CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Dearest Lord, our Abba Father, help us in these Holy days to recognize and feel your most profound love for us and all of creation. Let us see in the tender, innocence of the Christ child your willing vulnerability. We pray not to dwell on feelings of unworthiness, but to find our worth in ministering to others. Teach us the way to receive your love; how to embrace the teachings of Jesus, and how to let the loving presence of your most Holy Spirit shine through us. May all whom we encounter in the days ahead see your Spirit revealed in our every expression, word, and deed. Be visible in us most wondrous and merciful God, we pray in the name of our savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The “His” and “Hers” Van Cleef & Arpels “Poetic Wish” Watches are the most expensive gift in the Neiman Marcus catalogue this year priced at $1,090,000.00. It pains me to inform you that the $354,000 Special Edition McLaren 12C Spider sold out 2 hours after sales officially began. I believe the $100,000 Heritage hen houses and $150,000 Whiskey Woody Tailgate Trailers are still available as are the Jetlev R200 water propelled jet packs at $99,500 a piece and the $90,000 Pinel & Pinel arcade trunk with Formula 1 racing seat, a Thrustmaster T500 RS Force steering Wheel, 24 PlayStation 3 games, an 1800-watt wireless music system and a motion-detection camera. No matter what it costs and no matter how pretty it may be; it is still stuff, that eventually breaks. God’s love doesn’t and won’t.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer them in love with a spirit of hopefulness knowing that with your blessing, these tithes and offerings have the power to advance the message of the gospel, breathe new life into your church and its ministries, and help many who are in need. May the generosity of this holiday linger throughout the year as we discover new and creative ways to be the living proof of your graciousness and love. In the name of the Christ. Amen.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Sunday December 16, 2012 "NOT CAMELOT"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Loving and Merciful God, it is indeed a joy to be in your company this morning, as we ponder the meaning of belonging to the body of Christ. In the moment of our first confession of faith we realized that we have always belonged to you, heart and soul; body and mind. Help us model our faith with a daring spirit, unencumbered by timidity or fear. Make our hands the hands of welcome that reach out to the stranger, and offer help to those who are just learning how to walk in the faith. Teach us the servant way, which endeavors always to look out for brother and sister, seeking to know them, to listen to their hopes and dreams, and help heal their hurts and sorrows. Let this work be our joy, O Lord, in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
My mother took me into the FAO Schwartz 5th Avenue store when I was 13. I remember staring goggle-eyed at the huge Steiff stuffed animals. They are sought after collectibles and come in all types and sizes. I was curious to know how long they had been around. Margarete Steiff was born in 1847. She contracted polio in 1849, but was determined to live a normal life. She became a seamstress and made her first little elephant pin cushion in 1879. Her motto was: “Only the best is good enough for children.” Let us embrace her motto and help our church be the best for our children.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer them with grateful, joyful hearts. We seek to serve you in all our work, at all times, in all places as often as ever we can. May the work of our hands, the prayers of our hearts, and the gifts we offer in the name of the Christ glorify your mostly holy name. Breathe your renewing Spirit into us that we may be the living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
Loving and Merciful God, it is indeed a joy to be in your company this morning, as we ponder the meaning of belonging to the body of Christ. In the moment of our first confession of faith we realized that we have always belonged to you, heart and soul; body and mind. Help us model our faith with a daring spirit, unencumbered by timidity or fear. Make our hands the hands of welcome that reach out to the stranger, and offer help to those who are just learning how to walk in the faith. Teach us the servant way, which endeavors always to look out for brother and sister, seeking to know them, to listen to their hopes and dreams, and help heal their hurts and sorrows. Let this work be our joy, O Lord, in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
My mother took me into the FAO Schwartz 5th Avenue store when I was 13. I remember staring goggle-eyed at the huge Steiff stuffed animals. They are sought after collectibles and come in all types and sizes. I was curious to know how long they had been around. Margarete Steiff was born in 1847. She contracted polio in 1849, but was determined to live a normal life. She became a seamstress and made her first little elephant pin cushion in 1879. Her motto was: “Only the best is good enough for children.” Let us embrace her motto and help our church be the best for our children.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer them with grateful, joyful hearts. We seek to serve you in all our work, at all times, in all places as often as ever we can. May the work of our hands, the prayers of our hearts, and the gifts we offer in the name of the Christ glorify your mostly holy name. Breathe your renewing Spirit into us that we may be the living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
December 16, 2012 "NOT CAMELOT"
Monday December 17, 2012
The text of this article is excerpted from the sermon preached on Sunday
December 16, 2012 in the aftermath of the Newtown Tragedy.
“Not Camelot”
In the musical “Camelot” King Arthur sings about his fantasy Kingdom where by law July and August cannot be too hot, where there is a legal limit to the snow, winter is forbidden till December and March the second on the dot. The summer lingers through September; the rain may never fall till after sundown and by eight the morning fog must disappear; the snow may never slush upon the hillside and by nine PM the moonlight must appear. In short there’s simply not a more congenial spot for happily-ever-aftering than Camelot. (1)
When holiday hearts are broken, shattered in sympathy for the families of the murdered women and children of Newtown, we are stingingly aware that we don’t live in Camelot. In Camelot there are wars and death and destruction, but the line between good and evil is clearly visible. As observers on the outside looking in we see who is working for good in Camelot and who is planning evil.
But we live in this world where good is not always visible and evil is not always predictable.
When bad things happen like the December 14th massacre of 20 children and 7 women-- we are left speechless, yet screaming on the inside wanting answers, wanting to know WHY!???!! We want an explanation. We demand an explanation from anyone who can tell us just what we could have done to prevent such evil from finding its way into our midst. We want to know the mechanism that kick starts the indifferent machine. We want to locate and find the kill switch, or the launch key to turn it back, to abort the launch. “O God, Where is the button that will stop the action? O God, where is the rewind button that will take us back to the time before the evil happened?” Superman used his power to reverse the earth’s direction, to spin the world backwards in time so he could rescue his beloved Lois Lane in the nick of time.
Experts will scramble to explain positing a failure of impulse control, or a messiah complex, psychopathy, or sociopathy. In truth all of the reasons for evil are pathological---the Greek word from which the word pathology is derived is the word pathos, which means suffering. Pathology, then, is about suffering. Pathophysiology is about the suffering of the body. It is the study of all that causes the body to suffer. We have tests and machines that seek out what causes the body to suffer. When a body is broken or attacked by viruses or bacteria, we may be appalled by their appearance, but we can see the devastation and we can intellectually prepare ourselves for how we will respond to the attack.
When my little sister died at the age of 8 from the chicken pox virus invading her brain she was only the 3rd such case they had seen at Boston Children’s hospital. That was in 1959. In 1981 I had been a registered nurse for 11 years. I was working to pay my way through Seminary doing a shift in the pediatric unit of San Dimas Community Hospital. I read an article posted on the bulletin board about a disease called Reye’s syndrome – named for the physician who identified it. It was believed to be caused by the use of aspirin in treating viral infections in children particularly the Chicken Pox virus. What the researchers discovered was that aspirin (probably for its anticoagulant properties) actually aided the virus in crossing the blood brain barrier resulting in the inflammation of the lining of the brain, causing a marked headache, fever, seizures, coma and death. Twenty-two years after my sister died I learned what had caused her death. But we all took aspirin for a fever when I was a little girl. And not everyone got Reye’s syndrome when their fever was treated with aspirin. (2)
Psychopathology is the suffering of the psyche the suffering of the mind. We cannot see what causes it, and we can only guess at what might relieve the suffering. We are so frightened by it, that we are unable to prepare ourselves intellectually or emotionally for the toll which the suffering mind exacts from all of its victims as it wreaks havoc on itself and others.
Just as we want to wield magical powers over the pathos that devastates the human body, so too, we want to wield power over the pathos that devastates the human mind. But we do not have magical powers. We are in fact powerless to eradicate pathos. We want to be able to repair the world, to repair all of the brokenness that accompanies human existence, but that is not part of our job description.
Today we are called to hug each other and our children even tighter. Today Jesus calls us to embrace blessing in the midst of mourning, for we are promised comfort. He reminds us to let the little children come to him, and never stop them, for it is to them that the kingdom of heaven belongs.
Keep the words of Paul close at hand and always in your heart:
“Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:35; 37-39)
AMEN.
(1) Musical by Alan J. Lerner and Frederick Lowe 1960 based on the novel by T.H. White “The Once and Future King” 1958
(2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reye's_syndrome and http://www.reyessyndrome.org/
The text of this article is excerpted from the sermon preached on Sunday
December 16, 2012 in the aftermath of the Newtown Tragedy.
“Not Camelot”
In the musical “Camelot” King Arthur sings about his fantasy Kingdom where by law July and August cannot be too hot, where there is a legal limit to the snow, winter is forbidden till December and March the second on the dot. The summer lingers through September; the rain may never fall till after sundown and by eight the morning fog must disappear; the snow may never slush upon the hillside and by nine PM the moonlight must appear. In short there’s simply not a more congenial spot for happily-ever-aftering than Camelot. (1)
When holiday hearts are broken, shattered in sympathy for the families of the murdered women and children of Newtown, we are stingingly aware that we don’t live in Camelot. In Camelot there are wars and death and destruction, but the line between good and evil is clearly visible. As observers on the outside looking in we see who is working for good in Camelot and who is planning evil.
But we live in this world where good is not always visible and evil is not always predictable.
When bad things happen like the December 14th massacre of 20 children and 7 women-- we are left speechless, yet screaming on the inside wanting answers, wanting to know WHY!???!! We want an explanation. We demand an explanation from anyone who can tell us just what we could have done to prevent such evil from finding its way into our midst. We want to know the mechanism that kick starts the indifferent machine. We want to locate and find the kill switch, or the launch key to turn it back, to abort the launch. “O God, Where is the button that will stop the action? O God, where is the rewind button that will take us back to the time before the evil happened?” Superman used his power to reverse the earth’s direction, to spin the world backwards in time so he could rescue his beloved Lois Lane in the nick of time.
Experts will scramble to explain positing a failure of impulse control, or a messiah complex, psychopathy, or sociopathy. In truth all of the reasons for evil are pathological---the Greek word from which the word pathology is derived is the word pathos, which means suffering. Pathology, then, is about suffering. Pathophysiology is about the suffering of the body. It is the study of all that causes the body to suffer. We have tests and machines that seek out what causes the body to suffer. When a body is broken or attacked by viruses or bacteria, we may be appalled by their appearance, but we can see the devastation and we can intellectually prepare ourselves for how we will respond to the attack.
When my little sister died at the age of 8 from the chicken pox virus invading her brain she was only the 3rd such case they had seen at Boston Children’s hospital. That was in 1959. In 1981 I had been a registered nurse for 11 years. I was working to pay my way through Seminary doing a shift in the pediatric unit of San Dimas Community Hospital. I read an article posted on the bulletin board about a disease called Reye’s syndrome – named for the physician who identified it. It was believed to be caused by the use of aspirin in treating viral infections in children particularly the Chicken Pox virus. What the researchers discovered was that aspirin (probably for its anticoagulant properties) actually aided the virus in crossing the blood brain barrier resulting in the inflammation of the lining of the brain, causing a marked headache, fever, seizures, coma and death. Twenty-two years after my sister died I learned what had caused her death. But we all took aspirin for a fever when I was a little girl. And not everyone got Reye’s syndrome when their fever was treated with aspirin. (2)
Psychopathology is the suffering of the psyche the suffering of the mind. We cannot see what causes it, and we can only guess at what might relieve the suffering. We are so frightened by it, that we are unable to prepare ourselves intellectually or emotionally for the toll which the suffering mind exacts from all of its victims as it wreaks havoc on itself and others.
Just as we want to wield magical powers over the pathos that devastates the human body, so too, we want to wield power over the pathos that devastates the human mind. But we do not have magical powers. We are in fact powerless to eradicate pathos. We want to be able to repair the world, to repair all of the brokenness that accompanies human existence, but that is not part of our job description.
Today we are called to hug each other and our children even tighter. Today Jesus calls us to embrace blessing in the midst of mourning, for we are promised comfort. He reminds us to let the little children come to him, and never stop them, for it is to them that the kingdom of heaven belongs.
Keep the words of Paul close at hand and always in your heart:
“Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:35; 37-39)
AMEN.
(1) Musical by Alan J. Lerner and Frederick Lowe 1960 based on the novel by T.H. White “The Once and Future King” 1958
(2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reye's_syndrome and http://www.reyessyndrome.org/
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
December 9, 2012 "SURPASSING PEACE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and loving God, when we think of you creating the world, some of us imagine your hand as a paintbrush, the colors flowing from your fingertips, textures spreading across the canvas of space. Some of us see the sculptor’s hand moving, molding, smoothing, carving the clay forming the planets, the stars and creatures of all sizes and shapes. Still other’s of us see you as moving spirit, dancing, blowing, spinning, breathing the whole universe into being. In all of this creating we imagine yours is a labor of love. Therefore, sing to us your melody of peace. When we are struck down, frustrated with our crying, spent from illness, lead us to your sanctuary to hear your voice of comfort and mercy. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
What does the verb to give mean? It’s pretty straightforward, isn’t it? You give of yourself, or what you have to someone or something usually because you want to. But we use the word in conjunction with a bunch of other words, giving the word, give, different meanings. For example: give-in; give-up; give-over; give-all; give-out, give away and giveaway. The meaning changes too, when you put a prefix or another word in front of give, as in, re-give, out-give, and maybe even, un-give. Of course, the most familiar combo would be forgive. Each form has a meaning all it’s own, but only one offers us the peace of God which surpasses all understanding.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer them with a spirit of hopefulness knowing that with your blessing, they have the power to advance the message of the gospel, breathe new life into the work and ministries of your church, and, in turn, help those in need. Empower your church, to be the living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
Wondrous and loving God, when we think of you creating the world, some of us imagine your hand as a paintbrush, the colors flowing from your fingertips, textures spreading across the canvas of space. Some of us see the sculptor’s hand moving, molding, smoothing, carving the clay forming the planets, the stars and creatures of all sizes and shapes. Still other’s of us see you as moving spirit, dancing, blowing, spinning, breathing the whole universe into being. In all of this creating we imagine yours is a labor of love. Therefore, sing to us your melody of peace. When we are struck down, frustrated with our crying, spent from illness, lead us to your sanctuary to hear your voice of comfort and mercy. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
What does the verb to give mean? It’s pretty straightforward, isn’t it? You give of yourself, or what you have to someone or something usually because you want to. But we use the word in conjunction with a bunch of other words, giving the word, give, different meanings. For example: give-in; give-up; give-over; give-all; give-out, give away and giveaway. The meaning changes too, when you put a prefix or another word in front of give, as in, re-give, out-give, and maybe even, un-give. Of course, the most familiar combo would be forgive. Each form has a meaning all it’s own, but only one offers us the peace of God which surpasses all understanding.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer them with a spirit of hopefulness knowing that with your blessing, they have the power to advance the message of the gospel, breathe new life into the work and ministries of your church, and, in turn, help those in need. Empower your church, to be the living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
Monday, December 3, 2012
December 2, 2012 "THE SOREST TROUBLE" Job 4:1-6
THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT "HOPE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Prepare our hearts, Lord, for the coming of your kingdom upon the earth. Let us not be idle, or bored with waiting, drumming our fingers on the altar, waiting; fixing our eyes on the lone flickering candle that longs to tell us something is coming, waiting; our minds anxious about there being only 22 more days to shop, decorate the house and put up the lights, waiting; our spirits impatient with already knowing what to expect. Lend us your memory, O God that we can know how you desired to be in covenant with us, so much so that you made a radical new decision. Remind us, merciful God, that what we are waiting for in the uncertain times of every age, is your purpose revealed. We pray that you will find us alert and watching for the coming of your Son, today and all of the days of this Advent Season. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
How can we possibly move our minds away from the shopping season to the Advent season? The onslaught of glitz, glitter and jingle focuses our attention on goods and goodies to be consumed. My brother does Christmas because its tradition; he no more in tune with the reason for the season than the man in the moon. One thing I do applaud him for — he waits until the very last minute of December 24th to buy gifts. If stores were open on the 25th, he’d wait until then. That is as it should be.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer them with a spirit of hopefulness knowing that with your blessing, they have the power to advance the message of the gospel, breathe new life into the work and ministries of your church, and, in turn, help those in need. Empower your church, to be the living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Prepare our hearts, Lord, for the coming of your kingdom upon the earth. Let us not be idle, or bored with waiting, drumming our fingers on the altar, waiting; fixing our eyes on the lone flickering candle that longs to tell us something is coming, waiting; our minds anxious about there being only 22 more days to shop, decorate the house and put up the lights, waiting; our spirits impatient with already knowing what to expect. Lend us your memory, O God that we can know how you desired to be in covenant with us, so much so that you made a radical new decision. Remind us, merciful God, that what we are waiting for in the uncertain times of every age, is your purpose revealed. We pray that you will find us alert and watching for the coming of your Son, today and all of the days of this Advent Season. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
How can we possibly move our minds away from the shopping season to the Advent season? The onslaught of glitz, glitter and jingle focuses our attention on goods and goodies to be consumed. My brother does Christmas because its tradition; he no more in tune with the reason for the season than the man in the moon. One thing I do applaud him for — he waits until the very last minute of December 24th to buy gifts. If stores were open on the 25th, he’d wait until then. That is as it should be.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer them with a spirit of hopefulness knowing that with your blessing, they have the power to advance the message of the gospel, breathe new life into the work and ministries of your church, and, in turn, help those in need. Empower your church, to be the living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
November 25, 2012 "GOT KING JESUS?"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving God from the beginning of all things you have sought us in the dark places, whether places of doubt, or hiding. You have longed to be our God, to be the very Spirit of life and possibility that moves in and through us. We confess our penchant for being “laws unto ourselves” — independent thinkers — able to solve our own problems and withstand all sorts of inclement conditions. But it is when we find ourselves on our knees, weighted down by the trials of this life, that we long to be profoundly aware of your presence. Because you promised to be with us — no matter what— lending us your strength to ease our burdens; we can move ever closer to your kingdom come on earth. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
King David King Solomon King of Israel King Richard King Midas King Henry II King of the Jews King Henry VIII King Charles 1 King of Glory King George King Creole Christ the King Martin Luther King Billie Jean King Redeemer King B.B. King Carole King Stephen King King of Kings Larry King Rodney King Prince of Peace King Jesus? It feels awkward for some us to call the Prince of Peace — King Jesus, but when we talk about him King is part of his name — before it and after it. In all things he is the King of our hearts and we are not ashamed to confess it openly. Let us confess it in our giving, as well.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Dearest Lord, bless the gifts we bring. We set them before you with hopeful spirits and open hands. We pray that the true gospel of your kingdom come on earth will find its way into the hearts of those in need, not only of the necessities of life, but who are in need of something, of someone, to believe in. May our giving bring them hope and new life in Jesus. Amen.
