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." ¹²He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, "We have never seen anything like this!"
Mark 2:1-12 (NIV)

Introit: My Tribute
Anthem: Lift Me Up

August 29, 2010

Sermon Title: Am I powerful or powerless? (Guest Preacher: Sam Knight)

¹Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, ²through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. ³Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; ⁴perseverance, character; and character, hope. ⁵And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. ⁶You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. ⁷Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. ⁸But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. ⁹Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! ¹⁰For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! ¹¹Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Romans 5:1-11 (NIV)

Introit: All Hail The Power of Jesus Name (Blue #143)
Anthem: Get All Excited

August 22, 2010

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Introit: I Love Him (A & A #26)
Anthem: It Was His Love

August 15, 2010

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Introit: I Have Decided To Follow Jesus (Little Red #203)
Anthem: From All That Dwell Below The Skies

August 8, 2010

Sermon Title: Anger: God's Warning Light!

⁸The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. ⁹He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; ¹⁰he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. ¹¹For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; ¹²as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. ¹³As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
Psalms 103:8-13 (NIV)

²⁶"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷and do not give the devil a foothold. ²⁸He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. ²⁹Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. ³⁰And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. ³¹Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. ³²Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:26-32 (NIV)

Introit: Psalm 103 (A & A #6)
Anthem: Make Me a Channel of Your Peace

August 1, 2010

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July 25, 2010

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July 18, 2010

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July 11, 2010

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July 4, 2010

Sermon Title: A delcaration of Independence

Mark 6:1-6

Special: God Bless The U.S.A. (Anthony Awtrey)

June 27, 2010

Sermon Title: Doing right for a loving God

¹King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold, ninety feet high and nine feet wide, and set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. ²He then summoned the satraps, prefects, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates and all the other provincial officials to come to the dedication of the image he had set up. ³So the satraps, prefects, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates and all the other provincial officials assembled for the dedication of the image that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up, and they stood before it. ⁴Then the herald loudly proclaimed, "This is what you are commanded to do, O peoples, nations and men of every language: ⁵As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. ⁶Whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace." ⁷Therefore, as soon as they heard the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp and all kinds of music, all the peoples, nations and men of every language fell down and worshiped the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. ⁸At this time some astrologers came forward and denounced the Jews. ⁹They said to King Nebuchadnezzar, "O king, live forever! ¹⁰You have issued a decree, O king, that everyone who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes and all kinds of music must fall down and worship the image of gold, ¹¹and that whoever does not fall down and worship will be thrown into a blazing furnace. ¹²But there are some Jews whom you have set over the affairs of the province of Babylon-Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego-who pay no attention to you, O king. They neither serve your gods nor worship the image of gold you have set up." ¹³Furious with rage, Nebuchadnezzar summoned Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. So these men were brought before the king, ¹⁴and Nebuchadnezzar said to them, "Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the image of gold I have set up? ¹⁵Now when you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes and all kinds of music, if you are ready to fall down and worship the image I made, very good. But if you do not worship it, you will be thrown immediately into a blazing furnace. Then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?" ¹⁶Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. ¹⁷If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. ¹⁸But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." ¹⁹Then Nebuchadnezzar was furious with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and his attitude toward them changed. He ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual ²⁰and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. ²¹So these men, wearing their robes, trousers, turbans and other clothes, were bound and thrown into the blazing furnace. ²²The king's command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, ²³and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. ²⁴Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, "Weren't there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?" They replied, "Certainly, O king." ²⁵He said, "Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods." ²⁶Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, "Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" So Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego came out of the fire, ²⁷and the satraps, prefects, governors and royal advisers crowded around them. They saw that the fire had not harmed their bodies, nor was a hair of their heads singed; their robes were not scorched, and there was no smell of fire on them. ²⁸Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king's command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.
Daniel 3:1-28 (NIV)

Introit: Fourth Man In The Fire
Anthem: Ye Shall Be Witnesses

June 20, 2010

Sermon Title: Try a little tenderness

2 Samuel 9:1-13

Introit: Softly and Tenderly (A & A #11)
Anthem: O Lord Most Holy

June 13, 2010

Sermon Title: We are all Saints and we are all sinners

Luke 7:36-50

Introit: The Savior Is Waiting (A & A #86)
Anthem: O The Glory of His Presense (Rainbow #95)

May 30, 2010

Sermon Title: TBD

Introit: We Know That Christ Is Raised (Blue #495)
Anthem: Battle Hymn of the Republic

June 6, 2010

Sermon Title: TBD

Introit: I Just Feel Something Good Is About To Happen
Anthem: Hymn of Promise

May 16, 2010

Sermon Title: Are Worship and Spirituality the Same Thing

³⁷On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. ³⁸Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." ³⁹By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.
John 7:37-39 (NIV)

Introit: I Will Worship You (A & A pg. 81)
Anthem: Living Water

May 23, 2010

Theme: Pentecost
Sermon Title: TBD

Introit: Come, Holy Spirit
Anthem: Ye Shall Be Witnesses

May 9, 2010

Sermon Title: My Momma Said

¹²"Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
Exodus 20:12a (NIV)

¹³You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. ¹⁴The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." ¹⁵If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. ¹⁶So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. ¹⁷For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. ¹⁸But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
Galatians 5:13-18 (NIV)

Introit: Mother's Day Hymn
Anthem: Great is Thy Faithfulness (Men Only) Offertory: Pauline will sing

May 2, 2010

Sermon Title: LISTENING IN THE SPIRIT

¹The boy Samuel ministered before the LORD under Eli. In those days the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions. ²One night Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he could barely see, was lying down in his usual place. ³The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was. ⁴Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, "Here I am." ⁵And he ran to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." But Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down." So he went and lay down. ⁶Again the LORD called, "Samuel!" And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me.My son," Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down." ⁷Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD: The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him. ⁸The LORD called Samuel a third time, and Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." Then Eli realized that the LORD was calling the boy. ⁹So Eli told Samuel, "Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, 'Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.'" So Samuel went and lay down in his place. ¹⁰The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening." ¹¹And the LORD said to Samuel: "See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle. ¹²At that time I will carry out against Eli everything I spoke against his family-from beginning to end. ¹³For I told him that I would judge his family forever because of the sin he knew about; his sons made themselves contemptible, and he failed to restrain them. ¹⁴Therefore, I swore to the house of Eli, 'The guilt of Eli's house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.'" ¹⁵Samuel lay down until morning and then opened the doors of the house of the LORD. He was afraid to tell Eli the vision, ¹⁶but Eli called him and said, "Samuel, my son." Samuel answered, "Here I am." ¹⁷"What was it he said to you?" Eli asked. "Do not hide it from me. May God deal with you, be it ever so severely, if you hide from me anything he told you." ¹⁸So Samuel told him everything, hiding nothing from him. Then Eli said, "He is the LORD; let him do what is good in his eyes." ¹⁹The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground. ²⁰And all Israel from Dan to Beersheba recognized that Samuel was attested as a prophet of the LORD. ²¹The LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, and there he revealed himself to Samuel through his word. ¹And Samuel's word came to all Israel.
1 Samuel 3:1-4:1a (NIV)

Introit: Praise (A & A #126)
Anthem: Here I Am, Lord

April 25, 2010

Sermon Title: ENDURANCE IN THE SPIRIT

¹⁰While Samuel was sacrificing the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to engage Israel in battle. But that day the LORD thundered with loud thunder against the Philistines and threw them into such a panic that they were routed before the Israelites. ¹¹The men of Israel rushed out of Mizpah and pursued the Philistines, slaughtering them along the way to a point below Beth Car. ¹²Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the LORD helped us." ¹³So the Philistines were subdued and did not invade Israelite territory again. Throughout Samuel's lifetime, the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines. ¹⁴The towns from Ekron to Gath that the Philistines had captured from Israel were restored to her, and Israel delivered the neighboring territory from the power of the Philistines. And there was peace between Israel and the Amorites. ¹⁵Samuel continued as judge over Israel all the days of his life. ¹⁶From year to year he went on a circuit from Bethel to Gilgal to Mizpah, judging Israel in all those places. ¹⁷But he always went back to Ramah, where his home was, and there he also judged Israel. And he built an altar there to the LORD. ¹When Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons as judges for Israel. ²The name of his firstborn was Joel and the name of his second was Abijah, and they served at Beersheba. ³But his sons did not walk in his ways. They turned aside after dishonest gain and accepted bribes and perverted justice. ⁴So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. ⁵They said to him, "You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have."
1 Samuel 7:10-8:5 (NIV)

Introit: He is King of Kings (Blue #153)
Anthem: My Spirit Longs For Thee

April 11, 2010

Sermon Title: JOY IN THE SPIRIT

⁹Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the LORD's temple. ¹⁰In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the LORD. ¹¹And she made a vow, saying, "O LORD Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head." ¹²As she kept on praying to the LORD, Eli observed her mouth. ¹³Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk ¹⁴and said to her, "How long will you keep on getting drunk? Get rid of your wine." ¹⁵"Not so, my lord," Hannah replied, "I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD. ¹⁶Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief." ¹⁷Eli answered, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him."
1 Samuel 1:9-17 (NIV)

Introit: I Come With Joy (Blue #507)
Anthem: Lift Me Up

April 4, 2010 (Easter)

Sermon Title: WHO MOVED THE STONE?

¹When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. ²Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb ³and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?" ⁴But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. ⁵As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. ⁶"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. ⁷But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" ⁸Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.
Mark 16:1-8 (NIV)

CANTATA!

April 4, 2010 (Sunrise)

Sermon Title: I'll Go First

¹"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. ²In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. ³And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. ⁴You know the way to the place where I am going." ⁵Thomas said to him, "Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?" ⁶Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. ⁷If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him."
John 14:1-7 (NIV)

No special music

April 1, 2010

Sermon Title: BENEATH THE CROSS

¹Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? ²He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. ³He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. ⁴Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. ⁵But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. ⁶We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
Isaiah 53:1-6 (NIV)

³²As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. ³³They came to a place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). ³⁴There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. ³⁵When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. ³⁶And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. ³⁷Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS. ³⁸Two robbers were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. ³⁹Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads ⁴⁰and saying, "You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!" ⁴¹In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. ⁴²"He saved others," they said, "but he can't save himself! He's the King of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. ⁴³He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, 'I am the Son of God.'" ⁴⁴In the same way the robbers who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him. ⁴⁵From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. ⁴⁶About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"--which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" ⁴⁷When some of those standing there heard this, they said, "He's calling Elijah." ⁴⁸Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. ⁴⁹The rest said, "Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him." ⁵⁰And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. ⁵¹At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. ⁵²The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. ⁵³They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus' resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people. ⁵⁴When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, "Surely he was the Son of God!"
Matthew 27:32-54 (NIV)

No special music

March 28, 2010

Sermon Title: WHO COULD BE AGAINST CHRIST?

³²They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. Again he took the Twelve aside and told them what was going to happen to him. ³³"We are going up to Jerusalem," he said, "and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will hand him over to the Gentiles, ³⁴who will mock him and spit on him, flog him and kill him. Three days later he will rise."
Mark 10:32-34 (NIV)

Introit: Hosana, O Annointed One
Anthem: The Palms

March 21, 2010

Sermon Title: FORGIVENESS – WHY?

¹¹Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. ¹²The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them. ¹³"Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. ¹⁴After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. ¹⁵So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. ¹⁶He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. ¹⁷"When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! ¹⁸I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. ¹⁹I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' ²⁰So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. ²¹"The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. ' ²²"But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. ²³Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. ²⁴For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. ²⁵"Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. ²⁶So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. ²⁷'Your brother has come,'he replied, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.' ²⁸"The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. ²⁹But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. ³⁰But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!' ³¹"'My son,' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. ³²But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.'"
Luke 15:11-32 (NIV)

Introit: Though I May Speak (Blue: #535)
Anthem: It was His Love

February 28, 2010

Introit: Give Your Best To The Master
Anthem: I Surrender All

February 21, 2010

Introit: Father, Protect Your Children (A & A #111)
Anthem: Come Peace of God

February 14, 2010

Introit: Down to Earth (Blue #300)
Anthem: Breathe of Me, Breath of God

February 7, 2010

Introit: Come To The Feast
Anthem: Great and Wonderful (Rainbow #27)

December 27th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 1st Sunday after Christmas Day (Year C)
Sermon Title: ""
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Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: ""
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

December 24th, 2009

Lectionary Day: Christmas Eve
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Choral Introit: ""
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December 20th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday of Advent (Year C)
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Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Light of Peace"
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December 13th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday of Advent (Year C)
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Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
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Hymn: "Creator of the Stars of Night" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

December 06th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday of Advent (Year C)
Sermon Title: ""
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Choral Introit: "O Come, O Come Emmanuel"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "In the Silence, Wondrous Love"
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Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

November 29th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 1st Sunday of Advent (Year C)
Sermon Title: ""
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Choral Introit: "Welcome Jesus" (A & A #83)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Above the Hills The Advent Light"
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Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

November 22nd, 2009

Lectionary Day: Christ the King (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
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Choral Introit: "Give Thanks, O Christian People" (Blue #55)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "We Gather Together"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

November 15th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

Choral Introit: "I Have Decided To Follow Jesus"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Brother James Air"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

November 8th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

Choral Introit: "Ethernal Father Stong To Save"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Just As I Am"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

November 1st, 2009

Lectionary Day: 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: ""
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

October 25th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "Bumps on the Road of Life"
Scripture:

⁷All this took place because the Israelites had sinned against the LORD their God, who had brought them up out of Egypt from under the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt. They worshiped other gods ⁸and followed the practices of the nations the LORD had driven out before them, as well as the practices that the kings of Israel had introduced. ⁹The Israelites secretly did things against the LORD their God that were not right. From watchtower to fortified city they built themselves high places in all their towns. ¹⁰They set up sacred stones and Asherah poles on every high hill and under every spreading tree. ¹¹At every high place they burned incense, as the nations whom the LORD had driven out before them had done. They did wicked things that provoked the LORD to anger. ¹²They worshiped idols, though the LORD had said, "You shall not do this." ¹³The LORD warned Israel and Judah through all his prophets and seers: "Turn from your evil ways. Observe my commands and decrees, in accordance with the entire Law that I commanded your fathers to obey and that I delivered to you through my servants the prophets."
II Kings 17:7-13 (NIV)

Choral Introit: "Go Down Moses" (Blue Hymnal #334)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Just As I Am"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

October 18th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "Lord, I want to talk to you"
Scripture:

¹⁶So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. ¹⁷For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. ¹⁸But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. ¹⁹The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; ²⁰idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions ²¹and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. ²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ²⁴Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. ²⁵Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
Galatians 5:16-26 (NIV)

Choral Introit: "I Want Jesus To Walk With Me" (Blue Hymnal #363)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Brother James Air (Breathe on Me Breath of God)"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

October 11th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "What makes life worth living"
Scripture:

¹As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. ²Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ³Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. ⁴There is one body and one Spirit--just as you were called to one hope when you were called-- ⁵one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. ⁷But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.
Ephesians 4:1-7 (NIV)

Choral Introit: "Jesus Paid It All"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "One Solitary Life"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

October 04th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "You will all fall away"
Scripture:

¹⁴When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. ¹⁵And he said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. ¹⁶For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God." ¹⁷After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, "Take this and divide it among you. ¹⁸For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes." ¹⁹And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me." ²⁰In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. ²¹But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table. ²²The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays him." ²³They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this. ²⁴Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. ²⁵Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. ²⁶But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. ²⁷For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. ²⁸You are those who have stood by me in my trials. ²⁹And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, ³⁰so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Luke 22:14-30 (NIV)

Choral Introit: "Sweet, Sweet Spirit"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Go Forth From This Place and Serve Him"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

September 27th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "Who's in charge here"
Scripture:

¹The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.
Proverbs 21:1 (NIV)

Choral Introit: "New Songs of Celebration Render"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "The Glory of His Presence"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

September 20th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

⁵When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds about them and said, "What have we done? We have let the Israelites go and have lost their services!" ⁶So he had his chariot made ready and took his army with him. ⁷He took six hundred of the best chariots, along with all the other chariots of Egypt, with officers over all of them. ⁸The LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, so that he pursued the Israelites, who were marching out boldly. ⁹The Egyptians--all Pharaoh's horses and chariots, horsemen and troops--pursued the Israelites and overtook them as they camped by the sea near Pi Hahiroth, opposite Baal Zephon. ¹⁰As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the LORD. ¹¹They said to Moses, "Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? ¹²Didn't we say to you in Egypt, 'Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians'? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!" ¹³Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. ³¹And when the Israelites saw the great power the LORD displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the LORD and put their trust in him and in Moses his servant.
Exodus 14:5-13, 31 (NIV)

Choral Introit: "Come Join The Celebration"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Clap Hands, Be Glad"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

September 13th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

⁶With what shall I come before the LORD and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? ⁷Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? ⁸He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:6-8 (NIV)

¹²From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. ¹³For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. ¹⁴And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come. ¹⁵He who has ears, let him hear. ¹⁶"To what can I compare this generation? They are like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling out to others: ¹⁷"'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.' ¹⁸For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon.' ¹⁹The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and "sinners." 'But wisdom is proved right by her actions."
Matthew 11:12-19 (NIV)

Choral Introit: "We Have Come Into His House" (A & A #95)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Go Forth and Tell"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

September 06th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

Choral Introit: "Quiet Place"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "As the Bridegroom to his chosen"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

August 30th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

Choral Introit: "We Have Come Into His House"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "We Bring Our Thanks"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

August 23rd, 2009

Lectionary Day: 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: ""
Scripture:

Choral Introit: "This Is My Prayer"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Sweet Hour of Prayer"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

August 16th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "People Make a Difference"
Scripture:

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."
Matthew 28:16-20 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "The Longer I Serve Him" (Little Red #95)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Morning Has Broken" (Red Hymnal #464)
Anthem: "Dwell In Me"
Hymn: "My Jesus, I Love Thee" (Red Hymnal #405)
Closing Hymn: "Amazing Grace" (Red Hymnal #275)

August 09th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "How do you Speak to God?"
Scripture:

¹A Prayer of David. Incline your ear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. ²Preserve my life, for I am devoted to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God; ³be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all day long. ⁴Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. ⁵For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call on you. ⁶Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; listen to my cry of supplication. ⁷In the day of my trouble I call on you, for you will answer me.
Psalms 86:1-7 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Lord, Speak to Me, That I May Speak" (Red Hymnal #298)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "He Leadeth Me" (Red Hymnal #338)
Anthem: "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High"
Hymn: "Blessed Assurance" (Red Hymnal #139)
Closing Hymn: "O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee" (Red Hymnal #304)

August 2nd, 2009

Lectionary Day: 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "A Picnic in the Storm"
Scripture:

