Opening song: If I had a million dollars

(The Barenaked Ladies)

Key of A

If I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

Well I'd buy you a house   (I would buy you a house)

And if I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

I'd buy you furniture for your house

Maybe a nice Chesterfield or an Ottoman

And if I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

Well I'd buy you a K Car   A nice Reliant automobile

If I had $1, 000, 000 I'd buy your love

If I had $1, 000, 000   (I'd build a tree fort in our yard)

If I had $1, 000, 000   (You could help, it wouldn't be that hard)

If I had $1, 000, 000  

Maybe we could put a little tiny fridge in there somewhere

You know, we could just go in there and hang out

Like open the fridge and stuff

And there'd already be foods laid out for us

Like little pre wrapped sausages and things

Mmm, you know, they have pre wrapped sausages

But they don’t have pre wrapped bacon

Well, can you blame them? Yeah

If I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

While I'd buy you a fur coat   (But not a real fur coat that's cruel)

And if I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

Well I'd buy you an exotic pet   (Like a Llama or an Emu)

If I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

Well I'd buy you John Merricks remains   (Oh all them crazy elephant bones)

And if I had $1, 000, 000 I'd buy your love

If I had $1, 000, 000   (We wouldn't have to walk to the store)

If I had $1, 000, 000   (We'd take a limousine 'cause it costs more)

If I had $1, 000, 000

We wouldn't have to eat Kraft Dinner

But we would eat Kraft Dinner

Of course we would, we'd just eat more

And buy really expensive ketchups with it

That's right, all the fanciest ketchups, Dijon ketchup Mmm, mmm mmm

If I had $1, 000, 000   (If had $1, 000, 000)

Well I'd buy you a green dress   (But not a real green dress that's cruel)

And if I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

Well I'd buy you some art   (A Picasso or a Garfunkel)

If I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

Well I'd buy you a monkey   (Haven't you always wanted a monkey?)

If I had $1, 000, 000   I'd buy your love

If I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

If I had $1, 000, 000   (If I had $1, 000, 000)

I'd be rich

Welcome

Announcements and offering

If you have children at home and would like to receive our monthly newsletter starting this month, please email smhpasch@gmail.com with your child's name, and we will add you to the list. 

Prayer of dedication and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                             Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Come, you thankful people come

Key of C

1.

Come, you thankful people, come,

raise the song of harvest home!

All is safely gathered in,

safe before the storms begin;

God, our maker, does provide

for our needs to be supplied:

come to God's own temple, come,

raise the song of harvest home!

2.

All the world is God's own field,

harvests for God's praise to yield;

wheat and weeds together sown,

here for joy or sorrow grown;

first the blade, and then the ear,

then the full corn shall appear:

Harvest-giver, grant that we

wholesome grain and pure may be.

3.

For our God, one day, shall come,

and shall take this harvest home;

from the field shall in that day

all offences purge away;

giving angels charge at last

in the fire the weeds to cast;

but the fruitful ears to store

in the garner evermore.

4.

Even so, God, quickly come

to your final harvest home!

Gather all your people in,

free from sorrow, free from sin;

there for ever purified,

in your presence to abide:

come, with all your angels, come,

raise the glorious harvest home.

Opening prayer and confession

Assurance of pardon

Lord's prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Children's hymn: All things bright and beautiful

Key of D

Refrain:

All Things bright and beautiful

All Creatures Great and Small

All things wise and Wonderful 

In Love God made them all

1.

Each little flower that opens,

each little bird that sings,

God made their glowing colours,

God made their tiny wings. R

2.

The purpleheaded mountains,

the river running by,

the sunset and the morning

that brightens up the sky; R

3.

The cold wind in the winter,

the pleasant summer sun,

the ripe fruits in the garden:

God made them every one. R

4.

The rocky mountain splendour,

the lone wolf's haunting call,

the great lakes and the prairies,

the forest in the fall; R

5.

God gave us eyes to see them,

and lips that we might tell

how great is God our maker,

who has made all things well. R

Scripture: Deuteronomy 8: 7-18l

Moses said to all Israel: For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land, a land with flowing streams, with springs and underground waters welling up in valleys and hills, a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey, a land where you may eat bread without scarcity, where you will lack nothing, a land whose stones are iron and from whose hills you may mine copper. You shall eat your fill and bless the LORD your God for the good land that he has given you.

Take care that you do not forget the LORD your God, by failing to keep his commandments, his ordinances, and his statutes, which I am commanding you today. When you have eaten your fill and have built fine houses and live in them, and when your herds and flocks have multiplied, and your silver and gold is multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied, then do not exalt yourself, forgetting the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery, who led you through the great and terrible wilderness, an arid wasteland with poisonous snakes and scorpions. He made water flow for you from flint rock, and fed you in the wilderness with manna that your ancestors did not know, to humble you and to test you, and in the end to do you good. Do not say to yourself, "My power and the might of my own hand have gotten me this wealth." But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, so that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your ancestors, as he is doing today.

Gosepl Hymn: Bringing in the sheaves

Key of G

1.

Sowing in the morning, sowing seeds of kindness

Sowing in the noontide, and in the dewy eve;

Waiting for the harvest, and the time of reaping,

We shall come, rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.

Refrain: 

Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves.

We shall come, rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.

Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves.

We shall come, rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.

2. 

Sowing in the sunshine, sowing in the shadows,

Fearing neither clouds nor winter’s chilling breeze

By and by the harvest, and the labour ended,

We shall come, rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves. R

3. 

Going forth with weeping, sowing for the Master

Tho’ the loss sustain’d our spirit often grieves;

When our weeping’s over, He will bid us welcome,

We shall come, rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.

Prayer for Understanding

And may the Words of my mouth…

Sermon

Prayers of People and Benediction

Closing hymn: Now thank we all our God

Key of A

1.

Now thank we all our God, with heart,

and hands, and voices,

who wondrous things has done,

in whom this world rejoices;

who from our mother's arms has blessed us on our way

with countless gifts of love, and still is ours today.

2.

O may this bounteous God

through all our life be near us,

with ever joyful hearts

and blessed peace to cheer us,

and keep us strong in grace, and guide us when perplexed,

and free us from all ill in this world and the next.

3.

All praise and thanks to God

for all that has been given,

the Son, and Spirit blest

who dwell in highest heaven,

the one eternal God, whom heaven and earth adore;

for thus it was, is now, and shall be evermore

Welcome

Announcement and Offering

Prayer and dedication

Call to worship (based on ten commandments)

All: Put God first.

Give worth to the one who gives worth to you. 

Use God’s name with respect and love. 

All Spend time thinking about God/

Honour and love your whole family. 

Live towards other people with love and generosity. 

Find the richness in faithfulness towards others. 

All Celebrate what you have rather than dwell on what you don’t. 

Speak well of others and truthfully to yourself. 

Why get down about what others have 

when you can share what you have with others?

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

All Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                             Psalm 124:8

Opening prayer and confession

Faithful God, 

we find ourselves awake to your having been with us from the beginning. 

We find ourselves awakening to who we are and who we are becoming

We know we were created in Your image, 

that You have a history of bringing us out of slavery and into freedom 

and we long to find that freedom today. 

We know that seek to restore things that have gone awry; 

You transform what has been made ugly into true beauty,

And we pray to become a part of Your future that is coming

And so, out of a desire to be made free of past mistakes

and to start again with you and with one another, 

we join our voices in confession:

All:

God of mercy,

we confess that we have often failed to speak and act with kindness.

We have not always cared for others as you care for us.

We have not welcomed others as we have been welcomed to your table,

nor have we forgiven others as we have been forgiven.

We remember the good not done, 

kind words not spoken, and things we regret. 

If only we could make these things right!

Hear our silent confession:

(Keep silence for 15 seconds.)

Assurance of pardon

Scripture: Philippians 3: 4b-14

If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: Circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. 1 want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.

Prayer for understanding

Sermon

Ministry of music

Prayers of the people

Benediction

Opening song: On the turning away

By Pink Floyd (Key of Em)

1
On the turning away

From the pale and downtrodden

And the words they say

Which we won't understand

"Don't accept that what's happening

Is just a case of others' suffering

Or you'll find that you're joining in

The turning away"

2
It's a sin that somehow

Light is changing to shadow

And casting it's shroud

Over all we have known

Unaware how the ranks have grown

Driven on by a heart of stone

We could find that we're all alone

In the dream of the proud

3
On the wings of the night

As the daytime is stirring

Where the speechless unite

In a silent accord

Using words you will find are strange

And mesmerized as they light the flame

Feel the new wind of change

On the wings of the night

4
No more turning away

From the weak and the weary

No more turning away

From the coldness inside

Just a world that we all must share

It's not enough just to stand and stare

Is it only a dream that there'll be

No more turning away?

Welcome

Announcements and offering

Prayer of dedication and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Rejoice the Lord is king

(VU 213; Key of C, Chord found in VU)

1

Rejoice the Lord is King!

Your risen Lord adore!

Rejoice, give thanks and sing

and triumph evermore.

Refrain
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice:

rejoice; again I say, rejoice!

2

Jesus the Saviour reigns,

the God of truth and love;

when he had purged our sins,

he took his seat above.   R

3

God's kingdom cannot fail;

Christ rules o'er earth and heaven;

the keys of death and hell

are to our Jesus given.   R

4

Rejoice in glorious hope,

for Christ, the judge, shall come

to glorify the saints

for their eternal home.

We soon shall hear the archangel's voice;

the trump of God shall sound, rejoice   R

Opening prayer and assurance of pardon

Lord's prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all of God's children

Children's hymn: This little light of mine

1

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine, 

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine 

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

2

Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine 

Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine 

Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

3

In my brother’s heart, I’m gonna let it shine, 

In my brother’s heart, I’m gonna let it shine 

In my brother’s heart, I’m gonna let it shine 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

4

In my sister’s soul, I’m gonna let it shine, 

In my sister’s soul, I’m gonna let it shine, 

In my sister’s soul, I’m gonna let it shine, 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

5

All around the world, I’m gonna let it shine 

All around the world, I’m gonna let it shine 

All around the world, I’m gonna let it shine 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

6

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine, 

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine 

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Scripture: Matthew 21: 23-32

The Message Version

True authority

Then Jesus was back in the Temple, teaching. The high priests and leaders of the people came up and demanded, “Show us your credentials. Who authorized you to teach here?”

Jesus responded, “First let me ask you a question. You answer my question and I’ll answer yours. About the baptism of John—who authorized it: heaven or humans?”

They were on the spot and knew it. They pulled back into a huddle and whispered, “If we say ‘heaven,’ he’ll ask us why we didn’t believe him; if we say ‘humans,’ we’re up against it with the people because they all hold John up as a prophet.” They decided to concede that round to Jesus. “We don’t know,” they answered.