Wondrous and Loving God from the beginning of all things you have sought us in the dark places, whether places of doubt, or hiding. You have longed to be our God, to be the very Spirit of life and possibility that moves in and through us. We confess our penchant for being “laws unto ourselves” — independent thinkers — able to solve our own problems and withstand all sorts of inclement conditions. But it is when we find ourselves on our knees, weighted down by the trials of this life, that we long to be profoundly aware of your presence. Because you promised to be with us — no matter what— lending us your strength to ease our burdens; we can move ever closer to your kingdom come on earth. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
King David King Solomon King of Israel King Richard King Midas King Henry II King of the Jews King Henry VIII King Charles 1 King of Glory King George King Creole Christ the King Martin Luther King Billie Jean King Redeemer King B.B. King Carole King Stephen King King of Kings Larry King Rodney King Prince of Peace King Jesus? It feels awkward for some us to call the Prince of Peace — King Jesus, but when we talk about him King is part of his name — before it and after it. In all things he is the King of our hearts and we are not ashamed to confess it openly. Let us confess it in our giving, as well.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Dearest Lord, bless the gifts we bring. We set them before you with hopeful spirits and open hands. We pray that the true gospel of your kingdom come on earth will find its way into the hearts of those in need, not only of the necessities of life, but who are in need of something, of someone, to believe in. May our giving bring them hope and new life in Jesus. Amen.
Monday, November 19, 2012
November 18, 2012 "LIVING IN THANKSGIVING MODE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Everliving God, from whom all blessings flow, thank you for this morning, for the faithful company of our brothers and sisters in Christ, and for the freedom to sing praises to your name. We confess our excitement about the Thanksgiving holiday, when we feast in the company of family and friends. Help us to be aware that everyday offers an opportunity to live in Thanksgiving mode. Everyday the sun rises we have the chance to focus our hearts upon you and our thoughts on the bounties of your creation. Let the Spirit of gratitude live in us; let it shine through our eyes. For all of those who are traveling, on pilgrimages to visit family or friends, we pray that they will not be delayed. May your message of hope and all things possible arrive with them. Comfort those whose hearts are hurting and who are in need of your special attention and consolation as the holiday season unfolds. All this we pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer these gifts with a spirit of thanksgiving not obligation. With your blessing, we are assured that what we give helps to revitalize ministries and congregations. Let them breathe new life into our ministry and work, as well. Empower your church, to be your message, living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
Gracious and Everliving God, from whom all blessings flow, thank you for this morning, for the faithful company of our brothers and sisters in Christ, and for the freedom to sing praises to your name. We confess our excitement about the Thanksgiving holiday, when we feast in the company of family and friends. Help us to be aware that everyday offers an opportunity to live in Thanksgiving mode. Everyday the sun rises we have the chance to focus our hearts upon you and our thoughts on the bounties of your creation. Let the Spirit of gratitude live in us; let it shine through our eyes. For all of those who are traveling, on pilgrimages to visit family or friends, we pray that they will not be delayed. May your message of hope and all things possible arrive with them. Comfort those whose hearts are hurting and who are in need of your special attention and consolation as the holiday season unfolds. All this we pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer these gifts with a spirit of thanksgiving not obligation. With your blessing, we are assured that what we give helps to revitalize ministries and congregations. Let them breathe new life into our ministry and work, as well. Empower your church, to be your message, living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
November 11, 2012 "OH! IT'S LEASED LAND"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Dear Lord, Mighty Sovereign of the Universe, you have given this earth and all its creatures into our care. And since we don’t own the creation, we are aware that we must keep it in good order for you and the future of all. We confess that humans have done irreparable harm to the earth. Even if we believe that we, personally, have done no harm to the planet, we must confess that we have permitted others to do so, turning a blind eye as your rivers and streams were polluted and your land intoxicated. Give us the courage to be true stewards. Let us not trade in our covenant for indifference allowing latter day Titans to make expedient decisions based on their own greed. May your agenda be our agenda. Speak to our hearts and our consciences, O Lord. Guide us by your awesome vision; imbue us with your imagination. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most Loving God, bless these offerings, to your use. Help us understand the difference between giving cheerfully and letting go of some of what we have. Keep us mindful of our good fortune and teach us to be wise with all that you have given into our care. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Dear Lord, Mighty Sovereign of the Universe, you have given this earth and all its creatures into our care. And since we don’t own the creation, we are aware that we must keep it in good order for you and the future of all. We confess that humans have done irreparable harm to the earth. Even if we believe that we, personally, have done no harm to the planet, we must confess that we have permitted others to do so, turning a blind eye as your rivers and streams were polluted and your land intoxicated. Give us the courage to be true stewards. Let us not trade in our covenant for indifference allowing latter day Titans to make expedient decisions based on their own greed. May your agenda be our agenda. Speak to our hearts and our consciences, O Lord. Guide us by your awesome vision; imbue us with your imagination. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most Loving God, bless these offerings, to your use. Help us understand the difference between giving cheerfully and letting go of some of what we have. Keep us mindful of our good fortune and teach us to be wise with all that you have given into our care. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Monday, October 29, 2012
October 28, 2012 "TO SEE AGAIN"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Our Glorious Creator, Author of salvation, we praise your name and give you thanks for the days of our life, for the freedom we have to choose, for the ability to be decisive and, most of all, for second chances. We confess the fragility of our egos. And dearest Lord, we confess to, sometimes, feeling unappreciated especially when someone else’s work is recognized before ours. Help us never feel discounted, by attentions paid to any who seek to glorify your name. All our efforts, as followers of Jesus, are made in your honor. Help us take our faith off the back burner and see clearly all of the chances you set before us to be gratified in our work. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, our hearts are full as we ponder the depth of love you have shown us in the life of Jesus. He opened our eyes and helped us to see your light shining in the darkness. He invited us to know you intimately, personally and to be aware of your presence in every moment of our lives. These offerings cannot fully express how grateful we are for all your blessings. However we pray that they will succeed in shining your light in dark places and bring comfort and healing to those in need. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Our Glorious Creator, Author of salvation, we praise your name and give you thanks for the days of our life, for the freedom we have to choose, for the ability to be decisive and, most of all, for second chances. We confess the fragility of our egos. And dearest Lord, we confess to, sometimes, feeling unappreciated especially when someone else’s work is recognized before ours. Help us never feel discounted, by attentions paid to any who seek to glorify your name. All our efforts, as followers of Jesus, are made in your honor. Help us take our faith off the back burner and see clearly all of the chances you set before us to be gratified in our work. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, our hearts are full as we ponder the depth of love you have shown us in the life of Jesus. He opened our eyes and helped us to see your light shining in the darkness. He invited us to know you intimately, personally and to be aware of your presence in every moment of our lives. These offerings cannot fully express how grateful we are for all your blessings. However we pray that they will succeed in shining your light in dark places and bring comfort and healing to those in need. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
October 21, 2012 "IMAGINE WHAT'S POSSIBLE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Our most Awesome and Glorious God, we thank you for the sun that rises in the morning creating, for all the world, the new day. Whether its face is hidden among the clouds or we see it’s brilliance and feel the warmth its rays, we have not been grateful enough for its powerful light. When we confess that we take for granted, each new day, we are reminded of the many blessings we fail to acknowledge. Thank you, dearest Lord, for this family of faith, for those dear ones who seek to love us through and in spite of our faults and flaws. We thank you for life’s challenges; without them we would not comprehend the meaning of faith. We thank you for the millions of heartbeats that carry us through the days and nights of our life. We thank you most of all for the person of Jesus, the wisdom of his words and the example of his life. We thank you for the companionship of the Holy Spirit who remains with us to inspire us and ignite a fire of imagination within. Help us, Gracious God, to be your servants always imagining what’s possible in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Carl Sagan wrote: “Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were. But without it, we go nowhere.” If we live believing that we are powerless to change ourselves or the systems that govern our lives; if we live thinking that there is nothing we can do, nothing we can change, nothing we can make better — that we have no power to influence even our own actions then we have embraced fatalism, not faith. Today, if you can reach into your pocket or purse and make an offering to the church, you have embraced faith, not fate.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God our hearts and hands have committed these offerings to your keeping, to be used to further the work of the church in spreading the good news of your kingdom come upon the earth. May these faith inspired gifts reach into the darkest places of this earth to bring light. May they replace dearth with plenty and despair with hope. We pledge ourselves and the work of our hands that we may be your instruments of peace offering solace to a hurting world. In the name of the Christ. Amen.
Our most Awesome and Glorious God, we thank you for the sun that rises in the morning creating, for all the world, the new day. Whether its face is hidden among the clouds or we see it’s brilliance and feel the warmth its rays, we have not been grateful enough for its powerful light. When we confess that we take for granted, each new day, we are reminded of the many blessings we fail to acknowledge. Thank you, dearest Lord, for this family of faith, for those dear ones who seek to love us through and in spite of our faults and flaws. We thank you for life’s challenges; without them we would not comprehend the meaning of faith. We thank you for the millions of heartbeats that carry us through the days and nights of our life. We thank you most of all for the person of Jesus, the wisdom of his words and the example of his life. We thank you for the companionship of the Holy Spirit who remains with us to inspire us and ignite a fire of imagination within. Help us, Gracious God, to be your servants always imagining what’s possible in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Carl Sagan wrote: “Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were. But without it, we go nowhere.” If we live believing that we are powerless to change ourselves or the systems that govern our lives; if we live thinking that there is nothing we can do, nothing we can change, nothing we can make better — that we have no power to influence even our own actions then we have embraced fatalism, not faith. Today, if you can reach into your pocket or purse and make an offering to the church, you have embraced faith, not fate.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God our hearts and hands have committed these offerings to your keeping, to be used to further the work of the church in spreading the good news of your kingdom come upon the earth. May these faith inspired gifts reach into the darkest places of this earth to bring light. May they replace dearth with plenty and despair with hope. We pledge ourselves and the work of our hands that we may be your instruments of peace offering solace to a hurting world. In the name of the Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
October 14, 2012 "FIFTY YEARS OF WELCOME"
Greeting
Dear Friends, we have gathered together in this time of worship to give thanks to the Lord our God for one of the great blessings of our lives, this very United Methodist Body of Christ here in Palm Springs. Fifty years ago God’s wondrous and empowering Spirit moved in the hearts of those first individuals who longed to be a congregation of Methodists treading a Wesleyan path toward holiness. They found a way to be a congregation first, finding a temporary home in Temple Isaiah where they were free to worship, pray, dream and make plans for the day when they would have a church home. We celebrate the determination, dedication and devotion of those first dreamers, the sacrifice, love, commitment and hard work of so many who have brought us to this present day, and the visionary leadership of those who will guide us through our next 50 years of ministry.
Dear Friends, we have gathered together in this time of worship to give thanks to the Lord our God for one of the great blessings of our lives, this very United Methodist Body of Christ here in Palm Springs. Fifty years ago God’s wondrous and empowering Spirit moved in the hearts of those first individuals who longed to be a congregation of Methodists treading a Wesleyan path toward holiness. They found a way to be a congregation first, finding a temporary home in Temple Isaiah where they were free to worship, pray, dream and make plans for the day when they would have a church home. We celebrate the determination, dedication and devotion of those first dreamers, the sacrifice, love, commitment and hard work of so many who have brought us to this present day, and the visionary leadership of those who will guide us through our next 50 years of ministry.
October 7, 2012 "THE WELCOME TABLE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Sovereign God, Creator of the Universe, today in our tiny corner of the world, we open our eyes to the realization that we are connected with the whole body of Christ beyond borders, seas and oceans, beyond longitudes and latitudes, time zones, and languages. No matter how we celebrate the Lord’s Supper; no matter the way in which we partake of the elements, all who claim the name of the Christ, partake together as one body in the world, always looking forward to the coming of the Christ. One day we will feast at your heavenly banquet, but today we remain one in Christ, one with each other and one in ministry to all the world. Bless our whole communion; we ask in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The earliest followers of Jesus in Acts 2:44-47 “were all who believed and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds, to all as any had need. They spent much time together in the temple, and broke bread at home, and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and have the goodwill of all the people. And day by day The Lord added to their number…” You see, because they believed, because they shared and because they were generous people of glad hearts, God kept adding to their number. That’s God’s formula for church growth.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept our tithes and offerings not only for the care and support of Christ’s church, but the care and support of your creation. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek to live in response to your never ending and abundant grace. Empower us, further, O Lord, to be your people of glad and generous hearts as we continue our ministries of care, reaching out to those in need in our community and around the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Sovereign God, Creator of the Universe, today in our tiny corner of the world, we open our eyes to the realization that we are connected with the whole body of Christ beyond borders, seas and oceans, beyond longitudes and latitudes, time zones, and languages. No matter how we celebrate the Lord’s Supper; no matter the way in which we partake of the elements, all who claim the name of the Christ, partake together as one body in the world, always looking forward to the coming of the Christ. One day we will feast at your heavenly banquet, but today we remain one in Christ, one with each other and one in ministry to all the world. Bless our whole communion; we ask in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The earliest followers of Jesus in Acts 2:44-47 “were all who believed and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds, to all as any had need. They spent much time together in the temple, and broke bread at home, and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and have the goodwill of all the people. And day by day The Lord added to their number…” You see, because they believed, because they shared and because they were generous people of glad hearts, God kept adding to their number. That’s God’s formula for church growth.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept our tithes and offerings not only for the care and support of Christ’s church, but the care and support of your creation. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek to live in response to your never ending and abundant grace. Empower us, further, O Lord, to be your people of glad and generous hearts as we continue our ministries of care, reaching out to those in need in our community and around the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Monday, October 1, 2012
September 30, 2012 GOOD SHOULDS"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Compassionate and merciful God, we lift our voices in prayer this morning knowing that you hear the timbre of each voice, ever alert to the sounds of suffering. Our beloved savior urged us not be anxious about our life, what we will eat or drink, about our bodies, or what we will wear; even still we confess our anxiety. Remind us that from your heart pours forth a Spirit of calm to reassure us, to quench our thirst, satisfy our hunger and bathe us in the light of your goodness and promises kept. May our prayers for each other, for brothers and sisters in need, for children in want, even for ourselves be the prayers that fuel our mission, energize our calling and fortify our spirits. It is in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the man of sorrows, that we are reminded how much you know of suffering. Your heart has indeed bled for us and we can do naught, but be grateful and humbled. Thank you, dearest Lord, we say, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Horace Mann was known as the “Father of the Common School Movement.” The epitaph on the monument over his grave reads: “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.” He boldly conceived of universal education through the establishment of free schools, which he called a grand experiment whose effect would not be recognized in a single generation. In 1891 when encouraging the State of Massachusetts to continue it’s financial support of the universal education experiment he said: “The sincerity of our gratitude must be tested by our efforts to perpetuate and improve what these schools have established. The gratitude of the lips only is an unholy offering.” Make a holy offering today.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God our gratitude for your love, mercy and blessings, is not only expressed by our grateful prayers, but by these, our gifts of gratitude. Bless this holy offering as it seeks to carry on and improve the work that we do in the name of Jesus Christ. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek the path to holiness by living out the commandment to love one another as Christ loved us. It is in his marvelous name that we pray. Amen.