¹⁷After hoisting it up they took measures to undergird the ship; then, fearing that they would run on the Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and so were driven. ¹⁸We were being pounded by the storm so violently that on the next day they began to throw the cargo overboard, ¹⁹and on the third day with their own hands they threw the ship's tackle overboard. ²⁰When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest raged, all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned. ²¹Since they had been without food for a long time, Paul then stood up among them and said, "Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and thereby avoided this damage and loss. ²²I urge you now to keep up your courage, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. ²³For last night there stood by me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship, ²⁴and he said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before the emperor; and indeed, God has granted safety to all those who are sailing with you.' ²⁵So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. ²⁶But we will have to run aground on some island." ²⁷When the fourteenth night had come, as we were drifting across the sea of Adria, about midnight the sailors suspected that they were nearing land. ²⁸So they took soundings and found twenty fathoms; a little farther on they took soundings again and found fifteen fathoms. ²⁹Fearing that we might run on the rocks, they let down four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come. ³⁰But when the sailors tried to escape from the ship and had lowered the boat into the sea, on the pretext of putting out anchors from the bow, ³¹Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." ³²Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat and set it adrift. ³³Just before daybreak, Paul urged all of them to take some food, saying, "Today is the fourteenth day that you have been in suspense and remaining without food, having eaten nothing. ³⁴Therefore I urge you to take some food, for it will help you survive; for none of you will lose a hair from your heads." ³⁵After he had said this, he took bread; and giving thanks to God in the presence of all, he broke it and began to eat. ³⁶Then all of them were encouraged and took food for themselves. ³⁷(We were in all two hundred seventy-six persons in the ship.) ³⁸After they had satisfied their hunger, they lightened the ship by throwing the wheat into the sea.
Acts 27:17-38 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Love Lived Me" (Little Red #185)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Worship the King" (Blue Hymnal #476)
Anthem: "Shine Through Me"
Closing Hymn: "We Gather Together" (Blue Hymnal #559)

July 26th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "First Fruits"
Scripture:

⁹Honor the LORD with your substance and with the first fruits of all your produce; ¹⁰then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
Proverbs 3:9-10 (NRSV)

¹Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness. ²Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?" ³Our God is in the heavens; he does whatever he pleases. ⁴Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands. ⁵They have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see. ⁶They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell. ⁷They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; they make no sound in their throats. ⁸Those who make them are like them; so are all who trust in them. ⁹O Israel, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield. ¹⁰O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield. ¹¹You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield. ¹²The LORD has been mindful of us; he will bless us; he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron; ¹³he will bless those who fear the LORD, both small and great. ¹⁴May the LORD give you increase, both you and your children. ¹⁵May you be blessed by the LORD, who made heaven and earth. ¹⁶The heavens are the LORD's heavens, but the earth he has given to human beings. ¹⁷The dead do not praise the LORD, nor do any that go down into silence. ¹⁸But we will bless the LORD from this time on and forevermore. Praise the LORD!
Psalms 115 (NRSV)

¹³Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I glorify my ministry ¹⁴in order to make my own people jealous, and thus save some of them. ¹⁵For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead! ¹⁶If the part of the dough offered as first fruits is holy, then the whole batch is holy; and if the root is holy, then the branches also are holy. ¹⁷But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, a wild olive shoot, were grafted in their place to share the rich root of the olive tree, ¹⁸do not boast over the branches. If you do boast, remember that it is not you that support the root, but the root that supports you. ¹⁹You will say, "Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in." ²⁰That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand only through faith. So do not become proud, but stand in awe.
Romans 11:13-20 (NRSV)

¹⁷Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. ¹⁸In fulfillment of his own purpose he gave us birth by the word of truth, so that we would become a kind of first fruits of his creatures. ¹⁹You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; ²⁰for your anger does not produce God's righteousness. ²¹Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. ²²But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. ²³For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; ²⁴for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. ²⁵But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act--they will be blessed in their doing. ²⁶If any think they are religious, and do not bridle their tongues but deceive their hearts, their religion is worthless. ²⁷Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
James 1:17-27 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: ""
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

July 19th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "How Do You Speak to God?"
Scripture:

¹A Prayer of David. Incline your ear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.
Psalms 86:1 (NRSV)

⁹He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: ¹⁰"Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. ¹¹The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, 'God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. ¹²I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.' ¹³But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner!' ¹⁴I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted."
Luke 18:9-14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: ""
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

July 12th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "How Does God Speak to You?"
Scripture:

¹To the leader. A Psalm of David. The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. ²Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. ³There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; ⁴yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, ⁵which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy. ⁶Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them; and nothing is hid from its heat. ⁷The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the LORD are sure, making wise the simple; ⁸the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eyes; ⁹the fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. ¹⁰More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb. ¹¹Moreover by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. ¹²But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults. ¹³Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. ¹⁴Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
Psalms 19 (NRSV)

¹Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, ²but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. ³He is the reflection of God's glory and the exact imprint of God's very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, ⁴having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. ⁵For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son; today I have begotten you"? Or again, "I will be his Father, and he will be my Son"? ⁶And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him." ⁷Of the angels he says, "He makes his angels winds, and his servants flames of fire." ⁸But of the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, and the righteous scepter is the scepter of your kingdom. ⁹You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions." ¹⁰And, "In the beginning, Lord, you founded the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands; ¹¹they will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like clothing; ¹²like a cloak you will roll them up, and like clothing they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years will never end." ¹³But to which of the angels has he ever said, "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet"? ¹⁴Are not all angels spirits in the divine service, sent to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?
Hebrews 1:1-14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: ""
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

July 05th, 2009

Lectionary Day: 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "Independence Day"
Scripture:

¹³For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. ¹⁴For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." ¹⁵If, however, you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another. ¹⁶Live by the Spirit, I say, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh. ¹⁷For what the flesh desires is opposed to the Spirit, and what the Spirit desires is opposed to the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, to prevent you from doing what you want. ¹⁸But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not subject to the law.
Galatians 5:13-18 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: ""
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

June 28, 2009

Lectionary Day: 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "Who's First?"
Scripture:

¹For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: ²a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; ³a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; ⁴a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; ⁵a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; ⁶a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away; ⁷a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; ⁸a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. ⁹What gain have the workers from their toil? ¹⁰I have seen the business that God has given to everyone to be busy with. ¹¹He has made everything suitable for its time; moreover he has put a sense of past and future into their minds, yet they cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. ¹²I know that there is nothing better for them than to be happy and enjoy themselves as long as they live; ¹³moreover, it is God's gift that all should eat and drink and take pleasure in all their toil. ¹⁴I know that whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it; God has done this, so that all should stand in awe before him.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-14 (NRSV)

¹"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. ²After agreeing with the laborers for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. ³When he went out about nine o'clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace; ⁴and he said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went. ⁵When he went out again about noon and about three o'clock, he did the same. ⁶And about five o'clock he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, 'Why are you standing here idle all day?' ⁷They said to him, 'Because no one has hired us.' He said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard.' ⁸When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, 'Call the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and then going to the first.' ⁹When those hired about five o'clock came, each of them received the usual daily wage. ¹⁰Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received the usual daily wage. ¹¹And when they received it, they grumbled against the landowner, ¹²saying, 'These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.' ¹³But he replied to one of them, 'Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? ¹⁴Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. ¹⁵Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?' ¹⁶So the last will be first, and the first will be last."
Matthew 20:1-16 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "All Things Bright and Beautiful"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Come, Labor On"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

June 21, 2009

Lectionary Day: 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "What is a Father?"
Scripture:

¹The LORD spoke to Moses, saying: ²Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them: You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy. ³You shall each revere your mother and father, and you shall keep my sabbaths: I am the LORD your God.
Leviticus 19:1-3 (NRSV)

¹⁶Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.
Deuteronomy 5:16 (NRSV)

¹Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ²"Honor your father and mother"--this is the first commandment with a promise: ³"so that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth." ⁴And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:1-4 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "How Deep the Father's Love For Us"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Be Thou My Vision"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

June 14, 2009

Lectionary Day: 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Sermon Title: "Judgement from a God of Love?"
Scripture:

¹The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD: ²"Come, go down to the potter's house, and there I will let you hear my words." ³So I went down to the potter's house, and there he was working at his wheel. ⁴The vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter's hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as seemed good to him. ⁵Then the word of the LORD came to me: ⁶Can I not do with you, O house of Israel, just as this potter has done? says the LORD. Just like the clay in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel. ⁷At one moment I may declare concerning a nation or a kingdom, that I will pluck up and break down and destroy it, ⁸but if that nation, concerning which I have spoken, turns from its evil, I will change my mind about the disaster that I intended to bring on it. ⁹And at another moment I may declare concerning a nation or a kingdom that I will build and plant it, ¹⁰but if it does evil in my sight, not listening to my voice, then I will change my mind about the good that I had intended to do to it. ¹¹Now, therefore, say to the people of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem: Thus says the LORD: Look, I am a potter shaping evil against you and devising a plan against you. Turn now, all of you from your evil way, and amend your ways and your doings. ¹²But they say, "Ituis no use! We will follow our own plans, and each of us will act according to the stubbornness of our evil will."
Jeremiah 18:1-12 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Are Ye Able"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Change My Heart O God" (Rainbow Book)
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

June 7, 2009

Lectionary Day: Trinity Sunday
Sermon Title: "Where's the Peace?"
Scripture:

⁴Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. ⁵Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. ⁶Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ⁹Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:4-7, 9 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "I've Got Peace Like a River" or "Father I Adore You"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "It is Well With My Soul"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

May 31, 2009

Lectionary Day:
Sermon Title: Who's First?
Scripture:

¹For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: ²a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; ³a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; ⁴a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; ⁵a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; ⁶a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away; ⁷a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; ⁸a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. ⁹What gain have the workers from their toil? ¹⁰I have seen the business that God has given to everyone to be busy with. ¹¹He has made everything suitable for its time; moreover he has put a sense of past and future into their minds, yet they cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. ¹²I know that there is nothing better for them than to be happy and enjoy themselves as long as they live; ¹³moreover, it is God's gift that all should eat and drink and take pleasure in all their toil. ¹⁴I know that whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it; God has done this, so that all should stand in awe before him.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-14 (NRSV)

¹"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. ²After agreeing with the laborers for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. ³When he went out about nine o'clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace; ⁴and he said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went. ⁵When he went out again about noon and about three o'clock, he did the same. ⁶And about five o'clock he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, 'Why are you standing here idle all day?' ⁷They said to him, 'Because no one has hired us.' He said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard.' ⁸When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, 'Call the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and then going to the first.' ⁹When those hired about five o'clock came, each of them received the usual daily wage. ¹⁰Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received the usual daily wage. ¹¹And when they received it, they grumbled against the landowner, ¹²saying, 'These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.' ¹³But he replied to one of them, 'Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? ¹⁴Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. ¹⁵Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?' ¹⁶So the last will be first, and the first will be last."
Matthew 20:1-16 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "I Love To Tell The Story"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

May 24, 2009

Lectionary Day:
Sermon Title: Freedom And Bondage
Scripture:

¹⁶One day, as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners a great deal of money by fortune-telling. ¹⁷While she followed Paul and us, she would cry out, "These men are slaves of the Most High God, who proclaim to you a way of salvation." ¹⁸She kept doing this for many days. But Paul, very much annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, "I order you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her." And it came out that very hour. ¹⁹But when her owners saw that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the authorities. ²⁰When they had brought them before the magistrates, they said, "These men are disturbing our city; they are Jews ²¹and are advocating customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to adopt or observe." ²²The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates had them stripped of their clothing and ordered them to be beaten with rods. ²³After they had given them a severe flogging, they threw them into prison and ordered the jailer to keep them securely. ²⁴Following these instructions, he put them in the innermost cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. ²⁵About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. ²⁶Suddenly there was an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened. ²⁷When the jailer woke up and saw the prison doors wide open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, since he supposed that the prisoners had escaped. ²⁸But Paul shouted in a loud voice, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here." ²⁹The jailer called for lights, and rushing in, he fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. ³⁰Then he brought them outside and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" ³¹They answered, "Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household."
Acts 16:16-31 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "People Get Ready"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Love Lifted Me"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

May 17, 2009

Lectionary Day:
Sermon Title: Seven Words That Will Change Your Life
Scripture:

¹Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, ²"The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; ³therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. ⁴They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. ⁵They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. ⁶They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, ⁷and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi.
Matthew 23:1-7 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Your Love Compels Me" (A & A #92)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Let Us Serve Him"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

May 10, 2009

Lectionary Day:
Sermon Title: A Mother~@~Ys Fears
Scripture:

¹³Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? ¹⁴But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, ¹⁵but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; ¹⁶yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame. ¹⁷For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God's will, than to suffer for doing evil. ¹⁸For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit, ¹⁹in which also he went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison, ²⁰who in former times did not obey, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, during the building of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were saved through water. ²¹And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you--not as a removal of dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, ²²who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him.
I Peter 3:13-22 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Have Thine Own Way Lord"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "At The Foot of the Cross"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

May 3, 2009

Lectionary Day:
Sermon Title: Wanting God More Than Anything
Scripture:

¹A Psalm of David, when he was in the Wilderness of Judah. O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. ²So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. ³Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. ⁴So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name. ⁵My soul is satisfied as with a rich feast, and my mouth praises you with joyful lips ⁶when I think of you on my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night; ⁷for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I sing for joy. ⁸My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.
Psalms 63:1-8 (NRSV)

⁶"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Matthew 5:6 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "My Spirit Longs For Thee" (Red Hymnal #321)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Bread of the World in Mercy Broken"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

April 26, 2009

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "Saved By Christ for Greatness"
Scripture:

³⁵James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." ³⁶And he said to them, "What is it you want me to do for you?" ³⁷And they said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." ³⁸But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" ³⁹They replied, "We are able." Then Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; ⁴⁰but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared." ⁴¹When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John. ⁴²So Jesus called them and said to them, "You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. ⁴³But it is not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, ⁴⁴and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. ⁴⁵For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many." ⁴⁶They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. ⁴⁷When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" ⁴⁸Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" ⁴⁹Jesus stood still and said, "Call him here." And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take heart; get up, he is calling you." ⁵⁰So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. ⁵¹Then Jesus said to him, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind man said to him, "My teacher, let me see again." ⁵²Jesus said to him, "Go; your faith has made you well." Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.
Mark 10:35-52 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "We Are The Servants Of The Lord"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

April 19, 2009

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "Looking Back at Easter"
Scripture:

¹To the leader. Of David. A Psalm. O 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. 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.
Psalms 139:1-5, 23-24 (NRSV)

²⁴But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. ²⁵So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe." ²⁶A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." ²⁷Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." ²⁸Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" ²⁹Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."
John 20:24-29 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Have Faith In God"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Have Faith In God"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

April 12, 2009

Lectionary Day: Easter

Musical Presentation: "In Christ Alone"

April 5, 2009

Lectionary Day: Palm Sunday
Sermon Title: "The Upper Room"
Scripture:

⁷Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. ⁸So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it." ⁹They asked him, "Where do you want us to make preparations for it?" ¹⁰"Listen," he said to them, "when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him into the house he enters ¹¹and say to the owner of the house, 'The teacher asks you, "Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?"' ¹²He will show you a large room upstairs, already furnished. Make preparations for us there." ¹³So they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal. ¹⁴When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him.
Luke 22:7-14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Hosanna, O Annointed One"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "The Palms"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

March 29, 2009

Lectionary Day: 5th Sunday in Lent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Is That Really in The Bible?"
Scripture:

¹⁰Now you have observed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, ¹¹my persecutions and suffering the things that happened to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. ¹²Indeed, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. ¹³But wicked people and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving others and being deceived. ¹⁴But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, ¹⁵and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. ¹⁶All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.
II Timothy 3:10-17 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Be Exalted" (Rainbow Book)
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

March 22, 2009

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday in Lent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Finding God's Peace"
Scripture:

³³I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!"
John 16:33 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Come, Thou Almighty King" (Blue Hymnal #139)
Anthem: "Blessed Quietness"
Hymn: "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Blue Hymnal #379)
Closing Hymn: "Precious Lord, Take My Hand" (Blue Hymnal # 404)

March 15, 2009

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday in Lent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Finding Peace in Forgiveness"
Scripture:

²²Yet you did not call upon me, O Jacob; but you have been weary of me, O Israel! ²³You have not brought me your sheep for burnt offerings, or honored me with your sacrifices. I have not burdened you with offerings, or wearied you with frankincense. ²⁴You have not bought me sweet cane with money, or satisfied me with the fat of your sacrifices. But you have burdened me with your sins; you have wearied me with your iniquities. ²⁵I, I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.
Isaiah 43:22-25 (NRSV)

²¹Then Peter came and said to him, "Lord, if another member of the church sins against me, how often should I forgive? As many as seven times?" ²²Jesus said to him, "Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times. ²³"For this reason the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his slaves. ²⁴When he began the reckoning, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him; ²⁵and, as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, together with his wife and children and all his possessions, and payment to be made. ²⁶So the slave fell on his knees before him, saying, 'Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.' ²⁷And out of pity for him, the lord of that slave released him and forgave him the debt. ²⁸But that same slave, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat, he said, 'Pay what you owe.' ²⁹Then his fellow slave fell down and pleaded with him, 'Have patience with me, and I will pay you.' ³⁰But he refused; then he went and threw him into prison until he would pay the debt. ³¹When his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. ³²Then his lord summoned him and said to him, 'You wicked slave! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. ³³Should you not have had mercy on your fellow slave, as I had mercy on you?' ³⁴And in anger his lord handed him over to be tortured until he would pay his entire debt. ³⁵So my heavenly Father will also do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother or sister from your heart."
Matthew 18:21-35 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "When Morning Gilds The Skies" (Red Hymnal #41)
Anthem: "Behold Now The Kingdom"
Hymn: "Tell Me The Stories of Jesus" (Red Hymnal #459)
Closing Hymn: "Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah" (Red Hymnal #339)

March 8, 2009

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday in Lent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Finding Peace in Conflict"
Scripture:

⁴Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. ⁵Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. ⁶Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ⁸Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. ⁹Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. ¹⁰I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. ¹²I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. ¹³I can do all things through him who strengthens me. ¹⁴In any case, it was kind of you to share my distress.
Philippians 4:4-14 (NRSV)

²⁵"I have said these things to you while I am still with you. ²⁶But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. ²⁷Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
John 14:25-27 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Peace Like a River"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Crown Him with many Crowns" (Blue Hymnal #151)
Anthem: "Come, Peace of God"
Hymn: "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" (Blue Hymnal #259)
Closing Hymn: "Great is Thy Faithfulness" (Blue Hymnal #276)

March 1, 2009

Lectionary Day: 1st Sunday in Lent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "That's Hard to Believe"
Scripture:

¹For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. ²Listen! I, Paul, am telling you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no benefit to you. ³Once again I testify to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obliged to obey the entire law. ⁴You who want to be justified by the law have cut yourselves off from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. ⁵For through the Spirit, by faith, we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. ⁶For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything; the only thing that counts is faith working through love. ¹²I wish those who unsettle you would castrate themselves! ¹³For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another.
Galatians 5:1-6, 12-13 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Great Day!" (Blue Hymnal #445)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Worship the King" (Blue Hymnal #476)
Anthem: "Freedom"
Hymn: "How Firm a Foundation" (Blue Hymnal #361)
Closing Hymn: "Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound" (Blue Hymnal #280)

February 22, 2009

Lectionary Day: Transfiguration of the Lord (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "How is Your Spiritual Health?"
Scripture:

⁷Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives' tales. Train yourself in godliness, ⁸for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
I Timothy 4:7-8 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Holy Christ In Light Transfigured"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Christ Is Our Corner-Stone"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

February 15, 2009

Lectionary Day: 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Being the Message"
Guest Preacher: Rev. John McCall
Scripture:

¹In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ²He was in the beginning with God. ³All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being ⁴in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. ⁵The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. ¹⁴And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth.
John 1:1-5, 14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Stir Your Church"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing" (Blue Hymnal #466)
Anthem: "Go Forth And Tell"
Hymn: "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind" (Blue Hymnal #345, v1-4)
Closing Hymn: "O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee" (Blue Hymnal #357)

February 8, 2009

Lectionary Day: 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Our Message Today"
Scripture:

