Liturgy

The invitation is given to every person by Jesus Christ:
“Come to me. Follow me. Be my disciples.”
We come to this place, to this time,
at the invitation of Jesus Christ.

In the name of Jesus the Christ,
we accept the invitation to discipleship.
In the name of Jesus the Messiah,
as his disciples, we worship and praise God.

In the midst of a world where cruelty abounds,
we proclaim the God of Compassion.

In the midst of despair that threatens to
swallow up whole lives, whole peoples,
we proclaim the God of Hope.

In the midst of indifference and apathy,
we proclaim the God of Love.

Come, let us worship together
and share our witness of God’s
living presence in the world.

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

(modified from One Earth Peace)

Community Confession

Lord Jesus Christ, we call you Lord, yet it is too easy
for us to be swayed into worshiping other things.
Other pursuits, activities, other relationships, other gods.

You tell us we can not serve two masters, yet
we spend more time focusing our energies
elsewhere, exhausting our time, our energy,
our money, our attention away from you.

Forgive us, gracious Savior,
When our hearts are led astray
When we serve other gods and worship them.

We turn away from our distractions and sin.
Strengthen us to set our faces toward Jerusalem,
To take up our cross and follow you.

We ask this, counting on your grace,
all in the name of the Father,
of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

Reflection

What is my false self? Have I taken time to appreciate how my protective self has served me? How does your false self inhibit intimacy and reveal a deeper need for Christ?

What is my true self? Where is Jesus inviting me to trust him as my shepherd so it can emerge more fully?

Benediction

Now go, all you who are loved by God,
hear his call to serve others
as he has served you;

hear his invitation to be part
of his plan to rescue the world;
and join in community with all
who walk in the footsteps of Jesus.

Help us to receive Christ’s life,
walk in his strength, and follow his
ways every moment of our lives.

May God’s care embrace us,
Jesus’ words embolden us,
and the Holy Spirit’s presence
renew us today and always.

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

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

[Photo by Yosigo @ Flickr]