Jesus said, “Then neither will I answer your question.

“Tell me what you think of this story: A man had two sons. 

He went up to the first and said, ‘Son, go out for the day and work in the vineyard.’

“The son answered, ‘I don’t want to.’ Later on he thought better of it and went.

“The father gave the same command to the second son. 

He answered, ‘Sure, glad to.’ But he never went.

“Which of the two sons did what the father asked?”

They said, “The first.”

Jesus said, “Yes, and I tell you that crooks and [prostitutes] are going to precede you into God’s kingdom. John came to you showing you the right road. You turned up your noses at him, but the crooks and [prostitutes] believed him. Even when you saw their changed lives, you didn’t care enough to change and believe him.

Gospel hmyn: I heard the voice of Jesus say

(VU 626; Key of EM)

1
I heard the voice of Jesus say,

'Come unto me and rest;

lay down, O weary one, lay down

your head upon my breast.'

I came to Jesus as I was,

weary and worn and sad;

I found in him a resting place,

and he has made me glad.

2

I heard the voice of Jesus say,

'Behold, I freely give

the living water; thirsty one,

stoop down, and drink, and live.'

I came to Jesus, and I drank

of that life-giving stream;

my thirst was quenched, my soul revived,

and now I live in him.

3

I heard the voice of Jesus say,

'I am this dark world's light;

look unto me, your morn shall rise,

and all your day be bright.'

I looked to Jesus, and I found

in him my star, my sun;

and in that light of life I'll walk

till travelling days are done.

Prayer for understanding

Sermon

Prayers of people and benediction

Closing song: Called by earth and sky

(MV 135, Key of C)

Refrain

Called by earth and sky,

promise of hope held high.

This is our sacred living trust,

treasure of life sanctified,

called by earth and sky.

1

Precious these waters, endless seas,

deep ocean’s dream,

waters of healing, rivers of rain,

the wash of love again.  R

2

Precious this gift, the air we breathe;

wind born and free.

Breath of the Spirit, blow through this place,

our gathering and our grace.  R

3

Precious these mountains, ancient sands;

vast fragile land.

Seeds of our wakening, rooted and strong,

Creation’s faithful song.  R

4

Precious the fire that lights our way,

bright dawning day.

Fire of passion, sorrows undone,

our faith and justice one.  R

Opening song: Ordinary day

Great Big Sea

Key of F (D 3rd Fret)

I've got a smile on my face, and I've got four walls around me

I've got the sun in the sky, all the water surround me

Oh you know, ya I win now and sometimes I'll lose

I've been battered, but I never bruise... it's not so bad

And I say way-hey-hey, it's just an ordinary day

And it's all your state of mind

At the end of the day,

You've just got to say... it's all right.

Janie sings on the corner, what keeps her from dying

Let them say what they want, she won't stop trying

Oh you know,

She might stumble, and be pushed around

She might fall, but she'll never lie down...it's not so bad

And I say way-hey-hey, it's just an ordinary day

And it's all your state of mind

At the end of the day,

You've just got to say... it's all right.

It's alright, it's alright...it's ALRIGHT.

In this beautiful life there's always some sorrow

And It's a double-edged knife, but there's always tomorrow..

Oh you know,

It's up to you now if you sink or swim,

Just keep the faith and your ship will come in?.

it's not so bad

And I say way-hey-hey, it's just an ordinary day

And it's all your state of mind

At the end of the day,

You've just got to say...

I say way-hey-hey, it's just an ordinary day

And it's all your state of mind

At the end of the day,

You've just got to say... it's all right, it's all right

I've got a smile on my face, and I've got four walls around me

Welcome

Announcements and offering

Prayer of dedication and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: How great is our God

(Chris Tomlin)

Key of A (G 2nd Fret)

The splendour of a King, 

clothed in majesty

Let all the Earth rejoice

All the Earth rejoice

He wraps himself in light

And darkness tries to hide

And trembles at His voice

Trembles at His voice

How great is our God, sing with me

How great is our God, and all will see

How great, how great is our God

Age to age He stands

And time is in His hands

Beginning and the end

The Godhead Three in One

Father Spirit Son

The Lion and the Lamb

The Lion and the Lamb 

How great is our God, sing with me

How great is our God, and all will see

How great, how great is our God

Name above all names

Worthy of our praise

My heart will sing

How great is our God

How great is our God, sing with me

How great is our God, and all will see

How great, how great is our God

Opening prayer and assurance of pardon

Lord's prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all of God's children

Children's hymn: There is room for all

(MV 62)

Key of C (Chords found in More Voices)

There is room for all in the shadow of God’s wing;

there is room for all, sheltered in God’s love.

And I rejoice and sing,

“My refuge and my rock, in whom I trust.”

There is room for all, there is room for all!

Scripture: Exodus 16: 1-18

(The Message)

On the fifteenth day of the second month after they had left Egypt, the whole company of Israel moved on from Elim to the Wilderness of Sin which is between Elim and Sinai. The whole company of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron there in the wilderness. The Israelites said, “Why didn’t God let us die in comfort in Egypt where we had lamb stew and all the bread we could eat? You’ve brought us out into this wilderness to starve us to death, the whole company of Israel!”

God said to Moses, “I’m going to rain bread down from the skies for you. The people will go out and gather each day’s ration. I’m going to test them to see if they’ll live according to my Teaching or not. On the sixth day, when they prepare what they have gathered, it will turn out to be twice as much as their daily ration.”

Moses and Aaron told the People of Israel, “This evening you will know that it is God who brought you out of Egypt; and in the morning you will see the Glory of God. Yes, he’s listened to your complaints against him. You haven’t been complaining against us, you know, but against God.”

Moses said, “Since it will be God who gives you meat for your meal in the evening and your fill of bread in the morning, it’s God who will have listened to your complaints against him. Who are we in all this? You haven’t been complaining to us—you’ve been complaining to God!”

Moses instructed Aaron: “Tell the whole company of Israel: ‘Come near to God. He’s heard your complaints.’” When Aaron gave out the instructions to the whole company of Israel, they turned to face the wilderness. And there it was: the Glory of God visible in the Cloud.

God spoke to Moses, “I’ve listened to the complaints of the Israelites. Now tell them: ‘At dusk you will eat meat and at dawn you’ll eat your fill of bread; and you’ll realize that I am God, your God.’”

That evening quail flew in and covered the camp and in the morning there was a layer of dew all over the camp. When the layer of dew had lifted, there on the wilderness ground was a fine flaky something, fine as frost on the ground. The Israelites took one look and said to one another, man-hu (What is it?). They had no idea what it was.

So Moses told them, “It’s the bread God has given you to eat. And these are God’s instructions: ‘Gather enough for each person, about two quarts per person; gather enough for everyone in your tent.’”

The People of Israel went to work and started gathering, some more, some less, but when they measured out what they had gathered, those who gathered more had no extra and those who gathered less weren’t short—each person had gathered as much as was needed.

Gospel hymn: All who hunger

(VU 460)

Key of G (Chords found in Voices United - but too many!!!)

1.

All who hunger, gather gladly;

holy manna is our bread.

Come from wilderness and wandering.

Here, in truth, we will be fed.

You that yearn for days of fullness,

all around us is our food.

Taste and see the grace eternal.

Taste and see that God is good.

2.

All who hunger, never strangers;

seeker, be a welcome guest.

Come from restlessness and roaming.

Here, in joy, we keep the feast.

We that once were lost and scattered

in communion's love have stood.

Taste and see the grace eternal.

Taste and see that God is good.

3.

All who hunger, sing together;

Jesus Christ is living bread.

Come from loneliness and longing.

Here, in peace, we have been led.

Blest are those who from this table

live their lives in gratitude.

Taste and see the grace eternal.

Taste and see that God is good.

Prayer for understanding

Sermon

Prayers of people and bendeiction

Closing song: God be with you

(VU 422)

Key of B (G 3rd fret)

1.

God be with you till we meet again;

loving counsels guide, uphold you,

with a shepherd's care enfold you;

God be with you till we meet again.

Refrain:

Till we meet, till we meet,

till we meet at Jesus' feet;

till we meet, till we meet,

God be with you till we meet again.

2.

God be with you till we meet again;

unseen wings protecting hide you,

daily manna still provide you;

God be with you till we meet again. R

3.

God be with you till we meet again;

when life's perils thick confound you,

put unfailing arms around you;

God be with you till we meet again. R

4.

God be with you till we meet again;

keep love's banner floating o'er you,

smite death's threatening wave before you;

God be with you till we meet again. R

Opening song: The field behind the plough

1
Watch the field behind the plow turn to straight, dark rows
Feel the trickle in your clothes, blow the dust cake from your nose
Hear the tractor's steady roar, Oh you can't stop now
There's a quarter section more or less to go 

2
And it figures that the rain keeps its own sweet time
You can watch it come for miles, but you guess you've got a while
So ease the throttle out a hair, every rod's a gain
And there's victory in every quarter mile

Refrain
Poor old Kuzyk down the road
The heartache, hail and hoppers brought him down
He gave it up and went to town
And Emmett Pierce the other day
Took a heart attack and died at forty-two
You could see it coming on 'cause he worked as hard as you 

3
In an hour, maybe more, you'll be wet clear through
The air is cooler now, pull you hat brim further down
And watch the field behind the plow turn to straight dark rows
Put another season's promise in the ground

Refrain
And if the harvest's any good
The money just might cover all the loans
You've mortgaged all you own
Buy the kids a winter coat
Take the wife back east for Christmas if you can
All summer she hangs on when you're so tied to the land
 

4
For the good times come and go, but at least there's rain
So this won't be barren ground when September rolls around
So watch the field behind the plow turn to straight dark rows
Put another season's promise in the ground
Watch the field behind the plow turn to straight dark rows
Put another season's promise in the ground

Welcome

Announcements and offering

Hallville: UCW will be cancelled until Sunday, February  7, 2021 due to Covid  19. If you have any questions, please contact Brenda  Fawcett.

Call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?
Our help comes from the Lord, 
the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Good news! Chariot's a comin'

1
Good news, chariot's a coming
Good news, chariot's a coming
Good news, chariot's a coming
Good news, chariot's a coming
And I don't want it to leave me behind

2
There's a long wide robe in Heaven I know
There's a golden crown in Heaven I know
There's a starry crown in Heaven I know
There's a Golden harp in Heaven I know

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all of God's children

Children's hymn: Jesus bids us shine

1
Jesus bids us shine with a pure, clear light,
like a little candle burning in the night.
In this world is darkness, so let us shine,
you in your small corner, and I in mine. 

2
Jesus bids us shine first of all for him;
well he sees and knows it if our light grows dim:
Jesus walks beside us to help us shine,
you in your small corner, and I in mine. 

