A paraphrase of Psalm 25, set to Aberystwyth (7.7.7.7.D).
Submitted by Rev. Stephen Fearing, Shelter Island Presbyterian Church, NY. Permission is given for use in worship–please do not remove copyright information.
Anytime
CTW: a new world
Jesus said the Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed; it starts out as a small thing, but it grows and grows until it gives a home to the birds of the air.
Can we believe a new day is coming? As surely as the sun rises over the horizon God is creating a new world.
Jesus said the Kingdom of God is like that someone who casts seed on the ground, and then sleeps and wakes, day after day, while the earth produces the fruit from the seed that was cast.
We do not know how God works out the fullness of redemption. But we know we are partners in that work.
Praise the name of the Lord who still cares for the world!
Praise the name of the Lord who leads with power and grace.
Submitted by Rev. Lisa Lopez, Christ Presbyterian Church, Hanover Park IL
CTW: welcome to the house
We gather this morning to sing and pray as the family of God.
Welcome to the house of the Lord!
We gather to hear God’s Word and to share in God’s Meal.
Welcome to the house of the Lord!
We gather as unique individuals, carrying joys and burdens we don’t know how to share.
Welcome to the house of the Lord!
We gather, young and old, rich and poor, gay and straight, tired and full of energy.
Welcome to the house of the Lord!
We gather, not to stay here, but to be sent with inspiration to serve all of God’s world!
Welcome to the house of the Lord!
Submitted by Rev. Katya Ouchakof, Lake Edge Lutheran Church, Madison WI
confession: limited love
Holy Love, first and last, you offer yourself to us completely and call us to your life. Yet we are afraid, for your Way demands much of us. We confess that we are often quick to judge and slow to forgive. We confess that we choose that which does not satisfy, even as you offer us abundant life. When our fear overrides your call, forgive us. When we act from our own limited love rather than your expansive grace, forgive us. Reach down to us again, lift us up as a mother lifts a child to her cheek. Cast out our fear and fill us with the breath of your Spirit, that we may live the love we see in your Son, Jesus the Christ, in whose perfect name we pray. Amen.
illumination: speak
Come, Spirit of the Lord, and speak through us.
Send your Holy Word to be upon our tongues
and your gospel upon our hearts.
Speak to us, speak through us, speak among us,
for we, your servants, are listening. Amen.
Submitted by Rev. Stephen M. Fearing, Shelter Island Presbyterian Church, NY
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