¹⁴Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country. ¹⁵He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. ¹⁶When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read, ¹⁷and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: ¹⁸'The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, ¹⁹to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." ²⁰And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. ²¹Then he began to say to them, "Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." ²²All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth. They said, "Is not this Joseph's son?" ²³He said to them, "Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, 'Doctor, cure yourself!' And you will say, 'Do here also in your hometown the things that we have heard you did at Capernaum.'" ²⁴And he said, "Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the prophet's hometown. ²⁵But the truth is, there were many widows in Israel in the time of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, and there was a severe famine over all the land; ²⁶yet Elijah was sent to none of them except to a widow at Zarephath in Sidon. ²⁷There were also many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian." ²⁸When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with rage. ²⁹They got up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they might hurl him off the cliff. ³⁰But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way.
Luke 4:14-30 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Grace Like Rain"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Forever Blest Is He"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

February 1, 2009

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Jesus Center Stage"
Scripture:

²⁶While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." ²⁷Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; ²⁸for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. ²⁹I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom." ³⁰When they had sung the hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Matthew 26:26-30 (NRSV)

¹O sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. ²Sing to the LORD, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. ³Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples. ⁴For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; he is to be revered above all gods.
Psalms 96:1-4 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Singers Unto The Lord" (A & A # 20)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Open My Eyes That I May See" (Blue Hymnal #324)
Anthem: "A Jubilant Song"
Hymn: "Let Us Break Bread Together" (Blue Hymnal #513)
Closing Hymn: "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee" (Blue Hymnal #357)

January 25, 2009

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Faith without works is Dead - Part III"
Scripture:

⁴⁰"Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. ⁴¹Whoever welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet's reward; and whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive the reward of the righteous; ⁴²and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple--truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward."
Matthew 10:40-42 (NRSV)

¹The word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time, saying, ²"Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you." ³So Jonah set out and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly large city, a three days' walk across. ⁴Jonah began to go into the city, going a day's walk. And he cried out, "Forty days more, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!" ⁵And the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast, and everyone, great and small, put on sackcloth.
Jonah 3:1-5 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Hey Jonah"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "This Is My Prayer"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

January 18, 2009

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Faith without works is Dead - Part II"
Scripture:

¹Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian; he led his flock beyond the wilderness, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. ²There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire out of a bush; he looked, and the bush was blazing, yet it was not consumed. ³Then Moses said, "I must turn aside and look at this great sight, and see why the bush is not burned up." ⁴When the LORD saw that he had turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, "Moses, Moses!" And he said, "Here I am." ⁵Then he said, "Come no closer! Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground." ⁶He said further, "I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. ⁷Then the LORD said, "I have observed the misery of my people who are in Egypt; I have heard their cry on account of their taskmasters. Indeed, I know their sufferings, ⁸and I have come down to deliver them from the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey, to the country of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. ⁹The cry of the Israelites has now come to me; I have also seen how the Egyptians oppress them. ¹⁰So come, I will send you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt." ¹¹But Moses said to God, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" ¹²He said, "I will be with you; and this shall be the sign for you that it is I who sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God on this mountain."
Exodus 3:1-12 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Go Down Moses"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty" (Hymnal #482)
Anthem: "Holy Ground"
Hymn: "How Firm a Foundation" (Hymnal #361)
Closing Hymn: "O Jesus, I Have Promised" (Hymnal #388)

January 11, 2009

Lectionary Day: Baptism of the Lord (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Faith without works is Dead - Part I"
Scripture:

¹In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. ²Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. ³And one called to another and said: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory." ⁴The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke. ⁵And I said: "Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!" ⁶Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. ⁷The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: "Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out." ⁸Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I; send me!"
Isaiah 6:1-8 (NRSV)

¹⁴What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you? ¹⁵If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, ¹⁶and one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill," and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? ¹⁷So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. ¹⁸But someone will say, "You have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from your works, and I by my works will show you my faith. ¹⁹You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe--and shudder. ²⁰Do you want to be shown, you senseless person, that faith apart from works is barren? ²¹Was not our ancestor Abraham justified by works when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? ²²You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was brought to completion by the works. ²³Thus the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness," and he was called the friend of God. ²⁴You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. ²⁵Likewise, was not Rahab the prostitute also justified by works when she welcomed the messengers and sent them out by another road? ²⁶For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is also dead.
James 2:14-26 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Have I Done Any Good"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O For a Thousand Tongues To Sing" (Hymnal #466)
Anthem: "Lord, Here Am I"
Hymn: "Lead On, O King Eternal" (Hymnal #447)
Closing Hymn: "Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us With Your Love" (Hymnal #367)

January 4, 2009

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday after Christmas Day (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Jesus: Bread of Life"
Scripture:

³⁵Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. ³⁶But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. ³⁷Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and anyone who comes to me I will never drive away; ³⁸for I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. ³⁹And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. ⁴⁰This is indeed the will of my Father, that all who see the Son and believe in him may have eternal life; and I will raise them up on the last day."
John 6:35-40 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "I Love Him"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "To God Be The Glory" (Blue Hymnal #485)
Anthem: "Bread of the World in Mercy Broken"
Hymn: "Let Us Break Bread Together" (Blue Hymnal #513)
Closing Hymn: "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Blue Hymnal #379)

December 28, 2008

Lectionary Day: First Sunday After Christmas (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Christmas is Gone and so is Frosty"
Scripture:

⁷I will recount the gracious deeds of the LORD, the praiseworthy acts of the LORD, because of all that the LORD has done for us, and the great favor to the house of Israel that he has shown them according to his mercy, according to the abundance of his steadfast love. ⁸For he said, "Surely they are my people, children who will not deal falsely"; and he became their savior ⁹in all their distress. It was no messenger or angel but his presence that saved them; in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old.
Isaiah 63:7-9 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms" (Red Book #10)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

December 24, 2008

Outside Nativity Service
Lectionary Day: Christmas Eve (Year: B)

Hymn: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" (Verse #1)
Solo: "Breath of Heaven" (Georgia Rife)
Anthem: "Lo, The Beginning" (Choir)
Hymn: "O Little Town of Bethlehem" (Verse #1)
Hymn: "Away In A Manger" (Verse #1)
Hymn: "What Child Is This?" (Verse #1)
Hymn: "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks" (Verse #3)
Hymn: "We Three Kings" (Verse #1)
Hymn: "Silent Night" (Verse #1)

December 24, 2008

Sanctuary Candlelight Service
Lectionary Day: Christmas Eve (Year: B)

Hymn: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" (Blue Hymnal #9)
Hymn: "O Little Town of Bethlehem" (Blue Hymnal #44)
Hymn: "Away In A Manger" (Blue Hymnal #25, v1 & 2)
Hymn: "The First Noel" (Blue Hymnal #56, v1)
Hymn: "Angels From The Realms of Glory" (Blue Hymnal #22, v1 & 2)
Hymn: "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks" (Blue Hymnal #59, v1, 3 & 5)
Hymn: "Silent Night! Holy Night!" (Blue Hymnal #60)

December 21, 2008

Lectionary Day: Fourth Sunday in Advent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Tis A Gift To Be Simple"
Scripture:

²¹Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. ²²But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.
James 1:21-22 (NRSV)

¹⁸Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. ¹⁹Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. ²⁰But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. ²¹She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." ²²All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: ²³"Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel," which means, "God is with us." ²⁴When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, ²⁵but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus.
Matthew 1:18-25 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Simple Gifts"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Joseph's Song"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)

December 14, 2008

Lectionary Day: Third Sunday in Advent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Preparing for Christmas through Mary"
Scripture:

²⁶In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, ²⁷to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. ²⁸And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." ²⁹But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. ³⁰The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. ³¹And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. ³²He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. ³³He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." ³⁴Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" ³⁵The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. ³⁶And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. ³⁷For nothing will be impossible with God." ³⁸Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.
Luke 1:26-38 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "The Angel Gabriel"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" (Blue Hymnal #38)
Anthem: "Christmas Communion Song"
Hymn: "What Child Is This" (Blue Hymnal #53)
Closing Hymn: "O Little Town of Bethlehem" (Blue Hymnal #44)

December 7, 2008

Lectionary Day: Second Sunday in Advent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Christmas Communion Meditation"
Scripture:

¹¹Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we try to persuade others; but we ourselves are well known to God, and I hope that we are also well known to your consciences. ¹²We are not commending ourselves to you again, but giving you an opportunity to boast about us, so that you may be able to answer those who boast in outward appearance and not in the heart. ¹³For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. ¹⁴For the love of Christ urges us on, because we are convinced that one has died for all; therefore all have died. ¹⁵And he died for all, so that those who live might live no longer for themselves, but for him who died and was raised for them. 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.
II Corinthians 5:11-21 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Welcome, Jesus" (A & A #83)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Joy To The World" (Red Hymnal #161)
Anthem: "It Is Well With My Soul"
Hymn: "Let Us Break Bread Together" (Red Hymnal #447)
Closing Hymn: "While Shepherds Watched" (Red Hymnal #169)

November 30, 2008

Lectionary Day: First Sunday in Advent (Year: B)
Sermon Title: "Do you Hear what I hear?"
Scripture:

¹O that you would tear open the heavens and come down, so that the mountains would quake at your presence-- ²as when fire kindles brushwood and the fire causes water to boil--to make your name known to your adversaries, so that the nations might tremble at your presence! ³When you did awesome deeds that we did not expect, you came down, the mountains quaked at your presence. ⁴From ages past no one has heard, no ear has perceived no eye has seen any God besides you, who works for those who wait for him.
Isaiah 64:1-4 (NRSV)

¹In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ²"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." ³This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.'" ⁴Now John wore clothing of camel's hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. ⁵Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, ⁶and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. ⁷But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? ⁸Bear fruit worthy of repentance. ⁹Do not presume to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. ¹⁰Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ¹¹"I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. ¹²His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."
Matthew 3:1-12 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "O Come, O Come Emmanuel"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Prepare The Way"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

November 23, 2008

Lectionary Day: Christ The King Sunday (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Thanksgiving can change your life"
Scripture:

¹O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever!
Psalms 118:1 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Come Into His Presence"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Come Ye Thankful People Come" (Blue Hymnal #551)
Anthem: "Be Exalted"
Hymn: "Now Thank We All Our God" (Blue Hymnal #555)
Closing Hymn: "O Beautiful For Spacious Skys" (Hymnal #564)

November 16, 2008

Lectionary Day: 33th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Jesus says 'Just do it'"
Sermon Theme: TBD
Scripture:

⁵The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" ⁶The Lord replied, "If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you. ⁷"Who among you would say to your slave who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, 'Come here at once and take your place at the table'? ⁸Would you not rather say to him, 'Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink'? ⁹Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded? ¹⁰So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say, 'We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done!'" ¹¹On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. ¹²As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, ¹³they called out, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" ¹⁴When he saw them, he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were made clean. ¹⁵Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. ¹⁶He prostrated himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. ¹⁷Then Jesus asked, "Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? ¹⁸Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" ¹⁹Then he said to him, "Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well."
Luke 17:5-19 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "How Good Is The God We Adore"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "O Lord, Increase Our Faith"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

November 9, 2008

Lectionary Day: 32th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "The Cutting edge of Christian life"
Sermon Theme: TBD
Scripture:

²⁵I have heard what the prophets have said who prophesy lies in my name, saying, "I have dreamed, I have dreamed!" ²⁶How long? Will the hearts of the prophets ever turn back--those who prophesy lies, and who prophesy the deceit of their own heart? ²⁷They plan to make my people forget my name by their dreams that they tell one another, just as their ancestors forgot my name for Baal. ²⁸Let the prophet who has a dream tell the dream, but let the one who has my word speak my word faithfully. What has straw in common with wheat? says the LORD. ²⁹Is not my word like fire, says the LORD, and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?
Jeremiah 23:25-29 (NRSV)

¹²Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. ¹³And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.
Hebrews 4:12-13 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Surely The Presence"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty" (Hymnal #1)
Anthem: "More Precious"
Hymn: "Jesus Calls Us" (Hymnal #269)
Closing Hymn: "Sing them over again to me" (Hymnal #265)
Parting Words: "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" (Hymnal #78, Second tune)

November 2, 2008

Special Service: Installation Service For The Installation of Rev. Tom Evans
Sermon Title: "Did Jesus really want us to wash each others feet?"
Scripture:

¹I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, ²with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, ³making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. ⁴There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, ⁵one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all. ⁷But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ's gift. ¹¹The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, ¹²to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, ¹³until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. ¹⁴We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people's trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. ¹⁵But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, ¹⁶from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body's growth in building itself up in love.
Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16 (NRSV)

Opening Hymn of Praise: "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" (Hymnal #21)
Anthem: "Within These Walls"
Closing Hymn: "Lord, Speak to Me, That I May Speak" (Hymnal #298)

November 2, 2008

Lectionary Day: 31th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Some Assembly Required"
Scripture:

¹A Song of Ascents. Of David. I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD!" ²Our feet are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem. ³Jerusalem--built as a city that is bound firmly together. ⁴To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. ⁵For there the thrones for judgment were set up, the thrones of the house of David. ⁶Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you. ⁷Peace be within your walls, and security within your towers." ⁸For the sake of my relatives and friends I will say, "Peace be within you." ⁹For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good.
Psalms 122 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Welcome Into This Place"
Hymn of Praise: "It is Good to Sing Thy Praises" (Hymnal #20)
Anthem: "Where Two Or Three Are Gathered"
Hymn: "Beneath the Cross of Jesus" (Hymnal #190)
Closing Hymn: "I Am Thine, O Lord" (Hymnal #320)
Response: "Bless and keep you forever"

October 26, 2008

Lectionary Day: 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A) / Reformation Sunday
Sermon Title: "If God is For Us... We Win!"
Scripture:

²⁶Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. ²⁷And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. ²⁸We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. ²⁹For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. ³⁰And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified. ³¹What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? ³²He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else? ³³Who will bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. ³⁴Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. ³⁵Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ³⁶As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep to be slaughtered." ³⁷No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. ³⁸For I am convinced 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 8:26-39 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Day By Day" (A & A #128)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "The Church's One Foundation" (Hymnal #437)
Anthem: "Rise Up, O Church"
Closing Hymn: "For All The Saints" (Hymnal #)

October 19, 2008

Lectionary Day: 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Taking risks for the Gospel of Christ"
Pastor: Rev. Sam Knight
Scripture:

¹A Song of Ascents. To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens! ²As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, until he has mercy upon us. ³Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us, for we have had more than enough of contempt. ⁴Our soul has had more than its fill of the scorn of those who are at ease, of the contempt of the proud.
Psalms 123 (NRSV)

¹⁴"For it is as if a man, going on a journey, summoned his slaves and entrusted his property to them; ¹⁵to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. ¹⁶The one who had received the five talents went off at once and traded with them, and made five more talents. ¹⁷In the same way, the one who had the two talents made two more talents. ¹⁸But the one who had received the one talent went off and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master's money. ¹⁹After a long time the master of those slaves came and settled accounts with them. ²⁰Then the one who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five more talents, saying, 'Master, you handed over to me five talents; see, I have made five more talents.' ²¹His master said to him, 'Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.' ²²And the one with the two talents also came forward, saying, 'Master, you handed over to me two talents; see, I have made two more talents.' ²³His master said to him, 'Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.' ²⁴Then the one who had received the one talent also came forward, saying, 'Master, I knew that you were a harsh man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed; ²⁵so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.' ²⁶But his master replied, 'You wicked and lazy slave! You knew, did you, that I reap where I did not sow, and gather where I did not scatter? ²⁷Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and on my return I would have received what was my own with interest. ²⁸So take the talent from him, and give it to the one with the ten talents. ²⁹For to all those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. ³⁰As for this worthless slave, throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
Matthew 25:14-30 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "This Little Light of Mine"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise Ye The Lord, The Almighty, The King of Creation" (Hymnal #1)
Anthem: "O Church, Arise"
Hymn: "He Who Would Valiant Be" (Hymnal #345)
Closing Hymn: "He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought" (Hymnal #338)

October 12, 2008

Lectionary Day: 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Christian Perspective"
Pastor: Rev. Brenda K. Loyal
Scripture:

⁹Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. ¹⁰He will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the war horse from Jerusalem; and the battle bow shall be cut off, and he shall command peace to the nations; his dominion shall be from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth.
Zechariah 9:9-10 (NRSV)

¹When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples ²and said to them, "Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. ³If anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.'" ⁴They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it, ⁵some of the bystanders said to them, "What are you doing, untying the colt?" ⁶They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it. ⁷Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it; and he sat on it. ⁸Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. ⁹Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! ¹⁰Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!" ¹¹Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.
Mark 11:1-11 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Victory In Jesus"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Rejoice, Ye Pure In Heart" (Hymnal #407)
Anthem: "What The Lord Has Done In Me"
Closing Hymn of Response: "God of Grace, and God of Glory" (Hymnal #358)

October 5, 2008

Lectionary Day: 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Jesus Knows Spiritual Warfare"
Pastor: Rev. Brenda K. Loyal
Scripture:

¹⁶Live by the Spirit, I say, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh. ¹⁷For what the flesh desires is opposed to the Spirit, and what the Spirit desires is opposed to the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, to prevent you from doing what you want. ¹⁸But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not subject to the law. ¹⁹Now the works of the flesh are obvious: fornication, impurity, licentiousness, ²⁰idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, anger, quarrels, dissensions, factions, ²¹envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these. I am warning you, as I warned you before: those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. ²²By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, ²³gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. ²⁴And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another.
Galatians 5:16-26 (NRSV)

³⁶Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." ³⁷He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and agitated. ³⁸Then he said to them, "I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me." ³⁹And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want." ⁴⁰Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, "So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? ⁴¹Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." ⁴²Again he went away for the second time and prayed, "My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done." ⁴³Again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. ⁴⁴So leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words. ⁴⁵Then he came to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. ⁴⁶Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand."
Matthew 26:36-46 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Victory In Jesus"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Awake, My Sould, And With The Sun" (Hymnal #50)
Anthem: "The Battle Belongs To The Lord"
Closing Hymn: "In Christ There Is No East or West" (Hymnal #479)

September 28, 2008

Lectionary Day: 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Battle Armor Up Close & Personal"
Scripture:

¹⁴Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. ¹⁵As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace.
Ephesians 6:14-15 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Jesus, I Love You" (Rainbow Book #64)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "All Creatures of Our God and King" (Hymnal #100)
Anthem: "Be Strong In The Lord"
Closing Hymn: "God is Working His Purpose Out" (Hymnal #500)

September 21, 2008

Lectionary Day: 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Running the Race With Endurance!"
Scripture:

¹Therefore, 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.
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Ye Shall Be Witnesses" (A & A #68)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Morning Has Broken" (Hymnal #464)
Anthem: "We Are Surrounded"
Closing Hymn: "Have Thine Own Way, Lord" (Hymnal #302)

September 14, 2008

Lectionary Day: 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Identifying the Enemy"
Scripture:

¹⁰Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. ¹¹Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. ¹²For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.
Ephesians 6:10-13 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Psalm 103 (A & A #6)"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee" (Hymnal #21)
Anthem: "Ethernal Life"
Closing Hymn: "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling" (Hymnal #399)

September 7, 2008

Lectionary Day: 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year: A)
Sermon Title: "Are We Really at War?"
Scripture:

¹⁰Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. ¹¹Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. ¹²For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. ¹⁴Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. ¹⁵As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. ¹⁶With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. ¹⁸Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.
Ephesians 6:10-18 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "May This Be The Place" (A & A #17)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Amazing Grace, How Sweet The Sound" (Hymnal #275)
Anthem: "Dwell In Me"
Closing Hymn: "The Church's One Foundation" (Hymnal #)

