Liturgy

The Spirit of God calls us from many places;
from the places we call home and those we
occupy for the time being.

Yet we all come to this same place; all of us seeking
God’s presence in our lives, all of us seeking God’s
presence with each other, all of us seeking to work
and rest in the presence of our Creator.

We come together at the invitation of
God’s grace to rejoice in the story we
are a part of and proclaim the victories
we have experienced to bring us here.

Let us rest, together, in this place
that God has brought us to
and worship in the name
of the Father
of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

Community Confession

In peace, we pray to you, Lord God.

For all people in their daily life and work;
For our families, friends, and neighbors
and for those who are alone.

For this community, the nation, and the world;
For all who work for justice, freedom, and peace.

For the just and proper use of your creation;
For the victims of hunger, fear, injustice, and oppression.

For all who are in danger, sorrow, or any kind of trouble;
For those who care for the sick, the friendless and the needy.

For the peace and unity of the Church of God;
For all who proclaim the Gospel, and all who seek the Truth.

For the special needs and concerns of this community.
Hear us, Lord; for your mercy is great.

We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life.
Yet, despite our efforts, we are sinful beings,
Prone to selfishness…self-preservation.

Have mercy upon us, merciful Father;
in your compassion forgive us of our sins,
known and unknown, things done and left undone.

Uphold us by your Spirit that we may
live and serve you in newness of life,
to the honor and glory of your name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Sermon and Reflection

Sermon Podcast 05.07.17 – Shepherd Sunday

In what ways do you seek rest that ends up obscuring your view of God and others?
When was the last time you felt led into rest and comfort that grounded you to God, yourself and others?

Benediction

When you work, work
in strength and humility
for the Lord.

When you rest, rest
in the sovereign grace
of God, our Father.

And when you celebrate, celebrate
as a people with the greatest reason
for love, joy, and celebration.

Now go with the grace, the quiet strength,
and the forgiveness of our loving Savior,
and in the name of the Father,
of the Risen Son
and of the Holy Spirit,
Amen.

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

[Photo by Gordon Hart @ Flickr]