3
Jesus bids us shine, then, for all around;
many kinds of darkness in the world are found:
sin, and want and sorrow; so we must shine,
you in your small corner, and I in mine.

Scripture: Matthew 18: 21-35

At that point Peter got up the nerve to ask, “Master, how many times do I forgive a brother or sister who hurts me? Seven?”

Jesus replied, “Seven! Hardly. Try seventy times seven. 

“The kingdom of God is like a king who decided to square accounts with his servants. As he got under way, one servant was brought before him who had run up a debt of a hundred thousand dollars. He couldn’t pay up, so the king ordered the man, along with his wife, children, and goods, to be auctioned off at the slave market. 

“The poor wretch threw himself at the king’s feet and begged, ‘Give me a chance and I’ll pay it all back.’ Touched by his plea, the king let him off, erasing the debt.

“The servant was no sooner out of the room when he came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him ten dollars. He seized him by the throat and demanded, ‘Pay up. Now!’ 

“The poor wretch threw himself down and begged, ‘Give me a chance and I’ll pay it all back.’ But he wouldn’t do it. He had him arrested and put in jail until the debt was paid. When the other servants saw this going on, they were outraged and brought a detailed report to the king. 

“The king summoned the man and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave your entire debt when you begged me for mercy. Shouldn’t you be compelled to be merciful to your fellow servant who asked for mercy?’ The king was furious and put the screws to the man until he paid back his entire debt. And that’s exactly what my Father in heaven is going to do to each one of you who doesn’t forgive unconditionally anyone who asks for mercy.”

Gospel hymn: Count your blessings

1
When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed
When you are discouraged thinking all is lost
Count your many blessings name them one by one
And it will surprise you what the lord has done 

Refrain
Count your blessings
Name them one by one
Count your blessings
See what God has done
Count your blessings
Name them one by one
Count your many blessings
See what God has done 

2
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings every doubt will fly
And you will keep singing as the days go by.   R 

3
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.   R 

4
So, amid the conflict whether great or small
Do not be disheartened God is over all
Count your many blessings Angels will attend
Help and comfort give you to your journey's end.  R

Prayer for understanding

And may the words of my mouth…

Sermon

Prayers of people and benediction

1
Mungu Ni Mwema (know that God is good)
Know that God is good
Know that God is good
Know that God is good
God is good! God is Good

2
Mungu ni Mwema
Mungu ni Mwema
Mungu ni Mwema
ni Mwema, ni Mwema

3
C’est vrai, Dieu est bon!
C’est vrai, Dieu est bon!
C’est vrai, Dieu est bon!
Dieu est bon! Dieu est bon!

Closing song: All my life's a circle

1
All my life's a circle, sunrise and sundown
the moon rolls through the night time
'till the daybreak comes around
All my life's a circle, but I can't tell you why
the seasons’ spinning round again
the years keep rolling by

2
Seems like I've been here before I can't remember when
But I've got this funny feeling that we'll all be together again
'Cause no straight lines make up my life 
And all my roads have bends
There's no clearcut beginnings and, so far, no dead ends 

3
I've found you a thousand times I guess you've done the same
But then we'll lose each other it's just like a children's game
But as I find you here again a thought runs through my mind
Our Love is like a circle, let's go round one more time

Opening Song: The cave

By Mumford & Sons

(Key of G 4th fret [B])

1
It's empty in the valley of your heart

The sun it rises slowly as you walk

Away from all the fears and all the faults you've left behind

The harvest left no food for you to eat

You cannibal you meat eater you see

But I have seen the same I know the shame in your defeat

Refrain

But I will hold on hope

And I won't let you choke

On the noose around your neck

And I'll find strength in pain

And I will change my ways

I'll know my name as it's called again

2
'Cause I have other things to fill my time

You take what is yours and I'll take mine

Now let me at the truth which will refresh my broken mind

So tie me to a post and block my ears

I can see widows and orphans through my tears

I know my call despite my faults and despite my growing fears  R

3
So come out of your cave walking on your hands

And see the world hanging upside down

You can understand dependence 

when you know the maker's hand

So make your siren's call

And sing all you want

I will not hear what you have to say

'Cause I need freedom now

And I need to know how

To live my life as it's meant to be  R

..

Welcome and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

.

Hymn: The family of God (Gaithers)

(Key of D)

Refrain
I'm so glad I'm a part of the Family of God,

I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood!

Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod,

For I'm part of the family,

The Family of God.

1
You will notice we say "brother and sister" 'round here,

It's because we're a family and these are so near;

When one has a heartache, we all share the tears,

And rejoice in each victory in this family so dear.   R

2

From the door of an orphanage to the house of the King,

No longer an outcast, a new song I sing;

From rags unto riches, from the weak to the strong,

I'm not worthy to be here, but praise God I belong!   R

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Children's hymn: Amazing grace

(The lions sleep tonight)

(Key of C)

1

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound

that saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found,

was blind, but now I see.

Halle- ee -ee lu ja! Amen

Halle - ee -ee lu ja! Amen.

2

When we've been there ten thousand years,

bright shining as the sun,

we've no less days to sing God's praise

than when we'd first begun.

Scripture: Matthew 18:15-20

The Message Version

15-17 “If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him—work it out between the two of you. If he listens, you’ve made a friend. If he won’t listen, take one or two others along so that the presence of witnesses will keep things honest, and try again. If he still won’t listen, tell the church. If he won’t listen to the church, you’ll have to start over from scratch, confront him with the need for repentance, and offer again God’s forgiving love.

18-20 “Take this most seriously: A yes on earth is yes in heaven; a no on earth is no in heaven. What you say to one another is eternal. I mean this. When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I’ll be there.” 

Gospel hymn: God on the mountain

(Key of C)

1

Life is easy when you’re up on the mountain

And you’ve got peace of mind like you’ve never known

But then things change and you’re down in the valley

Don’t lose faith for you’re never alone

Refrain
For the God on the mountain is still God in the valley

When things go wrong, He’ll make them right

And the God of the good times is still God in the bad times

The God of the day is still God in the night

2
You talk of faith when you’re up on the mountain

But the talk comes easy when life’s at it’s best

But it is down in the valley of trials and temptation

That’s when faith is really put to the test

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Closing choruses

(Key of G)

Alive, alive, alive forevermore

My Jesus is alive! Alive forevermore

Alive, alive, alive forevermore

My Jesus is alive! Alive forevermore 

Sing Hallelujah

Sing Hallelujah

My Jesus is Alive, forevermore

Sing Hallelujah

Sing Hallelujah

My Jesus is alive

It is no longer I that liveth

But Christ that liveth in me

It is no longer I that liveth

But Christ that liveth in me

In me! In me!

Jesus is alive in me!

It is no longer I that liveth

But Christ that liveth in me

Rejoice in the Lord always!

And again I say rejoice!

Rejoice in the Lord always!

And again I say rejoice!

Rejoice! Rejoice

And again I say rejoice!

Rejoice! Rejoice

And again I say rejoice!

Opening Song: 10,000 Reasons

(Key of G)

Refrain

Bless the Lord, O my soul O my soul 

Worship His holy name

Sing like never before O my soul

I'll worship Your holy name

1

The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning

It's time to sing Your song again

Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me

Let me be singing when the evening comes    R

You're rich in love, and You're slow to anger

Your name is great, and Your heart is kind

For all Your goodness I will keep on singing

Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find   R

And on that day when my strength is failing

The end draws near and my time has come

Still my soul will sing Your praise unending

Ten thousand years and then forevermore

Welcome and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

      Our help comes from the Lord, 

      the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Nearer, my God, to thee

(Key of D)

1

Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee! 

E'en though it be a cross that raiseth me, 

still all my song shall be, 

nearer, my God, to thee; 

nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee! 

2

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down, 

darkness be over me, my rest a stone; 

yet in my dreams I'd be 

nearer, my God, to thee; 

nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee! 

3

There let the way appear, steps unto heaven; 

all that thou sendest me, in mercy given; 

angels to beckon me 

nearer, my God, to thee; 

nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee! 

4 

Then, with my waking thoughts bright with thy praise, 

out of my stony griefs Bethel I'll raise; 

so by my woes to be 

nearer, my God, to thee; 

nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee! 

5

Or if, on joyful wing cleaving the sky, 

sun, moon, and stars forgot, upward I fly, 

still all my song shall be, 

nearer, my God, to thee; 

nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Children's hymn: One more step along the world I go

(VU 639; Key of G)

1

One more step along the world I go,

one more step along the world I go,

from the old things to the new,

keep me travelling along with you.

Refrain

And it's from the old I travel to the new;

keep me travelling along with you.

2

Round the corner of the world I turn,

more and more about the world I learn;

all the new things that I see

you'll be looking at along with me.   R 

3

As I travel through the bad and good,

keep me travelling the way I should;

where I see no way to go

you'll be telling me the way, I know.  R

4

Give me courage when the world is rough,

keep me loving though the world is tough,

leap and sing in all I do,keep me travelling along with you.   R

5

You are older than the world can be,

you are younger than the life in me,

ever old and ever new,

keep me travelling along with you.  R x 2

Scripture: Genesis 28: 10-19a

Jacob left Beersheba and went to Haran. He came to a certain place and camped for the night since the sun had set. He took one of the stones there, set it under his head and lay down to sleep. And he dreamed: A stairway was set on the ground and it reached all the way to the sky; angels of God were going up and going down on it.

Then God was right before him, saying, “I am God, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. I’m giving the ground on which you are sleeping to you and to your descendants. Your descendants will be as the dust of the Earth; they’ll stretch from west to east and from north to south. All the families of the Earth will bless themselves in you and your descendants. Yes. I’ll stay with you, I’ll protect you wherever you go, and I’ll bring you back to this very ground. I’ll stick with you until I’ve done everything I promised you.”

Jacob woke up from his sleep. He said, “God is in this place—truly. And I didn’t even know it!” He was terrified. He whispered in awe, “Incredible. Wonderful. Holy. This is God’s House. This is the Gate of Heaven.”

Jacob was up first thing in the morning. He took the stone he had used for his pillow and stood it up as a memorial pillar and poured oil over it. He christened the place Bethel (God’s House).