Compassionate and merciful God, we lift our voices in prayer this morning knowing that you hear the timbre of each voice, ever alert to the sounds of suffering. Our beloved savior urged us not be anxious about our life, what we will eat or drink, about our bodies, or what we will wear; even still we confess our anxiety. Remind us that from your heart pours forth a Spirit of calm to reassure us, to quench our thirst, satisfy our hunger and bathe us in the light of your goodness and promises kept. May our prayers for each other, for brothers and sisters in need, for children in want, even for ourselves be the prayers that fuel our mission, energize our calling and fortify our spirits. It is in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the man of sorrows, that we are reminded how much you know of suffering. Your heart has indeed bled for us and we can do naught, but be grateful and humbled. Thank you, dearest Lord, we say, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Horace Mann was known as the “Father of the Common School Movement.” The epitaph on the monument over his grave reads: “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.” He boldly conceived of universal education through the establishment of free schools, which he called a grand experiment whose effect would not be recognized in a single generation. In 1891 when encouraging the State of Massachusetts to continue it’s financial support of the universal education experiment he said: “The sincerity of our gratitude must be tested by our efforts to perpetuate and improve what these schools have established. The gratitude of the lips only is an unholy offering.” Make a holy offering today.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God our gratitude for your love, mercy and blessings, is not only expressed by our grateful prayers, but by these, our gifts of gratitude. Bless this holy offering as it seeks to carry on and improve the work that we do in the name of Jesus Christ. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek the path to holiness by living out the commandment to love one another as Christ loved us. It is in his marvelous name that we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
September 23, 2012 "ON BEING KINDLY WISE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Faithful God, we are grateful for this glorious day, for this opportunity to commune with you and with our family of faith. Let us remember today when and where we first heard your name. Did our parents whisper it to us in the words of a loving lullaby, or in a goodnight prayer spoken as they tucked us safely into our beds? Did we hear your name in a blessing or a curse? Where were we when we first spoke your name. Was it in a prayer? When was it that the name of Jesus first fell from our lips spoken as if we had always known him? Who was the dear, dear one who gave us your name and the name of your son? It has been many years since some of us have thought about our first words of faith, or the first hymn we sang, or the first prayer we uttered. Let us never forget that these first things —second nature to us now —were taught to us so we’d know you loved us no matter what and would forgive us often through our lifetime. We pledge, today, to teach our children well these first and most important things, in the name of the Christ. Amen
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
At our Ad council meeting the church leaders had all sorts of great ideas about how to stimulate folks to join in the giving frenzy that is supposed to take place when the offering plate is passed. Some folks who give electronically are not seen to be putting anything in the plate on and so visitors or newcomers may be following their lead or lack of it. There are folks who give when the mood strikes them, and there are those who don’t give because they consider what they can give to be too meager to matter. It isn’t the amount you give that is important. Look at it this way, you are sharing your assets in support of the work of the church and It is meant to be a habitual practice.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept our tithes and offerings as they support the work of the church in the world feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, educating the poor, giving comfort to the broken. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek to live in response to your never ending and abundant grace. Empower us, further, O Lord, to continue our ministries of care to those in need in our community and around the world spreading the good news through the work of our hands and the commitment of our hearts. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Faithful God, we are grateful for this glorious day, for this opportunity to commune with you and with our family of faith. Let us remember today when and where we first heard your name. Did our parents whisper it to us in the words of a loving lullaby, or in a goodnight prayer spoken as they tucked us safely into our beds? Did we hear your name in a blessing or a curse? Where were we when we first spoke your name. Was it in a prayer? When was it that the name of Jesus first fell from our lips spoken as if we had always known him? Who was the dear, dear one who gave us your name and the name of your son? It has been many years since some of us have thought about our first words of faith, or the first hymn we sang, or the first prayer we uttered. Let us never forget that these first things —second nature to us now —were taught to us so we’d know you loved us no matter what and would forgive us often through our lifetime. We pledge, today, to teach our children well these first and most important things, in the name of the Christ. Amen
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
At our Ad council meeting the church leaders had all sorts of great ideas about how to stimulate folks to join in the giving frenzy that is supposed to take place when the offering plate is passed. Some folks who give electronically are not seen to be putting anything in the plate on and so visitors or newcomers may be following their lead or lack of it. There are folks who give when the mood strikes them, and there are those who don’t give because they consider what they can give to be too meager to matter. It isn’t the amount you give that is important. Look at it this way, you are sharing your assets in support of the work of the church and It is meant to be a habitual practice.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept our tithes and offerings as they support the work of the church in the world feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, educating the poor, giving comfort to the broken. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek to live in response to your never ending and abundant grace. Empower us, further, O Lord, to continue our ministries of care to those in need in our community and around the world spreading the good news through the work of our hands and the commitment of our hearts. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
September 16, 2012 "BLAZING TONGUES"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Loving God, we sing your praises and offer our thanks for your grace, mercy and unending patience. As we, your children, contend with each other and wrangle for control over the smallest of things, remind us that we have pledged ourselves to serve you, to serve your church and to serve each other. Keep us from keeping our distance in these days when we are self-conscious about political ideologies. Stop us from branding each other conservatives or liberals or something even worse. Help us to see that we are Christians first, seeking to love one another in all the circumstances of life. We pray to be kindly wise. Let us not suspect brother or sister because our opinions differ. Let us not stand afar off from one who is living in the same world we live in, but who expresses their hopes and dreams in words different from our own. We will strive to be your peacemakers and peacekeepers in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
About a week after I moved into my house, Ismael knocked on my door and asked me if I needed a gardener. I sort of thought Omar the gardener came with the house, but he never returned my phone calls. Ismael was about to walk away when I called him back and we negotiated what it would cost to care for my yard each month. Ismael is a real caretaker tending to the whole property, the lawn, the trees, the flowers, the sprinklers. I am grateful he knocked on my door. God has hoped that we would be Ismaels of the earth so to speak, real caretakers of the creation, stewards of what God has entrusted to us. Offering to support the church financially is just one of the things on our caretaking list.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept our tithes and offerings not only for the care and support of Christ’s church, but the care and support of your creation. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek to live in response to your never ending and abundant grace. Empower us, further, O Lord, to continue our ministries of care to those in need in our community and around the world spreading the good news through the work of our hands and the commitment of our hearts. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Loving God, we sing your praises and offer our thanks for your grace, mercy and unending patience. As we, your children, contend with each other and wrangle for control over the smallest of things, remind us that we have pledged ourselves to serve you, to serve your church and to serve each other. Keep us from keeping our distance in these days when we are self-conscious about political ideologies. Stop us from branding each other conservatives or liberals or something even worse. Help us to see that we are Christians first, seeking to love one another in all the circumstances of life. We pray to be kindly wise. Let us not suspect brother or sister because our opinions differ. Let us not stand afar off from one who is living in the same world we live in, but who expresses their hopes and dreams in words different from our own. We will strive to be your peacemakers and peacekeepers in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
About a week after I moved into my house, Ismael knocked on my door and asked me if I needed a gardener. I sort of thought Omar the gardener came with the house, but he never returned my phone calls. Ismael was about to walk away when I called him back and we negotiated what it would cost to care for my yard each month. Ismael is a real caretaker tending to the whole property, the lawn, the trees, the flowers, the sprinklers. I am grateful he knocked on my door. God has hoped that we would be Ismaels of the earth so to speak, real caretakers of the creation, stewards of what God has entrusted to us. Offering to support the church financially is just one of the things on our caretaking list.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept our tithes and offerings not only for the care and support of Christ’s church, but the care and support of your creation. Let faith and trust abide in our hearts as we seek to live in response to your never ending and abundant grace. Empower us, further, O Lord, to continue our ministries of care to those in need in our community and around the world spreading the good news through the work of our hands and the commitment of our hearts. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
September 9, 2012 "LIVING THE HANDS-ON GOSPEL"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Our Loving Creator, we are blessed today and every day that we can raise our voices in praise and thanksgiving for your steadfast love and mercy. We cannot imagine what it would be like, to be removed from your presence, disconnected and out of touch. We cannot imagine an existence in which we are prevented from turning to you in times of joy or trouble; of not being allowed to speak your name, to sing hymns of praise, or to clasp our hands together in prayer. Most Gracious Redeemer, empower us, with the strength of spirit we need to be lifelong workers in your vineyard. When our bodies tire and we are unable to carry on with the hand callousing labor, let us be coaches and encouragers offering continuous spiritual refreshment to those who have come after us to keep the vineyard vital and alive. In all the ways we can with all of the resources we have let us be edifiers, of your church and our community of faith. In the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Some folks learn with their eyes. Some folks learn with their ears. Some folks learn with their hands. Some of us need all three senses working overtime to figure things out. For example: If we are going to learn how to water-ski, no matter how many videos we watch or instruction manuals we read, eventually we will have to put on a pair of water skis and get dragged around behind a high-powered motor boat. The same can be said about learning how to be generous. We can read the scriptures that tell us how important it is to be generous; we can listen to sermons that urge us to be generous, but until we put our hands to the task of giving generously, there is no evidence of learning.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept the gifts we bring before you. Fill us with the knowledge of your abundance. Keep our minds from wallowing in the angst of scarcity. Let faith and trust be what is overflowing in our hearts as we seek to live responsively. We embrace your love given in abundance and ask your blessing upon these offerings intended to spread and further the good news of the gospel. May our gifts bring relief to those in need. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Our Loving Creator, we are blessed today and every day that we can raise our voices in praise and thanksgiving for your steadfast love and mercy. We cannot imagine what it would be like, to be removed from your presence, disconnected and out of touch. We cannot imagine an existence in which we are prevented from turning to you in times of joy or trouble; of not being allowed to speak your name, to sing hymns of praise, or to clasp our hands together in prayer. Most Gracious Redeemer, empower us, with the strength of spirit we need to be lifelong workers in your vineyard. When our bodies tire and we are unable to carry on with the hand callousing labor, let us be coaches and encouragers offering continuous spiritual refreshment to those who have come after us to keep the vineyard vital and alive. In all the ways we can with all of the resources we have let us be edifiers, of your church and our community of faith. In the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Some folks learn with their eyes. Some folks learn with their ears. Some folks learn with their hands. Some of us need all three senses working overtime to figure things out. For example: If we are going to learn how to water-ski, no matter how many videos we watch or instruction manuals we read, eventually we will have to put on a pair of water skis and get dragged around behind a high-powered motor boat. The same can be said about learning how to be generous. We can read the scriptures that tell us how important it is to be generous; we can listen to sermons that urge us to be generous, but until we put our hands to the task of giving generously, there is no evidence of learning.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God accept the gifts we bring before you. Fill us with the knowledge of your abundance. Keep our minds from wallowing in the angst of scarcity. Let faith and trust be what is overflowing in our hearts as we seek to live responsively. We embrace your love given in abundance and ask your blessing upon these offerings intended to spread and further the good news of the gospel. May our gifts bring relief to those in need. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
August 26, 2012 "FINDING YOUR GOSPEL FOOTWEAR"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous God, we take a deep breath, breathing into our bodies your essential presence. We are grateful and we know that we are not presumptuous in our thanksgiving and our praise, because you keep your promises. From the beginning of all things, you have kept faith and covenant with us. You have always sought us out, beckoned to us, called to us, held out your hand to us. You became covenant in the person of Jesus, a hands-on savior taking on the world, to teach us and ultimately show us the better way. In your final hours you said: “Peace I leave you; my peace I give to you, not as the world gives.” Give us the courage to be the good news. Help us get our feet in gear to proclaim the gospel of peace in this troubled world for the cry for peace and justice echoes down the centuries in the voices of the lost, the abused, the imprisoned and the oppressed. Hear our prayer, O Lord, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The other day, a friend showed me his selection of counterfeit men’s and women’s Rolex watches for sale. I bought a counterfeit Rolex in Hawaii about 20 years ago, but I ended up giving it to my brother since it was a man’s watch and just too heavy for me to wear. My friend assured me that his counterfeits are automatic with the trademark sweep hand. I decided against buying a new fake Rolex, for all sorts of reasons not the least of which is, the fact that I am armed with numerous devices eager to remind just what time it is. Thank God we don’t need Rolexes to remind us, it is never too late to give and pledge our support to Christ’s church.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God it feels good to bring our tithes and offerings before you. The love and grace you bestow upon us is the genuine article and so too is our commitment to live in response to your gracious gift. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring them ever closer. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wondrous God, we take a deep breath, breathing into our bodies your essential presence. We are grateful and we know that we are not presumptuous in our thanksgiving and our praise, because you keep your promises. From the beginning of all things, you have kept faith and covenant with us. You have always sought us out, beckoned to us, called to us, held out your hand to us. You became covenant in the person of Jesus, a hands-on savior taking on the world, to teach us and ultimately show us the better way. In your final hours you said: “Peace I leave you; my peace I give to you, not as the world gives.” Give us the courage to be the good news. Help us get our feet in gear to proclaim the gospel of peace in this troubled world for the cry for peace and justice echoes down the centuries in the voices of the lost, the abused, the imprisoned and the oppressed. Hear our prayer, O Lord, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The other day, a friend showed me his selection of counterfeit men’s and women’s Rolex watches for sale. I bought a counterfeit Rolex in Hawaii about 20 years ago, but I ended up giving it to my brother since it was a man’s watch and just too heavy for me to wear. My friend assured me that his counterfeits are automatic with the trademark sweep hand. I decided against buying a new fake Rolex, for all sorts of reasons not the least of which is, the fact that I am armed with numerous devices eager to remind just what time it is. Thank God we don’t need Rolexes to remind us, it is never too late to give and pledge our support to Christ’s church.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God it feels good to bring our tithes and offerings before you. The love and grace you bestow upon us is the genuine article and so too is our commitment to live in response to your gracious gift. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring them ever closer. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
August 19, 2012 "LIGHT FRUIT"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Everliving God, hear our grateful prayer. We have come to worship and to praise your name, to lift ourselves out of the affairs of the world and focus all our thoughts upon you, and upon the indwelling of your Spirit in each of us. Encourage our understanding of our part in your kingdom come. We confess our tendency to be ruled by the world’s visions of scarcity, of lack of not enough. We put our whole trust in human institutions and depending upon the guarantees individuals offer us for just for just a few dollars more. Make us wise, O Lord. When we start looking for guarantees; when we are desperate to have the world revolve at the rate we require; when we cannot be satisfied unless all of our needs are met, remind us that your love, grace and mercy have been, from the beginning, designed to supply all of our needs. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
I love Nectarines. I am so glad that God created a furless peach just for me. If not for the nectarine I would have to confine myself to eating canned peaches, or peach pie, or drinking peach nectar. I look forward to August when the nectarines arrive at Costco all perfect, and juicy and sweet. Of course it’s hard for one person to eat a dozen nectarines, so I have become a sort of nectarine evangelist, sharing the fruit with others. One nectarine proselyte declared that these nectarines were addicting. He keeps coming back for more. Oh that people would find the gospel as tasty.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Gracious and Everliving God, hear our grateful prayer. We have come to worship and to praise your name, to lift ourselves out of the affairs of the world and focus all our thoughts upon you, and upon the indwelling of your Spirit in each of us. Encourage our understanding of our part in your kingdom come. We confess our tendency to be ruled by the world’s visions of scarcity, of lack of not enough. We put our whole trust in human institutions and depending upon the guarantees individuals offer us for just for just a few dollars more. Make us wise, O Lord. When we start looking for guarantees; when we are desperate to have the world revolve at the rate we require; when we cannot be satisfied unless all of our needs are met, remind us that your love, grace and mercy have been, from the beginning, designed to supply all of our needs. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
I love Nectarines. I am so glad that God created a furless peach just for me. If not for the nectarine I would have to confine myself to eating canned peaches, or peach pie, or drinking peach nectar. I look forward to August when the nectarines arrive at Costco all perfect, and juicy and sweet. Of course it’s hard for one person to eat a dozen nectarines, so I have become a sort of nectarine evangelist, sharing the fruit with others. One nectarine proselyte declared that these nectarines were addicting. He keeps coming back for more. Oh that people would find the gospel as tasty.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
August 12, 2012 "CAN YOU HANDLE THE TRUTH?"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, we have come to praise you, to focus our minds and hearts upon your gracious bounty given into our care. We confess that we bring with us our grief, our fear, our doubt, our frustration, our pain, our illness and our worries. Help us to let go the things that weigh us down. Lighten our spirits and fill our hearts with your truth. You have fulfilled your promises and given us the earth and its ability to produce abundantly. We pray for the ability to utilize the earth’s resources to benefit all of the people of the earth. Help us to stop the violence done to your creation by those who are ruled by selfishness and greed, need and desperation. Let us live as Jesus taught us; for truth is in Jesus. Let us live truthfully, then, speaking truth to our neighbors always in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Glorious God, we have come to praise you, to focus our minds and hearts upon your gracious bounty given into our care. We confess that we bring with us our grief, our fear, our doubt, our frustration, our pain, our illness and our worries. Help us to let go the things that weigh us down. Lighten our spirits and fill our hearts with your truth. You have fulfilled your promises and given us the earth and its ability to produce abundantly. We pray for the ability to utilize the earth’s resources to benefit all of the people of the earth. Help us to stop the violence done to your creation by those who are ruled by selfishness and greed, need and desperation. Let us live as Jesus taught us; for truth is in Jesus. Let us live truthfully, then, speaking truth to our neighbors always in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
