January 6, 2013 Epiphany Sunday "WANDERING TRIBUTARIES"

CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Oh Wondrous God of grace and glory, we praise your name and give you thanks for the new day, of this New Year. By a star in the East you revealed to all of the peoples of the world your presence with us, Emmanuel. Teach us to be attentive to the signs of your presence — as a attentive as those visitors from afar who followed star, in search of a child they called a king. Help our hearts hold on to this most tender part of the Christmas season. We confess a kind of sadness at seeing the colorful lights and decorations that adorned houses in our neighborhoods gradually disappear. But the light of the star, the light of the Christ, the light of goodwill can continue to shine in our hearts, if we allow it to remain. Keep fiscal cliff cynicism from invading our best intentions and souring our hopes for all that we can accomplish in the coming year. Inspire us as we seek to grow our ministry and mission to all people in Jesus’ most wonderful name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
I know we are all very grateful that the Mayans were incorrect in their calendar predictions or as one cartoon suggested incomplete. It proves that we humans are not called upon to plot out times and dates that are God’s purview alone. Our human job description requires us to live as good stewards of the world which we inhabit, caring for its natural resources, and all manner of life residing hereon. Because every human being deserves to be offered a story that invites them to choose life and live it to the fullest, let us be good stewards, as well, of Christ’s story.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the tributes we bring. They are offered reverently, and gratefully. Truly we ask nothing in return, for your grace and love has already been bestowed upon us for a lifetime. May these gifts, the work of our hands and the prayers of our hearts, bring comfort to those in need. Guide us daily as we seek out new ways to be the living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. In Jesus’ marvelous name we pray. Amen.