Gospel hymn: We are climbing Jacob's ladder

(Key of C)

1

We are climbing Jacob's ladder

We are climbing Jacob's ladder

We are climbing Jacob's ladder

Brothers, sisters, all

2

Every rung goes higher and higher

Every rung goes higher and higher

Every rung goes higher and higher

Brothers, sisters, all

3

Every new rung just makes us stronger

Every new rung just makes us stronger

Every new rung just makes us stronger

Brothers, sisters, all

4

We are dancing Sarah’s circle,

We are dancing Sarah’s circle,

We are dancing Sarah’s circle,

We are brothers, and sisters, all

5

We are climbing higher and higher

We are climbing higher and higher

Yeah, we are climbing higher and higher

Brothers, sisters, all

6

We are climbing Jacob's ladder

Yeah, we are climbing Jacob's ladder

We are climbing Jacob's ladder

Brothers, sisters, all

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Hymn: Guide me, O thou great Jehovah

(Key of G)

1

Guide me, O thou great Jehovah,

pilgrim through this barren land.

I am weak, but thou art mighty,

hold me with thy powerful hand.

Bread of heaven, bread of heaven,

feed me till I want no more,

feed me till I want no more.

2

Open now the crystal fountain,

whence the healing stream doth flow;

let the fire and cloudy pillar

lead me all my journey through.

Strong deliverer, strong deliverer,

be thou still my strength and shield,

be thou still my strength and shield.

3

When I tread the verge of Jordan,

bid my anxious fears subside;

death of death, and hell's destruction,

land me safe on Canaan's side:

songs of praises, songs of praises

I will ever give to thee,

I will ever give to thee.

Opening song: Good riddance (Time of your life)

by Green Day

(Key of G)

1
Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road

Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go

So, make the best of this test and don't ask why

It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time

Refrain

It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right

I hope you had the time of your life

2
So take the photographs and still frames in your mind

Hang it on a shelf in good health and good time

Tattoos of memories and dead skin on trial

For what it's worth it was worth all the while R (x 3)

Welcome and call to worship

Call to worship 

The Lord is my shepherd; 

I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: 

he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: 

he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, 

I will fear no evil: 

for thou art with me;
thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me 

in the presence of mine enemies: 

thou anointest my head with oil;
my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me 

all the days of my life: 

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Jesus, you have come to the lakeshore

(VU 563)

1

Jesus, you have come to the lakeshore

looking neither for wealthy nor wise ones;

you only asked me to follow humbly.

Refrain

O Jesus, with your eyes you have searched me,

and while smiling, have spoken my name;

now my boat's left on the shoreline behind me;

by your side I will seek other seas.

2

You know so well my possessions;

my boat carries no gold and no weapons;

- you will find there my nets and labour.  R

3

You need my hands, full of caring

through my labours to give others rest,

and constant love that keeps on loving.  R

4

You, who have fished other oceans,

ever longed for by souls who are waiting,

my loving friend, as thus you call me.  R

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer song

(VU 576)

Almighty God, whose son Jesus Christ has taught us

that what we do for the least of our brothers and sisters

we do also for him,

give us the will to be the servant of others

as he was the servant of all,

who gave up his life and died for us,

but is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, 

one God, now and forever. Amen.

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Hymn: I'm gonna live so/Peace like a river

(VU 575/7; Key of G)

1

I'm gonna live so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

I'm gonna live so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

2

I'm gonna work so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

I'm gonna work so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

3

I'm gonna pray so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

I'm gonna pray so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

1

I've got peace like a river, I've got peace like a river,

I've got peace like a river in-a my soul.

I've got peace like a river, I've got peace like a river,

I've got peace like a river in-a my soul.

2

I've got joy like a fountain, I've got joy like a fountain,

I've got joy like a fountain in-a my soul.

I've got joy like a fountain, I've got joy like a fountain,

I've got joy like a fountain in-a my soul.

3

I've got love like an ocean, I've got love like an ocean,

I've got love like an ocean in-a my soul.

I've got love like an ocean, I've got love like an ocean,

I've got love like an ocean in-a my soul.

4

I'm gonna sing so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

I'm gonna sing so God can use me

anywhere, Lord, anytime!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12: 1-13

(The Message)

What I want to talk about now is the various ways God’s Spirit gets worked into our lives. This is complex and often misunderstood, but I want you to be informed and knowledgeable. Remember how you were when you didn’t know God, led from one phony god to another, never knowing what you were doing, just doing it because everybody else did it? It’s different in this life. God wants us to use our intelligence, to seek to understand as well as we can. For instance, by using your heads, you know perfectly well that the Spirit of God would never prompt anyone to say “Jesus be damned!” Nor would anyone be inclined to say “Jesus is Master!” without the insight of the Holy Spirit.

God’s various gifts are handed out everywhere; but they all originate in God’s Spirit. God’s various ministries are carried out everywhere; but they all originate in God’s Spirit. God’s various expressions of power are in action everywhere; but God himself is behind it all. Each person is given something to do that shows who God is: Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits. All kinds of things are handed out by the Spirit, and to all kinds of people! The variety is wonderful:

wise counsel clear understanding

simple trust healing the sick

miraculous acts proclamation

distinguishing between spirits

tongues

interpretation of tongues.

All these gifts have a common origin but are handed out one by one by the one Spirit of God. He decides who gets what, and when.

You can easily enough see how this kind of thing works by looking no further than your own body. Your body has many parts—limbs, organs, cells—but no matter how many parts you can name, you’re still one body. It’s exactly the same with Christ. By means of his one Spirit, we all said good-bye to our partial and piecemeal lives. We each used to independently call our own shots, but then we entered into a large and integrated life in which he has the final say in everything. (This is what we proclaimed in word and action when we were baptized.) Each of us is now a part of his resurrection body, refreshed and sustained at one fountain—his Spirit—where we all come to drink. The old labels we once used to identify ourselves—labels like Jew or Greek, slave or free—are no longer useful. We need something larger, more comprehensive.

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Gospel hymn: The Lord's my shepherd

(VU 747; Key of F)

1

The Lord's my Shepherd, I'll not want;

he makes me down to lie

in pastures green; he leadeth me,

the quiet waters by.

2

My soul he doth restore again;

and me to walk doth make

within the paths of righteousness,

even for his own name's sake.

3

Yea, though I walk in death's dark vale,

yet will I fear no ill;

for thou art with me; and thy rod

and staff me comfort still.

4

My table thou has furnished

in presence of my foes;

my head thou dost with oil anoint,

and my cup overflows.

5

Goodness and mercy all my life

shall surely follow me,

and in God's house for evermore

my dwelling-place shall be. 

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Hymn: The king of love

(VU 273; Key of D)

1

The King of love my shepherd is,

whose goodness faileth never;

I nothing lack if I am his

and he is mine forever.

2

Where streams of living water flow

my ransomed soul he leadeth,

and where the verdant pastures grow

with food celestial feedeth.

3

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed;

but yet in love he sought me,

and on his shoulder gently laid,

and home rejoicing brought me.

4

In death's dark vale I fear no ill

with thee, dear Lord, beside me;

thy rod and staff my comfort still,

thy cross before to guide me.

5

Thou spread'st a table in my sight;

thy unction grace bestoweth;

and O what transport of delight

from thy pure chalice floweth!

6

And so through all the length of days

thy goodness faileth never:

Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise

within thy house forever!

Opening Song: "Whislist"

by Pearl Jam

(Key of C)

1

I wish I was a neutron bomb for once I could go off

I wish I was a sacrifice but somehow still lived on

I wish I was a sentimental ornament you hung on

The Christmas tree I wish I was the star that went on top

I wish I was the evidence I wish I was the grounds

For fifty million hands upraised and open toward the sky

2

I wish I was a sailor with someone who waited for me

I wish I was as fortunate as fortunate as me

I wish I was a messenger and all the news was good

I wish I was the full moon shining off a Camaro's hood

3

I wish I was an alien at home behind the sun

I wish I was the souvenir you kept your house key on

I wish I was the pedal brake that you depended on

I wish I was the verb 'to trust' and never let you down

I wish I was a radio song, the one that you turned up

Welcome and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Your love is amazing

(MV 26) 

1

Your love is amazing, steady and unchanging,

your love is a mountain, firm beneath my feet.

Your love is a myst’ry, how you gently lift me.

When I am surrounded your love carries me.

Refrain

Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah

Your love makes me sing.

2

Your love is surprising, I can feel it rising,

all the joy that’s growing deep inside of me.

Ev’ry time I see you all your goodness shines through.

I can feel this God song rising up in me.  R

3

Repeat verse 1.

Last line of refrain: Your love makes me sing. Hallelujah.

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Hymn: I can feel you near me God

(MV 48)

1

I can feel you near me God I can feel you near

Yes I know you’re with me God I feel you here

I can feel you near me God I can feel you near

Yes I know you’re with me God Heaven is here.

Refrain

And I’ll jump for joy I’m singing Alleluia 

Jump for joy for you I will jump for joy

I’m singing Alleluia Jump for joy for you.

Repeat

2

I can feel you loving me yes I know you care

God I know you’re loving me always everywhere

I can feel you loving me yes I know you care

God I know you’re loving me I know you’re there.

Scripture

Acts 16: 16-34

As we [PAUL AND SILAS] were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour.

But when her owners saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the rulers. And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened. When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.

Gospel hymn: Will your anchor hold

(VU 675; Key of D)

1

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life?

When the clouds unfold their wings of strife,

when the strong tides lift and the cables strain,

will your anchor drift or firm remain?

Refrain

We have an anchor that keeps the soul

steadfast and sure while the billows roll,

fastened to the rock which cannot move,

grounded firm and deep in the Saviour's love!

2

It will surely hold in the straits of fear,

when the breakers tell that the reef is near;

though the tempest rave and the wild winds blow,

not an angry wave shall our bark o'erflow. R

3

It will surely hold in the floods of death,

when the waters cold chill our latest breath;

on the rising tide it can never fail

while our hopes abide within the veil. R

4

When our eyes behold, through the gathering night,

the city of gold, our harbour bright,

we shall anchor fast by the heavenly shore,

with the storms all past for evermore. R

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Hymn: How can I keep from singing

(VU 716; Key of D)

1

My life flows on in endless song,

above earth's lamentation.

I hear the sweet, though far off hymn

that hails a new creation.

Through all the tumult and the strife,

I hear the music ringing:

It finds an echo in my soul -

how can I keep from singing?

2

What though my joys and comforts die?

My Saviour still is living.

What though the shadows gather 'round?

A new song Christ is giving.

No storm can shake my inmost calm,

while to that Rock I'm clinging:

since Love commands both heaven and earth,

how can I keep from singing?

3

When tyrants tremble, sick with fear,

and hear their death knells ringing:

when friends rejoice both far and near,

how can I keep from singing?

In prison cell and dungeon vile

our thoughts to them are winging:

when friends by shame are undefiled,

how can I keep from singing?

4

I lift my eyes; the cloud grows thin;

I see the blue above it;

and day by day this pathway smooths,

since first I learned to love it.

The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart,

a fountain ever springing:

all things are mine since I am Christ's -

how can I keep from singing?