August 5, 2012 "KNIT TOGETHER"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
O Lord, Our Lord, full of majesty and power, you are our rock and our redeemer. But you are strength and innocence, Lord and servant, unshakable yet moving, calling each one of us to an intimate relationship with you. You already know our every thought, our every fear, our every doubt without our speaking the words out loud. You know our delights and sorrows, our triumphs and the often cruel disappointments the world dishes out. Open our ears to hear your repeated whispers of encouragement given to enlighten our thinking, comfort our fears and allay our doubts. Let us not be afraid to live the disciple life, confident of your ever-presence; trusting that your hand is held out to guide us through any darkness, into your light. May we always find respite for our souls here as we intertwine our thoughts, our voices, our prayers, our hands and hearts as the whole body of Christ. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Credit Cards are not the personification of the “tempter,” nevertheless I look very closely at my statements, since discovering something called “pre-paid” and “automatic” renewals. These charges can appear annually (surprise!) for things like a card membership or monthly for something you purchased — God only knows when — because the demon inside your computer or your cell phone said: “You NEED this!” Perhaps, you needed it at the time, back in May 2011, in order to perform some task, once. Since then you have been paying $20.00 a month for the on-going privilege of doing, what, exactly, you can’t quite remember. Canceling the payment can be done quickly, but the $300 you paid for something you never used is gone forever. John Wesley reminds us that we need to be alert and responsible with money, where it goes and who receives it.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Loving and Merciful God, bless these offerings, given with a cheerful heart. Teach us the ways of frugal living, inspired by a spirit of sufficiency and enough. Help us O Lord, be good stewards of what we have. Help us to speak out on behalf of those who have naught and give us the wisdom and strength to be workers for economic equanimity and transformation in this society and the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
O Lord, Our Lord, full of majesty and power, you are our rock and our redeemer. But you are strength and innocence, Lord and servant, unshakable yet moving, calling each one of us to an intimate relationship with you. You already know our every thought, our every fear, our every doubt without our speaking the words out loud. You know our delights and sorrows, our triumphs and the often cruel disappointments the world dishes out. Open our ears to hear your repeated whispers of encouragement given to enlighten our thinking, comfort our fears and allay our doubts. Let us not be afraid to live the disciple life, confident of your ever-presence; trusting that your hand is held out to guide us through any darkness, into your light. May we always find respite for our souls here as we intertwine our thoughts, our voices, our prayers, our hands and hearts as the whole body of Christ. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Credit Cards are not the personification of the “tempter,” nevertheless I look very closely at my statements, since discovering something called “pre-paid” and “automatic” renewals. These charges can appear annually (surprise!) for things like a card membership or monthly for something you purchased — God only knows when — because the demon inside your computer or your cell phone said: “You NEED this!” Perhaps, you needed it at the time, back in May 2011, in order to perform some task, once. Since then you have been paying $20.00 a month for the on-going privilege of doing, what, exactly, you can’t quite remember. Canceling the payment can be done quickly, but the $300 you paid for something you never used is gone forever. John Wesley reminds us that we need to be alert and responsible with money, where it goes and who receives it.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Loving and Merciful God, bless these offerings, given with a cheerful heart. Teach us the ways of frugal living, inspired by a spirit of sufficiency and enough. Help us O Lord, be good stewards of what we have. Help us to speak out on behalf of those who have naught and give us the wisdom and strength to be workers for economic equanimity and transformation in this society and the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Monday, July 30, 2012
July 29, 2012 "PRAYERFULLY SPEAKING"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Most Loving Creator we humble ourselves before you, grateful for this day and grateful to be in the embrace of your welcoming presence. We have come to worship, to sing, to listen, to ponder and to pray. We confess that we feel less awkward at prayer when we are inside this space. Out in the world we worry that our words aren't right. We worry that we might stumble through our prayer and embarrass ourselves. Forgive our insecurities and grant us strength in our inner being. Empower our spiritual engines with the fuel of your unfathomable grace and ever present Spirit. Remind us that the Christ dwells in our hearts through faith; that we are rooted and grounded by love. Let us, in this very moment, comprehend the breadth and length and height and depth of the love of Christ. May we be filled to overflowing with your indomitable Spirit. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
One of the things I like best about the Guatemala experience is our habit of praying together as a group. We pray before each meal and can even be heard singing grace in restaurants. Folks who have never been on this kind of trip before can be a bit skittish about a group that has the word mission in their name. They may worry that they have gotten mixed up with a bunch bible pounding missionary types? But when they hear how we pray they know that we are all trying to figure out the journey we are on. None of us knows what to expect from one day to the next. We start and end the day putting our trust in God and each other. Our prayers aren’t fancy or highfalutin, but the changes that have taken place in each one of us can be heard and felt in the words that are spoken.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God hear our prayer of gratitude for all the gifts you have given us and the resources you have entrusted to our care. Bless this offering to strengthen and grow the ministries of our church. We pray, also that all the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Most Loving Creator we humble ourselves before you, grateful for this day and grateful to be in the embrace of your welcoming presence. We have come to worship, to sing, to listen, to ponder and to pray. We confess that we feel less awkward at prayer when we are inside this space. Out in the world we worry that our words aren't right. We worry that we might stumble through our prayer and embarrass ourselves. Forgive our insecurities and grant us strength in our inner being. Empower our spiritual engines with the fuel of your unfathomable grace and ever present Spirit. Remind us that the Christ dwells in our hearts through faith; that we are rooted and grounded by love. Let us, in this very moment, comprehend the breadth and length and height and depth of the love of Christ. May we be filled to overflowing with your indomitable Spirit. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
One of the things I like best about the Guatemala experience is our habit of praying together as a group. We pray before each meal and can even be heard singing grace in restaurants. Folks who have never been on this kind of trip before can be a bit skittish about a group that has the word mission in their name. They may worry that they have gotten mixed up with a bunch bible pounding missionary types? But when they hear how we pray they know that we are all trying to figure out the journey we are on. None of us knows what to expect from one day to the next. We start and end the day putting our trust in God and each other. Our prayers aren’t fancy or highfalutin, but the changes that have taken place in each one of us can be heard and felt in the words that are spoken.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God hear our prayer of gratitude for all the gifts you have given us and the resources you have entrusted to our care. Bless this offering to strengthen and grow the ministries of our church. We pray, also that all the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
July 22, 2012 "TEAR DOWN THAT WALL"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, how wonderful it is to be worshiping together once again, embraced by the presence of your most Holy Spirit. Speak your word of grace and possibility into our hearts today. Soften us, O Lord, but keep us from getting too comfortable with ourselves. Keep us, also from being cowed in our efforts, stopped in our tracks, by what we think we do not possess. Don’t let us erect walls to protect ourselves. If you hear us saying, in our hearts, we are not suitable pray-ers, or preachers, or callers, or visitors, or servers because we are too shy, or too persnickety, or too busy, or too tired, please change us. Let us not be partial Christians, but full-bodied Christians. Remove the spirit of sarcasm when it invades us. Carry off those know-it-all seeds that get embedded in our stiff necks. If they are allowed to take root, they grow, becoming weedy hedges of resentment that will surely divide the body of Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The Great Wall of China, Hadrian’s Wall, The Berlin Wall, The Vietnam Memorial Wall are all well known walls. The Great Wall which construction began in the 7th century BCE was intended to protect the Chinese Empire from nomadic invaders. Historians only guess at why The Emperor Hadrian built his 80 mile wall in England in 120 CE — perhaps as a statement of the Roman Empires power more than a defense against Barbarians. The Berlin Wall called also the Wall of Shame and the Iron Curtain was a political wall. Built in 1961, it was the symbol of the Cold War — a barrier to freedom. The Vietnam Memorial Wall stands as a reminder that walls not constructed of stone and bricks can be just as divisive and thoroughly devastating to the world.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Glorious God, how wonderful it is to be worshiping together once again, embraced by the presence of your most Holy Spirit. Speak your word of grace and possibility into our hearts today. Soften us, O Lord, but keep us from getting too comfortable with ourselves. Keep us, also from being cowed in our efforts, stopped in our tracks, by what we think we do not possess. Don’t let us erect walls to protect ourselves. If you hear us saying, in our hearts, we are not suitable pray-ers, or preachers, or callers, or visitors, or servers because we are too shy, or too persnickety, or too busy, or too tired, please change us. Let us not be partial Christians, but full-bodied Christians. Remove the spirit of sarcasm when it invades us. Carry off those know-it-all seeds that get embedded in our stiff necks. If they are allowed to take root, they grow, becoming weedy hedges of resentment that will surely divide the body of Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The Great Wall of China, Hadrian’s Wall, The Berlin Wall, The Vietnam Memorial Wall are all well known walls. The Great Wall which construction began in the 7th century BCE was intended to protect the Chinese Empire from nomadic invaders. Historians only guess at why The Emperor Hadrian built his 80 mile wall in England in 120 CE — perhaps as a statement of the Roman Empires power more than a defense against Barbarians. The Berlin Wall called also the Wall of Shame and the Iron Curtain was a political wall. Built in 1961, it was the symbol of the Cold War — a barrier to freedom. The Vietnam Memorial Wall stands as a reminder that walls not constructed of stone and bricks can be just as divisive and thoroughly devastating to the world.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
July 1, 2012 "Follow the Flags" Preaching: Rev. Bob Schwartz
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious God, Creator of the Universe, we are humbled in your presence and awed by your graciousness to us. We are anticipating the holiday that falls mid-week this year on which we remember the decision of the people to assert and declare their independence from the English monarchy. Remind us, loving Lord, that we are never truly independent in this life, fro we depend upon you for every breath we take. We pray always to be more thoughtful than prideful, more spiritual than political and Christ-like in our encounters with each other. Pardon us when we are quick to recount the sins of others, absolutely certain that we know the score. We confess that sometimes we think too quickly, readily observing their flawed natures. Keep us mindful that our choices in this life matter and no matter the outcome you will be with us, to see us through. We call upon your divine presence to show us the wise and better way in all in every circumstance of life whether we are worshiping, working, serving or playing. Let the mind that was in Christ Jesus be in us. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING (a quote from a sermon by Rev. Lowell Grisham)
“For me, when Jesus says “Give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s,” I sense a call from Jesus for us to embrace a different political and economic agenda. Like every other part of the material creation, Caesar’s coin needs to be saved. Redeemed. Transformed. Turned into sacrament. Caesar’s coin needs to become a vehicle for the spirit, a vehicle for justice. That’s what I want from my taxes. I want Caesar’s coin to contribute to God’s desire for the material welfare of the least of these. I want to see society transformed into liberty and justice for all. I want the Kingdom of God and the New Humanity of Jesus.” Let your giving be an act of redemption.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our acts of giving. May these offerings become a sacrament of justice and equanimity. May all of the children of creation come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our willing sacrifice bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Gracious God, Creator of the Universe, we are humbled in your presence and awed by your graciousness to us. We are anticipating the holiday that falls mid-week this year on which we remember the decision of the people to assert and declare their independence from the English monarchy. Remind us, loving Lord, that we are never truly independent in this life, fro we depend upon you for every breath we take. We pray always to be more thoughtful than prideful, more spiritual than political and Christ-like in our encounters with each other. Pardon us when we are quick to recount the sins of others, absolutely certain that we know the score. We confess that sometimes we think too quickly, readily observing their flawed natures. Keep us mindful that our choices in this life matter and no matter the outcome you will be with us, to see us through. We call upon your divine presence to show us the wise and better way in all in every circumstance of life whether we are worshiping, working, serving or playing. Let the mind that was in Christ Jesus be in us. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING (a quote from a sermon by Rev. Lowell Grisham)
“For me, when Jesus says “Give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s,” I sense a call from Jesus for us to embrace a different political and economic agenda. Like every other part of the material creation, Caesar’s coin needs to be saved. Redeemed. Transformed. Turned into sacrament. Caesar’s coin needs to become a vehicle for the spirit, a vehicle for justice. That’s what I want from my taxes. I want Caesar’s coin to contribute to God’s desire for the material welfare of the least of these. I want to see society transformed into liberty and justice for all. I want the Kingdom of God and the New Humanity of Jesus.” Let your giving be an act of redemption.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our acts of giving. May these offerings become a sacrament of justice and equanimity. May all of the children of creation come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our willing sacrifice bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
June 24, 2012 "It's Been A Hard Days Night" Preaching: Bill Dyar
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous God, Sovereign of the Universe, we sing of your faithfulness with the pleasing notes of a familiar and much-beloved hymn sounding in our ears. We confess that, sometimes, we let our familiarity with the music prevent us from attending fully to the thoughts born in the poetry. Indeed you are faithful, merciful, loving, and compassionate, morning by morning, season to season; our strength and our hope. We are grateful for the inspired verses that soothe and assure us when we are knocked off balance by the, often, storm tossed seas of life. They guide us like the lighthouse beacon, which keeps us off the rocks and shows us the way home. When we ought, dearest Lord, cause us to hear the words that challenge us and call us to awaken from our sleepy spirituality. Then we shall put on faith, wearing Jesus Christ as our life jacket. For it is he who buoy's us up even in life’s most troubled waters. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Malapropism sounds like a creepy illness, but it is just the unintentional use of the wrong word. Ringo Starr was famous for getting his word’s mixed up and one of the best known songs of the Beatles came from just such a Ringo-ism. After the group spent all day and all night working a job, Ringo started to say they had had a hard day’s work, when he realized it was night, so it came out: It’s been a hard day’s…..night —famous now, for almost 50 years. Mondegreens are misheard lyrics like: José can you see? Our Father, who art in heaven, Harold by thy name. Gladly the cross-eyed bear. Sleep in heavenly peas. And last but not yeast: All that we have is thine along a truss, O Lord, from thee.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God you are ever present to lift our spirits and keep us from despair. We express our gratefulness in a variety of ways. Giving to support your church is only one of the ways we express our thanks. We ask that you will bless this offering. Bestow upon these gifts power and purpose to do your work in the becalmed as well as the storm tossed corners of the world. May our giving transform us and our gifts transform the lives of those in need of a life jacket and relief. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wondrous God, Sovereign of the Universe, we sing of your faithfulness with the pleasing notes of a familiar and much-beloved hymn sounding in our ears. We confess that, sometimes, we let our familiarity with the music prevent us from attending fully to the thoughts born in the poetry. Indeed you are faithful, merciful, loving, and compassionate, morning by morning, season to season; our strength and our hope. We are grateful for the inspired verses that soothe and assure us when we are knocked off balance by the, often, storm tossed seas of life. They guide us like the lighthouse beacon, which keeps us off the rocks and shows us the way home. When we ought, dearest Lord, cause us to hear the words that challenge us and call us to awaken from our sleepy spirituality. Then we shall put on faith, wearing Jesus Christ as our life jacket. For it is he who buoy's us up even in life’s most troubled waters. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Malapropism sounds like a creepy illness, but it is just the unintentional use of the wrong word. Ringo Starr was famous for getting his word’s mixed up and one of the best known songs of the Beatles came from just such a Ringo-ism. After the group spent all day and all night working a job, Ringo started to say they had had a hard day’s work, when he realized it was night, so it came out: It’s been a hard day’s…..night —famous now, for almost 50 years. Mondegreens are misheard lyrics like: José can you see? Our Father, who art in heaven, Harold by thy name. Gladly the cross-eyed bear. Sleep in heavenly peas. And last but not yeast: All that we have is thine along a truss, O Lord, from thee.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God you are ever present to lift our spirits and keep us from despair. We express our gratefulness in a variety of ways. Giving to support your church is only one of the ways we express our thanks. We ask that you will bless this offering. Bestow upon these gifts power and purpose to do your work in the becalmed as well as the storm tossed corners of the world. May our giving transform us and our gifts transform the lives of those in need of a life jacket and relief. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
June 17, 2012 "WITH THE EYES OF A CHILD"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, Today we want to sort out our relationship with you. Ever since Jesus first called you “Abba” as if it were his first word, we have wanted to feel that close to you. Somehow Abba became Patera, then Pater, then Father and Jesus’ sweet name evolved into a formal name that somehow distanced us rather than bringing us close to you. O, Lord you have become, to too many people, the overarching, all powerful, threatening and overbearing parent of whom we are more afraid than awed, inspired or comforted. Pour out your Abba Spirit of gentleness upon us this morning and show us how to embrace your grace-full presence in a way we have never embraced you before. Fill us with knowing that the last thing you would ever do is disapprove of your children. The birth of Jesus, the life of Jesus, the death of Jesus and the resurrection of Jesus are the clearest and most profound messages of your enduring love as you wait patiently for us to comprehend your will for us. We need reminders all along life’s way, but we promise to understand, one day, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings not only help to enhance the spiritual experience of our children and youth but also bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Glorious God, Today we want to sort out our relationship with you. Ever since Jesus first called you “Abba” as if it were his first word, we have wanted to feel that close to you. Somehow Abba became Patera, then Pater, then Father and Jesus’ sweet name evolved into a formal name that somehow distanced us rather than bringing us close to you. O, Lord you have become, to too many people, the overarching, all powerful, threatening and overbearing parent of whom we are more afraid than awed, inspired or comforted. Pour out your Abba Spirit of gentleness upon us this morning and show us how to embrace your grace-full presence in a way we have never embraced you before. Fill us with knowing that the last thing you would ever do is disapprove of your children. The birth of Jesus, the life of Jesus, the death of Jesus and the resurrection of Jesus are the clearest and most profound messages of your enduring love as you wait patiently for us to comprehend your will for us. We need reminders all along life’s way, but we promise to understand, one day, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings not only help to enhance the spiritual experience of our children and youth but also bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
June 10, 2012 "CHANNELS OF LIFE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Everloving God, how marvelous it is to be able to lift our hearts and voices to praise your holy name. We, gratefully and humbly, offer our thanks, acknowledging the privilege of our circumstances as we worship in this, much beloved and beautiful, sanctuary. We lay at your feet, our worries and frustrations, our fears and apprehensions. We confess that they weigh us down and with our spirits bent, our eyes to the ground, it is impossible for the world to see your light shining in us. Unburdened, we will carry ourselves with confidence, our faces reflecting the glow of your presence. Let this radiance be an invitation to all whom we meet, that they may discover the abundance of your love and grace. As the body of your Christ in the world, we pray that our actions and our words proclaim the good truth as your ever-searching presence reaches out to indwell in every human heart. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
