Liturgy

Redeeming God,
we journey in hope:
daring to believe in impossible things;
seeing your imprint on our lives and in our world;

knowing that you break through in unexpected ways,
even in confusion and despair:

in the love of friends and strangers;
in the beauty of creation
and in the laughter of our neighbors,
where we catch a glimpse of you.

Redeeming God
journey with us:
be our hope, and be our prayer.

We ask in the name of the Father,
of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Congregational Prayer

In prayer, let us confess to God as a community.

Almighty God,
to you all hearts are open, all desires known,
and from you no secrets are hid.

You send us the Spirit of courage,
but we have been afraid.

You send us the Spirit of truth,
but we cling to our illusions and lies.

You send us the Spirit of healing,
but we can not let go of our hurts.

Holy Spirit, forgive and come to us again:
shake our hearts,
set our souls on fire with your love:

Help us to rejoice in your power
and live in the love of Christ Jesus, the Son.

We ask in the name of the Father,
the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Reflection

How can we do less and be more?
What does it mean for us to look at others and see God in and around them?

Benediction

Go out now as God’s chosen witnesses
to testify that Christ is risen
and that we are raised with him.

Set your minds on the things of God
and do not be afraid
for your life is safe with Christ in God.

May God raise you from all that would entomb you.
May Christ Jesus be your life.
And may the Holy Spirit empower you for all that is good.

Go in peace and live the church.
See you throughout the week.

[Photo by Erik Schmahl @ Flickr]