Opening song: "The middle" by Jimmy Eat World

by Jimmy Eat World

(Key of D)

1
Hey, don't write yourself off yet.

It's only in your head, you feel left out or looked down on.

Just try your best, try everything you can.

Don't you worry what they tell themselves

When you're away.

Refrain

It just takes some time,

Little girl you're in the middle of the ride,

Everything, everything will be just fine.

Everything, everything will be alright. (alright)

2
Hey, you know they're all the same.

You know you're doin' better on your own, so don't buy in.

Live right now, just be yourself.

It doesn't matter if it's good enough,

For someone else.  R

3

Hey, don't write yourself off yet.

It's only in your head, you feel left out or looked down on.

Just do your best, (do your best)

Do everything you can (do everything you can)

Don't worry what their bitter hearts

Are gonna say  R (x2) 

Welcome and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: For the beauty of the earth

(VU 226; Key of D)

1

For the beauty of the earth,

for the glory of the skies,

for the love which from our birth

over and around us lies,

Refrain

God of all, to you we raise

this our hymn of grateful praise.

2

For the beauty of each hour

of the day and of the night,

hill and vale, and tree and flower,

sun and moon, and stars of light   R

3

For the joy of human love,

brother, sister, parent, child,

friends on earth, and friends above,

for all gentle thoughts and mild  R

4

For each perfect gift sublime

to our race so freely given,

graces human and divine,

flowers of earth and buds of heaven R

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Hymn: Seek ye first the kingdom of God

(VU 356)

1

Seek ye first the kingdom of God

and God's righteousness,

and all these things shall be added unto you.

Hallelu, hallelujah.

2

Ask and it shall be given unto you;

seek and you shall find;

knock and the door shall be opened unto you.

Hallelu, hallelujah.

3

We do not live by bread alone,

but by every word

that proceeds from the mouth of God.

Hallelu, hallelujah.

Scripture: The parables of mustard seed, yeast and others

Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-52

{31} Jesus put before them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; {32} it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches." {33} He told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened." 

{44} "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 

{45} "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; {46} on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. {47} "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; {48} when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. 

{49} So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous {50} and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. {51} "Have you understood all this?" They answered, "Yes." {52} And he said to them, "Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old."

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Gospel Hymn: In the garden

(Key of G)

1

I Come to the garden alone,

While the dew is still on the roses;

And the voice I hear, falling on my ear,

The son of God discloses.

And He walks with me, 

and He talks with me.

And He tells me I am his own;

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known.

2

He speaks and the sound of his voice

Is so sweet the birds hush their singing;

And the melody that He gave to me

Within my heart is ringing.

3

I’d stay in the garden with Him

Though the night around me be falling;

But he bids me go – through the voice of woe,

His voice to me is calling.

Sermon: God's garden: A kingdom of flowers

Prayers of the people and benediction

Creating God, 

You have given seed to the sower

And bread to the people.

Nourish, protect, and bless 

The Seeds which your people have sown in hope.

By your loving and bountiful giving,

May they bring forth their fruit in due season,

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Amen.

Hymn: Soil of God, you and I (holy ground)

(MV 175; Key of C)

1

Soil of God, you and I, stand ready to bear

seeds of faith nourished by God’s tender care.

Growing in everyone for here God is found.

All stand together, we are…

Holy ground.

2

Soil of God, you and I, now ready to be

part of God’s promise, for others to see.

Open to everyone for here God is found.

All stand together, we are…

Holy ground.

3

Soil of God, you and I, now called to re-birth,

joining as partners with all of the earth.

Living in harmony for here God is found.

All stand together, we are…

Holy ground.

Opening song: Pride (in the name of love)

(Key of D)

1

One man come in the name of love

One man come and go

One man come he to justify

One man to overthrow

Refrain

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

2

One man caught on a barbed wire fence

One man he resist

One man washed up on an empty beach

One man betrayed with a kiss

Refrain

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

3

Early morning, April four

Shot rings out in the Memphis sky

Free at last, they took your life

They could not take your pride

Refrain

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

Refrain

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

In the name of love

What more in the name of love?

Welcome and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: A little seed lay fast asleep

(Tune: Kingsfold; Key of Em)

1

A little seed lay fast asleep 

Beneath the earth’s brown sod

But woke to life and hope when came 

The wondrous touch of God

A sunbeam kissed the hidden spot,

And warmed its earthly bed;

The rain and dew gave kindly drink,

Till soon it raised its head.

2

Up, up it pressed its way above,

Up till the light was seen;

Then came the sun, and decked it all

In dainty garb of green.

It grew so straight, and tall, and fair,

Each day it would unfold;

The smiling sun placed on its head

The shining crown of gold.

3

At last it stood, with thousands more,

A golden ear of corn,

God’s gift to us, our daily food,

From little seedling born.

So we all are the seeds God plants

Within His garden fair:

He loves and guards us every day;

We have God’s constant care.

4

And we can grow so straight & pure,

So good and full of grace;

A crown of gold is ours, when we

Shall see the Saviour’s face.

A little seed lay fast asleep 

Beneath the earth’s brown sod

But woke to life and hope when came 

The wondrous touch of God

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all of God's children

Hymn: Give me oil in my lamp

(Key of C)

1

Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning

Give me oil in my lamp, I pray

Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning

Keep me burning till the break of day

Refrain

Sing hosanna, sing hosanna

Sing hosanna to the Servant King

Sing hosanna, sing hosanna

Sing hosanna, let us sing

2

Give me joy in my heart, keep me praising

Give me joy in my heart, I pray

Give me joy in my heart, keep me praising

Keep me praising till the break of day

3

Give me peace in my heart, keep me loving

Give me peace in my heart, I pray

Give me peace in my heart, keep me loving

Keep me loving till the break of day

4

Give me love in my heart, keep me serving

Give me love in my heart, I pray

Give me love in my heart, keep me serving

Keep me serving till the break of day

• Give me gas for my Ford, keep me truckin’ for the Lord
• Give me wax for my Board, keep me surfin’ for the Lord

Scripture: The parable of the wheat and thistles

Matthew 13: 24-30, 36-43

Jesus told another story. “God’s kingdom is like a farmer who planted good seed in his field. That night, while his hired men were asleep, his enemy sowed thistles all through the wheat and slipped away before dawn. When the first green shoots appeared and the grain began to form, the thistles showed up, too.

“The farmhands came to the farmer and said, ‘Master, that was clean seed you planted, wasn’t it? Where did these thistles come from?’

“He answered, ‘Some enemy did this.’

“The farmhands asked, ‘Should we weed out the thistles?’

“He said, ‘No, if you weed the thistles, you’ll pull up the wheat, too. Let them grow together until harvest time. Then I’ll instruct the harvesters to pull up the thistles and tie them in bundles for the fire, then gather the wheat and put it in the barn.’”

Jesus dismissed the congregation and went into the house. His disciples came in and said, “Explain to us that story of the thistles in the field.”

So, he explained. “The farmer who sows the pure seed is the son of Man. The field is the world, the pure seeds are subjects of the kingdom, the thistles are subjects of the Devil, and the enemy who sows them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, the curtain of history. The harvest hands are angels.

“The picture of thistles pulled up and burned is a scene from the final act. The Son of Man will send his angels, weed out the thistles from his kingdom, pitch them in the trash, and be done with them. They are going to complain to high heaven, but nobody is going to listen. At the same time, ripe, holy lives will mature and adorn the kingdom of their Father.

“Are you listening to this? Really listening?

Gospel hymn: More about Jesus

(Key of G)

1

More about Jesus would I know,

More of His grace to others show;

More of His saving fullness see,

More of His love Who died for me.

Refrain

More, more about Jesus,

More, more about Jesus;

More of his saving fullness see,

More of his love Who died for me.

2 

More about Jesus let me learn,

More of His holy will discern;

Spirit of God, my teacher be,

Showing the things of Christ to me.

3

More about Jesus; in His Word,

Holding communion with my Lord;

Hearing His voice in every line,

Making each faithful saying mine.

4

More about Jesus; on his throne,

Riches in glory all his own;

More of his kingdom’s sure increase;

More of his coming, Prince of Peace.

Sermon: Seeds and weeds part II

Prayers of the people and benediction

Creating God, 

You have given seed to the sower

And bread to the people.

Nourish, protect, and bless 

The Seeds which your people have sown in hope.

By your loving and bountiful giving,

May they bring forth their fruit in due season,

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Amen.

Hymn: Faith, while trees (5th verse is chorus)

Words: VU 643   

Tune: As the deer (VU 766)

(Key of D)

1

Faith, while trees are still in blossom,

plans the picking of the fruit;

faith can feel the thrill of harvest

when the buds begin to sprout.

Refrain
Faith believes that God is faithful:

God will be what God will be!

Faith accepts the call, responding,

'I am willing, Lord, send me.'

2

Long before the dawn is breaking,

faith anticipates the sun.

Faith is eager for the daylight,

for the work that must be done.

Refrain

Faith believes that God is faithful:

God will be what God will be!

Faith accepts the call, responding,

'I am willing, Lord, send me.'

3

Long before the rains were coming,

Noah went and built an ark.

Abraham, the lonely migrant,

saw the light beyond the dark.

Refrain

Faith believes that God is faithful:

God will be what God will be!

Faith accepts the call, responding,

'I am willing, Lord, send me.'

4

Faith, uplifted, tamed the water

of the undivided sea,

and the people of the Hebrews

found the path that made them free.

Refrain

Faith believes that God is faithful:

God will be what God will be!

Faith accepts the call, responding,

'I am willing, Lord, send me.”

Opening song: Wonderwall

By Oasis (for the Gen-Xers and RHC staff of the 00s/10s)

(Key of Fm)

Today is gonna be the day

That they're gonna throw it back to you

By now you should've somehow

Realized what you gotta do

I don't believe that anybody

Feels the way I do, about you now

Backbeat, the word was on the street

That the fire in your heart is out

I'm sure you've heard it all before

But you never really had a doubt

I don't believe that anybody

Feels the way I do about you now

And all the roads we have to walk are winding

And all the lights that lead us there are blinding

There are many things that I

Would like to say to you but I don't know how

Because maybe, you're gonna be the one that saves me

And after all, you're my wonderwall

Today was gonna be the day

But they'll never throw it back to you

By now you should've somehow

Realized what you're not to do

I don't believe that anybody

Feels the way I do, about you now

And all the roads that lead you there are winding

And all the lights that light the way are blinding

There are many things that I

Would like to say to you but I don't know how

I said maybe, you're gonna be the one that saves me

And after all, you're my wonderwall

I said maybe, you're gonna be the one that saves me

And after all, you're my wonderwall

I said maybe, you're gonna be the one that saves me

you're gonna be the one that saves me

you're gonna be the one that saves me

Welcome and call to worship

Call to worship (Iona Community)

The sun rises and it is light, night falls and it is dark.