A channel is the naturally occurring (English Channel) or human-made deeper course (Intracoastal Waterway) through a reef, sand bar, bay, or any shallow body of water. Channel is especially used to refer to the dredged and marked safe lane of travel guaranteed to all vessels crossing a body of water. Channels are the deep dredged parts of an estuary or river navigable for ships heading to ports or the inlets used by smaller craft accessing marinas. Repeated dredging is often necessary to keep the channels open, particularly those that traverse unstable muddy and sandy bottomed bays. The bottom-line purpose of a channel is to provide a safe path of connection. Your tithes and gifts support our efforts to open channels for all people to connect with God.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God bless these gifts to be instruments of your love, mercy and acceptance, that through our work, our efforts, our prayers and commitment they may lead to the softening of hardened hearts and the opening of closed minds. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation will be offered a clear path to know you and experience the abundance of your grace. May our portion meant for others bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, whether they are close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wondrous and Everloving God, how marvelous it is to be able to lift our hearts and voices to praise your holy name. We, gratefully and humbly, offer our thanks, acknowledging the privilege of our circumstances as we worship in this, much beloved and beautiful, sanctuary. We lay at your feet, our worries and frustrations, our fears and apprehensions. We confess that they weigh us down and with our spirits bent, our eyes to the ground, it is impossible for the world to see your light shining in us. Unburdened, we will carry ourselves with confidence, our faces reflecting the glow of your presence. Let this radiance be an invitation to all whom we meet, that they may discover the abundance of your love and grace. As the body of your Christ in the world, we pray that our actions and our words proclaim the good truth as your ever-searching presence reaches out to indwell in every human heart. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
A channel is the naturally occurring (English Channel) or human-made deeper course (Intracoastal Waterway) through a reef, sand bar, bay, or any shallow body of water. Channel is especially used to refer to the dredged and marked safe lane of travel guaranteed to all vessels crossing a body of water. Channels are the deep dredged parts of an estuary or river navigable for ships heading to ports or the inlets used by smaller craft accessing marinas. Repeated dredging is often necessary to keep the channels open, particularly those that traverse unstable muddy and sandy bottomed bays. The bottom-line purpose of a channel is to provide a safe path of connection. Your tithes and gifts support our efforts to open channels for all people to connect with God.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God bless these gifts to be instruments of your love, mercy and acceptance, that through our work, our efforts, our prayers and commitment they may lead to the softening of hardened hearts and the opening of closed minds. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation will be offered a clear path to know you and experience the abundance of your grace. May our portion meant for others bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, whether they are close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
May 27, 2012 "CONQUERING THE WORLD" (Part 2)
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Ever-moving God, on this day of remembrance we celebrate the moment, the day of empowerment, when your Holy Spirit gave the disciples of Jesus their voices. You came, at last, and gave them the words to tell their stories — to proclaim aloud how their lives were changed when they answered the call to follow. Your promised Spirit, the Advocate and Counselor of Truth rushed, unmistakably, into the company of men and women moving them from uncertainty to certainty, from reticence to determination, from paralysis to action. Pour out your ever-renewing Spirit upon each of us present today. Help us speak truth to power as did the first Christians. Teach us to speak the good word, that enlightens, uplifts and assures even the most skeptical, burdened and alienated of your children. Transform us into a living gospel, of love, mercy and all things possible. Make us the vital, re-energized, truly alive body of your Christ in the world. In his name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Jean Smoot, Pat Myers, Sally Parisi, Tina Stormont, Carolyn Murdoch, Eileen Houghton, Lorna Range, Jane Prior, Nancy Nickolopoulos, Barbara Boettcher, Vera Glur, Ruth Pitts-Litman, Palu and Salesi KapuKapu, Beryl Ganzer, Janis Garland, June Glennon, are among the regulars who knit and crochet prayer shawls for the church’s thriving prayer shawl ministry. Since this special ministry began in 2005 at the urging of Rev. Dr. Kathryne Middle the church has given out nearly 500 prayer shawls to people all over the world. For the past three years we have designated Pentecost Sunday as a day to accept yarn gifts for the making of the prayer shawls. In truth we accept yarn gifts all year long; but today, especially, we give thanks for the loving hearts and hands that make these shawls that offer comfort to all who receive them.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, pour out your passionate Spirit upon us, today as we support the uplifting, caring and powerful ministries carried out by the members of this church. We believe that the work of our hands, our presence in this community, and our reaching out in the name of the Christ is transforming lives, bringing the world one heart closer to its transformation. We pray that through our gifts and our work people from all walks of life will come to know and experience the abundance of your grace, love and mercy. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Gracious and Ever-moving God, on this day of remembrance we celebrate the moment, the day of empowerment, when your Holy Spirit gave the disciples of Jesus their voices. You came, at last, and gave them the words to tell their stories — to proclaim aloud how their lives were changed when they answered the call to follow. Your promised Spirit, the Advocate and Counselor of Truth rushed, unmistakably, into the company of men and women moving them from uncertainty to certainty, from reticence to determination, from paralysis to action. Pour out your ever-renewing Spirit upon each of us present today. Help us speak truth to power as did the first Christians. Teach us to speak the good word, that enlightens, uplifts and assures even the most skeptical, burdened and alienated of your children. Transform us into a living gospel, of love, mercy and all things possible. Make us the vital, re-energized, truly alive body of your Christ in the world. In his name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Jean Smoot, Pat Myers, Sally Parisi, Tina Stormont, Carolyn Murdoch, Eileen Houghton, Lorna Range, Jane Prior, Nancy Nickolopoulos, Barbara Boettcher, Vera Glur, Ruth Pitts-Litman, Palu and Salesi KapuKapu, Beryl Ganzer, Janis Garland, June Glennon, are among the regulars who knit and crochet prayer shawls for the church’s thriving prayer shawl ministry. Since this special ministry began in 2005 at the urging of Rev. Dr. Kathryne Middle the church has given out nearly 500 prayer shawls to people all over the world. For the past three years we have designated Pentecost Sunday as a day to accept yarn gifts for the making of the prayer shawls. In truth we accept yarn gifts all year long; but today, especially, we give thanks for the loving hearts and hands that make these shawls that offer comfort to all who receive them.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, pour out your passionate Spirit upon us, today as we support the uplifting, caring and powerful ministries carried out by the members of this church. We believe that the work of our hands, our presence in this community, and our reaching out in the name of the Christ is transforming lives, bringing the world one heart closer to its transformation. We pray that through our gifts and our work people from all walks of life will come to know and experience the abundance of your grace, love and mercy. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
May 20, 2012 "CONQUERING THE WORLD" (Part 1)
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
God of Grace and Glory, we come before you, most humbly, to offer our thanks and our praise for all the blessings of this life. We are very well aware that we live well compared to so many people in the world and in this we will be satisfied. Those of us who have accumulated years beyond the halfway mark, are loathe to confess what feels like spiritual fatigue. We want to be energized once again in and by our faith. May we never feel defeated by ill health, age, or under and unemployment. When we find ourselves longing for the days of our youth when we believed every minute was fruitful, productive and promising, remind us that fruitfulness is not a matter of age, but of spirit. Help us refuse to be invisible in a world that worships the young. Make us shining exemplars of faith and positivity always lighting the way for those who have only just begun to live. Today we are honoring some extraordinary members of this family. Bless them as they move toward the day when they will light the way as we have for those who will come after them. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
What is a shareholder? According to the Investor Words glossary of terms it is an individual who owns shares of stock in a corporation or mutual fund. With ownership comes the right to declared dividends as well as the right to vote on certain company matters, including who will serve on the board of directors. Shareholders have a stake in ensuring the best management practices of the company, in order to receive the greatest dividends from their investment. One invests in the church much like one invests in mutual funds or corporations. It’s the dividends, that are vastly different — one is finite the other NOT.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are privileged to be shareholders in our church, understanding that we give to not only to support the present, but to invest in the future work of those who will come after us. Our hope is that our tithes and offerings will keep the ministry of this church vital and alive for us, for our community, for our conference, and for those in need around the world. Help us understand that as shareholders in the church we have a stake in the well-being of the world. Bless our efforts with our gifts. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
God of Grace and Glory, we come before you, most humbly, to offer our thanks and our praise for all the blessings of this life. We are very well aware that we live well compared to so many people in the world and in this we will be satisfied. Those of us who have accumulated years beyond the halfway mark, are loathe to confess what feels like spiritual fatigue. We want to be energized once again in and by our faith. May we never feel defeated by ill health, age, or under and unemployment. When we find ourselves longing for the days of our youth when we believed every minute was fruitful, productive and promising, remind us that fruitfulness is not a matter of age, but of spirit. Help us refuse to be invisible in a world that worships the young. Make us shining exemplars of faith and positivity always lighting the way for those who have only just begun to live. Today we are honoring some extraordinary members of this family. Bless them as they move toward the day when they will light the way as we have for those who will come after them. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
What is a shareholder? According to the Investor Words glossary of terms it is an individual who owns shares of stock in a corporation or mutual fund. With ownership comes the right to declared dividends as well as the right to vote on certain company matters, including who will serve on the board of directors. Shareholders have a stake in ensuring the best management practices of the company, in order to receive the greatest dividends from their investment. One invests in the church much like one invests in mutual funds or corporations. It’s the dividends, that are vastly different — one is finite the other NOT.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are privileged to be shareholders in our church, understanding that we give to not only to support the present, but to invest in the future work of those who will come after us. Our hope is that our tithes and offerings will keep the ministry of this church vital and alive for us, for our community, for our conference, and for those in need around the world. Help us understand that as shareholders in the church we have a stake in the well-being of the world. Bless our efforts with our gifts. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
April 29, 2012 "BEARING THE FAMILY TRAITS" (Part 2)
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving Creator, true Sovereign of Hope, how amazing, indeed, is your grace, how abundant your forgiveness and how extravagant your mercy. We are at peace as we rest our spirits in your comforting presence. It seems so very simple to say it, but we confess that it is better than alright to be here. It is better than good to be in this sanctuary, in this moment of communion with you. Here we are invited, urged even, to unburden our souls. Here we can let go of anger, cast off shame and break the shackles of resentment. We can trade in those negative feelings that fetter us to the darkness and accept the gift of your grace. Sharpen our spiritual senses today gracious God. Open our eyes of understanding to visualize the light of Christ waiting to fill our hearts to overflowing. Help us to clear out the cobwebs of regret, and remove the tattered and worn curtains of secrecy, readying our heart space for radiating grace. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
It feels good to give, or it’s suppose to feel good to support your church financially. I think it must feel pretty yucky to attend church every week and never make a financial commitment, giving nothing, goose-egg, nada, zero. There are all types of givers and not-givers. Some folks put cash in the plate to remain anonymous. Some folks feel they can’t offer anything of significance and so pledge nothing. Some folks reason that giving time is like giving money to the church. Some folks won’t pledge and won’t give because the church has not lived up to their expectations. Some folks give a few dollars a year just to keep their name on the books. I confess I prefer to feel like the widow who gave the only two coins she had with no regrets. She felt privileged and glad to give. Jesus counted her most worthy.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wondrous and Loving Creator, true Sovereign of Hope, how amazing, indeed, is your grace, how abundant your forgiveness and how extravagant your mercy. We are at peace as we rest our spirits in your comforting presence. It seems so very simple to say it, but we confess that it is better than alright to be here. It is better than good to be in this sanctuary, in this moment of communion with you. Here we are invited, urged even, to unburden our souls. Here we can let go of anger, cast off shame and break the shackles of resentment. We can trade in those negative feelings that fetter us to the darkness and accept the gift of your grace. Sharpen our spiritual senses today gracious God. Open our eyes of understanding to visualize the light of Christ waiting to fill our hearts to overflowing. Help us to clear out the cobwebs of regret, and remove the tattered and worn curtains of secrecy, readying our heart space for radiating grace. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
It feels good to give, or it’s suppose to feel good to support your church financially. I think it must feel pretty yucky to attend church every week and never make a financial commitment, giving nothing, goose-egg, nada, zero. There are all types of givers and not-givers. Some folks put cash in the plate to remain anonymous. Some folks feel they can’t offer anything of significance and so pledge nothing. Some folks reason that giving time is like giving money to the church. Some folks won’t pledge and won’t give because the church has not lived up to their expectations. Some folks give a few dollars a year just to keep their name on the books. I confess I prefer to feel like the widow who gave the only two coins she had with no regrets. She felt privileged and glad to give. Jesus counted her most worthy.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten, be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
April 22, 2012 "BEARING THE FAMILY TRAITS" (Part 1)
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Dearest Lord, our loving Creator, we are grateful to be awake on this glorious morning. We are happy to be greeting the sun. We are glad to be up and moving around, and blessed to have found our way here. There are lots of choices we can make on Sunday mornings instead of gathering to meditate on your word, or sing our songs of praise. Instead of humbling ourselves in prayer, asking for your intervention in our lives or the lives of our loved ones, we could be doing something else. We could choose not to come in search of comfort, protection, guidance and wisdom. We could choose to sleep in, sip our coffee and read the Sunday funnies; we could choose to visit friends, or family. We could choose to take a trip, see the sights or indulge a whim. Truth be told, dearest Lord — and you probably know this already — even when we aren’t here, we are thinking about here and we believe this is good. Continue to bless us Gracious God when we are together and when we are apart. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Inheritance, in the context of the Law, is defined as something one has the right to own or posses such as a title or wealth or property. In the context of Genetics, offspring inherit genetically controlled characteristics or qualities from their parents. First John asserts that those who are born of God experience inner changes and will — on the day of his appearing— bear an unmistakable resemblance to the One who continually breathes life into us. Now that is something to be thankful for.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Dearest Lord, our loving Creator, we are grateful to be awake on this glorious morning. We are happy to be greeting the sun. We are glad to be up and moving around, and blessed to have found our way here. There are lots of choices we can make on Sunday mornings instead of gathering to meditate on your word, or sing our songs of praise. Instead of humbling ourselves in prayer, asking for your intervention in our lives or the lives of our loved ones, we could be doing something else. We could choose not to come in search of comfort, protection, guidance and wisdom. We could choose to sleep in, sip our coffee and read the Sunday funnies; we could choose to visit friends, or family. We could choose to take a trip, see the sights or indulge a whim. Truth be told, dearest Lord — and you probably know this already — even when we aren’t here, we are thinking about here and we believe this is good. Continue to bless us Gracious God when we are together and when we are apart. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Inheritance, in the context of the Law, is defined as something one has the right to own or posses such as a title or wealth or property. In the context of Genetics, offspring inherit genetically controlled characteristics or qualities from their parents. First John asserts that those who are born of God experience inner changes and will — on the day of his appearing— bear an unmistakable resemblance to the One who continually breathes life into us. Now that is something to be thankful for.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God we are glad to work for the transformation of the world through our support of the church and its ministries. Our prayer is that all of the children of creation can come to know you and experience the abundance of your love and mercy. May our offerings help to bring relief to those in dire circumstances, oppressed, imprisoned, isolated, and forgotten be they close at hand or far away. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
April 15, 2012 "CHILDREN YOU HAVE NO FISH"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious and Surprising God, how glad we are to be together this morning, gathered to worship, gathered to sing, gathered to praise your holy name, and gathered to place our petitions before you. Our hearts and minds are still lingering in the wonder and mystery that was Easter morning and the unfathomable blessing revealed in the resurrection of Jesus. And yet, wondrous Lord, we confess that we become deflated and anxious when we are confronted with the reality of our own mortality. We are shaken from our resurrection reverie, quite suddenly, when loved ones are injured and friends fall ill. All at once we are afraid. Blessed Savior, we understand that even after the resurrection you had to help your disciples believe. We pray that you will soothe rattled nerves and hurting hearts today as you sought to soothe your disciples on this day, so long ago, by the Sea of Galilee. In your name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Some folks had some questions to ask in response to my Easter Letter which might have given the impression that I wanted to hire Mary Poppins to resurrect our children’s ministry. I do wish Mary was available. Folks wanted to know how many hours this Jane or Jack Sunday School Superintending, Christian Education Directing, Program Coordinating, individual would be working? How many children would be served? And last, but not least “What would he or she cost? My hope is that “more” children will be served; “enough” hours will be worked and the cost — “manageable.”
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, Jesus taught us that whatever we ask for in prayer, we ought to believe we have received it. We believe, O Lord, that while our children are with us, we ought to be telling them the Good News of God, all the time. May the gifts we offer this morning empower our ministry to the all of the children in our care and around the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Glorious and Surprising God, how glad we are to be together this morning, gathered to worship, gathered to sing, gathered to praise your holy name, and gathered to place our petitions before you. Our hearts and minds are still lingering in the wonder and mystery that was Easter morning and the unfathomable blessing revealed in the resurrection of Jesus. And yet, wondrous Lord, we confess that we become deflated and anxious when we are confronted with the reality of our own mortality. We are shaken from our resurrection reverie, quite suddenly, when loved ones are injured and friends fall ill. All at once we are afraid. Blessed Savior, we understand that even after the resurrection you had to help your disciples believe. We pray that you will soothe rattled nerves and hurting hearts today as you sought to soothe your disciples on this day, so long ago, by the Sea of Galilee. In your name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Some folks had some questions to ask in response to my Easter Letter which might have given the impression that I wanted to hire Mary Poppins to resurrect our children’s ministry. I do wish Mary was available. Folks wanted to know how many hours this Jane or Jack Sunday School Superintending, Christian Education Directing, Program Coordinating, individual would be working? How many children would be served? And last, but not least “What would he or she cost? My hope is that “more” children will be served; “enough” hours will be worked and the cost — “manageable.”
