Liturgy

We intercede this morning on behalf of those
who have been impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Our God of mercy and compassion,
protect all who are still in danger,
and bring to safety those who are missing.

May you bring care for those who are
homeless or without support and resources.
We pray in thanksgiving for the first responders
who are risk their lives to save others.
We pray for the many who are overcome
with questions about next steps.

Holy One, comfort and strengthen us in
times of sudden disaster, crisis, and chaos.
And though we may be unsure and waver,
surround us now with your grace and peace.

This time and this place is still yours,
and we pray all this
in the name of the Father,
of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

Community Confession

Lord, God, you know our faults,
our failings, the waywardness of
our affections, the times when we
fail to practice what we know,

Yet you love us still, you forgive us,
you are there to comfort us.

You cherish us, guide us and love us,
But we often forget these gifts and
stray far from you, both when days
prove difficult and when we fall into
the lure of comfort and contentment.

Forgive us, loving Shepherd,
and seek us when we are lost.

Give us grace to love what you teach
and to desire what you promise.

In all the changes and chances of this
world, may our hearts be surely fixed
where true contentment, true life is
found, in Jesus Christ our Lord.

We pray to our God in community,
holy in One, amen.

Sermon and Reflection

Sermon Podcast 09.03.17 – Liturgy:Doxology

What images come to mind when you think of God?
How does the act of loving help you understand God?

Benediction

Go now from this place, trusting that your
desires will show you your own path to
deep relationship with God and others.

Trust that this is the good work you are
called to do, and do it with faithfulness.
You will not be perfect, you will learn
lessons the hard way.

Welcome these lessons, as best you can,
with open hands, receptive to the work
God is doing in your heart.

Explore the wilderness of desire and know you’ll
never be lost; you’re tethered irrevocably to the
One who loves you, gave you breath, and
watches over you at every moment.

Remember this as you go
with the love of the Father,
the mercy of the Son,
and the empathy of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

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

[Photo by emil rocha @ Flickr]