August 31, 2008

Lectionary Day: 16th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Gifts For Growth and Unity"
Scripture:

³⁰you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.'
Mark 12:30 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Gracious God, Reveal Thy Will Unto Me"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Rise Up, O Church"
Offeratory: TBD
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

August 24, 2008

Lectionary Day: 15th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Shopping or Buying"
Scripture:

¹⁶Do not be deceived, my beloved. ¹⁷Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. ¹⁸In fulfillment of his own purpose he gave us birth by the word of truth, so that we would become a kind of first fruits of his creatures. ¹⁹You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; ²⁰for your anger does not produce God's righteousness. ²¹Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. ²²But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. ²³For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; ²⁴for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. ²⁵But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act--they will be blessed in their doing. ²⁶If any think they are religious, and do not bridle their tongues but deceive their hearts, their religion is worthless. ²⁷Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
James 1:16-27 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Be Doers of the Word of God" (handout)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Be Thou My Vision" (Hymnal #303)
Anthem: "Let Us Serve Him"
Hymn: "In The Hour Of Trial" (Hymnal #349)
Closing Hymn: "Jesus, The Very Thought of Thee" (Hymnal #401)
Response: refrain of "More Love To Thee" (Hymnal #397)

August 17, 2008

Lectionary Day: 14th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Spiritual Fitness #2"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁰Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. ¹¹Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. ¹²For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. ¹⁴Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. ¹⁵As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. ¹⁶With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. ¹⁸Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints. ¹⁹Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.
Ephesians 6:10-20 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Have I Done Any Good In The World Today" (handout)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Worship The King" (Hymnal #26)
Anthem: "God of Grace and God of Glory"
Hymn: "Tell Me The Old, Old Story" (Hymnal #403)
Closing Hymn: "Open My Eyes, That I May See" (Hymnal #390)
Response: refrain of "Tell Me The Old, Old Story"

August 10, 2008

Lectionary Day: 13th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Spiritual Fitness #1"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁵Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, ¹⁶making the most of the time, because the days are evil. ¹⁷So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. ¹⁸Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, ¹⁹as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, ²⁰giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²¹Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Ephesians 5:15-21 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "The Longer I Serve Him" (Red Book #95)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise The Lord, His Glories Show" (Hymnal #4)
Anthem: "Lord I Lift Your Name on High" (Rainbow Book)
Hymn: "Amazing Grace" (Hymnal #275)
Closing Hymn: "God of Grace and God of Glory" (Hymnal #358)
Response: refrain of "He Leadeth Me" (Hymnal #338)

August 3, 2008

Lectionary Day: 12th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Strong Cravings"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

⁶"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Matthew 5:6 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "TBD"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Let Us With A Gladsome Mind" (Hymnal #28)
Anthem: "Bread of the World in Mercy Broken"
Hymn: "If Thou But Suffer God To Guide Thee" (Hymnal #344)
Closing Hymn: "How Firm A Foundation" (Hymnal #369)
Response: refrain of "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Hymnal #368)

July 27, 2008

Lectionary Day: 11th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Persever Through Prayer"
Sermon Theme: God sustains us in relationship through the power of prayer.
Scripture:

²⁶Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. ²⁷And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. ²⁸We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. ²⁹For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. ³⁰And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified. ³¹What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? ³²He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else? ³³Who will bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. ³⁴Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. ³⁵Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ³⁶As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep to be slaughtered." ³⁷No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. ³⁸For I am convinced 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 8:26-39 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "What a Friend We Have In Jesus"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O God, Our Help In Ages Past" (Hymnal #111)
Anthem: "Sweet Hour of Prayer"
Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine" (Hymnal #139)
Response: refrain of "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine"

July 20, 2008

Lectionary Day: 10th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "When Good is Not Good"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁵I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. ¹⁶Now if I do what I do not want, I agree that the law is good. ¹⁷But in fact it is no longer I that do it, but sin that dwells within me. ¹⁸For I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot do it. ¹⁹For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do. ²⁰Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I that do it, but sin that dwells within me. ²¹So I find it to be a law that when I want to do what is good, evil lies close at hand. ²²For I delight in the law of God in my inmost self, ²³but I see in my members another law at war with the law of my mind, making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. ²⁴Wretched man that I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? ²⁵Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with my mind I am a slave to the law of God, but with my flesh I am a slave to the law of sin.
Romans 7:15-25 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Help My Unbelief"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "My Faith Looks Up To Thee"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

July 13, 2008

Lectionary Day: 9th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "The Messiah Who Cares About Feet"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. ²The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon Iscariot to betray him. And during supper ³Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, ⁴got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. ⁵Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. ⁶He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" ⁷Jesus answered, "You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand." ⁸Peter said to him, "You will never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no share with me." ⁹Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!" ¹⁰Jesus said to him, "One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you." ¹¹For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason he said, "Not all of you are clean." ¹²After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? ¹³You call me Teacher and Lord--and you are right, for that is what I am. ¹⁴So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. ¹⁵For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. ¹⁶Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. ¹⁷If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.
John 13:1-17 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "How Beautiful Are The Feet of Them"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "For The Beauty of the Earth" (Hymnal #2)
Anthem: "Standing on the Promises"
Hymn: "Take Thou Our Minds, Dear Lord" (Hymnal #306)
Closing Hymn: "Rise Up, O Men of God" (Hymnal #352)
Response: refrain of "I Love to Tell The Story" (Hymnal #383)

July 6, 2008

Lectionary Day: 8th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Worship the God Who Is Able"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁴For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, ¹⁵from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name. ¹⁶I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, ¹⁷and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. ¹⁸I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, ¹⁹and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. ²⁰Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, ²¹to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 3:14-21 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "It Is Well With My Soul"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Beautiful For Spacious Skies" (Hymnal #510)
Anthem: "I Know Whom I Have Believed"
Hymn: "Here, O Lord, I See Thee Face To Face" (Hymnal #442)
Closing Hymn: "Be Still My Soul" (Hymnal #374)
Response: "Let There Be Peace on Earth"

June 29, 2008

Lectionary Day: 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "Every Reason To Laugh"
Sermon Theme: Faith is not individual - it is communal. One of the first and best Gifts God gives us is each other.
Scripture:

¹After these things God tested Abraham. He said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am." ²He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains that I shall show you." ³So Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and his son Isaac; he cut the wood for the burnt offering, and set out and went to the place in the distance that God had shown him. ⁴On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place far away. ⁵Then Abraham said to his young men, "Stay here with the donkey; the boy and I will go over there; we will worship, and then we will come back to you." ⁶Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. So the two of them walked on together. ⁷Isaac said to his father Abraham, "Father!" And he said, "Here I am, my son." He said, "The fire and the wood are here, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" ⁸Abraham said, "God himself will provide the lamb for a burnt offering, my son." So the two of them walked on together. ⁹When they came to the place that God had shown him, Abraham built an altar there and laid the wood in order. He bound his son Isaac, and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. ¹⁰Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to kill his son. ¹¹But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven, and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am." ¹²He said, "Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me." ¹³And Abraham looked up and saw a ram, caught in a thicket by its horns. Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son. ¹⁴So Abraham called that place "The LORD will provide"; as it is said to this day, "On the mount of the LORD it shall be provided."
Genesis 22:1-14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Father, Protect Your Children" (A & A #111)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "It is Good To Sing Thy Praises" (Hymnal #20)
Anthem: "Offertory"
Hymn Sing Sunday
Closing Hymn: "Jesus Calls Us" (Hymnal #269)
Response: refrain of "He Leadeth Me" (Hymnal #338)

June 22, 2008

Lectionary Day: 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "The Father’s Example" (pulpit supply: Rev. Brenda Loyal)
Sermon Theme: When worship is over, the service begins.
Scripture:

¹Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, ²and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. ³But fornication and impurity of any kind, or greed, must not even be mentioned among you, as is proper among saints. ⁴Entirely out of place is obscene, silly, and vulgar talk; but instead, let there be thanksgiving. ⁵Be sure of this, that no fornicator or impure person, or one who is greedy (that is, an idolater), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. ⁶Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes on those who are disobedient. ⁷Therefore do not be associated with them. ⁸For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light-- ⁹for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true. ¹⁰Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. ¹¹Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. ¹²For it is shameful even to mention what such people do secretly; ¹³but everything exposed by the light becomes visible, ¹⁴for everything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, "Sleeper, awake! Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." ¹⁵Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, ¹⁶making the most of the time, because the days are evil. ¹⁷So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. ¹⁸Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, ¹⁹as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, ²⁰giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 5:1-20 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Victory In Jesus" (A & A #55)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven" (Hymnal #31)
Anthem: "A Jubilant Song"
Hymn: "Come, Labor On" (Hymnal #287)
Closing Hymn: "God of Grace and God of Glory" (Hymnal #358)
Response: refrain of ""

June 15, 2008

Lectionary Day: 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "The Twelve"
Sermon Theme: We are called to be disciples in our own time and place.
Scripture:

¹Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness. ²These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon, also known as Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; ³Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; ⁴Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed him. ⁵These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: "Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, ⁶but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. ⁷As you go, proclaim the good news, 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.' ⁸Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment.
Matthew 10:1-8 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "This Kingdom" (CCLI Printout)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Faith of Our Fathers" (Hymnal #348)
Anthem: "If God Is Building When We Build"
Hymn: "Onward, Christian Soldiers" (Hymnal #350)
Closing Hymn: "A Charge To Keep I Have" (Hymnal #301)
Response: refrain of "Jesus is Tenderly Calling" (Hymnal #267)

June 8, 2008

Lectionary Day: 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "All Are Welcomed"
Sermon Theme: We welcome others in the name of the one who welcomed us.
Scripture:

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." ¹⁸While he was saying these things to them, suddenly a leader of the synagogue came in and knelt before him, saying, "My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live." ¹⁹And Jesus got up and followed him, with his disciples. ²⁰Then suddenly a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his cloak, ²¹for she said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be made well." ²²Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, "Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well." And instantly the woman was made well. ²³When Jesus came to the leader's house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, ²⁴he said, "Go away; for the girl is not dead but sleeping." And they laughed at him. ²⁵But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. ²⁶And the report of this spread throughout that district.
Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "He Touched Me" (Red Book #20)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty" (Hymnal #40)
Anthem: "I Have Felt The Touch of God"
Hymn: "O Master Let Me Walk With Thee" (Hymnal #304)
Closing Hymn: "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling" (Hymnal #399)
Response: refrain of "Take The Name Of Jesus" (Hymnal #411)

June 1, 2008

Lectionary Day: 9th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "God's Kingdom"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

²⁴He put before them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; ²⁵but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. ²⁶So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. ²⁷And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?' ²⁸He answered, 'An enemy has done this.' The slaves said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?' ²⁹But he replied, 'No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. ³⁰Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.'" ³¹He put before them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; ³²it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches." ³³He told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened." ³⁴Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables; without a parable he told them nothing.
Matthew 13:24-34 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "In The Garden" (Redbook #20)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "God Himself Is With Us" (Hymnal #13)
Anthem: "Consider the Lilies"
Hymn: "Praise Ye The Lord, The Almighty" (Hymnal #1)
Closing Hymn: "I Love Thy Kingdom Lord" (Hymnal #435)
Response: refrain of "Take The Name of Jesus" (Hymnal #411)

h2>May 25, 2008

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Faith Beyond Worries"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

²⁴"No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth. ²⁵"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? ²⁶Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? ²⁷And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? ²⁸And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, ²⁹yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. ³⁰But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you--you of little faith? ³¹Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear?' ³²For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. ³³But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴"So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today.
Matthew 6:24-34 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "His Eye Is On The Sparrow"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "My Country, Tis of Thee" (Hymnal #513)
Anthem: "We Bring Our Thanks"
Hymn: Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Jesus, Keep Me Near The Cross" (Hymnal #376)
Response: Refrain of "Jesus, Keep Me Near The Cross"

May 18, 2008

Lectionary Day: Trinity Sunday
Sermon Title: "On the 8th Day of Creation"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, ²the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters. ³Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. ⁴And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.
Genesis 1:1-5 (NRSV)

¹¹Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. ¹²Greet one another with a holy kiss. ¹³All the saints greet you. ¹⁴The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.
II Corinthians 13:11-14 (NRSV)

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."
Matthew 28:16-20 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Praise Ye The Triune God" (A & A #99)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Holy, Holy Holy!" (Hymnal #11)
Anthem: "Live a Life of Praise"
Hymn: "Come, Thou Almighty King" (Hymnal #244)
Closing Hymn: "On Our Way Rejoicing" (Hymnal #80)
Response: Refrain of "On Our Way Rejoicing"

May 11, 2008

Lectionary Day: Pentecost Sunday
Sermon Title: "Come Holy Spirit"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. ²And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. ³Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. ⁴All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability. ⁵Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. ⁶And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. ⁷Amazed and astonished, they asked, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? ⁸And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? ⁹Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, ¹⁰Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, ¹¹Cretans and Arabs--in our own languages we hear them speaking about God's deeds of power." ¹²All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, "What does this mean?" ¹³But others sneered and said, "They are filled with new wine." ¹⁴But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, "Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. ¹⁵Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o'clock in the morning. ¹⁶No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: ¹⁷'In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. ¹⁸Even upon my slaves, both men and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy. ¹⁹And I will show portents in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and smoky mist. ²⁰The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the coming of the Lord's great and glorious day. ²¹Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.'
Acts 2:1-21 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Ye Shall Be Witnesses" or "A Prayer for Pentecost" from (A & A)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Breathe On Me Breath of God" (Hymnal #235)
Anthem: "Breath on Me, Breath of God"
Special: A Pentecost Drama
Closing Hymn: "Seal Us, O Holy Spirit" (Hymnal #238)
Response: refrain of "Seal Us, O Holy Spririt"

May 4, 2008

Lectionary Day: 7th Sunday After Easter
Sermon Title: "The Habit of Prayer"
Sermon Theme: Like the disciples of old, devote your self to prayer, awaiting what God will do next.
Scripture:

⁶So when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?" ⁷He replied, "It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. ⁸But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." ⁹When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. ¹⁰While he was going and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them. ¹¹They said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven." ¹²Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a sabbath day's journey away. ¹³When they had entered the city, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying, Peter, and John, and James, and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. ¹⁴All these were constantly devoting themselves to prayer, together with certain women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, as well as his brothers.
Acts 1:6-14 (NRSV)

¹After Jesus had spoken these words, he looked up to heaven and said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, ²since you have given him authority over all people, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. ³And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. ⁴I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. ⁵So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed. ⁶"I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. ⁷Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; ⁸for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. ⁹I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours. ¹⁰All mine are yours, and yours are mine; and I have been glorified in them. ¹¹And now I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one.
John 17:1-11 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "A House of Prayer" (Alleluia & Amen #124)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "More Love To Thee" (Hymnal #397)
Anthem: "Go Forth and Tell"
Hymn: "Sweet Hour Of Prayer" (Hymnal #398)
Closing Hymn: "Be Known To Us In Breaking Bread" (Hymnal #466)
Response: Refrain of "Let Us Break Bread Together" (Hymnal #447)

April 27, 2008

Lectionary Day: 6th Sunday After Easter
Sermon Title: "The Gospel Quilt"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

²²Then Paul stood in front of the Areopagus and said, "Athenians, I see how extremely religious you are in every way. ²³For as I went through the city and looked carefully at the objects of your worship, I found among them an altar with the inscription, 'To an unknown god.' What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. ²⁴The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands, ²⁵nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mortals life and breath and all things. ²⁶From one ancestor he made all nations to inhabit the whole earth, and he allotted the times of their existence and the boundaries of the places where they would live, ²⁷so that they would search for God and perhaps grope for him and find him--though indeed he is not far from each one of us. ²⁸For 'In him we live and move and have our being'; as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we too are his offspring.' ²⁹Since we are God's offspring, we ought not to think that the deity is like gold, or silver, or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of mortals. ³⁰While God has overlooked the times of human ignorance, now he commands all people everywhere to repent, ³¹because he has fixed a day on which he will have the world judged in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed, and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead."
Acts 17:22-31 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "To God Alone Be The Glory" (Alleluia & Amen #71)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise The Lord, Ye Heavens" (Hymnal #3)
Anthem: "More Precious" (Rainbow Book)
Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "I Love To Tell The Story" (Hymnal #383)
Response: refrain of "I Love To Tell The Story"

April 20, 2008

Lectionary Day: 5th Sunday After Easter
Sermon Title: "The Lord's Lottery"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

²Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation-- ³if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. ⁴Come to him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God's sight, and ⁵like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. ⁶For it stands in scripture: "See, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame." ⁷To you then who believe, he is precious; but for those who do not believe, "The stone that the builders rejected has become the very head of the corner," ⁸and "A stone that makes them stumble, and a rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do. ⁹But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. ¹⁰Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
I Peter 2:2-10 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Living Stones"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "We Praise Thee, O God" (Hymnal #17)
Anthem: "Awake, Awake"
Hymn: "All The Way My Saviour Leads Me" (Hymnal #365)
Closing Hymn: "Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation" (Hymnal #433)
Response: refrain of "My Hope Is Built" (Hymnal #368)

April 13, 2008

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday After Easter
Sermon Title: "White Water Rafting"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁷If you invoke as Father the one who judges all people impartially according to their deeds, live in reverent fear during the time of your exile. ¹⁸You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, ¹⁹but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish. ²⁰He was destined before the foundation of the world, but was revealed at the end of the ages for your sake. ²¹Through him you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God. ²²Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart. ²³You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.
I Peter 1:17-23 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Worthy Is The Lamb"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Come, Thou Fount Of Every Blessing" (Hymnal #379)
Anthem: "The Blood of Jesus" (Rainbow Book)
Hymn: "Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus" (Hymnal #349)
Closing Hymn: "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Hymnal #368)
Response: Refrain of "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less"

April 6, 2008

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday After Easter
Sermon Title: "This Church, NOW!" (Pulpit Supply: Rev. Brenda Loyal)
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹The hand of the LORD came upon me, and he brought me out by the spirit of the LORD and set me down in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. ²He led me all around them; there were very many lying in the valley, and they were very dry. ³He said to me, "Mortal, can these bones live?" I answered, "O Lord GOD, you know." ⁴Then he said to me, "Prophesy to these bones, and say to them: O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD. ⁵Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. ⁶I will lay sinews on you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the LORD." ⁷So I prophesied as I had been commanded; and as I prophesied, suddenly there was a noise, a rattling, and the bones came together, bone to its bone. ⁸I looked, and there were sinews on them, and flesh had come upon them, and skin had covered them; but there was no breath in them. ⁹Then he said to me, "Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, mortal, and say to the breath: Thus says the Lord GOD: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live." ¹⁰I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood on their feet, a vast multitude. ¹¹Then he said to me, "Mortal, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They say, 'Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are cut off completely.' ¹²Therefore prophesy, and say to them, Thus says the Lord GOD: I am going to open your graves, and bring you up from your graves, O my people; and I will bring you back to the land of Israel. ¹³And you shall know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves, and bring you up from your graves, O my people. ¹⁴I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you on your own soil; then you shall know that I, the LORD, have spoken and will act," says the LORD.
Ezekiel 37:1-14 (NRSV)

¹You were dead through the trespasses and sins ²in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. ³All of us once lived among them in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of flesh and senses, and we were by nature children of wrath, like everyone else. ⁴But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us ⁵even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ--by grace you have been saved-- ⁶and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ⁷so that in the ages to come he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. ⁸For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God-- ⁹not the result of works, so that no one may boast. ¹⁰For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.
Ephesians 2:1-10 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Have I Done Any Good In The World Today"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" (Hymnal #187)
Anthem: "Lord, Here Am I"
Hymn: "Breathe On Me, Breath of God" (Hymnal #235)
Closing Hymn: "Here I Am, Lord" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

