Liturgy

Almighty God, you have poured upon
us the new light of your incarnate Word.

As we approach the new year,
grant that this light, enkindled
in our hearts, may shine forth
in our lives toward all people;

through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.

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

Community Confession

God, teach us to use time creatively,
in the knowledge that the time is
always ripe to do right.

O God, we confess that we have not
always used our time wisely.
Teach us to accept your forgiveness.

We confess that we have not always lived
in the identities that you have given us.
Teach us to live as people
clothed in your righteousness.

Lord, we ask that you would continue
to teach us in the coming year.
Teach us more of your mercy.

We pray that you would cause the dark clouds
in our lives to pass away, and that the deep
fog of misunderstanding and fear will be lifted
from our communities.

In some not too distant tomorrow,
allow us to see the radiant stars of
love and brotherhood shine over us
with all their beauty.

We ask this of you,
our God in community,
holy in One,
Amen.

Sermon and Reflection

Sermon Podcast 12.31.17- Lectio Divina Isaiah 61-62

Where do I sense meaning and connection this morning?

What gift am I being invited to receive today?

Benediction

Lord, you bring glad tidings
to the poor, so let us hear.
You heal the brokenhearted,
so heal us too.
You free the prisoners from their jails.
Free us from ourselves.

At the dawn of our new year,
loving God, please come to us,
and send us out forgiven,
to be with the poor,
the brokenhearted,
and the imprisoned.

in the name of our
God, the Creator,
of Christ, our Savior,
and of the Holy Spirit,
our Advocate and Guide.
Amen.

Go in peace and live the church.
Happy New Year, and see you in 2018!.

[Photo by Robert Ogilvie @ Flickr]