Liturgy

Holy God, give us the strength to be honest—
to you, to ourselves, and to others.

Give us the courage to lay down our insecurities—
to trust that we are loved, that we need not want.

Forgive us from our instincts to lash out—
to hurt those by whom we feel threatened.

Imbue us with the peace of Christ;
gird us with the strength of the Father;
deliver us by the hope of the Spirit.

Transform us into the living, loving
Body of Christ in our community.

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

(Luke Helm)

Community Confession

For your world and your children,
we bring our prayers to you,
God of love.

For those who are misunderstood,
for those places which are abused,
may there be loving care.

For those who live in fear,
for those who bring fear to others,
may there be justice and peace.

For those living with wounds,
for those confounded by death and loss,
may there be hope for new life.

For those who want to understand more,
for those who are content,
may minds and hearts remain open.

For your world and your children,
we open our hearts.
Hear our cries, and lead us,
through Jesus Christ, our risen Lord.

We pray in the name
of our God of love,
of the risen Son,
and of the Holy Spirit,
Amen.

(Jenny Adams)

Sermon and Reflection

Sermon Podcast 4.28.19 – Forgiveness

What injury is currently disturbing my peace?

This week, how might I practice consenting to the Spirit’s movement toward forgiveness within me?

Benediction

Vox family, as you leave today,
may you be surrounded by love –

Love that gives you strength to face
deep divisions and disagreements.
Love that shows you kindness when
you admit that you’re wrong.

Love that covers over your judgement
so that you’re free to pass this love to your
neighbors, families, coworkers, and friends.

May this love empower you to forgive –
not just those who have wronged you,
but also yourselves, for as much as we
can love, we have been shown a love
that is a thousand times greater.

So go now in the name
of God, the Creator,
of Christ, the Risen One,
and of the Holy Spirit, the Breath of Life.
Amen.

(Gina Bastone-Trevino)

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

[Photo by Margriet Zwarthoed @ Flickr]