Liturgy
The Lord is a Father to us all,
compassionate and merciful,
filled with endless love.
He is not easily angered, nor
does he remain angry forever.
He doesn’t convict as our
sins deserve, or condemn
as harshly as he could.
For as high as the heavens
are above the earth, so strong
is his love toward us.
And as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our sins from us.
So be at peace: we are forgiven.
And so, let us give thanks and praise
the name of the Father,
of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Community Confession
O God,
we live our lives as best we can—
dealing with difficult relationships
and situations, putting failures and
disappointments behind us,
and moving into each new day
with as much energy, goodwill,
and optimism as we can muster.
But here, right now, we seldom have
the right answers, we seldom seek
your higher wisdom in our lives.
We just move ahead directionless.
Forgive us for not asking for your insight.
Fill us with your wisdom, that we may live
lives of courage, goodness and peace.
We pray for mercy in the name
of Jesus Christ, our Savior,
who lives to intercede for us,
God in community, holy in One.
Amen.
Sermon and Reflection
How is the God as a father metaphor helpful or hurtful?
How has your experience with your own father shaped your understanding of God?
What part of your experience needs healing?
What are some ways can you receive God’s love as a perfect Father this week?
Benediction
As we depart, remember this: because
of the work of the Holy Spirit within us,
we are sons and daughters of God.
We have been adopted into his family;
God is truly our Father. And if we are
God’s children, then we are his heirs,
and fellow heirs with Christ.
So go in peace and confidence,
sharing this good news with all,
knowing we have the love of God, our Father,
the grace of Jesus Christ,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Go in peace and live the church.
See you throughout the week.
Go in peace and live the church.
See you throughout the week.