Bless the one who gives the life.

Sow the seed and cut the corn; 

Bear the child and build the house

Bless the one who gives the life.

Lay the stone and light the fire;

Cast the net and water the earth;

Bless the one who gives the life.

Serve the guest and pay the price;

Nail the wood and pick the flowers;

Bless the one who gives the life.

Make the wine and bake the bread;

Pour the wine and break the bread;

Bless the one who gives the life.

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                              

Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Through the heart of every city

(VU 584) (Key of D; Tune: Arfon Major)

1

Through the heart of every city

runs the flow of human need.

'Mid this glass and steel are pulsing

smoldering wick and bruised reed.

Has our church a word to offer,

some hope shining from our creed?

Walking through the concrete furrows

Jesus sows the Word as seed.

2

Through the passing generations,

in their spirit, flesh and bone,

Jesus Christ becomes incarnate:

holy hearts are living stone

building here a house of refuge

as a temple, as a home.

So within the city's shadow

Jesus' planted Word has grown.

3

Through our worship and our witness,

Jesus, grant that we may still

hear the heartbeat of compassion

calling us to do your will.

You, our vine, and we, your branches,

deadened not by any chill,

working for that final city

where the harvest is fulfilled.

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by Al Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all of God's children

Hymn: The garden song

(Key of D)

Refrain

Inch by inch, row by row

Gonna make this garden grow

All it takes is a rake and a hoe

And a piece of fertile ground

Inch by inch, row by row

Someone bless these seeds I sow

Someone warm them from below

Till the rain comes tumbling down

Pulling weeds and picking stones

We are made of dreams and bones

Feel the need to grow my own

Cause the time is close at hand

Painful rain, sun and rain

Find my way in nature's chain

Tune my body and my brain

To the music from the land R

Plant your rows straight and long

Temper them with prayer and song

Mother Earth will make you strong

If you give her love and care

Old crow watching hungrily

From his perch in yonder tree

In my garden I'm as free

As that feathered thief up there R

Scripture: The parable of the sower

Matthew 13: 1-9; 18-23 (The Message)

At about that same time Jesus left the house and sat on the beach. In no time at all a crowd gathered along the shoreline, forcing him to get into a boat. Using the boat as a pulpit, he addressed his congregation, telling stories.

“What do you make of this? A farmer planted seed. As he scattered the seed, some of it fell on the road, and birds ate it. Some fell in the gravel; it sprouted quickly but didn’t put down roots, so when the sun came up it withered just as quickly. Some fell in the weeds; as it came up, it was strangled by the weeds. Some fell on good earth, and produced a harvest beyond his wildest dreams.

“Are you listening to this? Really listening?” 

“Study this story of the farmer planting seed. When anyone hears news of the kingdom and doesn’t take it in, it just remains on the surface, and so the Evil One comes along and plucks it right out of that person’s heart. This is the seed the farmer scatters on the road.

“The seed cast in the gravel—this is the person who hears and instantly responds with enthusiasm. But there is no soil of character, and so when the emotions wear off and some difficulty arrives, there is nothing to show for it.

“The seed cast in the weeds is the person who hears the kingdom news, but weeds of worry and illusions about getting more and wanting everything under the sun strangle what was heard, and nothing comes of it.

“The seed cast on good earth is the person who hears and takes in the News, and then produces a harvest beyond his wildest dreams.”

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Gospel hymn: Wonderful words of life

(Key of  C)

Sing them over again to me

Wonderful words of life

Let me more of their beauty see

Wonderful words of life

Words of life and beauty teach me faith and duty

Beautiful words, wonderful words

Wonderful words of life

Beautiful words, wonderful words

Wonderful words of life

Christ the blessed one, gives to all 

wonderful words of life

Sinner, list to the loving call

Wonderful words of life

Oh, so freely given, wooing us to heaven

Beautiful words, wonderful words

Wonderful words of life

Beautiful words, wonderful words

Wonderful words of life

Sweetly echo the gospel call

Wonderful words of life

Offer pardon and peace to all

Wonderful words of life

Jesus, only saviour, sanctifying forever

Beautiful words, wonderful words

Wonderful words of life

Beautiful words, wonderful words

Wonderful words of life

Sermon series: Seeds and weeds

Part 1: Sow what

Prayers of the people and benediction

Closing prayer and benediction

Creating God, 

You have given seed to the sower

And bread to the people.

Nourish, protect, and bless 

The Seeds which your people have sown in hope.

By your loving and bountiful giving,

May they bring forth their fruit in due season,

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hymn: In the bulb there is a flower

(Key of E [D 2nd fret])

1

In the bulb there is a flower;

in the seed, an apple tree;

in cocoons, a hidden promise:

butterflies will soon be free!

In the cold and snow of winter

there's a spring that waits to be,

unrevealed until its season,

something God alone can see.

2

There's a song in every silence,

seeking word and melody;

there's a dawn in every darkness,

bringing hope to you and me.

From the past will come the future;

what it holds, a mystery,

unrevealed until its season,

something God alone can see.

3

In our end is our beginning;

in our time, infinity;

in our doubt there is believing;

in our life, eternity.

In our death, a resurrection;

at the last, a victory,

unrevealed until its season,

something God alone can see.

Opening song: Somewhere over the rainbow/Wonderful world

(Key of C)

1

Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high

There's a land that I heard of once in a lullaby

Oh, somewhere over the rainbow skies are blue

Clouds high over the rainbow, makes all your dreams come true, 

2

Someday I'll wish upon a star

Wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

High above the chimney top

That's where you'll find me

3

Somewhere over the rainbow, blue birds fly

Birds fly over the rainbow

Oh why, oh why can't I? I

4

I see trees of green and red roses too

I'll watch them bloom for me and you

And I think to myself

Oh, what a wonderful world

5

I see skies of blue, clouds of white

The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night

And I think to myself

Oh, what a wonderful world

6

The colours of the rainbow so pretty in the sky

Are also on the faces of people passing by

I see friends shakin' hands saying, “How do you do?”

They're really saying, "I love you"

7

I hear babies cry and I'd watch them grow

They'll learn much more than we'll know

And I think to myself

Oh, what a wonderful world

8

Someday I'll wish upon a star

Wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

High above the chimney top

That's where you'll find me

Somewhere over the rainbow way up high

and the dreams that you dare to o, why

Why can’t I …

Welcome and call to worship

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                

Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Softly and tenderly

Key of E (D capo, 2nd fret)

1
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me;
See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.

Refrain

Come home, come home,
You who are weary, come home;
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling, O sinner, come home!

2
Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading,
Pleading for you and for me?
Why should we linger and heed not his mercies,
Mercies for you and for me?  R

3
O for the wonderful love he has promised,
Promised for you and for me!
Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon,
Pardon for you and for me.  R

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

Sabbath giving God, 

We all claim to be really busy

But the truth is that we really aren’t

We’d just rather do what we want to do.

And not have to deal with aging parents

or nosy neighbours

or the bills that pile up, 

or our shaky marriages

or troubled teens

Silence

God of peace, 

forgive us as we forgive each other 

for all the hurt we have brought into our lives. 

Let your healing love rest upon the wounds 

we have caused by our anger, and apathy. 

Deepen our love in a new understanding for each other and for you. 

In the course of our busy lives 

give us time of refreshment and peace; 

and help us to use our leisure 

to rebuild our bodies and renew our minds, 

to recreate relationships and restore loving-kindness

that our spirits may be open to the goodness of your creation;

through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Hymn: He 's my rock, my sword, my shield

He’s my rock, my sword, my shield

He’s my wheel within the wheel.

He’s the lily of the valley, 

The bright and morning star.

Doesn’t matter what you say

I’ll get on my knees and pray.

I’ll keep singin’ till the day that Jesus comes.

Scripture

Matthew 11: 25-30 (The Message)

25-26 Abruptly Jesus broke into prayer: “Thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth. You’ve concealed your ways from sophisticates and know-it-alls, but spelled them out clearly to ordinary people. Yes, Father, that’s the way you like to work.”

27 Jesus resumed talking to the people, but now tenderly. “The Father has given me all these things to do and say. This is a unique Father-Son operation, coming out of Father and Son intimacies and knowledge. No one knows the Son the way the Father does, nor the Father the way the Son does. But I’m not keeping it to myself; I’m ready to go over it line by line with anyone willing to listen.

28-30 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Gospel hymn: Burdens are lifted at Calvary

Key of  E  (D capo on 2nd fret)

1
Days are filled with sorrow and care,

Hearts are lonely and drear;

Burdens are lifted at Calvary,

Jesus is very near.

Refrain

Burdens are lifted at Calvary,

Calvary, Calvary,

Burdens are lifted at Calvary,

Jesus is very near.

2
Cast your care on Jesus today

Leave your worry and fear;

Burdens are lifted at Calvary.

Jesus is very near.  R

3
Troubled soul, the Saviour can see,

Ev'ry heartache and tear;

Burdens are lifted at Calvary

Jesus is very near.  R

Sermon: Sabbath time

Prayers of the people and benediction

Hymn: Three things I promise

(MV 176; Key of Ab; G capo on 1st fret)

1

Three things I promise, Holy God,

in age and youth, in life and death;

to bless your name, and cling to Christ,

and listen for the spirit’s breath.

2 

Your love unfolded time and space,

and life, and all that life became,

and so, with thankful heart and voice, 

through good and ill, I bless your name.

3

I follow, serve, and cling to Christ

amid our culture’s tides and trends,

for here your Name is most revealed;

Majestic love, and best of friends.

4 

Enlivened as the spirit moves 

to cleanse, awaken, and renew,

I pray that justice, peace, and truth,

May seed and grow in all I do.

5

If I should live when vigour fades,

and family and friends are gone,

three acts of loving faith remain,

when days are slow, and work is done.

6

Revive and guide me, Living God,

as day by day, until my death,

I bless your name, and cling to Christ,

And listen for the spirit’s breath.

Opening song: Dance

by Jim Manley (Key of G)

Dance in the moonlight and mance in the sun, 

Dance in your sorrow and dance in your fun 

Dance in your dscos and dance in your briefs, 

Dance in your doubtings and dance your beliefs 

And we'll dance, dance, dance, come dancing with me  A-ha

And we'll dance, dance, dance, come dancing with me. 

Dance with your baby, your dog or your boss, 

Dance to the manger and dance to the cross. 

Dance at the gravesite and dance at the feast, 

Dance with your midwives and other high priests 

Dance with the debs with the sweat on their palms, 

Dance where its hardest, homecomings and proms. 

Did somebody say that you’ll never be queen? 

Send them our way and we’ll paint their nose green! 