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, Jesus taught us that whatever we ask for in prayer, we ought to believe we have received it. We believe, O Lord, that while our children are with us, we ought to be telling them the Good News of God, all the time. May the gifts we offer this morning empower our ministry to the all of the children in our care and around the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
EASTER SUNDAY April 8, 2012 "JOY COMES WITH THE MORNING"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious God, what a glorious morning this is! Our hearts are triumphant. Our spirits are full and like Mary and the other disciples, we are mystified and aflutter with the Good News of Christ’s resurrection. Most Wonderful God, let us not be afraid to dance and rejoice in response to your promises fulfilled. Help us shed our shyness so we don’t appear aloof or matter-of-fact, as if the resurrection were old hat and there is nothing new under the sun. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead is the unmatchable, unchangeable gift of your love, offered to us everyday. Like the disciples who witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion, we have been holding our breath, waiting to exhale. Like the women who arrived at the break of day, we are confounded and yet relieved, sorrowful and yet uplifted, excited and yet cautious. Dearest Lord, you promised to take away the sting of death and to make all things new. Your astounding message is so very clear. The empty tomb is yet another invitation for us to embrace life today and everyday. Unabashedly we confess a renewed strength and stamina of spirit we never knew possible. Indeed you are the author of all things possible. Thank you always in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
"If it’s Easter,” the Lake Champlain chocolate company exclaims, “it must be time for chocolate bunnies!” This year they have added to their classic chocolate rabbits collection, which includes their well known $75.00 — 3 pound Mr. Goodtime Bunny. New to the line-up is Cruisin’ Easter Bunny. He drives a two tone hot rod with a white chocolate grill and carries the proverbial egg on his back. Cruisin’ Bunny looks like Easter’s answer to Santa Claus, bringing chocolate gifts for good little girls and boys. Instead of putting your money in Chocolate bunnies this Easter, why not invest in our children by making a substantial donation to the Easter offering? It will be used to resurrect our children’s ministries and is bound to be much better for you in the long run.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, Jesus taught us that whatever we ask for in prayer, we ought to believe we have received it. We believe, O Lord, that while our children are with us, we ought to be telling them the Good News of God, all the time. May the gifts we offer this morning empower our ministry to the all of the children in our care and around the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Gracious God, what a glorious morning this is! Our hearts are triumphant. Our spirits are full and like Mary and the other disciples, we are mystified and aflutter with the Good News of Christ’s resurrection. Most Wonderful God, let us not be afraid to dance and rejoice in response to your promises fulfilled. Help us shed our shyness so we don’t appear aloof or matter-of-fact, as if the resurrection were old hat and there is nothing new under the sun. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead is the unmatchable, unchangeable gift of your love, offered to us everyday. Like the disciples who witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion, we have been holding our breath, waiting to exhale. Like the women who arrived at the break of day, we are confounded and yet relieved, sorrowful and yet uplifted, excited and yet cautious. Dearest Lord, you promised to take away the sting of death and to make all things new. Your astounding message is so very clear. The empty tomb is yet another invitation for us to embrace life today and everyday. Unabashedly we confess a renewed strength and stamina of spirit we never knew possible. Indeed you are the author of all things possible. Thank you always in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
"If it’s Easter,” the Lake Champlain chocolate company exclaims, “it must be time for chocolate bunnies!” This year they have added to their classic chocolate rabbits collection, which includes their well known $75.00 — 3 pound Mr. Goodtime Bunny. New to the line-up is Cruisin’ Easter Bunny. He drives a two tone hot rod with a white chocolate grill and carries the proverbial egg on his back. Cruisin’ Bunny looks like Easter’s answer to Santa Claus, bringing chocolate gifts for good little girls and boys. Instead of putting your money in Chocolate bunnies this Easter, why not invest in our children by making a substantial donation to the Easter offering? It will be used to resurrect our children’s ministries and is bound to be much better for you in the long run.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, Jesus taught us that whatever we ask for in prayer, we ought to believe we have received it. We believe, O Lord, that while our children are with us, we ought to be telling them the Good News of God, all the time. May the gifts we offer this morning empower our ministry to the all of the children in our care and around the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
April 1, 2012 Palm Sunday ""NOT THE SEASON FOR FIGS"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious and most wonderful God we are grateful for leading us here, for being an enduring, patient and merciful presence in our lives. On this triumphant Palm Sunday we are confronted by the call to rejoice with the revelers and disciples shouting Hosanna and the cross that looms in the distance. We confess our desire to leap ahead, to next Sunday, skipping the dark hours of Jesus’ time of trial. Give us the willingness and courage to go with him all the way, whether we fully understand your purposes or not. As we enter this Holy Week, may we see ourselves entering the gates of the Holy City, in the company of Jesus, at the ready, come what may. Like pilgrims on a journey cause us to curtail those activities that would keep us distant from Your story. Let us create time and space in our lives, letting go of errands and deadlines to sit at Jesus feet and listen to what he has to tell us. Let us bear with him, being marked by his words and his actions. Prod us to take up the cross of discipleship, empowering us to choose — humbling us to serve, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The most significant week of the church year begins today, Palm Sunday — also known as Passion Sunday. In the tradition of the church Passion Sunday has focused on those biblical passages which tell of Judas’ betrayal, Jesus’ arrest and his crucifixion. We begin Holy week with the Triumphant Entry narrative. I encourage you to come and listen to the whole story. Come and live the passion that is Maundy Thursday and Good Friday exhausting yourselves thoroughly in preparing your broken hearts for what is to come.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most High God, bless these gifts to the care of your creation. On this Palm Sunday, let us be those of triumphant hearts investing in your will and way for us without hesitation. Receive our faith, our hopes and our dreams for a just and sustainable world. These gifts are our loud Hosannas raised with ever grateful hearts. Pour out your wisdom upon us. Empower us to messengers of goodwill, not only in our words, but in our work as partners with you in bringing forth your kingdom. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Glorious and most wonderful God we are grateful for leading us here, for being an enduring, patient and merciful presence in our lives. On this triumphant Palm Sunday we are confronted by the call to rejoice with the revelers and disciples shouting Hosanna and the cross that looms in the distance. We confess our desire to leap ahead, to next Sunday, skipping the dark hours of Jesus’ time of trial. Give us the willingness and courage to go with him all the way, whether we fully understand your purposes or not. As we enter this Holy Week, may we see ourselves entering the gates of the Holy City, in the company of Jesus, at the ready, come what may. Like pilgrims on a journey cause us to curtail those activities that would keep us distant from Your story. Let us create time and space in our lives, letting go of errands and deadlines to sit at Jesus feet and listen to what he has to tell us. Let us bear with him, being marked by his words and his actions. Prod us to take up the cross of discipleship, empowering us to choose — humbling us to serve, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The most significant week of the church year begins today, Palm Sunday — also known as Passion Sunday. In the tradition of the church Passion Sunday has focused on those biblical passages which tell of Judas’ betrayal, Jesus’ arrest and his crucifixion. We begin Holy week with the Triumphant Entry narrative. I encourage you to come and listen to the whole story. Come and live the passion that is Maundy Thursday and Good Friday exhausting yourselves thoroughly in preparing your broken hearts for what is to come.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most High God, bless these gifts to the care of your creation. On this Palm Sunday, let us be those of triumphant hearts investing in your will and way for us without hesitation. Receive our faith, our hopes and our dreams for a just and sustainable world. These gifts are our loud Hosannas raised with ever grateful hearts. Pour out your wisdom upon us. Empower us to messengers of goodwill, not only in our words, but in our work as partners with you in bringing forth your kingdom. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
March 25, 2012 "CHANCE OF A LIFETIME"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious God, wondrous Sovereign of the Universe, gratefully we lift our voices in praise and thanksgiving for the opportunity to greet the new day. We are ever mindful particularly during this season of Lent how fleeting is the time we have upon this earth and intend that our days should be spent in service and work that brings glory to your name. If we ever get embroiled in the politics of maneuvering for control, lobbying for power or jockeying for position, halt us in our tracks and show us the honorable way of truth. Teach us to embrace your way in all things. Let your wisdom rule in our hearts, casting out the spirits of distrust, malevolence or ill will. Be tenacious with us when we are tempted to act contrary to your commandments, keeping us attentive to your purposes for us. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, because our commitment to Jesus is a priority in our lives, so too, is our commitment to the vitality and work of this body of Christ — the church. We are, all of us, ministers in Christ’s name, ambassadors of the assurance of all things hoped for. Bless these gifts, O Lord, that they may empower your mission as we reach out to our community and the world bringing Good News and healing in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Gracious God, wondrous Sovereign of the Universe, gratefully we lift our voices in praise and thanksgiving for the opportunity to greet the new day. We are ever mindful particularly during this season of Lent how fleeting is the time we have upon this earth and intend that our days should be spent in service and work that brings glory to your name. If we ever get embroiled in the politics of maneuvering for control, lobbying for power or jockeying for position, halt us in our tracks and show us the honorable way of truth. Teach us to embrace your way in all things. Let your wisdom rule in our hearts, casting out the spirits of distrust, malevolence or ill will. Be tenacious with us when we are tempted to act contrary to your commandments, keeping us attentive to your purposes for us. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, because our commitment to Jesus is a priority in our lives, so too, is our commitment to the vitality and work of this body of Christ — the church. We are, all of us, ministers in Christ’s name, ambassadors of the assurance of all things hoped for. Bless these gifts, O Lord, that they may empower your mission as we reach out to our community and the world bringing Good News and healing in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
March 18, 2012 "MIRACLES WITH DOUBLE STUFF"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, inspire us this morning with a hopeful vision. We live in a world torn apart by misunderstandings, greed, fear and ignorance. The haves are suspicious and wary of the have-nots and the have-nots are suspicious and wary of the haves. Remind us Lord that strength is for service, not status. The strong and able in faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter. Faith must not be about doing what is most convenient for us.*** We confess that in our worship, many of us cling to ideas, presumptions and practices that identify us as those truly on the goodness track. Help us to accept each other — our similarities and our differences — right down to the way we worship you. Remind us that the way we hold our heads or our hands to rejoice, to give thanks and to pray need only be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, our rock and our redeemer. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The year I was born the Sunshine Hydrox chocolate cookie with cream filling had already been around for 40 years. It was the cookie of choice in my house, along with Tollhouse Chocolate Chip cookies made from scratch. Nowadays you can’t find Hydrox. The Oreo came into being 4 years after the Sunshine cookie and celebrated 100 years as Milk’s favorite cookie on March 6th. Over 491 billion Oreo cookies have been sold since 1912, making them the best selling cookie of the 20th century. I’m pretty sure it was the Double Stuf Oreo, introduced in 1975, that caused Hydrox to simply fall off the face of the cookie map. I guess that proves that it takes twice as much, sometimes, just to keep going and growing. Food for thought —as it were.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, because our commitment to Jesus is a priority in our lives, so too, is our commitment to the vitality and work of this body of Christ — the church. We are, all of us, ministers in Christ’s name, ambassadors of the assurance of all things hoped for. Bless these gifts, O Lord, that they may empower your mission as we reach out to our community and the world bringing Good News and healing in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Glorious God, inspire us this morning with a hopeful vision. We live in a world torn apart by misunderstandings, greed, fear and ignorance. The haves are suspicious and wary of the have-nots and the have-nots are suspicious and wary of the haves. Remind us Lord that strength is for service, not status. The strong and able in faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter. Faith must not be about doing what is most convenient for us.*** We confess that in our worship, many of us cling to ideas, presumptions and practices that identify us as those truly on the goodness track. Help us to accept each other — our similarities and our differences — right down to the way we worship you. Remind us that the way we hold our heads or our hands to rejoice, to give thanks and to pray need only be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, our rock and our redeemer. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
The year I was born the Sunshine Hydrox chocolate cookie with cream filling had already been around for 40 years. It was the cookie of choice in my house, along with Tollhouse Chocolate Chip cookies made from scratch. Nowadays you can’t find Hydrox. The Oreo came into being 4 years after the Sunshine cookie and celebrated 100 years as Milk’s favorite cookie on March 6th. Over 491 billion Oreo cookies have been sold since 1912, making them the best selling cookie of the 20th century. I’m pretty sure it was the Double Stuf Oreo, introduced in 1975, that caused Hydrox to simply fall off the face of the cookie map. I guess that proves that it takes twice as much, sometimes, just to keep going and growing. Food for thought —as it were.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, because our commitment to Jesus is a priority in our lives, so too, is our commitment to the vitality and work of this body of Christ — the church. We are, all of us, ministers in Christ’s name, ambassadors of the assurance of all things hoped for. Bless these gifts, O Lord, that they may empower your mission as we reach out to our community and the world bringing Good News and healing in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Westminster Presbyterian Church IS ON THE RIGHT TRACK
WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH'S CELL PHONE VIDEO MIGHT BE SOMETHING THAT MOVIE THEATERS COULD BENEFIT FROM UTILIZING!!!
Monday, March 12, 2012
March 11, 2012 "PERISH" -- THE THOUGHT
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving God, Creator of the Universe, in this time of prayer we focus our attention on your presence, shutting out the sounds of cars and sirens and airplanes, sniffles and coughs. We loosen our shoulders and allow ourselves to be enfolded in your Spirit arms for this hour, believing that we shall be revitalized, renewed and recreated. We confess our distress over what tomorrow may bring in an unstable economy. Keep us mindful of your ever-presence, dearest Lord. You are always near, always listening, always reaching out to us, offering your strong reassuring hand, any day, everyday, in the midst of the storm, in the silence of the night, or on a walk through a springtime garden. We live each day responsively, accepting your marvelous grace, extending the hand of fellowship as the body of Christ for the world. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
OK, I paid $74 to fill my car up with gas on Tuesday. The pump asked me if I wanted a car- wash — I thought they should have thrown that in for free; I said “No.” After driving to LA and back yesterday I had to fill up again — “cha-ching.” So how can we help each other out with such high gas prices? Here is one suggestion: Don’t drive to church alone, bring a neighbor and share the gas. At coffee hour today you will see that the fellowship hall is divided into geographical areas. Go get a cup of coffee, then go to your neighborhood and find someone to ride with. What have you got to lose?
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, we have designated a portion of our income to keep this church vital and alive, supporting its ministries and caring for the facility. We will ever trust in your optimizing power as we offer, faithfully, consistently and cheerfully, not only our monetary gifts, but our prayers, our service, our participation, and our witness. Thank you for all of your blessings, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Wondrous and Loving God, Creator of the Universe, in this time of prayer we focus our attention on your presence, shutting out the sounds of cars and sirens and airplanes, sniffles and coughs. We loosen our shoulders and allow ourselves to be enfolded in your Spirit arms for this hour, believing that we shall be revitalized, renewed and recreated. We confess our distress over what tomorrow may bring in an unstable economy. Keep us mindful of your ever-presence, dearest Lord. You are always near, always listening, always reaching out to us, offering your strong reassuring hand, any day, everyday, in the midst of the storm, in the silence of the night, or on a walk through a springtime garden. We live each day responsively, accepting your marvelous grace, extending the hand of fellowship as the body of Christ for the world. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
OK, I paid $74 to fill my car up with gas on Tuesday. The pump asked me if I wanted a car- wash — I thought they should have thrown that in for free; I said “No.” After driving to LA and back yesterday I had to fill up again — “cha-ching.” So how can we help each other out with such high gas prices? Here is one suggestion: Don’t drive to church alone, bring a neighbor and share the gas. At coffee hour today you will see that the fellowship hall is divided into geographical areas. Go get a cup of coffee, then go to your neighborhood and find someone to ride with. What have you got to lose?
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious God, we have designated a portion of our income to keep this church vital and alive, supporting its ministries and caring for the facility. We will ever trust in your optimizing power as we offer, faithfully, consistently and cheerfully, not only our monetary gifts, but our prayers, our service, our participation, and our witness. Thank you for all of your blessings, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
March 4, 2012 "CROSSING BOUNDARIES"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Loving God, what a glorious morning this is! What better way to give you thanks for today, than to sing songs of praise and proclaim our love and devotion to you. On this Sabbath morning, we gratefully take time to rest our spirits basking in your most divine company. Guide us into quietness and help us embrace, fully, all the goodness and mercy that flows from your heart. Dearest Lord, we confess our lives seem to get more and more complicated with each passing day. We can get worn out with the obligations we must meet. If we find ourselves becoming ill-tempered and critical of one another, please open our eyes, our hearts and our minds. Help us recognize each other’s best efforts as you have always recognized ours. Your gracious “Yes” was in the heart of Jesus and was ever upon his lips when he reached out to heal the sick, comfort the mourners, and forgive sinners. Teach us to be the people of your gracious “Yes” working to bring healing to the world. In the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
This congregation believes in the benefits of scouting programs for boys and for girls. Being involved in the discipline of scouting, they benefit as individuals and in turn benefit the communities in which they reside in the present and the future. Scouts remind us of the importance of investing time, energy and financial support in programs that challenge our children and our youth. We provide the scouts a safe place to meet, to honor each other and to grow spiritually, mentally and physically. They have inspired us with their creative energy and determination, giving back to us their time and muscle as we launch projects of our own.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most High God, bless these gifts to the care of your creation. Let us not be those who give in to anxiety and skittishness over what we do not have. These gifts are a statement of our faith in you and they herald our commitment to help those in need here and around the world. Receive these gifts and multiply them, we ask you, in the name of the Christ. Amen
Gracious and Loving God, what a glorious morning this is! What better way to give you thanks for today, than to sing songs of praise and proclaim our love and devotion to you. On this Sabbath morning, we gratefully take time to rest our spirits basking in your most divine company. Guide us into quietness and help us embrace, fully, all the goodness and mercy that flows from your heart. Dearest Lord, we confess our lives seem to get more and more complicated with each passing day. We can get worn out with the obligations we must meet. If we find ourselves becoming ill-tempered and critical of one another, please open our eyes, our hearts and our minds. Help us recognize each other’s best efforts as you have always recognized ours. Your gracious “Yes” was in the heart of Jesus and was ever upon his lips when he reached out to heal the sick, comfort the mourners, and forgive sinners. Teach us to be the people of your gracious “Yes” working to bring healing to the world. In the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
This congregation believes in the benefits of scouting programs for boys and for girls. Being involved in the discipline of scouting, they benefit as individuals and in turn benefit the communities in which they reside in the present and the future. Scouts remind us of the importance of investing time, energy and financial support in programs that challenge our children and our youth. We provide the scouts a safe place to meet, to honor each other and to grow spiritually, mentally and physically. They have inspired us with their creative energy and determination, giving back to us their time and muscle as we launch projects of our own.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most High God, bless these gifts to the care of your creation. Let us not be those who give in to anxiety and skittishness over what we do not have. These gifts are a statement of our faith in you and they herald our commitment to help those in need here and around the world. Receive these gifts and multiply them, we ask you, in the name of the Christ. Amen
February 26, 2012 "WHO YA GONNA CALL"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Awesome and ever forgiving God, hear our heartfelt prayer. We confess our need to be reconciled to you in order that we may learn to be reconciled to each other. We are people of independent spirit, who know in our hearts that you are not only the giver of grace, but you are the ground of our being, the very source of our existence. Help us to understand that every moment is an opportunity to connect with you, to sense the participation of your spirit in our lives. Lead us during this season of Lent to the core of our being where we shall find our heart’s desire. If we should discover that we have neglected or starved our souls, nourish us by all the means of grace: on your word, in worship, by prayer, through fellowship and with communion. If we discover that we have never healed from a past injury, help us find the source of healing. If we discover that we are imprisoned by negativity, break the shackles that bind us and set us free. Teach us to be honest with you and ourselves as we journey toward holiness and spiritual maturity. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
I met with my accountant on Thursday to sort out my taxes. He also handles some of my investments and as we reviewed my limited portfolio he mentioned that the stock market was actually having a good morning. I don’t visit my investments on a regular basis, because they have done little to get me enthused about their performance. My accountant remarked that the stock market has been in the longest performance slump of its history — 12 years— that’s longer than the great depression, which was pretty much over in 10.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, it is not with hesitancy or timidity that we offer these gifts. Neither do we give with robotic or automatic gestures. We give cheerfully, gratefully and thoughtfully reminding ourselves that our singular offering combined with the gifts brought by our brothers and sisters, can and will do great things to the glory of your name. Bless these gifts, we ask you in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Awesome and ever forgiving God, hear our heartfelt prayer. We confess our need to be reconciled to you in order that we may learn to be reconciled to each other. We are people of independent spirit, who know in our hearts that you are not only the giver of grace, but you are the ground of our being, the very source of our existence. Help us to understand that every moment is an opportunity to connect with you, to sense the participation of your spirit in our lives. Lead us during this season of Lent to the core of our being where we shall find our heart’s desire. If we should discover that we have neglected or starved our souls, nourish us by all the means of grace: on your word, in worship, by prayer, through fellowship and with communion. If we discover that we have never healed from a past injury, help us find the source of healing. If we discover that we are imprisoned by negativity, break the shackles that bind us and set us free. Teach us to be honest with you and ourselves as we journey toward holiness and spiritual maturity. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
I met with my accountant on Thursday to sort out my taxes. He also handles some of my investments and as we reviewed my limited portfolio he mentioned that the stock market was actually having a good morning. I don’t visit my investments on a regular basis, because they have done little to get me enthused about their performance. My accountant remarked that the stock market has been in the longest performance slump of its history — 12 years— that’s longer than the great depression, which was pretty much over in 10.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, it is not with hesitancy or timidity that we offer these gifts. Neither do we give with robotic or automatic gestures. We give cheerfully, gratefully and thoughtfully reminding ourselves that our singular offering combined with the gifts brought by our brothers and sisters, can and will do great things to the glory of your name. Bless these gifts, we ask you in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Ash Wednesday February 22, 2012 ...AND YET POSSESSING EVERYTHING"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Our most Gracious Creator, we come into your presence this evening to remember who we are. We have come to talk about repentance and renewal. We have come here to begin a journey which will lead to transformation. In this season of Lent we are seekers. We want to mature spiritually. We know that all growth takes discipline and commitment. Remind us to take time to partake of all the means of grace. Help us practice our praying. Prod us to read the scriptures and take some notes. We have known, since childhood, that if we don’t practice a skill regularly we get rusty. Today we confess that the same holds true when it comes to practicing our faith. Help us, Gracious Lord, in these 40 days to meet the challenges of holy living that are set before us. Empower our spiritual discipline, moving us toward self-discovery. If we get bogged down or distracted, bring us back on track and help us stay the course. Our prayer is that we will learn to love with the heart of Jesus and serve with the humility of Paul, seeking to be the Good News in our daily life. Lord, hear us as we pray in the name of the one who taught us to pray, saying: Our Abba Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Have you ever wondered about the use of the word reconcile with reference to balancing your checkbook? When you balance your checkbook, what you are doing is reconciling the balance that you have in your checkbook with the bank’s balance. In order to stay on track and not bounce checks, you need your numbers and the bank’s numbers to be the same. It’s sort like re-establishing a close and balanced relationship between your checkbook and the bank. That is what the season of Lent is all about: re-establishing a close and balanced relationship with our creator, so we are both on the same page, so to speak.