March 30, 2008

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "Behind Closed Doors"
Sermon Theme: The last thing you can afford to lose is hope.
Scripture:

¹⁹When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." ²⁰After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. ²¹Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." ²²When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. ²³If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." ²⁴But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. ²⁵So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe." ²⁶A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." ²⁷Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." ²⁸Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" ²⁹Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." ³⁰Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. ³¹But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
John 20:19-31 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "We Bear The Strain of Earthly Care" (Hymnal #227)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" (Hymnal #385)
Anthem: "Help My Unbelief"
Hymn: Hymn Sing Sunday
Closing Hymn: "Thine Is The Glory" (Hymnal #209)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

March 23, 2008

Lectionary Day: Easter Sunday
Sermon Title: "God Hears The Cry"
Sermon Theme: The Resurrection is not just a wonderous fact in history; it is a glorious reality here and now.
Scripture:

¹After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. ²And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. ³His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. ⁴For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. ⁵But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. ⁶He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. ⁷Then go quickly and tell his disciples, 'He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.' This is my message for you." ⁸So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. ⁹Suddenly Jesus met them and said, "Greetings!" And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. ¹⁰Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me."
Matthew 28:1-10 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Majesty"
Opening Hymn of Resurrection: "Jesus Christ Is Risen Today" (Hymnal #204)
Anthem: "Let The Trumpet Sound"
Hymn: "The Strife Is O'er, The Battle Done" (Hymnal #203)
Closing Hymn: "The Day of Resurrection" (Hymnal #208)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

March 20, 2008

Lectionary Day: Maunday Thursday
Sermon Title: Almost Declined
Sermon Theme: "I long to accomplish great and noble tasks, but it is my chief duty to accomplish humble tasks as though they were great and noble" - Helen Keller
Scripture:

²³For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, ²⁴and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." ²⁵In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." ²⁶For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. ²⁷Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be answerable for the body and blood of the Lord. ²⁸Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
I Corinthians 11:23-28 (NRSV)

¹Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. ²The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon Iscariot to betray him. And during supper ³Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, ⁴got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. ⁵Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. ⁶He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" ⁷Jesus answered, "You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand." ⁸Peter said to him, "You will never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no share with me." ⁹Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!" ¹⁰Jesus said to him, "One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you." ¹¹For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason he said, "Not all of you are clean." ¹²After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? ¹³You call me Teacher and Lord--and you are right, for that is what I am. ¹⁴So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. ¹⁵For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. ¹⁶Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. ¹⁷If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.
John 13:1-17 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: Near The Cross (Alleluia & Amen, #131)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Amazing Grace" (Hymnal #275, Second Tune)
Anthem: There Is Power In The Blood (Red Book, #130)
Hymn: "Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?" (Hymnal #201)
Closing Hymn: "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross" (Hymnal #198)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

March 16, 2008

Lectionary Day: Palm / Passion Sunday
Sermon Title: "Success and the Gospel"
Sermon Theme: The world offers many models for success, but Paul gives but one model - the example of Jesus and His humility.
Scripture:

⁵Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, ⁶who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, ⁷but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, ⁸he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death--even death on a cross. ⁹Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, ¹⁰so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, ¹¹and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:5-11 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "My Song Is Love Unknown" (Verse 3 & 5)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise The Lord, His Glories Show" (Hymnal #4)
Anthem: "On Humble Beast Now Rides the King"
Hymn: "Rejoice, Ye Pure In Heart" (Hymnal #407)
Closing Hymn: "My Jesus, I Love Thee" (Hymnal #405)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

March 9, 2008

Lectionary Day: 5th Sunday in Lent
Sermon Title: "The 7th and Greatest Sign"
Sermon Theme: "Anxiety weighs down the human heart, but a good word cheers it up" - Proverbs 12:25
Scripture:

¹Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. ²Mary was the one who anointed the Lord with perfume and wiped his feet with her hair; her brother Lazarus was ill. ³So the sisters sent a message to Jesus, "Lord, he whom you love is ill." ⁴But when Jesus heard it, he said, "This illness does not lead to death; rather it is for God's glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." ⁵Accordingly, though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, ⁶after having heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was. ⁷Then after this he said to the disciples, "Let us go to Judea again." ⁸The disciples said to him, "Rabbi, the Jews were just now trying to stone you, and are you going there again?" ⁹Jesus answered, "Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Those who walk during the day do not stumble, because they see the light of this world. ¹⁰But those who walk at night stumble, because the light is not in them." ¹¹After saying this, he told them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to awaken him." ¹²The disciples said to him, "Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will be all right." ¹³Jesus, however, had been speaking about his death, but they thought that he was referring merely to sleep. ¹⁴Then Jesus told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead. ¹⁵For your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him." ¹⁶Thomas, who was called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, "Let us also go, that we may die with him." ¹⁷When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb four days. ¹⁸Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, some two miles away, ¹⁹and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them about their brother. ²⁰When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary stayed at home. ²¹Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. ²²But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him." ²³Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." ²⁴Martha said to him, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day." ²⁵Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, ²⁶and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" ²⁷She said to him, "Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world." ²⁸When she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary, and told her privately, "The Teacher is here and is calling for you." ²⁹And when she heard it, she got up quickly and went to him. ³⁰Now Jesus had not yet come to the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. ³¹The 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. ³²When 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." ³³When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. ³⁴He said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to him, "Lord, come and see." ³⁵Jesus began to weep. ³⁶So the Jews said, "See how he loved him!" ³⁷But some of them said, "Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?" ³⁸Then Jesus, again greatly disturbed, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. ³⁹Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, "Lord, already there is a stench because he has been dead four days." ⁴⁰Jesus said to her, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" ⁴¹So they took away the stone. And Jesus looked upward and said, "Father, I thank you for having heard me. ⁴²I knew that you always hear me, but I have said this for the sake of the crowd standing here, so that they may believe that you sent me." ⁴³When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" ⁴⁴The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth, and his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go." ⁴⁵Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what Jesus did, believed in him.
John 11:1-45 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "My Song Is Love Unknown" (Verse 4)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise" (Hymnal #85)
Anthem: "Lazarus Come Forth"
Hymn: "Saviour Like A Shepherd Lead Us" (Hymnal #380)
Closing Hymn: "Who Is On The Lord's Side?" (Hymnal #355)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

March 2, 2008

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday in Lent
Sermon Title: "Seeing Clearly"
Sermon Theme: We see not when our vision is 20/20 but when our inner vision can discern truth from lie.
Scripture:

¹As 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.
John 9:1-41 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "My Song Is Love Unknown" (Verse 4)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Christ of the Upward Way" (Hymnal #295)
Anthem: "Grace Like Rain"
Hymn: "O For a Closer Walk With God" (Hymnal #319, Second Tune)
Closing Hymn: "A Parting Hymn We Sing" (Hymnal #443)

February 24, 2008

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday in Lent
Sermon Title: "It's The Content That Counts"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁵As for yourself, you shall go to your ancestors in peace; you shall be buried in a good old age. ¹⁶And they shall come back here in the fourth generation; for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete." ¹⁷When the sun had gone down and it was dark, a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch passed between these pieces. ¹⁸On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, "To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates, ¹⁹the land of the Kenites, the Kenizzites, the Kadmonites, ²⁰the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim, ²¹the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites, and the Jebusites."
Genesis 15:15-21 (NRSV)

⁵So he came to a Samaritan city called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. ⁶Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired out by his journey, was sitting by the well. It was about noon. ⁷A Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." ⁸(His disciples had gone to the city to buy food.) ⁹The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?" (Jews do not share things in common with Samaritans.) ¹⁰Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." ¹¹The woman said to him, "Sir, you have no bucket, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? ¹²Are you greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us the well, and with his sons and his flocks drank from it?" ¹³Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, ¹⁴but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life." ¹⁵The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I may never be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water." ¹⁶Jesus said to her, "Go, call your husband, and come back." ¹⁷The woman answered him, "I have no husband." Jesus said to her, "You are right in saying, 'I have no husband'; ¹⁸for you have had five husbands, and the one you have now is not your husband. What you have said is true!" ¹⁹The woman said to him, "Sir, I see that you are a prophet. ²⁰Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you say that the place where people must worship is in Jerusalem." ²¹Jesus said to her, "Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. ²²You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. ²³But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him. ²⁴God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." ²⁵The woman said to him, "I know that Messiah is coming" (who is called Christ). "When he comes, he will proclaim all things to us." ²⁶Jesus said to her, "I am he, the one who is speaking to you." ²⁷Just then his disciples came. They were astonished that he was speaking with a woman, but no one said, "What do you want?" or, "Why are you speaking with her?" ²⁸Then the woman left her water jar and went back to the city. She said to the people, ²⁹"Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done! He cannot be the Messiah, can he?" ³⁰They left the city and were on their way to him. ³¹Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, "Rabbi, eat something." ³²But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you do not know about." ³³So the disciples said to one another, "Surely no one has brought him something to eat?" ³⁴Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work. ³⁵Do you not say, 'Four months more, then comes the harvest'? But I tell you, look around you, and see how the fields are ripe for harvesting. ³⁶The reaper is already receiving wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. ³⁷For here the saying holds true, 'One sows and another reaps.' ³⁸I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor. Others have labored, and you have entered into their labor." ³⁹Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me everything I have ever done." ⁴⁰So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. ⁴¹And many more believed because of his word. ⁴²They said to the woman, "It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the Savior of the world."
John 4:5-42 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "My Song Is Love Unknown" (Verse 2)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "The God of Abraham Praise" (Hymnal #89)
Anthem: "Fill My Cup Lord"
Hymn: Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say" (Hymnal #316)
Response: Refrain of "More About Jesus Would I Know" (Hymnal #316)

February 17, 2008

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday in Lent
Sermon Title: "From Above"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. ²He came to Jesus by night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God." ³Jesus answered him, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above." ⁴Nicodemus said to him, "How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother's womb and be born?" ⁵Jesus answered, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. ⁶What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. ⁷Do not be astonished that I said to you, 'You must be born from above.' ⁸The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit." ⁹Nicodemus said to him, "How can these things be?" ¹⁰Jesus answered him, "Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things? ¹¹"Very truly, I tell you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen; yet you do not receive our testimony. ¹²If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? ¹³No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. ¹⁴And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, ¹⁵that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. ¹⁶"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. ¹⁷"Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
John 3:1-17 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "God So Loved The World"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "More About Jesus Would I Know" (Hymnal #316)
Anthem: "God of Eternity"
Hymn: "Bless, O My Soul! The Living God" (Hymnal #8)
Closing Hymn: "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee" (Hymnal #304)
Response: Refrain of "More About Jesus Would I Know"

February 10, 2008

Lectionary Day: 1st Sunday in Lent
Sermon Title: "An Odd Beginning"
Sermon Theme:
Special Note: This will also be a special service for wedding vow renewal. Scripture:

¹On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. ²Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. ³When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine." ⁴And Jesus said to her, "Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come." ⁵His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." ⁶Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. ⁷Jesus said to them, "Fill the jars with water." And they filled them up to the brim. ⁸He said to them, "Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward." So they took it. ⁹When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom ¹⁰and said to him, "Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now." ¹¹Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.
John 2:1-11 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Going To The Chapel"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Now Thank We All Our God" (Hymnal #9)
Anthem: "As The Bridegroom To His Chosen"
Hymn: "O For A Heart To Praise My God!" (Hymnal #325)
Closing Solo: "O Perfect Love" (Anthony Awtrey)
Response: Refain of "More Love To Thee" (Hymnal #397)

February 3, 2008

Lectionary Day: Last Sunday In Epiphany
Sermon Title: "It's Hard To Be Humble"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

⁶"With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? ⁷Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?" 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?
Micah 6:6-8 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "My Tribute" (A & A #27)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "How I Love Thy Law, O Lord" (Hymnal #253)
Anthem: "Offertory"
Hymn: "Rock of Ages, Cleft For Me" (Hymnal #271)
Closing Hymn: "Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart" (Hymnal #236)
Response: Refrain of "I Love To Tell The Story" (Hymnal #236)

January 27, 2008

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "A Dream Come True"
Sermon Theme: At the center of Christianity stands a decision - the decision - about following Jesus.
Scripture:

¹But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. ²The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness--on them light has shined. ³You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.
Isaiah 9:1-3 (NRSV)

¹²Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. ¹³He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, ¹⁴so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: ¹⁵"Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali, on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles-- ¹⁶the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned." ¹⁷From that time Jesus began to proclaim, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near."
Matthew 4:12-17 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "The People That In Darkness Sat"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing" (Hymnal #141)
Anthem: "Jesus, Our Song In The Night"
Hymn: Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "I Am Thine, O Lord" (Hymnal #320)
Response: Refrain of "I Am Thine, O Lord"

January 20, 2008

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "The Reluctant Prophet"
Sermon Theme: God's good news always precedes God's commandments.
Scripture:

¹The word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time, saying, ²"Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you." ³So Jonah set out and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly large city, a three days' walk across. ⁴Jonah began to go into the city, going a day's walk. And he cried out, "Forty days more, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!" ⁵And the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast, and everyone, great and small, put on sackcloth. ⁶When the news reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. ⁷Then he had a proclamation made in Nineveh: "By the decree of the king and his nobles: No human being or animal, no herd or flock, shall taste anything. They shall not feed, nor shall they drink water. ⁸Human beings and animals shall be covered with sackcloth, and they shall cry mightily to God. All shall turn from their evil ways and from the violence that is in their hands. ⁹Who knows? God may relent and change his mind; he may turn from his fierce anger, so that we do not perish." ¹⁰When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon them; and he did not do it.
Jonah 3:1-10 (NRSV)

²⁹The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, "Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! ³⁰This is he of whom I said, 'After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.' ³¹I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel." ³²And John testified, "I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. ³³I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, 'He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' ³⁴And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God." ³⁵The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, ³⁶and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, "Look, here is the Lamb of God!" ³⁷The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. ³⁸When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, "What are you looking for?" They said to him, "Rabbi" (which translated means Teacher), "where are you staying?" ³⁹He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon. ⁴⁰One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. ⁴¹He first found his brother Simon and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which is translated Anointed). ⁴²He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, "You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas" (which is translated Peter).
John 1:29-42 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "When the Saints Go Marching In" (Red Book #149)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Rejoice, The Lord Is King" (Hymnal #140)
Anthem: "Just As I Am"
Hymn: "We Bear The Strain of Earthly Care" (Hymnal #227)
Closing Hymn: "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" (Hymnal #21)
Response: Refrain of "O Zion Haste" (Hymnal #491)

January 13, 2008

Lectionary Day: Baptism of the Lord
Sermon Title: "Samuel Needed Voice Mail"
Sermon Theme: The Gospel of Jesus Christ knows no boundaries, submits to no divisions, and makes no distinctions.
Scripture:

¹Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the LORD under Eli. The word of the LORD was rare in those days; visions were not widespread. ²At that time Eli, whose eyesight had begun to grow dim so that he could not see, was lying down in his room; ³the lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was. ⁴Then the LORD called, "Samuel! Samuel!" and he said, "Here I am!" ⁵and ran to Eli, and said, "Here I am, for you called me." But he said, "I did not call; lie down again." So he went and lay down. ⁶The LORD called again, "Samuel!" Samuel got up and went to Eli, and said, "Here I am, for you called me." But he said, "I did not call, my son; lie down again." ⁷Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, and the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him. ⁸The LORD called Samuel again, a third time. And he got up and went to Eli, and said, "Here I am, for you called me." Then Eli perceived that the LORD was calling the boy. ⁹Therefore Eli said to Samuel, "Go, lie down; and if he calls you, you shall say, 'Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.'" So Samuel went and lay down in his place. ¹⁰Now the LORD came and stood there, calling as before, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
I Samuel 3:1-10 (NRSV)

³⁴Then Peter began to speak to them: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, ³⁵but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. ³⁶You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ--he is Lord of all. ³⁷That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: ³⁸how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. ³⁹We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; ⁴⁰but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, ⁴¹not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. ⁴²He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. ⁴³All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."
Acts 10:34-43 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "In Jordan's Stream" (Red Book #361)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "God of Grace and God of Glory" (Hymnal #358)
Anthem: "Down To The River To Pray"
Hymn: "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say" (Hymnal #280)
Closing Hymn: "Jesus Calls Us" (Hymnal #269)
Response: Refrain of "Jesus is Tenderly Calling" (Hymnal #267)

January 6, 2008

Lectionary Day: Epiphany
Sermon Title: "Come Look"
Sermon Theme: The good news of Jesus will light your path to give you a vision of God's good future
Scripture:

¹Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. ²For darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will appear over you. ³Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. ⁴Lift up your eyes and look around; they all gather together, they come to you; your sons shall come from far away, and your daughters shall be carried on their nurses' arms. ⁵Then you shall see and be radiant; your heart shall thrill and rejoice, because the abundance of the sea shall be brought to you, the wealth of the nations shall come to you. ⁶A multitude of camels shall cover you, the young camels of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come. They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall proclaim the praise of the LORD.
Isaiah 60:1-6 (NRSV)

¹In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, ²asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage." ³When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; ⁴and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. ⁵They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: ⁶'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.'" ⁷Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. ⁸Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage." ⁹When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. ¹⁰When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. ¹¹On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. ¹²And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
Matthew 2:1-12 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Be Exalted"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

December 30, 2007

Lectionary Day: 1st Sunday after Christmas Day
Sermon Title: "It's Still Christmas"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, ²asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage." ³When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; ⁴and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. ⁵They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: ⁶'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.'" ⁷Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. ⁸Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage." ⁹When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. ¹⁰When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. ¹¹On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. ¹²And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
Matthew 2:1-12 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem" (Red Book #281)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Come, All Ye Faithful" (Hymnal #170)
Anthem: "Christmas Hymn"
Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Brightest and Best of the Sons of the Morning" (Hymnal #175)
Response: Refrain of "O Come, All Ye Faithful"

December 24, 2007

Lectionary Day: Christmas Eve
Sermon Title: "Angel Stories"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

⁸In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see--I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: ¹¹to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹²This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger." ¹³And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ¹⁴"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!" ¹⁵When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." ¹⁶So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. ¹⁷When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; ¹⁸and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. ¹⁹But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
Luke 2:8-20 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "O, Holy Child of Bethlehem"
Opening Carol of Praise: "Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus" (Hymnal #151)
Anthem: "Carols Around"
Lesson: John 1:1-5
Carol: "Watchman, Tell Us Of The Night" (Hymnal #149, Verse 1)
Lesson: Isaiah 9:2,6
Carol: "O Little Town of Bethlehem" (Hymnal #171, Verse 1)
Lesson: Hebrews 1:1-2
Lesson: Luke 1:30-31
Carol: "The Angel Gabriel From Heaven Came" (Choir)
Lesson: Luke 2:1-6
Carol: "Mary Had A Baby" (Choir)
Lesson: Luke 2:8-14
Carol: "Angels From The Realms of Glory" (Hymnal #168, Verses 1 & 2)
Lesson: Luke 2:15-20
Carol: "Gentle Mary Laid Her Child" (Hymnal #167, Verse 2)
Lesson: Matthew 2:1-2,9-12
Carol: "What Child Is This?" (Hymnal #159, Verse 3)
Lesson: Titus 2:11-14
Carol: "Hark The Herald Angels Sing" (Hymnal #163, All Verses)
Carol: "Silent Night" (Hymnal #154)