Tall people are gorgeous and short ones are neat, 

Skinny or bulgy, each body’s a treat. 

So dance as you are, you are made by the one 

Who calls you to be what you’ve only begun. 

Dance with your elbows and dance with your hands 

Dance with your heart and your endocrine glands. 

Make funny faces, go out of your minds 

Find someone near you and bump your behinds. 

Dance up from childhood and into your teens 

Dance in your screw-ups and dance in your dreams 

Come join the dancing, you make it complete. 

We’ll hug you and kiss you and step on your feet.

Welcome and call to worship

Little birds, we cannot say that we are unknown by God.

For every wild animal of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. 

I know all the birds of the air, and all that moves in the field is mine.

(Psalm 50: 10-11)

Little birds, we cannot say that God has not worked hard for our needs:

By the streams the birds of the air have their habitation; 

they sing among the branches. From your lofty abode you water 

the mountains; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work.  

(Psalm 104: 11-13)

Little birds, we cannot say that God does not care and protect us.

Like birds hovering overhead, so the LORD of hosts 

will protect Jerusalem; he will protect and deliver it, 

he will spare and rescue it. 
(Isaiah 31: 5)

Little birds, we flutter our wings and fly away because we are not brave.

I am like an owl of the wilderness, like a little owl of the waste places. 

I lie awake; I am like a lonely bird on the housetop. 

(Psalm 102: 6-7)

Little birds, each creature is loved and known by God. 

We are here today to give thanks to the one who, like an eagle, 

stirs up her nest, and hovers over her young; 

who spreads her wings, takes them up, and bears them aloft on her pinions 

(Deut 32: 11)

Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, 

and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 

(Matthew 6: 26)

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                

(Psalm 124:8)

Hymn: His eye is on the sparrow

(Key of B [G 3rd fret])

1

Why should I feel discouraged,
why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heav’n & home,

When Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is He:

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Refrain

I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.

2

“Let not your heart be troubled,” His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see;

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me. R

3

Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,
When songs give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,
I draw the closer to Him, from care He sets me free;

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me. R

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist hymnal (1989).

A time for all of God's children

Hymn: God sees the little sparrow fall

 (Key of C)

1

God sees the little sparrow fall,

It meets his tender view;

If God so loves the little birds,

I know he loves me too.

Refrain

He loves me too, he loves me too,

I know he loves me too;

Because He loves the little things,

I know he loves me too.

2

He paints the lily of the field,

Perfumes each lily bell;

If he so loves the little flowers,

I know he loves me well. R

3

God made the little birds and flow'rs,

And all things large and small;

He'll not forget his little ones,

I know He loves them all. R

Scripture

Matthew 10: 24-31 (The Message)

“A student doesn’t get a better desk than her teacher. A labourer doesn’t make more money than his boss. Be content—pleased, even—when you, my students, my harvest hands, get the same treatment I get. If they call me, the Master, ‘Dungface,’ what can the workers expect?

“Don’t be intimidated. Eventually everything is going to be out in the open, and everyone will know how things really are. So don’t hesitate to go public now.

“Don’t be bluffed into silence by the threats of bullies. There’s nothing they can do to your soul, your core being. Save your fear for God, who holds your entire life—body and soul—in his hands.

“What’s the price of a pet canary? Some loose change, right? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head! So don’t be intimidated by all this bully talk. You’re worth more than a million canaries.

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Special Music: Good times gone

by Cory M. Coons

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Benediction
Canticle for the Summer by Arnold Kenseth (U.S.A.)

All summer the days come to us, various, wide,

From mornings of meadows

Into the green dark and the nightfall of stars

We heard the weather gathering, 

Coming and going;

Small birds were among the berries; the grasses dried,

And we felt our hearts in their swaying

And, then, always the trees,

The great combs of shade in our yards,

And the hundred thousand leaves for our watching.

All was good and gift and grand!

And the days come on;

The gift is still given.

Thy goodness stays.

Thy grandeur stands. Amen.

Hymn: On the wings of a dove

(Key of D)

On the wings of a snow-white dove

He sends His pure sweet love

A sign from above

On the wings of a dove

When troubles surround us

when evils come

The body grows weak

The spirit grows numb

When these things beset us,

He doesn't forget us

He sends down His love

On the wings of a dove

When Noah had drifted

on the flood many days

He searched for land

In various ways

Troubles, he had some

but wasn't forgotten

God sent him His love

On the wings of a dove

When Jesus went down to, 

the river that day

He was baptised 

in the usual way

And when it was done, 

God blessed his son

He sent him his love

On the wings of a dove

Opening song: Times like these

(Foo Fighers; Chords: D, Am, C, Em)

1

I, I'm a one way motorway

I'm the one that drives away

Then follows you back home

I, I'm a street light shining

I'm a wild light blinding bright

Burning off alone

Refrain

It's times like these you learn to live again

It's times like these you give and give again

It's times like these you learn to love again

It's times like these time and time again

2

I, I'm a new day rising

I'm a brand new sky

To hang the stars upon tonight

I am a little divided

Do I stay or run away

And leave it all behind? R x 2 

Welcome and call to worship

Call to worship

In these times, how then shall we live? 

We walk in the everlasting companionship of the Spirit 

who is holy, empowering and connecting. 

We will find ourselves sometimes wondering at the stars, 

sometimes doubting even as we worship, 

sometimes wrestling with the challenge of building community 

and living in peace. 

And always the mark of God is in the essence of our very being. 

We need the perspective. 

We need the permission. 

We need the poetry. 

And we need the presence.

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                                Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Take my life

 (VU 506; Key of D)

1

Take my life, and let it be

consecrated, all for thee;

take my moments and my days;

let them flow in ceaseless praise.

2

Take my hands, and let them move

at the impulse of thy love;

take my feet, and let them be

swift and purposeful for thee.

3

Take my lips, and let them be

filled with messages from thee;

take my intellect, and use

every power as thou shalt choose.

4

Take my will, and make it thine;

it shall be no longer mine;

take my heart, it is thine own;

it shall be thy royal throne.

5.

Take my love: and I will pour

at thy feet its treasure store;

take myself, and I will be

ever, only, all for thee.

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

Lord’s Prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Hymn: Three choruses

(Key of D)

1

Rejoice in the Lord

Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice (Clap, Clap)

Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice (Clap, Clap)

Rejoice, Rejoice and again I say rejoice (Clap, Clap)

Rejoice, Rejoice and again I say rejoice (Clap, Clap)

2

God’s love is so wonderful

God’s love is so wonderful

God’s love is so wonderful

God’s love is so wonderful

So high you can’t get over it 

So low you can’t get under it

So wide you can’t get around it

You gotta come in at the door!

2

Rocka my soul

Rocka my soul in the bosom of Abraham

Rocka my soul in the bosom of Abraham

Rocka my soul in the bosom of Abraham

O, rocka my soul

Scripture

Genesis 12: 1-9 (English Standard Version)

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonours you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. And Abram took Sarai, his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people that they had acquired in Haran, and they set out to go to the land of Canaan. When they came to the land of Canaan, Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him. From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. And there he built an altar to the Lord and called upon the name of the Lord. And Abram journeyed on, still going towards the Negeb.

Matthew 9: 9-13 (The Message) 

Passing along, Jesus saw a man at his work collecting taxes. His name was Matthew. Jesus said, “Come along with me.” Matthew stood up and followed him.

Later when Jesus was eating supper at Matthew’s house with his close followers, a lot of disreputable characters came and joined them. When the Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company, they had a fit, and lit into Jesus’ followers. “What kind of example is this from your Teacher, acting cozy with crooks and riffraff?”

Jesus, overhearing, shot back, “Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? Go figure out what this Scripture means: ‘I’m after mercy, not religion.’ I’m here to invite outsiders, not coddle insiders.”

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Hymn: Calling you

(Key of D)

1

When you've strayed from the fold 

and there's trouble in your soul

Can't you hear the blessed Saviour calling you?

When your soul is lost in sin 

and you're at your journey's end

Can't you hear the blessed Saviour calling you?

Refrain 

Calling you, calling you

Can't you hear the blessed Saviour calling you?

He will take you by the hand 

lead you to that promised land

Can't you hear the blessed Saviour calling you?

2

As you journey day by day 

and temptation comes your way

Can't you hear the blessed Saviour calling you?

If you'll follow in his light he will always guide you right

Can't you hear the blessed Saviour calling you?  R

3

When your soul is burdened down

And your  friends cannot be found

Can't you hear the Blessed Saviour calling you?

If you'll follow Him each day He will brighten up your way

Can't you hear the Blessed Saviour calling you?  R

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Hymn: Rainbow connection

(Key of G)

1

Why are there so many

Songs about rainbows

And what's on the other side

Rainbows are visions

They're only illusions

And rainbows have nothing to hide

So we've been told and some chose to Believe it

But I know they're wrong wait and see

Someday we'll find it

The Rainbow Connection

The lovers, the dreamers and me

2

Who said that every wish

Would be heard and answered

When wished on the morning star

Somebody thought of that

And someone believed it

And look what it's done so far

What's so amazing

That keeps us star gazing

What so we think we might see

Someday we'll find it

That rainbow connection

The lovers the dreamers and me

3

Have you been fast asleep

And have you heard voices,

I've heard them calling my name,

Is this the sweet sound that calls

The young sailors,

The voice might be one and the same.

I've heard it too many times to ignore it

It's something that i'm supposed to be,

Someday we'll find it

The rainbow connection...

The lovers, the dreamers and me

La lala la lala la la la lala la la la

Opening song: Ode to Newfoundland

1

When sun rays crown thy pine clad hills,

And summer spreads her hand,

When silvern voices tune thy rills,

We love thee, smiling land.

We love thee, we love thee,

We love thee, smiling land.

2

When spreads thy cloak of shimmering white,

At winter's stern command,

Thro' shortened day, and starlit night,

We love thee, frozen land.

We love thee, we love thee

We love thee, frozen land.

3

When blinding storm gusts fret thy shore,

And wild waves lash thy strand,

Thro' spindrift swirl, and tempest roar,

We love thee windswept land.

We love thee, we love thee

We love thee windswept land.

4

As loved our fathers, so we love,

Where once they stood, we stand;

Their prayer we raise to Heaven above,

God guard thee, Newfoundland

God guard thee, God guard thee,

God guard thee, Newfoundland.

Welcome and call to worship

Call to worship
This is the day the Lord has made!

Let us rejoice and be glad!

Remind us of the blessings we receive as your people:

To come to you in these moments 

To confess our sins and shortcomings,

To receive forgiveness and to give it,

To pray and sing and listen,

To renew our spirits and spread our wings,

To rest in all your promises.

Open our eyes to see you, Lord.

Open our ears to hear your Word.