OFFERTORY PRAYER
Loving God, creator of all things, from the dust of the earth you have formed us and from the dust of death you have promised to raise us up. These gifts are just one measure of our thanks for your steadfast love, mercy and forgiveness. During this season of Lent we pledge not only to examine our spiritual center, but we will also examine our commitment center. Show us the way of visionaries who can see with the eyes of faith all that we can and will do to glorify your name. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Our most Gracious Creator, we come into your presence this evening to remember who we are. We have come to talk about repentance and renewal. We have come here to begin a journey which will lead to transformation. In this season of Lent we are seekers. We want to mature spiritually. We know that all growth takes discipline and commitment. Remind us to take time to partake of all the means of grace. Help us practice our praying. Prod us to read the scriptures and take some notes. We have known, since childhood, that if we don’t practice a skill regularly we get rusty. Today we confess that the same holds true when it comes to practicing our faith. Help us, Gracious Lord, in these 40 days to meet the challenges of holy living that are set before us. Empower our spiritual discipline, moving us toward self-discovery. If we get bogged down or distracted, bring us back on track and help us stay the course. Our prayer is that we will learn to love with the heart of Jesus and serve with the humility of Paul, seeking to be the Good News in our daily life. Lord, hear us as we pray in the name of the one who taught us to pray, saying: Our Abba Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Have you ever wondered about the use of the word reconcile with reference to balancing your checkbook? When you balance your checkbook, what you are doing is reconciling the balance that you have in your checkbook with the bank’s balance. In order to stay on track and not bounce checks, you need your numbers and the bank’s numbers to be the same. It’s sort like re-establishing a close and balanced relationship between your checkbook and the bank. That is what the season of Lent is all about: re-establishing a close and balanced relationship with our creator, so we are both on the same page, so to speak.
OFFERTORY PRAYER
Loving God, creator of all things, from the dust of the earth you have formed us and from the dust of death you have promised to raise us up. These gifts are just one measure of our thanks for your steadfast love, mercy and forgiveness. During this season of Lent we pledge not only to examine our spiritual center, but we will also examine our commitment center. Show us the way of visionaries who can see with the eyes of faith all that we can and will do to glorify your name. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Monday, February 20, 2012
February 19, 2012 "AND SO IT BEGINS"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, how wonderful it is to be in your presence, here in this sanctuary. When we gather together to partake of your grace, our hearts are strangely warmed. We willingly accept the mercy you offer so abundantly and which you impart so readily without exception. In a world where the rhetoric of cynics is prevalent, it is good to be in awe of your creation. It is good to be moved by the music of much-beloved hymns, and it is good to be nourished and refreshed by your word. Let us see you today, O Holy One, as Peter, James and John saw you revealed on the mountain top. Let your radiance pour over us through the light of your profound and never-ebbing forgiveness. Let our spirits dance, knowing that we are made new in every moment of prayer and pondering what your love and goodwill means for all of us. This is our grateful prayer offered in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, open our eyes to see the vision of these tithes and offerings not as paper and coin, nor as sacrifice. Let us see our gifts, transfigured by your blessing into powerful instruments of justice; into medical care that reaches out to cure disease; into missions which help to restore devastated lands and people, and into education for peace and the building of a better tomorrow. All this we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Glorious God, how wonderful it is to be in your presence, here in this sanctuary. When we gather together to partake of your grace, our hearts are strangely warmed. We willingly accept the mercy you offer so abundantly and which you impart so readily without exception. In a world where the rhetoric of cynics is prevalent, it is good to be in awe of your creation. It is good to be moved by the music of much-beloved hymns, and it is good to be nourished and refreshed by your word. Let us see you today, O Holy One, as Peter, James and John saw you revealed on the mountain top. Let your radiance pour over us through the light of your profound and never-ebbing forgiveness. Let our spirits dance, knowing that we are made new in every moment of prayer and pondering what your love and goodwill means for all of us. This is our grateful prayer offered in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, open our eyes to see the vision of these tithes and offerings not as paper and coin, nor as sacrifice. Let us see our gifts, transfigured by your blessing into powerful instruments of justice; into medical care that reaches out to cure disease; into missions which help to restore devastated lands and people, and into education for peace and the building of a better tomorrow. All this we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
February 12, 2010 "WHY SUCH SECRECY"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Loving God, we are reminded today of your eternal desire to change, for the better, the circumstances and lives of those relegated to the outermost margins of society. It was your heart that was pounding in the person of Jesus as he reached out, with immeasurable compassion, to cleanse the leper, to console the widow, to deliver the possessed and heal the sick. His distress over the lot of those who had no way of helping themselves was palpable. We confess, O Lord, our own distress over the woes of the poor and the downtrodden. Help us turn our distress into powerful action following the example of the Christ, who was moved by every emotion to act, to heal and thus to change the lot and lives of those who reached out to him. Make us instruments of your mercy, in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
We Give Thee, but thine own; what e’er the gift may be. All that we have is thine alone; a trust, O Lord, from thee. This single line hymn reminds us that the tithes and offerings we place in the offering plate we are entrusting to God. That is we are entrusting once again what was entrusted to us in the first place. The question we must ask ourselves is: “How much do we trust that God will see to it that, what we trust back to God, will be used wisely?”
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Loving God, bless the gifts we bring before you to carry the message of goodwill and the good news of your kingdom come. May they provide comfort to the distressed and inclusion to the marginalized. May they provide food to the hungry and clothing to the naked. Let these gifts empower the work of our hands in our community and in the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Gracious and Loving God, we are reminded today of your eternal desire to change, for the better, the circumstances and lives of those relegated to the outermost margins of society. It was your heart that was pounding in the person of Jesus as he reached out, with immeasurable compassion, to cleanse the leper, to console the widow, to deliver the possessed and heal the sick. His distress over the lot of those who had no way of helping themselves was palpable. We confess, O Lord, our own distress over the woes of the poor and the downtrodden. Help us turn our distress into powerful action following the example of the Christ, who was moved by every emotion to act, to heal and thus to change the lot and lives of those who reached out to him. Make us instruments of your mercy, in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
We Give Thee, but thine own; what e’er the gift may be. All that we have is thine alone; a trust, O Lord, from thee. This single line hymn reminds us that the tithes and offerings we place in the offering plate we are entrusting to God. That is we are entrusting once again what was entrusted to us in the first place. The question we must ask ourselves is: “How much do we trust that God will see to it that, what we trust back to God, will be used wisely?”
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Loving God, bless the gifts we bring before you to carry the message of goodwill and the good news of your kingdom come. May they provide comfort to the distressed and inclusion to the marginalized. May they provide food to the hungry and clothing to the naked. Let these gifts empower the work of our hands in our community and in the world. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
February 5, 2012 "IN HIS HANDS"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
O Most Divine Redeemer, what a gift you have given to us in the person of Jesus. Though we have not met him face to face, we dare to embrace him as the greatest friend, our pastor and priest, teacher and counselor. We emulate his human example, longing for purity of motive and goodness of intention in everything we do and say. Set our hearts on fire for justice and righteousness to prevail in this fearful and self-centered world. Give us the conscience and words to speak over the voices of the hate mongers and those who defame others for sport. Help us, in the course of our everyday existences to speak, preach and be the gracious gospel of goodwill and fairness for all people. Always, we pray in the name of your Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
There is a new show coming to the National Geographic channel called "Doomsday Preppers." These folks are seriously preparing for Armageddon -- whatever form it takes: devastating earthquake, super-volcano, terrorist attack. They are decked out with gas masks and automatic rifles and are practicing to make fire by rubbing sticks together. They have bunkers full of food -- tons of food. They are devoted to their families and some are probably "good Christian folk." What I know, for certain, in a post-apocalypse-world, the Prepper's guns will be aimed at the remnant unprepared. I believe God wants us to use our resources to make the world a better place today. Otherwise, we would have been instructed to start building an ark in the church parking lot.
O Most Divine Redeemer, what a gift you have given to us in the person of Jesus. Though we have not met him face to face, we dare to embrace him as the greatest friend, our pastor and priest, teacher and counselor. We emulate his human example, longing for purity of motive and goodness of intention in everything we do and say. Set our hearts on fire for justice and righteousness to prevail in this fearful and self-centered world. Give us the conscience and words to speak over the voices of the hate mongers and those who defame others for sport. Help us, in the course of our everyday existences to speak, preach and be the gracious gospel of goodwill and fairness for all people. Always, we pray in the name of your Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
There is a new show coming to the National Geographic channel called "Doomsday Preppers." These folks are seriously preparing for Armageddon -- whatever form it takes: devastating earthquake, super-volcano, terrorist attack. They are decked out with gas masks and automatic rifles and are practicing to make fire by rubbing sticks together. They have bunkers full of food -- tons of food. They are devoted to their families and some are probably "good Christian folk." What I know, for certain, in a post-apocalypse-world, the Prepper's guns will be aimed at the remnant unprepared. I believe God wants us to use our resources to make the world a better place today. Otherwise, we would have been instructed to start building an ark in the church parking lot.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
January 29, 2012 "UNNAMED, UNTAMED: WOMAN"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Loving God, we thank you for life and breath and the opportunity to live out our days on earth to the fullest; to celebrate the senses, to touch, to feel, to hear and to speak. We are grateful for music and the opportunity to join our voices with the multitude of the heavenly host, singing your praise. As we sing lustily and with full voice, we breathe in your spirit and feel both energized and renewed. We are grateful for the opportunity to love one another, knowing that our lives and our relationships move through change all the time. We are grateful for the people who move in and out of our lives. We are grateful for the time they spend and the spirit they share with us. As the Christ has left his mark upon us, so too, our brothers and sisters, our parents and mentors, our friends and colleagues have left their mark upon us. We give you thanks, O Lord, for bringing Alan into our lives. Indeed he has left his mark upon us and we are better for it. Pour out your blessing upon this congregation and lead us into newness of life, in the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Perhaps the most important words Jesus uttered to his followers were: “Do not be afraid.” There are countless stories told in scripture about people who — in the company of Jesus — were able to let go of fear and anxiety over what might be or what will be. Choosing life involves some risk-taking and letting go of “what ifs.” I think fear might be why some folks haven’t made a pledge to support the church. Maybe you are afraid you might forget to write the check. Maybe you are afraid you can’t live up to the amount you pledge. Last year we received pledges of $5 a month and we were grateful because, you see, we were able to count on that $5 each month. “Do not be afraid.” Pledge what you can.
"UNNAMED, UNTAMED: WOMAN"
Sermon for &UMW Sunday
Woman with the Hemorrhage Mark 5:24-34
The Syrophoenician Woman Mark 7:24b-30
The title of the sermon is Unnamed, Untamed:Woman. I chose that title as I remembered the book that was written in 1979 entitled "Anonymous Was a Woman" researched and compiled by Mirra Bank.
Some of you have heard me tell the stories of these two incredible unnamed, untamed women of scripture before; some of you have not. These two women have accompanied me through my 30 years in ministry as the two women who taught me about the importance of persistence, determination and risk. It was their need to be a part of the world, not to be trampled on by it, that motivated them to reach out and connect with the power of the divine in Jesus the Christ, the Son of God.
They were not, probably, spiritually motivated to connect with Jesus as much as they were in need physiologically and emotionally, but their experience, most certainly, created a new spirit within them. The story of the woman with the hemorrhage is told in three gospels (Matthew Mark and Luke) Mark 5: 25-34 and Luke 8: 43-48 and The story of the Syrophoenician Woman -- or Canaanite Woman is told in Matthew 15:21- 28 and Mark 7: 24-30. Both women remain unnamed, but not unrecognized. We know them, because their story is our story.
The woman with the hemorrhage in Mark's gospel is hidden in the crowd dismissed by Jesus' disciples, but Jesus has felt her strength; when she touched the fringe of his garment he was taken aback -- stopped in his tracks -- as he felt power leave him -- be pulled out of him. There is no other story like this on in scripture. There is no account of any other person being healed in such a way. Jesus did not lay his hand upon her. She did not come before him and ask him to heal her. She reached out with everything she had left in her, all the while convincing herself: "If I but touch his clothes I will be made well." She knew in a moment that she had been healed. Suddenly stricken with terror she believed she had committed some kind of crime. Not only did her hemorrhage stop, but everything stopped; the crowd fluttering around Jesus came to a screeching halt as Jesus asked: "Who touched my clothes?" His disciples were nonplused by the question. "You see the crowd pressing in on you, how can you ask "Who touched me?" But Jesus kept looking around to see who it was who had so effected him. He couldn't pick anyone out of the crowd. Finally the woman came forward believing she had done some harm to the holy man, fell down and confessed. I can hear him speaking with a smile upon his face as he said: "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your disease." For the unnamed woman who had suffered for 12 years with a condition that the professionals only made worse it took a leap of faith, it took a bold unprecedented, unmatched decision to reach out and connect with the divine.
The Syrophoenician woman who didn't speak Aramaic and may have only spoken a Canaanite dialect may or may not have been able to communicate with Jesus. Nevertheless she sought him out. The text doesn't tell us that she had seen his work; The text tells us he has come to town to get away --to have some rest and recuperation. He wanted to be anonymous. She had only word of mouth to go on. We are not told that she has witnessed Jesus in action so to speak, we are told only that she chased him down and humbly asked for his help, specifically -- to cast the unclean spirit out of her daughter -- and when she was summarily dismissed by Jesus, because of her gentile heritage -- she did not turn and flee like a kicked dog, her tail between her legs, she stood firm and gently pressed on, saying she understood that she was not worthy, but that she would accept whatever crumbs he might have to offer. She invited Jesus to be a compassionate even to her --a gentile. She was not one of Jesus' people -- not one of the children of Israel. She was --as Jesus was to learn that very day-- one of the children of God with needs like every other human being on God's creation. Few pulpiteers will preach it or acknowledge it, but on that day the Syrophoenician woman partnered with Jesus not only in accomplishing the healing of her daughter, but in opening up Jesus' ministry, expanding it beyond the borders of Judea. It is for her persistence and determination that Jesus is recognizes and embraces the Gentiles in Mark's gospel. She may well be why we have come to embrace his as the Son of God today.
These two significant women remain unnamed in the gospels, and yet are unforgettable. We may see them as desperate, nevertheless in their desperation they did not give in to despair, but took that desperation and molded it into courage and wrapped it around determined hearts, pushing themselves to step beyond their fear and their isolation-- beyond barriers of language, custom, and culture, seeking recovery, restoration and healing one for herself and one for her daughter. More than a sudden impulse they mustered courage, moved with determination and took a risk. In doing so they succeeded in breaking through the social barriers imposed upon them by religious legalism, class and culture. Their stories are told in scripture because their daring -- the sheer audacity -- of their choices caused those who witnessed what they did to hold their breath.
In the gospels the various lists of Jesus' disciples are lists of men's names. The different gospel writers produce different lists as well. If one were to collect the names of the women disciples of Jesus as they appear in the gospels; they would be the women who served with him, who traveled with him throughout Galilee and their names would be: Mary the Mother of Jesus, Mary the wife of Zebedee the mother of James and John, Mary of Magdala, Mary and Martha the sisters of Lazarus, Mary the wife of Cleopas, Johanna the wife Chuza and Salome. They are not compiled in lists as are the men, nevertheless their names are there and they are witnesses of the same events and more, in some cases, than the male disciples. They were in the majority, at the foot of the cross and please don't assume it was because it was safer for them; most certainly it was not.
