Liturgy

O Christ, you entered the city as a poor man not not in style
but in simplicity, yet still you caused uproar, and raised
questions everywhere; you drew the expectations of a
hungry crowd, and brought buried conflicts to the light.

May we, who are sometimes swayed by the crowd’s
approval, and who often avoid conflict for fear of its
cost to us, hold fast to the gospel of peace and justice.

May we follow faithfully in your way of compassion and solidarity
with those who are poor and excluded, wherever it may lead us.

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

Community Confession

Jesus, our Lord, we shout
hosannas to praise you.
With eager hands, we
place our palms of praise
on the path before you.

Yet, Lord, we confess that the mouths that
seek to praise you often deny or defy you.
We confess that the hands that seek to
serve you often become fists.
We confess our praise is often empty.

Just as the people of Jerusalem did long ago,
We sing “Hosanna,” but will cry “Crucify.”
As the crowd laid their palms in front of you,
you took no glory for yourself.

Yet, we confess that we crave
acceptance and take the easy way.
We do not stay true to your will.

Forgive us, Lord, and help us
to follow in the way of your
obedience to our Father.
Help us to be faithful and loving
servants of Jesus, our King.

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

Sermon and Reflection

Sermon Podcast 04.09.17 – Lent: Expectations

What pain and darkness is God starting to untether in me this week?
How can I relax into the grace that God actually likes me?

Benediction

Today, with our heads lifted,
and our hearts brightened,
we walk with confidence in the love
we have from our Creator.

We are encouraged, knowing that in the
uncertainty and aimless wandering of
our lives, God knows the way.

May we learn the unforced rhythms of grace,
as we rest in God’s love and witness God’s smile.

We leave here 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 Kaarel Nurk @ Flickr]