December 23, 2007

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday of Advent
Sermon Title: "God: With Us"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁸Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. ¹⁹Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. ²⁰But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. ²¹She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." ²²All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: ²³"Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel," which means, "God is with us." ²⁴When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, ²⁵but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus.
Matthew 1:18-25 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Redeemer, Come"
Opening Carol of Praise: "Angels We Have Heard On High" (Hymnal #158)
Anthem: "Will We Know Him"
Carol: "Hark, The Herald Angel Sing" (Hymnal #163)
Carol: "Good Christian Men, Rejoice" (Hymnal #165)
Response: Refrain of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" (Hymnal #166)

December 16, 2007

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday of Advent
Sermon Title: "The Perfect Gift"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

³Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. ⁴Say to those who are of a fearful heart, "Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come with vengeance, with terrible recompense. He will come and save you." ⁵Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; ⁶then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; ⁷the burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground springs of water; the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp, the grass shall become reeds and rushes. ⁸A highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way; the unclean shall not travel on it, but it shall be for God's people; no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray. ⁹No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there. ¹⁰And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Isaiah 35:3-10 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Sweet By and By"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus" (Hymnal #151)
Anthem: "O Come, Divine Messiah"
Carol: "Watchman, Tell Us Of The Night" (Hymnal #149)
Carol: "Joy To The World" (Hymnal #161)
Response: Refrain of "God Rest You Merry Gentlemen" (Hymnal #166)

December 9, 2007

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday of Advent
Sermon Title: "In A Perfect World"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. ²The spirit of the LORD shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. ³His delight shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; ⁴but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. ⁵Righteousness shall be the belt around his waist, and faithfulness the belt around his loins. ⁶The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. ⁷The cow and the bear shall graze, their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. ⁸The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder's den. ⁹They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea. ¹⁰On that day the root of Jesse shall stand as a signal to the peoples; the nations shall inquire of him, and his dwelling shall be glorious.
Isaiah 11:1-10 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Redeemer, Come" (All & Amen #130)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" (Hymnal #147)
Anthem: "In the Silence, Wondrous Love"
Hymn: "Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming" (Hymnal #162)
Closing Hymn: "It Came Upon The Midnight Clear" (Hymnal #160)
Response: Refrain of "God Rest You Merry Gentlemen" (Hymnal #166)

December 2, 2007

Lectionary Day: 1st Sunday of Advent
Sermon Title: "Flee To The Mountains"
Sermon Theme: These weeks of Advent can be a time of spiritual preparation, if we take a moment each day to pay attention to God's presence with us.
Scripture:

¹The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. ²In days to come the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it. ³Many peoples shall come and say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. ⁴He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. ⁵O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the LORD!
Isaiah 2:1-5 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Come, Thou long-expected Jesus"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation" (Hymnal #433)
Anthem: "E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come"
Hymn: "Jesus, Lover Of My Soul" (Hymnal #216)
Closing Hymn: "It Is Good TO Sing Thy Praises" (Hymnal #20)
Response: ""

November 25, 2007

Lectionary Day: Christ the King
Sermon Title: "Connected To Christ"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

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 joyfully ¹²giving 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. ¹⁵He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; ¹⁶for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers--all things have been created through him and for him. ¹⁷He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together. ¹⁸He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything. ¹⁹For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, ²⁰and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.
Colossians 1:11-20 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Rejoice, the Lord Is King" (All & Amen # 51)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Come Christians, Join To Sing" (Hymnal #131)
Anthem: "Rejoice, the Lord Is King"
Hymn: Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Fairest Lord Jesus" (Hymnal #135, First Tune)
Response: Refrain of "Jesus is Tenderly Calling" (Hymnal #267)

November 18, 2007

Lectionary Day: 25th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Work-a-lcholic"
Sermon Theme: God will one day bring all things to close, but in the meantime we have important work to do.
Scripture:

⁶Now we command you, beloved, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from believers who are living in idleness and not according to the tradition that they received from us. ⁷For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us; we were not idle when we were with you, ⁸and we did not eat anyone's bread without paying for it; but with toil and labor we worked night and day, so that we might not burden any of you. ⁹This was not because we do not have that right, but in order to give you an example to imitate. ¹⁰For even when we were with you, we gave you this command: Anyone unwilling to work should not eat. ¹¹For we hear that some of you are living in idleness, mere busybodies, not doing any work. ¹²Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. ¹³Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.
II Thessalonians 3:6-13 (NRSV)

¹⁹When the scribes and chief priests realized that he had told this parable against them, they wanted to lay hands on him at that very hour, but they feared the people. ²⁰So they watched him and sent spies who pretended to be honest, in order to trap him by what he said, so as to hand him over to the jurisdiction and authority of the governor. ²¹So they asked him, "Teacher, we know that you are right in what you say and teach, and you show deference to no one, but teach the way of God in accordance with truth. ²²Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?" ²³But he perceived their craftiness and said to them, ²⁴"Show me a denarius. Whose head and whose title does it bear?" They said, "The emperor's." ²⁵He said to them, "Then give to the emperor the things that are the emperor's, and to God the things that are God's." ²⁶And they were not able in the presence of the people to trap him by what he said; and being amazed by his answer, they became silent.
Luke 20:19-26 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Because He Lives" (Red Book #73)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O God, Our Help In Ages Past" (Hymnal #111)
Anthem: "Echo Anthem (Praise Him)"
Hymn: "O Jesus, I Have Promised" (Hymnal #307)
Closing Hymn: "Be Not Dismayed Whate'er Betide" (Hymnal #124)
Response: Refrain of "Be Not Dismayed Whate'er Betide" (Hymnal #124)

November 11, 2007

Lectionary Day: 24th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Stand By Me"
Sermon Theme: No matter what we are going through, we can survive - we can stand firm and hold fast - through Christ
Scripture:

¹As to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we beg you, brothers and sisters, ²not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as though from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord is already here. ³Let no one deceive you in any way; for that day will not come unless the rebellion comes first and the lawless one is revealed, the one destined for destruction. ⁴He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, declaring himself to be God. ⁵Do you not remember that I told you these things when I was still with you? ¹³But we must always give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the first fruits for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and through belief in the truth. ¹⁴For this purpose he called you through our proclamation of the good news, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by our letter. ¹⁶Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope, ¹⁷comfort your hearts and strengthen them in every good work and word.
II Thessalonians 2:1-5,13-17 (NRSV)

²⁷Some Sadducees, those who say there is no resurrection, came to him ²⁸and asked him a question, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies, leaving a wife but no children, the man shall marry the widow and raise up children for his brother. ²⁹Now there were seven brothers; the first married, and died childless; ³⁰then the second ³¹and the third married her, and so in the same way all seven died childless. ³²Finally the woman also died. ³³In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had married her." ³⁴Jesus said to them, "Those who belong to this age marry and are given in marriage; ³⁵but those who are considered worthy of a place in that age and in the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. ³⁶Indeed they cannot die anymore, because they are like angels and are children of God, being children of the resurrection. ³⁷And the fact that the dead are raised Moses himself showed, in the story about the bush, where he speaks of the Lord as the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. ³⁸Now he is God not of the dead, but of the living; for to him all of them are alive."
Luke 20:27-38 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Armed Forces Medley"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "God Of Our Fathers" (Hymnal #515)
Anthem: "A Joyful Song"
Hymn: "Take My Life, And Let It Be" (Hymnal #310)
Closing Hymn: "I Need Thee Every Hour" (Hymnal #324)
Response: Refrain of "I Need Thee Every Hour"

November 4, 2007

Lectionary Day: 23rd Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Vertically Challenged"
Sermon Theme: Will my obituary read like a resume I might write for my next job, or like a testimony to the greatness and goodness of God?
Scripture:

¹He entered Jericho and was passing through it. ²A man was there named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was rich. ³He was trying to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was short in stature. ⁴So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see him, because he was going to pass that way. ⁵When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down; for I must stay at your house today." ⁶So he hurried down and was happy to welcome him. ⁷All who saw it began to grumble and said, "He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner." ⁸Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much." ⁹Then Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham. ¹⁰For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost."
Luke 19:1-10 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Zacchaeus"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "All People That On Earth Do Dwell" (Hymnal #24)
Anthem: "Poor Man Lazrus"
Hymn: "Who is on the Lord's Side" (Hymnal #355)
Closing Hymn: "Blessed Assurance" (Hymnal #139)
Response: refrain of "Blessed Assurance"

October 28, 2007

Lectionary Day: 22nd Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Gather In God's Grace"
Sermon Theme: Stand before God, knowing God stands with you and for you.
Scripture:

⁹He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: ¹⁰"Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. ¹¹The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, 'God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. ¹²I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.' ¹³But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner!' ¹⁴I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted."
Luke 18:9-14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Sweet Hour Of Prayer"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "I Greet Thee" (Hymnal #144)
Anthem: "This Is My Prayer"
Closing Hymn: "A Mighty Fortress" (Hymnal #91)
Response: Refrain of "Tell Me the Old, Old Story" (Hymnal #403)

October 21, 2007

Lectionary Day: 21st Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "The Scariest Drug"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹⁰For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.
I Timothy 6:10 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Let the Words of My Mouth" (All & Amen #62)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "I Am Thine, O Lord" (Hymnal #320)
Solo: "God Will Take Care of You" (Anthony Awtrey)
Hymn: "Am I Soldier of the Cross" (Hymnal #353)
Closing Hymn: "Seal Us, O Holy Spirit" (Hymnal #238)
Response: Refrain of "Seal Us, O Holy Spirit"

October 14, 2007

Lectionary Day: 20th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Make Mine 'Mega-Sized'"
Sermon Theme: God's healing brings us SHALOM - a wholeness in everything we are. Consider this great gift in everything you do.
Scripture:

⁴Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: ⁵Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat what they produce. ⁶Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. ⁷But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.
Jeremiah 29:4-7 (NRSV)

⁵The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" ⁶The Lord replied, "If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you. ⁷"Who among you would say to your slave who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, 'Come here at once and take your place at the table'? ⁸Would you not rather say to him, 'Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink'? ⁹Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded? ¹⁰So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say, 'We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done!'"
Luke 17:5-10 (NRSV)

Opening Hymn of Praise: "O For A Heart To Praise My God" (Hymnal #325)
Choral Introit: "Jesus Paid It All" (Red Book #67
Hymn: "There Is A Place of Quiet Rest" (Hymnal #318)
Anthem: "Just As I Am"
Closing Hymn: "Rise Up, O Men of God" (Hymnal #352)
Response: Refrain of "More Love To Thee" (Hymnal #397)

October 7, 2007

Lectionary Day: 19th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Nike Is Right"
Sermon Theme: Think not of how much faith you have. Think, rather, of living that faith.
Scripture:

¹⁶He has made my teeth grind on gravel, and made me cower in ashes; ¹⁷my soul is bereft of peace; I have forgotten what happiness is; ¹⁸so I say, "Gone is my glory, and all that I had hoped for from the LORD." ¹⁹The thought of my affliction and my homelessness is wormwood and gall! ²⁰My soul continually thinks of it and is bowed down within me. ²¹But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: ²²The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; ²³they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ²⁴"The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him." ²⁵The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. ²⁶It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:16-26 (NRSV)

¹Jesus said to his disciples, "Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to anyone by whom they come! ²It would be better for you if a millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea than for you to cause one of these little ones to stumble. ³Be on your guard! If another disciple sins, you must rebuke the offender, and if there is repentance, you must forgive. ⁴And if the same person sins against you seven times a day, and turns back to you seven times and says, 'I repent,' you must forgive." ⁵The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" ⁶The Lord replied, "If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you.
Luke 17:1-6 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Psalm 103" (All & Amen #6)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Worship The King" (Hymnal #26)
Anthem: "Consider The Lilies"
Hymn: "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross" (Hymnal #198)
Closing Hymn: "A Parting Hymn We Sing" (Hymnal #433)
Response: "Jesus Loves Me" (Hymnal #465)

September 30, 2007

Lectionary Day: 18th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "How Do We Know?"
Sermon Theme: Hope, not suffering, is the real difference between heaven and hell, in this life or the next.
Scripture:

²Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful to them on the ground that they are members of the church; rather they must serve them all the more, since those who benefit by their service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these duties. ³Whoever teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that is in accordance with godliness, ⁴is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid craving for controversy and for disputes about words. From these come envy, dissension, slander, base suspicions, ⁵and wrangling among those who are depraved in mind and bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain. ⁶Of course, there is great gain in godliness combined with contentment; ⁷for we brought nothing into the world, so that we can take nothing out of it; ⁸but if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. ⁹But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. ¹⁰For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.
I Timothy 6:2-10 (NRSV)

¹⁹"There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. ²⁰And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, ²¹who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man's table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. ²²The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. ²³In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. ²⁴He called out, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.' ²⁵But Abraham said, 'Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony.²⁶Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.' ²⁷He said, 'Then, father, I beg you to send him to my father's house-- ²⁸for I have five brothers--that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of torment.' ²⁹Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the prophets; they should listen to them.' ³⁰He said, 'No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' ³¹He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.'"
Luke 16:19-31 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Day By Day" (All & Amen #128)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "God Himself Is With Us" (Hymnal #13)
Anthem: "Lord, Here Am I"
Hymn: Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Lord, I want To Be A Christian" (Hymnal #317, verses 1-3)
Response: "Lord, I want To Be A Christian" (Hymnal #317, verse 4)

September 23, 2007

Lectionary Day: 17th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Who's Fooling Who"
Sermon Theme: It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you know for sure that just ain't so.
Scripture:

¹Then Jesus said to the disciples, "There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. ²So he summoned him and said to him, 'What is this that I hear about you? Give me an accounting of your management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.' ³Then the manager said to himself, 'What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. ⁴I have decided what to do so that, when I am dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.' ⁵So, summoning his master's debtors one by one, he asked the first, 'How much do you owe my master?' ⁶He answered, 'A hundred jugs of olive oil.' He said to him, 'Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it fifty.' ⁷Then he asked another, 'And how much do you owe?' He replied, 'A hundred containers of wheat.' He said to him, 'Take your bill and make it eighty.' ⁸And his master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. ⁹And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into the eternal homes. ¹⁰"Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. ¹¹If then you have not been faithful with the dishonest wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? ¹²And if you have not been faithful with what belongs to another, who will give you what is your own? ¹³No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth."
Luke 16:1-13 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "In The Garden" (Redbook #20)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "There's A Wideness In God's Mercy" (Hymnal #110)
Hymn: "Break Thou The Bread Of Life" (Hymnal #250)
Anthem: "Be Exaulted"
Closing Hymn: "Seal Us, O Holy Spirit" (Hymnal #238)
Response: Refrain of "Seal Us, O Holy Spirit" (Hymnal #238)

September 16, 2007

Lectionary Day: 16th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Who Is In Your Balcony?"
Sermon Theme: God is revealed in church, school, and community
Scripture:

¹Therefore, 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. ⁴In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. ⁵And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as children--"My child, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, or lose heart when you are punished by him; ⁶for the Lord disciplines those whom he loves, and chastises every child whom he accepts."
Hebrews 12:1-6 (NRSV)

¹Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. ²And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them." ³So he told them this parable: ⁴"Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? ⁵When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. ⁶And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' ⁷Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
Luke 15:1-7 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "My Heart" (All & Amen #37)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing" (Hymnal #379)
Anthem: Presented by Joyce Lim's choir
Hymn: "Amazing Grace" (Hymnal #275)
Closing Hymn: "Take The Name Of Jesus With You" (Hymnal #411)
Response: Refrain of "Take The Name Of Jesus With You"

September 9, 2007

Lectionary Day: 15th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "What's Worth Living For?"
Sermon Theme: The digital age demands authentic, organic community
Scripture:

⁴When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God ⁵because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus. ⁶I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ. ⁷I have indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, my brother.
Philemon 1:4-7 (NRSV)

²⁵Now large crowds were traveling with him; and he turned and said to them, ²⁶"Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. ²⁷Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. ²⁸For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? ²⁹Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, ³⁰saying, 'This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.' ³¹Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? ³²If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. ³³So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.
Luke 14:25-33 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "We Would Be Building" (Hymnal #470, 1 & 3)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "In Christ There Is No East Or West" (Hymnal #479)
Anthem: "Within These Walls"
Hymn: "Have Thine Own Way Lord" (Hymnal #302)
Closing Hymn: "A Charge To Keep I Have" (Hymnal #301)
Response: Refrain of "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Hymnal #368)

September 2, 2007

Lectionary Day: 14th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Take Your Places"
Sermon Theme: In a world of self-help and superficial spirituality, true worship is found in lives dedicated to the vision of the kingdom shown in Jesus Christ
Scripture:

¹Let mutual love continue. ²Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. ³Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. ⁴Let marriage be held in honor by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge fornicators and adulterers. ⁵Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, "I will never leave you or forsake you." ⁶So we can say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?" ⁷Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.
Hebrews 13:1-7 (NRSV)

⁷When he noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. ⁸"When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host; ⁹and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, 'Give this person your place,' and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. ¹⁰But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, 'Friend, move up higher'; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. ¹¹For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." ¹²He said also to the one who had invited him, "When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. ¹³But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. ¹⁴And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."
Luke 14:7-14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Spirit of the Living God" (All & Amen #122)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Rejoice, The Lord Is King" (Hymnal #140)
Anthem: "Alas, And Did My Saviour Bleed"
Hymn: "Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts" (Hymnal #215)
Closing Hymn: "Just As I Am, Without One Plea" (Hymnal #272)
Response: Refrain of "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Hymnal #368)

August 26, 2007

Lectionary Day: 13th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Subjection"
Sermon Theme: God's abounding grace offers us a way from death to life
Scripture:

¹⁰Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. ¹¹And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. ¹²When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, "Woman, you are set free from your ailment." ¹³When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God. ¹⁴But the leader of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had cured on the sabbath, kept saying to the crowd, "There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be cured, and not on the sabbath day." ¹⁵But the Lord answered him and said, "You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to give it water? ¹⁶And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen long years, be set free from this bondage on the sabbath day?" ¹⁷When he said this, all his opponents were put to shame; and the entire crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things that he was doing.
Luke 13:10-17 (NRSV)

¹⁷Now this I affirm and insist on in the Lord: you must no longer live as the Gentiles live, in the futility of their minds. ¹⁸They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of their ignorance and hardness of heart. ¹⁹They have lost all sensitivity and have abandoned themselves to licentiousness, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. ²⁰That is not the way you learned Christ! ²¹For surely you have heard about him and were taught in him, as truth is in Jesus. ²²You were taught to put away your former way of life, your old self, corrupt and deluded by its lusts, ²³and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, ²⁴and to clothe yourselves with the new self, created according to the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Ephesians 4:17-24 (NRSV)

²¹Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Ephesians 5:21 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "We Have Come Into His House" (All & Amen #95)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Open Now Thy Gates of Beautify" (Hymnal #40)
Anthem: "If Thou But Suffer God To Guide Thee"
Hymn: Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Soldiers of Christ, Arise" (Hymnal #362)
Response: Refrain of "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Hymnal #368)

August 19, 2007

Lectionary Day: 12th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Armegedon"
Sermon Theme: Our weak attempts at peace will need to give way to God's eternal peace.
Scripture:

²³Am I a God near by, says the LORD, and not a God far off? ²⁴Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them? says the LORD. Do I not fill heaven and earth? says the LORD. ²⁵I have heard what the prophets have said who prophesy lies in my name, saying, "I have dreamed, I have dreamed!" ²⁶How long? Will the hearts of the prophets ever turn back--those who prophesy lies, and who prophesy the deceit of their own heart? ²⁷They plan to make my people forget my name by their dreams that they tell one another, just as their ancestors forgot my name for Baal. ²⁸Let the prophet who has a dream tell the dream, but let the one who has my word speak my word faithfully. What has straw in common with wheat? says the LORD. ²⁹Is not my word like fire, says the LORD, and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?
Jeremiah 23:23-29 (NRSV)

⁵⁴He also said to the crowds, "When you see a cloud rising in the west, you immediately say, 'It is going to rain'; and so it happens. ⁵⁵And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, 'There will be scorching heat'; and it happens. ⁵⁶You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? ⁵⁷"And why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? ⁵⁸Thus, when you go with your accuser before a magistrate, on the way make an effort to settle the case, or you may be dragged before the judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer, and the officer throw you in prison. ⁵⁹I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the very last penny."
Luke 12:54-59 (NRSV)

¹²The sixth angel poured his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up in order to prepare the way for the kings from the east. ¹³And I saw three foul spirits like frogs coming from the mouth of the dragon, from the mouth of the beast, and from the mouth of the false prophet. ¹⁴These are demonic spirits, performing signs, who go abroad to the kings of the whole world, to assemble them for battle on the great day of God the Almighty. ¹⁵("See, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and is clothed, not going about naked and exposed to shame.") ¹⁶And they assembled them at the place that in Hebrew is called Harmagedon.
Revelation of John 16:12-16 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Got Any Rivers?" (Red Book #119)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "My Faith Looks Up To Thee" (Hymnal #378)
Anthem: "We Trust in the Name of the Lord Our God" (Rainbow Book #56)
Hymn: "Lord, Speak To Me, That I May Speak" (Hymnal #298)
Closing Hymn: "All The Way My Saviour Leads Me" (Hymnal #365)
Response: Refrain of "My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less" (Hymnal #368)

August 12, 2007

Lectionary Day: 11th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "The First Crop of Faith"
Guest Preacher: Rev. Joon Kyu Lim
Scripture:

²⁰In the morning as they passed by, they saw the fig tree withered away to its roots. ²¹Then Peter remembered and said to him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed has withered." ²²Jesus answered them, "Have faith in God. ²³Truly I tell you, if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and if you do not doubt in your heart, but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you. ²⁴So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. ²⁵"Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses."
Mark 11:20-25 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "God Will Take Care of You" (Red Book #117)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Morning Has Broken" (Hymnal #464)
Anthem: "Have Faith In God"
Hymn: "All The Way My Saviour Leads Me" (Hymnal #365)
Closing Hymn: "This is My Father's World" (Hymnal #101)
Response: refrain of "My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" (Hymnal #368)

August 5, 2007

Lectionary Day: 10th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Investment Advice"
Guest Preacher: Rev. Edward Perez
Scripture:

¹³Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me." ¹⁴But he said to him, "Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?" ¹⁵And he said to them, "Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions." ¹⁶Then he told them a parable: "The land of a rich man produced abundantly. ¹⁷And he thought to himself, 'What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?' ¹⁸Then he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. ¹⁹And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.' ²⁰But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' ²¹So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God."
Luke 12:13-21 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Victory in Jesus" (All & Amen #55)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "When Morning Gilds the Skies" (Hymnal #41)
Anthem: "Prayer of my Heart"
Hymn: "God of Grace and God of Glory" (Hymnal #358)
Closing Hymn: "Let us Break Bread Together" (Hymnal #447)
Response: Refrain of "He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought" (Hymnal #338)

July 29, 2007

Lectionary Day: 9th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: TBD
Guest Preacher: TBD
Scripture:

TBD

Choral Introit: Choir Off
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Special Music: "Be Still, My Soul" soloist: Anthony Awtrey
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

July 22, 2007

Lectionary Day: 8th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "TBD"
Guest Preacher: TBD
Scripture:

Old Testament: Amos 7:7-17
Psalms: Ps. 82
New Testament: Col. 1:1-14
Gospel: Luke 10:25-37

Choral Introit: Choir Off
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Special Music: "Amazing Grace" Anthony Awtrey
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

July 15, 2007

Lectionary Day: 7th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "TBD"
Guest Preacher: TBD
Scripture:

Old Testament: 2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalms: Ps. 30
New Testament: Gal. 6:1-16
Gospel: Luke 10:1-11,16-20

Choral Introit: Choir Off
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Special Music: "" Soloist: Vangi Keate
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

July 8, 2007

Lectionary Day: 6th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Body of Christ"
Guest Preacher: Paige McWright
Scripture:

⁴Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; ⁵and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; ⁶and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. ⁷To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. ⁸To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, ⁹to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, ¹⁰to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. ¹¹All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses. ¹²For 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. ¹³For 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. ¹⁴Indeed, the body does not consist of one member but of many.
I Corinthians 12:4-14 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "He Lives" Mixed quartet: Betty Hartshorn, Paula Weatherholt, Anthony Awtrey, Tom Hartshorn
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Special Music: "Holy Ground" Mixed quartet: Betty Hartshorn, Paula Weatherholt, Anthony Awtrey, Tom Hartshorn
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

July 1, 2007

Lectionary Day: 5th Sunday after Pentecost (Communion)
Sermon Title: "The Family Table"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

²²By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, ²³gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. ²⁴And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another.
Galatians 5:22-26 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: Choir Off
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Special Music: "" soloist: Sarah Lavoie
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

June 24, 2007

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Intention / Action"
Sermon Theme: We must obey God rather than men
Scripture:

²⁷When they had brought them, they had them stand before the council. The high priest questioned them, ²⁸saying, "We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you are determined to bring this man's blood on us." ²⁹But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than any human authority. ³⁰The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. ³¹God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior that he might give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. ³²And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him."
Acts 5:27-32 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "I Surrender All" (Red Book: #240)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O For A Closer Walk With God" (Hymnal #319, Second Tune)
Anthem: "There's Something About That Name" (Red Book: #28)
Hymn: Old Fashioned Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Trust and Obey" (See bulletin insert)
Response: Refrain of "Sing Them Over Again To Me" (Hymnal #265)

June 17, 2007

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "In Response To Love"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

³⁶One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. ³⁷And a woman in the city, who was a sinner, having learned that he was eating in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster jar of ointment. ³⁸She stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair. Then she continued kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment. ³⁹Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him--that she is a sinner." ⁴⁰Jesus spoke up and said to him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." "Teacher," he replied, "Speak." ⁴¹"A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. ⁴²When they could not pay, he canceled the debts for both of them. Now which of them will love him more?" ⁴³Simon answered, "I suppose the one for whom he canceled the greater debt." And Jesus said to him, "You have judged rightly."
Luke 7:36-43 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Forgive Our Sins As We Forgive"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

June 10, 2007

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Your Resume"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹At that very time there were some present who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. ²He asked them, "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? ³No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. ⁴Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them--do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? ⁵No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did." ⁶Then he told this parable: "A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. ⁷So he said to the gardener, 'See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?' ⁸He replied, 'Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it. ⁹If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.'"
Luke 13:1-9 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Breathe On Me Breath of God"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Hymn of Promise"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

June 3, 2007

Lectionary Day: Trinity Sunday
Sermon Title: "Well, I was a little confused"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹²"I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. ¹³When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. ¹⁴He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. ¹⁵All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
John 16:12-15 (NRSV)
Choral Introit: "Praise Ye the Triune God" (Alleluia & Amen book)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "God of Eternity"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

May 27, 2007

Lectionary Day: Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Who Are These People?"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. ²And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. ³Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. ⁴All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability. ⁵Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. ⁶And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. ⁷Amazed and astonished, they asked, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? ⁸And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language?
Acts 2:1-8 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "O the Glory of Your Presence" (Rainbow Book)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "God Bless Our Native Land" (Hymnal #514)
Anthem: "Battle Hymn of the Republic"
Hymn: Old Fashioned Hymn Sing
Anthem: "Proclaim The Glory Of The Lord"
Closing Hymn: "Gracious Spirit, Dwell With Me" (Hymnal #241)
Response: Refrain of "Seal Us, O Holy Spirit" (Hymnal #238)

May 20, 2007

Lectionary Day: 7th Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "Peace, Blessed Peace"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

²³Jesus answered him, "Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. ²⁴Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me. ²⁵"I have said these things to you while I am still with you. ²⁶But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. ²⁷Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. ²⁸You heard me say to you, 'I am going away, and I am coming to you.' If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. ²⁹And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe.
John 14:23-29 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Sweet, Sweet Spirit"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Rejoice, Ye Pure In Heart" (Hymnal #407)
Anthem: "If You Love Me"
Hymn: "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind" (Hymnal #416)
Closing Hymn: "Jesus, Keep Me Near The Cross" (Hymnal #376)
Response: Refrain of "Jesus, Keep Me Near The Cross"

May 13, 2007

Lectionary Day: 6th Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "And The Winner Is..."
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

²²I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. ²³And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God is its light, and its lamp is the Lamb. ²⁴The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. ²⁵Its gates will never be shut by day--and there will be no night there. ²⁶People will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations. ²⁷But nothing unclean will enter it, nor anyone who practices abomination or falsehood, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. ¹Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb ²through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river, is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. ³Nothing accursed will be found there any more. But the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him; ⁴they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. ⁵And 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.
Revelation of John 21:22-27,22:1-5 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "We Thank Thee, Lord" (Hymnal #294, verses 1 and 4)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise The Lord, His Glories Show" (Hymnal #4)
Anthem: "It Is Well With My Soul"
Hymn: "Take My Life And Let It Be" (Hymnal #310)
Closing Hymn: "Be Still, My Soul" (Hymnal #374)
Response: Refrain from "Take the Name of Jesus With You" (Hymnal #411)

May 6, 2007

Lectionary Day: 5th Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "O Sing New Song"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

¹A Psalm. O sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things. His right hand and his holy arm have gotten him victory. ²The LORD has made known his victory; he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations. ³He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God. ⁴Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises. ⁵Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody. ⁶With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the LORD. ⁷Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it. ⁸Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy ⁹at the presence of the LORD, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.
Psalms 98 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Trust and Obey"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "We Praise Thee, O God, Our Redeemer" (Hymnal #17)
Anthem: "Rejoice!"
Hymn: "Jesus, The Very Thought Of Thee (Hymnal #401)
Closing Hymn: "Breathe On Me Breath of God" (Hymnal #235, no amen)
Response: Refrain of "Breathe On Me Breath of God" (with amen)

April 29, 2007

Lectionary Day: Fourth Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "The Lord Is My Shepherd"
Sermon Theme: The title says it all
Scripture:

²³and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. ²⁴So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly." ²⁵Jesus answered, "I have told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father's name testify to me; ²⁶but you do not believe, because you do not belong to my sheep. ²⁷My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. ²⁸I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. ²⁹What my Father has given me is greater than all else, and no one can snatch it out of the Father's hand. ³⁰The Father and I are one."
John 10:23-30 (NRSV)

¹A Psalm of David. The 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.
Psalms 23 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought!"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Saviour, Like A Shepherd Lead Us" (Hymnal #380)
Anthem: "Jesus, I Love You" (Rainbow book)
Hymn: Old Fashioned Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" (See Insert)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

April 22, 2007

Lectionary Day: Third Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "The Second Chance"
Sermon Theme: A second chance for Peter and Paul
Scripture:

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."
John 21:15-19 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "He said, If You Love Me, Feed My Sheep"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim" (Hymnal #27)
Anthem: "I Know That My Redeemer Lives"
Hymn: "Father of Mercies, In Thy Word" (Hymnal #249)
Closing Hymn: "O Master Let Me Walk With Thee" (Hymnal #304)
Response: Refrain of "There is a Place of Quiet Rest" (Hymnal #318)

April 15, 2007

Lectionary Day: Second Sunday of Easter
Sermon Title: "I'm Going On A Trip"
Sermon Theme: Rev. Bill Lawser preaching for church transformation weekend service
Scripture:

²⁸"What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work in the vineyard today.' ²⁹He answered, 'I will not'; but later he changed his mind and went. ³⁰The father went to the second and said the same; and he answered, 'I go, sir'; but he did not go. ³¹Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you.
Matthew 21:28-31 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "The Church's One Foundation"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Thine Is The Glory" (Hymnal #209)
Anthem: "Christ Calls Us To Become His Church"
Hymn: "The Summons" (Bulletin insert)
Closing Hymn: "Come, Labor On" (Hymnal #287)
Response: First verse of "We Give Thee But Thine Own" (Hymnal #312)

April 8, 2007

Lectionary Day: Easter Sunday
Sermon Title: "Stand Tall"
Sermon Theme: Stand tall in the joy of this holy day and dream your dreams for all
Scripture:

¹Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. ²So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." ³Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb. ⁴The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. ⁵He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. ⁶Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, ⁷and the cloth that had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. ⁸Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; ⁹for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. ¹⁰Then the disciples returned to their homes. ¹¹But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb; ¹²and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet. ¹³They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him." ¹⁴When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. ¹⁵Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?" Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away." ¹⁶Jesus said to her, "Mary!" She turned and said to him in Hebrew, "Rabbouni!" (which means Teacher). ¹⁷Jesus said to her, "Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'" ¹⁸Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord"; and she told them that he had said these things to her.
John 20:1-18 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Hallelujah, He Is Risen"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Jesus Christ Is Risen Today" (Hymnal #204)
Anthem: "Holy Ground"
Hymn: "The Strife is O'er, The Battle Done" (Hymnal #203)
Offertory: "Ring The Bells on Easter Morning"
Calling Hymn: "Just As I Am" (Hymnal #272)
Closing Hymn: "The Day of Resurrection" (Hymnal #208)
Response: "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross" (Hymnal #198, verse 4)

April 5, 2007

Lectionary Day: Maunday Thursday
Sermon Title: "In Remembrance Of Him"
Sermon Theme: Remembering the passion of Christ
Scripture:

²³For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, ²⁴and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." ²⁵In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." ²⁶For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. ²⁷Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be answerable for the body and blood of the Lord. ²⁸Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
I Corinthians 11:23-28 (NRSV)

⁷Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. ⁸So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it." ⁹They asked him, "Where do you want us to make preparations for it?" ¹⁰"Listen," he said to them, "when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him into the house he enters ¹¹and say to the owner of the house, 'The teacher asks you, "Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?"'
Luke 22:7-11 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "By His Love"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Faith of Our Fathers" (Hymnal #348)
Anthem: "O Sacred Head Now Wounded"
Hymn: "Amazing Grace" (Hymnal #275, Second Tune)
Closing Hymn: "Thy Life Was Given For Me" (Hymnal #262)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

April 1, 2007

Lectionary Day: Palm / Passion Sunday
Sermon Title: "The Sincerest Form of Flattery"
Sermon Theme: How hard is it to copy Jesus?
Scripture:

⁵Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, ⁶who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, ⁷but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, ⁸he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death--even death on a cross. ⁹Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, ¹⁰so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, ¹¹and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:5-11 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Hosanna, O Annointed One"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" (Hymnal #187)
Anthem: "The Palms"
Hymn: "Beneath the Cross of Jesus" (Hymnal #190)
Closing Hymn: "In the Cross of Christ I Glory" (Hymnal #195)
Response: Refrain from "Blessed Assurance" (Hymnal #139)

March 25, 2007

Lectionary Day: Fifth Sunday In Lent
Sermon Title: "Grateful Mary"
Sermon Theme: Mary gives, Jesus receives, a gift
Scripture:

¹Six 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."
John 12:1-8 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "I Am Thine, O Lord"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "It Was His Love"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

March 18, 2007

Lectionary Day: Fourth Sunday In Lent
Sermon Title: "A Shocking Story"
Sermon Theme: Joshua Circumcises Israel
Scripture:

²At that time the LORD said to Joshua, "Make flint knives and circumcise the Israelites a second time." ³So Joshua made flint knives, and circumcised the Israelites at Gibeath-haaraloth. ⁴This is the reason why Joshua circumcised them: all the males of the people who came out of Egypt, all the warriors, had died during the journey through the wilderness after they had come out of Egypt. ⁵Although all the people who came out had been circumcised, yet all the people born on the journey through the wilderness after they had come out of Egypt had not been circumcised. ⁶For the Israelites traveled forty years in the wilderness, until all the nation, the warriors who came out of Egypt, perished, not having listened to the voice of the LORD. To them the LORD swore that he would not let them see the land that he had sworn to their ancestors to give us, a land flowing with milk and honey. ⁷So it was their children, whom he raised up in their place, that Joshua circumcised; for they were uncircumcised, because they had not been circumcised on the way. ⁸When the circumcising of all the nation was done, they remained in their places in the camp until they were healed. ⁹The LORD said to Joshua, "Today I have rolled away from you the disgrace of Egypt." And so that place is called Gilgal to this day.
Joshua 5:2-9 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Speak, Lord, In The Stillness"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "Prayer Of My Heart"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

March 11, 2007

Lectionary Day: Third Sunday In Lent
Sermon Title: "Unexpected Introductions
Sermon Theme: (Supply Preacher: Joon Lim)
Scripture:

¹Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. ²And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. ³Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. ⁴Then Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." ⁵While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, "This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!" ⁶When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. ⁷But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Get up and do not be afraid." ⁸And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.
Matthew 17:1-8 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Jesus, These Eyes Have Never Seen"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Take Thou Our Minds, Dear God" (Hymnal #306)
Anthem: "Hymn of Praise"
Hymn: "Jesus Calls Us" (Hymnal #269)
Closing Hymn: "A Charge To Keep I Have" (Hymnal #301)
Response: Refrain from "There is a Place of Quiet Rest" (Hymnal #318)

March 4, 2007

Lectionary Day: Second Sunday In Lent
Sermon Title: "Call Me Crazy"
Sermon Theme: Are our eyes on earth or heaven?
Scripture:

¹⁷Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. ¹⁸For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears. ¹⁹Their end is destruction; their god is the belly; and their glory is in their shame; their minds are set on earthly things. ²⁰But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. ²¹He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself. ¹Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved.
Philippians 3:17-4:1 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Go To Dark Gethsemane"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "" (Hymnal #)
Anthem: "I Surrender All"
Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "" (Hymnal #)
Response: ""

February 25, 2007

Lectionary Day: First Sunday In Lent
Sermon Title: "Tablets, lips and hearts"
Sermon Theme: The season of Lent is a time for us to get our stories straight
Scripture:

¹When you have come into the land that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance to possess, and you possess it, and settle in it, ²you shall take some of the first of all the fruit of the ground, which you harvest from the land that the LORD your God is giving you, and you shall put it in a basket and go to the place that the LORD your God will choose as a dwelling for his name. ³You shall go to the priest who is in office at that time, and say to him, "Today I declare to the LORD your God that I have come into the land that the LORD swore to our ancestors to give us." ⁴When the priest takes the basket from your hand and sets it down before the altar of the LORD your God, ⁵you shall make this response before the LORD your God: "A wandering Aramean was my ancestor; he went down into Egypt and lived there as an alien, few in number, and there he became a great nation, mighty and populous. ⁶When the Egyptians treated us harshly and afflicted us, by imposing hard labor on us, ⁷we cried to the LORD, the God of our ancestors; the LORD heard our voice and saw our affliction, our toil, and our oppression. ⁸The LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with a terrifying display of power, and with signs and wonders; ⁹and he brought us into this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey. ¹⁰So now I bring the first of the fruit of the ground that you, O LORD, have given me." You shall set it down before the LORD your God and bow down before the LORD your God. ¹¹Then you, together with the Levites and the aliens who reside among you, shall celebrate with all the bounty that the LORD your God has given to you and to your house.
Deuteronomy 26:1-11