For all of the criticism that the apostle Paul receives he had the good grace to name his women colleagues "his yokefellow" in ministry and leadership at Corinth, Rome and Philippi: Chloe, and Prisca, and Phoebe the deacon, and Lydia, and Junia the apostle, and Euodia and Syntyche and even Apphia the wife of Philemon.
If you read the sermons of the great preachers through the centuries of the church, few of them mention the women of the Bible, and if the great men preachers mentioned women in their sermons, it was usually the naughtier one's.
In the 19th and 20th century when women on this side of the world really began to assert themselves as a legitimate gender, they became a politically powerful group. They embraced their intellectual gifts and their corporate energy. They discovered that they were not all meant to be "spinster schoolmarms," but had the capacity to be educators, scholars, doctors, administrators, evangelists and preachers. Women gave themselves credit for being spirit filled, spirit driven and spiritually tuned in beings. And in so doing they began to discover their foremothers. Some of the earliest women theologians were the cloistered nuns of the middle ages and the reformation: Teresa of Avila and Julian of Norwich; some of these women theologians were siblings like Macrina the sainted sister of Pope Gregory of Nyssa and St. Basil of Caesarea. Her piety was well known and she it is known helped to educate her brothers. There are mothers like Susanna Wesley who was responsible for the early theological education of her sons John and Charles. In the mid 1700's Phoebe Palmer was one of John Wesley's most important Lay Ministers. She served in the societies teaching and exhorting hundreds of Methodists right alongside John and Charles. (The historians write that John Wesley wouldn't call what Phoebe did "preaching," because she was a woman and women couldn't preach. So Phoebe exhorted while her male counterparts, preached. Georgia Harkness was the first woman theologian of American Christianity, born in 1891, she taught theology at the Methodist Garrett Biblical Institute later known as Garrett Seminary. She was a pacifist and a liberal a product of the social justice movement.
You may ask what motivates and inspires women to do what is extraordinary? I think we are motivated by many things, however when we are motivated by the Spirit of God working in and through us, we are powered by a heart jarring sense of compassion for the plight of others, an overarching desire for equanimity and justice, and a determination to see right prevail. With all of these personal and collective motives it is our faith in God and the hopeful, responsive nature of our work that has brought hopes and dreams to fruition in the past and lends promise to the future of women's work. This is the legacy of UMW today.
The birth of the United Methodist Women is a story of women advocating for women who could not advocate for themselves. In a time in our history when women --even in the United States-- had few rights and were considered the property of their fathers and then their husbands, 6 women united and took a stand for women they would never see or know on the other side of the world. They may not have thought so at the time, but they initiated a justice movement when they responded to the pleas of two missionary wives on furlough from their work in India. As the 6 Bostonian Women listened to Mrs. Butler and Mrs. Parker speak about the desperate need of their sisters abroad, they responded immediately with empathy, practicality and their highly organized, creative and committed spirits. They stepped out of their own somewhat provincial existences and put their hearts, hands and resources to work. They did not see an insurmountable problem set before them; they saw a project that needed to be undertaken immediately. If women in India were not receiving much needed medical attention because the social structure barred them from being examined by a male physician, then the obvious solution would be to provide the women of India with female physicians. Since the women of India were not offered an education, a further and long term solution would be to provide them with an equal opportunity at an education so that they could study to be physicians themselves.
Inspired, empathetic and practical, that is the work of women in mission. Those 6 women continued to be inspired and wrote a constitution, recruited more members and organized themselves into the Methodist Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. They raised the funds necessary to send two single women to India -- an educator and a physician -- who would bring not only help and relief, but entirely new opportunities which would benefit an entire nation of women. There were few medical schools in America which allowed women to matriculate, but in the middle of the 19th century a few visionaries recognized the need for women physicians. Dr. Clara Swain, a graduate of Female Medical College of Pennsylvania established in 1850, took on the incredible challenge to be the first woman missionary doctor in India. She gave her whole life to that work. Accompanying her on the journey was Isabella Thoburn an educator who started her school in Lucknow, India with just 6 girls. What is now Isabella Thoburn College just celebrated its 125th anniversary in November. The Methodist Women's Foreign Missionary Society is responsible for planting the first women's college in all of Asia. Isabella Thoburn Women's College is now part of the University of Lucknow. Women in Mission was born in response to news of need in other parts of the world. By 1875 Mission work supported by women had expanded to Africa always in response to need. The work was not focused on the belief that the primary goal was to convert heathens to Christianity, rather the primary focus was in Good Wesleyan tradition to care for the physical wellbeing and needs of women who had nowhere to turn. It was understood that with this good help and good news they could rejoice in the goodness of God, whatever name they gave to the deity.
On this United Methodist Women's Sunday I invite all of us men and women to re-Connect with our foremothers-- spirited, unnamed, untamed women who saw a need and responded to it. They discovered mission and were fulfilled by the work. At the outset the work carried out by women felt like an adventure. We need to let our work be an adventure once again. Let us not get paralyzed by a fear of failure, or having less money in our coffers. Let us step out in faith, taking a risk, believing that we can heal the world; one problem at a time, one person at a time. We can make a difference. We may not change systems or entire social structures, but as we learned from the pioneers of this movement, from the vision, persistence, determination and risk of one woman educator grows a University, from the persistence determination and risk one woman doctor grew a movement to educate and train more. Women in mission have proved that responding to a need, can start an entire chain of incredible and miraculous events. It is important to remember that as vast as are the problems that plague this world, women's work is crucial and essential. Perhaps remembering our foremothers and sisters will spawn new energy for the work, new ideas and above all new adventures of the Heart for United Methodist Women. It is your partnership with God; renew your joy for mission.
Amen.
Rev. Dr. Amanda J. Burr
January 29, 2012
Gracious and Loving God, we thank you for life and breath and the opportunity to live out our days on earth to the fullest; to celebrate the senses, to touch, to feel, to hear and to speak. We are grateful for music and the opportunity to join our voices with the multitude of the heavenly host, singing your praise. As we sing lustily and with full voice, we breathe in your spirit and feel both energized and renewed. We are grateful for the opportunity to love one another, knowing that our lives and our relationships move through change all the time. We are grateful for the people who move in and out of our lives. We are grateful for the time they spend and the spirit they share with us. As the Christ has left his mark upon us, so too, our brothers and sisters, our parents and mentors, our friends and colleagues have left their mark upon us. We give you thanks, O Lord, for bringing Alan into our lives. Indeed he has left his mark upon us and we are better for it. Pour out your blessing upon this congregation and lead us into newness of life, in the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Perhaps the most important words Jesus uttered to his followers were: “Do not be afraid.” There are countless stories told in scripture about people who — in the company of Jesus — were able to let go of fear and anxiety over what might be or what will be. Choosing life involves some risk-taking and letting go of “what ifs.” I think fear might be why some folks haven’t made a pledge to support the church. Maybe you are afraid you might forget to write the check. Maybe you are afraid you can’t live up to the amount you pledge. Last year we received pledges of $5 a month and we were grateful because, you see, we were able to count on that $5 each month. “Do not be afraid.” Pledge what you can.
"UNNAMED, UNTAMED: WOMAN"
Sermon for &UMW Sunday
Woman with the Hemorrhage Mark 5:24-34
The Syrophoenician Woman Mark 7:24b-30
The title of the sermon is Unnamed, Untamed:Woman. I chose that title as I remembered the book that was written in 1979 entitled "Anonymous Was a Woman" researched and compiled by Mirra Bank.
Some of you have heard me tell the stories of these two incredible unnamed, untamed women of scripture before; some of you have not. These two women have accompanied me through my 30 years in ministry as the two women who taught me about the importance of persistence, determination and risk. It was their need to be a part of the world, not to be trampled on by it, that motivated them to reach out and connect with the power of the divine in Jesus the Christ, the Son of God.
They were not, probably, spiritually motivated to connect with Jesus as much as they were in need physiologically and emotionally, but their experience, most certainly, created a new spirit within them. The story of the woman with the hemorrhage is told in three gospels (Matthew Mark and Luke) Mark 5: 25-34 and Luke 8: 43-48 and The story of the Syrophoenician Woman -- or Canaanite Woman is told in Matthew 15:21- 28 and Mark 7: 24-30. Both women remain unnamed, but not unrecognized. We know them, because their story is our story.
The woman with the hemorrhage in Mark's gospel is hidden in the crowd dismissed by Jesus' disciples, but Jesus has felt her strength; when she touched the fringe of his garment he was taken aback -- stopped in his tracks -- as he felt power leave him -- be pulled out of him. There is no other story like this on in scripture. There is no account of any other person being healed in such a way. Jesus did not lay his hand upon her. She did not come before him and ask him to heal her. She reached out with everything she had left in her, all the while convincing herself: "If I but touch his clothes I will be made well." She knew in a moment that she had been healed. Suddenly stricken with terror she believed she had committed some kind of crime. Not only did her hemorrhage stop, but everything stopped; the crowd fluttering around Jesus came to a screeching halt as Jesus asked: "Who touched my clothes?" His disciples were nonplused by the question. "You see the crowd pressing in on you, how can you ask "Who touched me?" But Jesus kept looking around to see who it was who had so effected him. He couldn't pick anyone out of the crowd. Finally the woman came forward believing she had done some harm to the holy man, fell down and confessed. I can hear him speaking with a smile upon his face as he said: "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your disease." For the unnamed woman who had suffered for 12 years with a condition that the professionals only made worse it took a leap of faith, it took a bold unprecedented, unmatched decision to reach out and connect with the divine.
The Syrophoenician woman who didn't speak Aramaic and may have only spoken a Canaanite dialect may or may not have been able to communicate with Jesus. Nevertheless she sought him out. The text doesn't tell us that she had seen his work; The text tells us he has come to town to get away --to have some rest and recuperation. He wanted to be anonymous. She had only word of mouth to go on. We are not told that she has witnessed Jesus in action so to speak, we are told only that she chased him down and humbly asked for his help, specifically -- to cast the unclean spirit out of her daughter -- and when she was summarily dismissed by Jesus, because of her gentile heritage -- she did not turn and flee like a kicked dog, her tail between her legs, she stood firm and gently pressed on, saying she understood that she was not worthy, but that she would accept whatever crumbs he might have to offer. She invited Jesus to be a compassionate even to her --a gentile. She was not one of Jesus' people -- not one of the children of Israel. She was --as Jesus was to learn that very day-- one of the children of God with needs like every other human being on God's creation. Few pulpiteers will preach it or acknowledge it, but on that day the Syrophoenician woman partnered with Jesus not only in accomplishing the healing of her daughter, but in opening up Jesus' ministry, expanding it beyond the borders of Judea. It is for her persistence and determination that Jesus is recognizes and embraces the Gentiles in Mark's gospel. She may well be why we have come to embrace his as the Son of God today.
These two significant women remain unnamed in the gospels, and yet are unforgettable. We may see them as desperate, nevertheless in their desperation they did not give in to despair, but took that desperation and molded it into courage and wrapped it around determined hearts, pushing themselves to step beyond their fear and their isolation-- beyond barriers of language, custom, and culture, seeking recovery, restoration and healing one for herself and one for her daughter. More than a sudden impulse they mustered courage, moved with determination and took a risk. In doing so they succeeded in breaking through the social barriers imposed upon them by religious legalism, class and culture. Their stories are told in scripture because their daring -- the sheer audacity -- of their choices caused those who witnessed what they did to hold their breath.
In the gospels the various lists of Jesus' disciples are lists of men's names. The different gospel writers produce different lists as well. If one were to collect the names of the women disciples of Jesus as they appear in the gospels; they would be the women who served with him, who traveled with him throughout Galilee and their names would be: Mary the Mother of Jesus, Mary the wife of Zebedee the mother of James and John, Mary of Magdala, Mary and Martha the sisters of Lazarus, Mary the wife of Cleopas, Johanna the wife Chuza and Salome. They are not compiled in lists as are the men, nevertheless their names are there and they are witnesses of the same events and more, in some cases, than the male disciples. They were in the majority, at the foot of the cross and please don't assume it was because it was safer for them; most certainly it was not.
For all of the criticism that the apostle Paul receives he had the good grace to name his women colleagues "his yokefellow" in ministry and leadership at Corinth, Rome and Philippi: Chloe, and Prisca, and Phoebe the deacon, and Lydia, and Junia the apostle, and Euodia and Syntyche and even Apphia the wife of Philemon.
If you read the sermons of the great preachers through the centuries of the church, few of them mention the women of the Bible, and if the great men preachers mentioned women in their sermons, it was usually the naughtier one's.
In the 19th and 20th century when women on this side of the world really began to assert themselves as a legitimate gender, they became a politically powerful group. They embraced their intellectual gifts and their corporate energy. They discovered that they were not all meant to be "spinster schoolmarms," but had the capacity to be educators, scholars, doctors, administrators, evangelists and preachers. Women gave themselves credit for being spirit filled, spirit driven and spiritually tuned in beings. And in so doing they began to discover their foremothers. Some of the earliest women theologians were the cloistered nuns of the middle ages and the reformation: Teresa of Avila and Julian of Norwich; some of these women theologians were siblings like Macrina the sainted sister of Pope Gregory of Nyssa and St. Basil of Caesarea. Her piety was well known and she it is known helped to educate her brothers. There are mothers like Susanna Wesley who was responsible for the early theological education of her sons John and Charles. In the mid 1700's Phoebe Palmer was one of John Wesley's most important Lay Ministers. She served in the societies teaching and exhorting hundreds of Methodists right alongside John and Charles. (The historians write that John Wesley wouldn't call what Phoebe did "preaching," because she was a woman and women couldn't preach. So Phoebe exhorted while her male counterparts, preached. Georgia Harkness was the first woman theologian of American Christianity, born in 1891, she taught theology at the Methodist Garrett Biblical Institute later known as Garrett Seminary. She was a pacifist and a liberal a product of the social justice movement.
You may ask what motivates and inspires women to do what is extraordinary? I think we are motivated by many things, however when we are motivated by the Spirit of God working in and through us, we are powered by a heart jarring sense of compassion for the plight of others, an overarching desire for equanimity and justice, and a determination to see right prevail. With all of these personal and collective motives it is our faith in God and the hopeful, responsive nature of our work that has brought hopes and dreams to fruition in the past and lends promise to the future of women's work. This is the legacy of UMW today.
The birth of the United Methodist Women is a story of women advocating for women who could not advocate for themselves. In a time in our history when women --even in the United States-- had few rights and were considered the property of their fathers and then their husbands, 6 women united and took a stand for women they would never see or know on the other side of the world. They may not have thought so at the time, but they initiated a justice movement when they responded to the pleas of two missionary wives on furlough from their work in India. As the 6 Bostonian Women listened to Mrs. Butler and Mrs. Parker speak about the desperate need of their sisters abroad, they responded immediately with empathy, practicality and their highly organized, creative and committed spirits. They stepped out of their own somewhat provincial existences and put their hearts, hands and resources to work. They did not see an insurmountable problem set before them; they saw a project that needed to be undertaken immediately. If women in India were not receiving much needed medical attention because the social structure barred them from being examined by a male physician, then the obvious solution would be to provide the women of India with female physicians. Since the women of India were not offered an education, a further and long term solution would be to provide them with an equal opportunity at an education so that they could study to be physicians themselves.
Inspired, empathetic and practical, that is the work of women in mission. Those 6 women continued to be inspired and wrote a constitution, recruited more members and organized themselves into the Methodist Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. They raised the funds necessary to send two single women to India -- an educator and a physician -- who would bring not only help and relief, but entirely new opportunities which would benefit an entire nation of women. There were few medical schools in America which allowed women to matriculate, but in the middle of the 19th century a few visionaries recognized the need for women physicians. Dr. Clara Swain, a graduate of Female Medical College of Pennsylvania established in 1850, took on the incredible challenge to be the first woman missionary doctor in India. She gave her whole life to that work. Accompanying her on the journey was Isabella Thoburn an educator who started her school in Lucknow, India with just 6 girls. What is now Isabella Thoburn College just celebrated its 125th anniversary in November. The Methodist Women's Foreign Missionary Society is responsible for planting the first women's college in all of Asia. Isabella Thoburn Women's College is now part of the University of Lucknow. Women in Mission was born in response to news of need in other parts of the world. By 1875 Mission work supported by women had expanded to Africa always in response to need. The work was not focused on the belief that the primary goal was to convert heathens to Christianity, rather the primary focus was in Good Wesleyan tradition to care for the physical wellbeing and needs of women who had nowhere to turn. It was understood that with this good help and good news they could rejoice in the goodness of God, whatever name they gave to the deity.
On this United Methodist Women's Sunday I invite all of us men and women to re-Connect with our foremothers-- spirited, unnamed, untamed women who saw a need and responded to it. They discovered mission and were fulfilled by the work. At the outset the work carried out by women felt like an adventure. We need to let our work be an adventure once again. Let us not get paralyzed by a fear of failure, or having less money in our coffers. Let us step out in faith, taking a risk, believing that we can heal the world; one problem at a time, one person at a time. We can make a difference. We may not change systems or entire social structures, but as we learned from the pioneers of this movement, from the vision, persistence, determination and risk of one woman educator grows a University, from the persistence determination and risk one woman doctor grew a movement to educate and train more. Women in mission have proved that responding to a need, can start an entire chain of incredible and miraculous events. It is important to remember that as vast as are the problems that plague this world, women's work is crucial and essential. Perhaps remembering our foremothers and sisters will spawn new energy for the work, new ideas and above all new adventures of the Heart for United Methodist Women. It is your partnership with God; renew your joy for mission.
Amen.
Rev. Dr. Amanda J. Burr
January 29, 2012
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