Choral Introit: "Master, No Offering Costly and Sweet"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" (Hymnal #21)
Anthem: "Live A Life Of Praise"
Hymn: Ol' Fashioned Hymn Sing
Closing Hymn: "I Love To Tell The Story" (Hymnal #383)
Response: Refrain of "I Love To Tell The Story"

February 18, 2007

Lectionary Day: Transfiguration Sunday
Sermon Title: "A Time For Silence"
Sermon Theme: Keep silent and listen for God to speak
Scripture:

²⁸Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. ²⁹And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. ³⁰Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. ³¹They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. ³²Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. ³³Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah"--not knowing what he said. ³⁴While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. ³⁵Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!" ³⁶When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.
Luke 9:28-36

Choral Introit: "Softly and Tenderly"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "For the Beauty of the Earth" (Hymnal #2)
Anthem: "Blessed Quietness"
Hymn: "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" (Hymnal #385)
Closing Hymn: "More Love to Thee, O Christ" (Hymnal #397)
Response: Refrain from "More Love to Thee, O Christ"

February 11, 2007

Lectionary Day:
Sermon Title: "And Who Is My Enemy"
Sermon Theme: If we don't know who he/she is, how can we love them?
Scripture:

²⁷"But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, ²⁸bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.
Luke 6:27-28

Choral Introit: "Oh, How He Loves You and Me"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "The Church's One Foundation" (Hymnal #437)
Anthem: "Have Faith In God"
Hymn: "My Jesus, I Love Thee" (Hymnal #405)
Closing Hymn: "Jesus, Thy Boundless Love To Me" (Hymnal #404)
Response: Refrain from "Jesus Loves Me! This I Know" (Hymnal #465)

February 4, 2007

Lectionary Day:
Sermon Title: "Gone Fishing"
Sermon Theme: Fishing for men with Jesus - keep trying!
Scripture:

¹Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, ²he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. ³He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. ⁴When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch." ⁵Simon answered, "Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets." ⁶When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. ⁷So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. ⁸But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!" ⁹For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; ¹⁰and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people." ¹¹When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.
Luke 5:1-11

Choral Introit: "Love Lifted Me"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Holy, Holy, Holy" (Hymnal #11)
Anthem: "Let Us Serve Him"
Hymn: "Jesus, Friend, So Kind and Gentle" (Hymnal #451)
Closing Hymn: "I Bind My Heart This Tide" (Hymnal #286)
Response: Refrain of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

January 28, 2007

Lectionary Day: 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "How God Speak To Us"
Sermon Theme: How God speaks to us
Scripture:

²¹Then he began to say to them, "Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." ²²All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth. They said, "Is not this Joseph's son?" ²³He said to them, "Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, 'Doctor, cure yourself!' And you will say, 'Do here also in your hometown the things that we have heard you did at Capernaum.'" ²⁴And he said, "Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the prophet's hometown. ²⁵But the truth is, there were many widows in Israel in the time of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, and there was a severe famine over all the land; ²⁶yet Elijah was sent to none of them except to a widow at Zarephath in Sidon. ²⁷There were also many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian." ²⁸When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with rage. ²⁹They got up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they might hurl him off the cliff. ³⁰But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way.
Luke 4:21-30 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Lord, Speak To Me, That I May Speak"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Now Thank We All Our God" (Hymnal #9)
Anthem: "The Whisper of my Heart"
Hymn: "???" (Hymnal #)
Closing Hymn: "We Have Heard the Joyful Sound" (Hymnal #503)
Response: Refrain from "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

January 21, 2007

Lectionary Day: 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "Today, This Scripture"
Sermon Theme: The fulfulling of prophecy
Scripture:

¹⁴Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country. ¹⁵He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. ¹⁶When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read, ¹⁷and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: ¹⁸'The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, ¹⁹to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." ²⁰And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. ²¹Then he began to say to them, "Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing."
Luke 4:14-21 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Spirit Song"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing" (Hymnal #141)
Anthem: "I Will Worship You"
Hymn: "Open My Eyes, That I May See" (Hymnal #390)
Closing Hymn: "The Light of God is Falling" (Hymnal #482)
Response: Refrain from "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

January 14, 2007

Lectionary Day: 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sermon Title: "Jesus, The Caterer"
Sermon Theme: The turning of water into wine
Scripture:

¹On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. ²Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. ³When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine." ⁴And Jesus said to her, "Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come." ⁵His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." ⁶Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. ⁷Jesus said to them, "Fill the jars with water." And they filled them up to the brim. ⁸He said to them, "Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward." So they took it. ⁹When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom ¹⁰and said to him, "Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now." ¹¹Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.
John 2:1-11 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Great is Thy Faithfulness"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord" (Hymnal #435)
Anthem: "Song of Ruth"
Hymn: "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say" (Hymnal #280)
Closing Hymn: "O For A Closer Walk With God" (Hymnal #319)
Response: Refrain from "Great is Thy Faithfulness"

January 7, 2007

Lectionary Day: Baptism of the Lord
Sermon Title: "The Great Beginning"
Sermon Theme: Christ's start-up of his ministry
Scripture:

¹⁵As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, ¹⁶John answered all of them by saying, "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. ¹⁷His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." ²¹Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, ²²and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased."
Luke 3:15-17,21-22 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Christ of the Upward Way" (Hymnal #295)
Anthem: ""
Hymn: "There Is A Fountain Filled With Blood" (Hymnal #276, verses 1 & 4)
Closing Hymn: "Jesus Is Tenderly Calling Thee Home" (Hymnal #267)
Response: Refrain from "Jesus Is Tenderly Calling Thee Home" (Hymnal #267)

December 31, 2006

Lectionary Day: First Sunday After Christmas (Hymn Sing Sunday)
Sermon Title: "After the Intrusion"
Sermon Theme: Do you know where Christ is?
Scripture:

²²When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord ²³(as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord"), ²⁴and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons." ²⁵Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. ²⁶It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. ²⁷Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, ²⁸Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, ²⁹"Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; ³⁰for my eyes have seen your salvation, ³¹which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, ³²a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."
Luke 2:22-32 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Hail to the Brightness of Zion's Glad Morning!" (Hymnal #505, verse 2)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "I Need Thee Every Hour" (Hymnal #324)
Anthem: "Will We Know Him?"
Hymn: "What Child Is This" (Hymnal #159)
Closing Hymn: "Lord, Dismiss Us With Thy Blessing" (Hymnal #79)
Response: "TBD"

December 24, 2006 (Evening)

Lectionary Day: Christmas Eve
Sermon Title: "Lessons and Carols"
Sermon Theme: Lessons and Carols
Scripture:

Various

Choral Introit: "N/A"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Angels, We Have Heard On High" (Hymnal #158)
Anthem: "O Holy Night"
Carol: "O Little Town of Bethlehem" (Hymnal #171, verse 1)
Carol: "Gentle Mary Laid Her Child" (Hymnal #167, verse 1)
Carol: "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly" (Hymnal #164, verse 1)
Carol: "The First Noel" (Hymnal #156, verse 1)
Carol: "Away In A Manger" (Hymnal #157, verses 1 & 2)
Carol: "We Three Kings" (Hymnal #176, verse 1)
Carol: "Joy To The World" (Hymnal #161, verse 4)
Carol: "Good Christian Men" (Hymnal #165)
Closing Hymn: "Silent Night" (Hymnal #154)
Response: "N/A"

December 24, 2006 (Morning)

Lectionary Day: Fourth Sunday in Advent
Sermon Title: "Victory Over Darkness"
Sermon Theme: Living in a dark world into which God sends his light - Jesus Christ the light of the world
Scripture:

²The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness--on them light has shined. ³You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. ⁴For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. ⁵For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. ⁶For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ⁷His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.
Isaiah 9:2-7 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "N/A"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Come, All Ye Faithful" (Hymnal #170)
Anthem: "Behold the Light"
Hymn: "Hark, The Herald Angels Sing" (Hymnal #163)
Closing Hymn: "Angels, We Have Heard On High" (Hymnal #158)
Response: Refrain from "Angels, We Have Heard On High" (Hymnal #158)

December 17, 2006

Lectionary Day: Third Sunday in Advent
Sermon Title: "Self-Help: Self-Deceit"
Sermon Theme: Advent: A time to turn from the wrong; to put aside the irrelevant; to focus on the important
Scripture:

⁷John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? ⁸Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. ⁹Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." ¹⁰And the crowds asked him, "What then should we do?" ¹¹In reply he said to them, "Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise." ¹²Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, "Teacher, what should we do?" ¹³He said to them, "Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you." ¹⁴Soldiers also asked him, "And we, what should we do?" He said to them, "Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages." ¹⁵As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, ¹⁶John answered all of them by saying, "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. ¹⁷His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." ¹⁸So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.
Luke 3:7-18 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: ""
Opening Hymn of Praise: ""
Anthem: "One Who Comes"
Hymn: ""
Closing Hymn: ""
Response: ""

December 10, 2006

Lectionary Day: Second Sunday in Advent
Sermon Title: "In The Wilderness"
Sermon Theme: John the Baptist in the wilderness: Prophet who tells us of the one who is coming
Scripture:

¹In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, ²during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. ³He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, ⁴as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. ⁵Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; ⁶and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'"
Luke 3:1-6 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus" (Hymnbook #151, First Tune, First Verse)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" (Hymnbook #546)
Anthem: "Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming"
Hymn: "Tell Me The Old, Old Story" (Hymnbook #403)
Closing Hymn: "Breathe On Me, Breath of God" (Hymnbook #235)
Response: Refrain from "God Rest You Merry Gentlemen" (Hymnbook #166)

December 3, 2006

Lectionary Day: First Sunday in Advent (Communion)
Sermon Title: The Certaintly of our Hope
Sermon Theme: God comes among us in good times and bad times, amid ugliness as well as beauty.
Scripture:

²⁵"There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. ²⁶People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. ²⁷Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. ²⁸Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." ²⁹Then he told them a parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees; ³⁰as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. ³¹So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. ³²Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. ³³Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. ³⁴"Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, ³⁵like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. ³⁶Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."
Luke 21:25-36

¹Now I would remind you, brothers and sisters, of the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you in turn received, in which also you stand, ²through which also you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message that I proclaimed to you--unless you have come to believe in vain. ³For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, ²⁰But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have died. ²¹For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead has also come through a human being; ²²for as all die in Adam, so all will be made alive in Christ. ²³But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.
I Corinthians 15:1-3,20-23 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Amazing Grace (Hymnal: #275)"
Anthem: "O Come, O Come Emmanuel"
Hymn: "Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus" (Hymnal: #151)
Closing Hymn: "A Parting Hymn We Sing" (Hymnal: #443, verses 1-3)
Response: "A Parting Hymn We Sing" (Hymnal: #443, verse 4)

November 26, 2006

Lectionary Day: Christ the King Sunday (Hymn Sing Sunday)
Sermon Title: "Who's In Charge?"
Sermon Theme: Keeping the spirit of Christ alive: What would Jesus do? Say?
Scripture:

³³Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" ³⁴Jesus answered, "Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?" ³⁵Pilate replied, "I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have handed you over to me. What have you done?" ³⁶Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here." ³⁷Pilate asked him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice."
John 18:33-37 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Lead On, O King Eternal" (Hymnal: #332, Verse 3)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Christ For The World We Sing" (Hymnal: #489)
Anthem: "Rejoice, The Lord Is King"
Hymn: "In Christ There Is No East Or West" (Hymnal: #479)
Closing Hymn: "Jesu Shall Reign Where'er The Sun" (Hymnal: #496)
Response: "We Have Heard" (Hymnal: #503, Verse 1)

November 19, 2006

Lectionary Day: 25^th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Happy 52^nd Birthday"
Sermon Theme: Being witness to the one who made us alive
Scripture:

⁴You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. ⁵Now therefore, if you obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession out of all the peoples. Indeed, the whole earth is mine, ⁶but you shall be for me a priestly kingdom and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the Israelites."
Exodus 19:4-6 (NRSV)

¹Therefore, 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.
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Now Thank We All Our God" (Hymnal: #9, verse 1)
Opening Hymn of Praise: ""
Anthem: "We Are Surrounded"
Hymn: ""
Anthem: "Go From This Place and Serve Him" (Solo: Anthony Awtrey)
Closing Hymn: ""
Response: ""

November 12, 2006

Lectionary Day: 24^th Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "With All My Heart"
Sermon Theme: The Second Commandment: to love neighbor as self
Scripture:

³⁸As he taught, he said, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, ³⁹and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! ⁴⁰They devour widows' houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation." ⁴¹He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. ⁴²A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. ⁴³Then he called his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. ⁴⁴For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on."
Mark 12:38-44 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Bless Thou The Gifts Our Hands Have Brought" (Hymnal: 553)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty" (Hymnal: #40)
Anthem: "Lord, Here Am I"
Hymn: "All The Way My Savior Leads Me" (Hymnal: #365)
Closing Hymn: "I Love To Tell The Story" (Hymnal: #383)
Response: Refrain of: "I Love Tell The Story" (Hymnal: #383)

November 5, 2006

Lectionary Day: 23^rd Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "Easier Said Than Done"
Sermon Theme: The first commandment: to love God
Scripture:

²⁸One of the scribes came near and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, he asked him, "Which commandment is the first of all?" ²⁹Jesus answered, "The first is, 'Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; ³⁰you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.' ³¹The second is this, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." ³²Then the scribe said to him, "You are right, Teacher; you have truly said that 'he is one, and besides him there is no other'; ³³and 'to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the strength,' and 'to love one's neighbor as oneself,'--this is much more important than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." ³⁴When Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." After that no one dared to ask him any question.
Mark 12:28-34 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "Great and Wonderful"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Heralds of Christ" (Hymnal: #498)
Anthem: "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High"
Hymn: "Here, O My Lord, I See Thee Face To Face" (Hymnal: #442)
Closing Hymn: "We've A Story To Tell To The Nations" (Hymnal #504)
Response: Refrain of: "We've A Story To Tell To The Nations" (Hymnal #504)

October 29, 2006

Lectionary Day: 22^nd Sunday After Pentecost (Reformation Sunday)
Sermon Title: "Held Accountable"
Sermon Theme: Holding fast to the reformation and its teachings
Scripture:

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. He did this to show his righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over the sins previously committed; ²⁶it was to prove at the present time that he himself is righteous and that he justifies the one who has faith in Jesus.
Romans 3:19-26 (NRSV)

Choral Introit: "When Stephen, Full of Power and Grace"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"
Anthem: "Rise Up, O Church" (a reformation medley)
Hymn: Various (Old Fashioned Hymn Sing)
Closing Hymn: "I Greet Thee, Who My Sure Redeemer Art"
Response: "Faith of Our Fathers"

October 22, 2006

Lectionary Day: 21^st Sunday After Pentecost
Sermon Title: "The Sound Of Thunder"
Sermon Theme:
Scripture:

³⁵ James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." ³⁶ And he said to them, "What is it you want me to do for you?" ³⁷ And they said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." ³⁸ But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" ³⁹ They replied, "We are able." Then Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; ⁴⁰ but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared." ⁴¹ When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John. ⁴² So Jesus called them and said to them, "You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. ⁴³ But it is not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, ⁴⁴ and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. ⁴⁵ For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many."
Mark 10:35-45

Choral Introit: "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "O God, Our Help In Ages Past"
Anthem: "We Are The Servants Of The Lord"
Hymn: "Fairest Lord Jesus" (First Tune)
Closing Hymn: "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say"
Response: ""

October 15, 2006

Sermon Title: "Face to Face With Jesus"
Scripture:

¹⁷ As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" ¹⁸ Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. ¹⁹ You know the commandments: 'You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; You shall not defraud; Honor your father and mother.'" ²⁰ He said to him, "Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth." ²¹ Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, "You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." ²² When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions. ²³ Then Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" 24 And the disciples were perplexed at these words. But Jesus said to them again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! ²⁵ It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." ²⁶ They were greatly astounded and said to one another, "Then who can be saved?" ²⁷ Jesus looked at them and said, "For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible." ²⁸ Peter began to say to him, "Look, we have left everything and followed you." ²⁹ Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields, for my sake and for the sake of the good news, ³⁰ who will not receive a hundredfold now in this age - houses, brothers and sisters, mothers and children, and fields with persecutions - and in the age to come eternal life. ³¹ But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first."
Mark 10:17-31

Choral Introit: "Take Up Thy Cross, The Saviour Said" (Hymnal: #293)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "From All That Dwell Below The Skies" (Hymnal: #33)
Anthem: "Trusting Jesus"
Hymn: "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" (Hymnal: #385)
Closing Hymn: "Just As I Am" (Hymnal: #272, verses 1-4)
Response: "Just As I Am" (Hymnal: #272, verse 5)

October 8, 2006

Sermon Title: "Let Them Come"
Scripture:

² Some Pharisees came, and to test him they asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?" ³ He answered them, "What did Moses command you?" ⁴ They said, "Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her." ⁵ But Jesus said to them, "Because of your hardness of heart he wrote this commandment for you. ⁶ But from the beginning of creation, 'God made them male and female.' ⁷ 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, ⁸ and the two shall become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one flesh. ⁹ Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." ¹⁰ Then in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. ¹¹ He said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; ¹² and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery." ¹³ People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. ¹⁴ But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. ¹⁵ Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it." ¹⁶ And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.
Mark 10:2-16

Choral Introit: "Walk Together Children"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "Praise Ye The Lord" (Hymnal: #1)
Anthem: "Like As A Father"
Hymn: "Tell Me The Stories of Jesus" (Hymnal: #459)
Closing Hymn: "Jesus, Friend, So Kind and Gentle" (Hymnal: #451)
Response: Refrain from "Take The Name of Jesus With You" (Hymnal: #411)

October 1, 2006

Sermon Title: "Have To ..."
Scripture:

²² But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. ²³ For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; ²⁴ for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. ²⁵ But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act - they will be blessed in their doing.
James 1:22-25

Choral Introit: "Be doers of the word of God"
Opening Hymn of Praise: "There's a Wideness In God's Mercy" (Hymnal: #110)
Anthem: "Have I Done Any Good In The World Today?"
Hymn: "Bread of the World In Mercy Broken" (Hymnal: #445)
Closing Hymn: "A Parting Hymn We Sing" (Hymnal: #443)
Response: Refrain from "Let Us Break Bread Together" (Hymnal: #477)

September 24, 2006

Sermon Title: "Who Is On The Lord's Side"
Scripture:

³⁰ They went on from there and passed through Galilee. He did not want anyone to know it; ³¹ for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and three days after being killed, he will rise again." ³² But they did not understand what he was saying and were afraid to ask him. ³³ Then they came to Capernaum; and when he was in the house he asked them, "What were you arguing about on the way?" ³⁴ But they were silent, for on the way they had argued with one another who was the greatest. ³⁵ He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, "Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all." ³⁶ Then he took a little child and put it among them; and taking it in his arms, he said to them, ³⁷ "Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me."
Mark 9:30-37

Choral Introit: "Lord, I Want To Be A Christian" (Hymnal: #317)
Opening Hymn of Praise: "The Lord's My Shepherd" (Hymnal: #104 Second Tune)
Anthem: "This Is My Prayer" (Rainbow Book: page 20)
Hymn: "Into My Heart" (Song Sheet: #17)
Closing Hymn: "Who Is On The Lord's Side" (Hymnal: #355)
Response: Refrain from "God Will Take Care of You"

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2006-09-17 Have Faith In God

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2006-09-17	Have Faith In God
2006-09-10	Here Am I Lord
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