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                              

Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Put our hand in the hand

Gene MacLellan (Key of G)

Refrain

Put your hand in the hand
Of the man who stilled the water
Put your hand in the hand
Of the man who calmed the sea
Take a look at yourself and
you can look at others differently
By puttin' your hand in the hand
Of the man from Galilee

1
Every time I look into the Holy Book
I want to tremble
When I read about the part
Where the carpenter cleared the temple
For the buyers and the sellers were
No different fellas than what you and I profess to be
And it causes me shame to know
I'm not the one that I should be  R

2
Mama taught me how to pray before
I reached the age of seven

And when I'm down on my knees that's

When I'm close to heaven

Daddy lived his life with two kids and a wife

You do must you must do

But he showed me

Enough of what it takes to get you through  R

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

Lord’s Prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Hymn: The wise man built his house upon the rock

(Key of C)
 

1

The wise one built their house upon the rock

The wise one built their house upon the rock

The wise man built his house upon the rock

And the rain came tumbling down

Oh, the rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

And the wise one’s house stood firm.

2

The foolish one built their house upon the sand

The foolish one built their house upon the sand

The foolish one built their house upon the sand

And the rain came tumbling down

Oh, the rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

And the foolish one's house went "splat!" [clap hands once]

3

So, build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ

Build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ

Build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ

And the blessings will come down 

Oh, the blessings come down

As your prayers go up

The blessings come down

As your prayers go up

The blessings come down

As your prayer go up

So build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ.

Scripture: Matthew 7: 24-29 (NRSV)

"Everyone then who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not act on them will be like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell-- and great was its fall!"

Now when Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Hymn: Christ the solid rock

(Key of C)

1 

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.

I dare not trust the sweetest frame,

But wholly trust in Jesus’ name.

Refrain

On Christ the solid rock I stand,

All other ground is sinking sand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

2

When darkness seems to hide his face,

I rest on his unchanging grace.

In every high and stormy gale,

My anchor holds within the veil.  R

3 

His oath, his covenant, his blood,

Support me in the whelming flood.

When all around my soul gives way,

He then is all my hope and stay.

4 

When he shall come with trumpet sound,

Oh may I then in him be found.

Dressed in His righteousness alone,

Faultless to stand before the throne.

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Closing prayer

“We are made to rise”
George MacLeod (fouder, Iona Community)

Invisible we see you, Christ above us.

With earthly eyes we see above us, 

clouds or sunshine, grey or bright.

But with the eye of faith, we know you reign:

instinct in the sunray, speaking in the storm, 

warming and moving all creation, Christ above us. 

Invisible we see you, Christ beneath us.

With earthly eyes we see beneath us 

stones and dust and dross. 

But with the eye of faith, we know You uphold. 

In You all things consist and hang together: 

The very atom is light energy, The grass is vibrant, 

The rocks pulsate. All is in flux; 

turn but a stone and an angel moves. 

Amen and amen.

The national anthem

Little mountain church house

(Key of G)

1

There's a little mountain church 

in my thoughts of yesterday

Where friends and family 

gathered for the Lord

Where an ol' fashioned preacher 

taught the straight and narrow way

For what few coins 

the congregation could afford

2

Dressed in all our Sunday best, 

we sat on pews of solid oak

And I remember how 

our voices filled the air

How Mama sounded like an angel 

on those high soprano notes

"When the Roll is Called Up Yonder 

I'll Be There"

3

Looking back now 

that little mountain church house

Has become my life's cornerstone

It was there in 

that little mountain church house

I first heard the words I based my life upon

4

At the all day Sunday singing, 

with dinner on the ground

Many were the souls that were revived

While the brothers and the sisters 

who've gone on to Gloryland

Slept in peace in the maple grove nearby

Opening song: Don't worry be happy

Key of G [ 4th capo = C])

1

Here's a little song I wrote

You might want to sing it note for note

Don't worry, be happy

In every life we have some trouble

But when you worry you make it double

Don't worry, be happy

Don't worry, be happy now.

Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) be happy

2

Ain't got no place to lay your head

Somebody came and took your bed

Don't worry, be happy

The landlord say your rent is late

He may have to litigate

Don't worry, be happy

Oh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh don't worry, be happy

Here I give you my phone number, when you worry, call me, 

I make you happy, don't worry, be happy)

3

Ain't got no cash, ain't got no style

Ain't got no gal to make you smile

Don't worry, be happy

'Cause when you worry your face will frown

And that will bring everybody down

So don't worry, be happy

Don't worry, be happy now

(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) don't worry, be happy

4

Now there, is this song I wrote

I hope you learned note for note

Like good little children, don't worry, be happy

Now listen to what I said, in your life expect some trouble

When you worry you make it double

But don't worry, be happy, be happy now don't worry

(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) be happy

put a smile in your face

don't bring everybody down like this

it will soon pass, whatever it is

Welcome and call to worship

Call to Worship For Father’s Day

So deeply do we care for you 

that we are determined to share with you 

not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, 

because you have become very dear to us. 

As you know, we dealt with each one of you 

like a father with his children, urging and encouraging you 

and pleading that you lead a life worthy of God, 

who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.              

    1 Thess 2: 8, 11-12

Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water;

but a man of understanding will draw it out. 

The just man walketh in his integrity: 

his children are blessed after him       

Proverbs 20: 5&7 KJV

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                              

Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Keep on the sunny side of life

 (Key of D)

1

There’s a dark and a troubled side of life;
There’s a bright and a sunny side, too;
Tho’ we meet with the darkness and strife,
The sunny side we also may view.

Refrain

Keep on the sunny side,
Always on the sunny side,
Keep on the sunny side of life;
It will help us every day,
It will brighten all the way,
If we keep on the sunny side of life.

2

Tho’ the storm in its fury break today,
Crushing hopes that we cherished so dear;
Storm and cloud will in time pass away,
The sun again will shine bright and clear. R

3

Let us greet with a song of hope each day,
Tho’ the moments be cloudy or fair;
Let us trust in our Saviour alway,
Who keepeth every one in His care. R

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

 Opening prayer & Lord’s Prayer Song

Dear God, our Heavenly Father, 

we are all in need of your care. 

We thank you for the love you give to each of us,

and we ask that   

          (your father’s name)

feels your care this day. 

We are grateful for these men, 

who in so many ways help us grow and care for us. 

We thank you for them, and for all the men in our lives. 

Bless our families 

Help us show more patience than impatience; 

more laughter than anger; 

more understanding than disregard; 

more care than indifference. 

In Jesus’ name

who taught us to call you Father,

Amen.

Lord’s Prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for God's children

Hymn: This is my fathers world

(VU 296; Key of G [4th capo = C])

1

This is [my Father’s] world,

and to my listening ears

all nature sings, and round me rings

the music of the spheres.

This is [my Father’s] world,

I rest me in the thought

of rocks and trees, of skies and seas,

God's hand the wonders wrought.

2

This is [my Father’s] world,

the birds their carols raise;

the morning light, the lily white,

declare their Maker's praise.

This is [my Father’s] world,

God shines in all that's fair;

in the rustling grass or mountain pass,

God's voice speaks everywhere.

3

This is [my Father’s] world,

O let me ne'er forget

that though the wrong seems oft so strong,

God is the ruler yet.

This is [my Father’s] world,

why should my heart be sad?

Let voices sing, let the heavens ring:

God reigns, let earth be glad!

Scripture

1 Peter 4:12-16 (The Message)

12-13 Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.

14-16 If you’re abused because of Christ, count yourself fortunate. It’s the Spirit of God and his glory in you that brought you to the notice of others. If they’re on you because you broke the law or disturbed the peace, that’s a different matter. But if it’s because you’re a Christian, don’t give it a second thought. Be proud of the distinguished status reflected in that name!

1 Peter 5:6-11 (The Message)

6-7 So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.

8-11 Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You’re not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word. 

Hymn: Blessed assurance

 (VU 337; key of B-G [capo on 3rd fret])

1

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

O what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God,

born of the Spirit, washed in Christ's blood.

Refrain 

This is my story, this is my song,

praising my Saviour all the day long;

this is my story, this is my song,

praising my Saviour all the day long.

2

Perfect submission, perfect delight!

Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;

angels descending, bring from above

echoes of mercy, whispers of love. R

3

Perfect submission, all is at rest,

I in my saviour am happy and blessed;

watching and waiting, looking above,

filled with God's goodness, lost in Christ's love. R

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Hymn: It only takes a spark

(VU 289)  

1

It only takes a spark to get a fire going,

and soon all those around can warm up in its glowing:

that's how it is with God's love,

once you've experienced it:

you spread God's love to everyone,

you want to pass it on.

2

What a wondrous time is spring when all the trees are budding,

the birds begin to sing, the flowers start their blooming;

that's how it is with God's love,

once you've experienced it:

you want to sing, it's fresh like spring,

you want to pass it on.

3

I wish for you, my friend, this happiness that I've found -

on God you can depend, it matters not where you're bound;

I'll shout it from the mountain top;

I want my world to know:

the Lord of love has come to me,

I want to pass it on.

Opening song: U2's I still haven't found what I'm looking for

1
I have climbed the highest mountains

I have run through the fields

Only to be with you, Only to be with you

2
I have run I have crawled

I have scaled these city walls

These city walls Only to be with you

Refrain

But I still haven't found

What I'm looking for

But I still haven't found

What I'm looking for

3
I have kissed honey lips

Felt the healing in the fingertips

It burned like fire This burning desire

4
I have spoke with the tongue of angels

I have held the hand of a devil

It was warm in the night I was cold as a stone R

5
I believe in the Kingdom come

Then all the colours will bleed into one

Bleed into one But yes, I'm still running

6
You broke the bonds

and you loosened chains

carried the cross of my shame, of my shame

You know I believe it  R

Welcome and Call to worship

Call to worship: Psalm 24 (VU)

The earth is God's, and all that is in it;

the world, and those who live upon it.

For God founded it upon the seas,

planted it firm over the waters beneath. 

Who may ascend the mountain of God?

Who may stand in God's holy place?

Those who have clean hands and a pure heart,

who have not set their minds on deceit,

nor made false promises;

they shall receive God's blessing,

righteousness from the God who will save them.

Such are those who seek God,

who seek the face of the God of Jacob. 

Lift up your heads, you gates!

Lift yourselves up, you everlasting doors,

that the One who rules in glory may enter.

Who rules in glory?

It is God, valiant and strong,

God, who is mighty in battle.

Lift up your heads, you gates!

Lift yourselves up, you everlasting doors,

that the One who rules in glory may enter.

Who rules in glory?

It is God of hosts,

God who rules in glory. 

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord, 

the maker of heaven and earth.                  

Psalm 124:8

Hymn: Morning has broken

(VU 409) 

1
Morning has broken like the first morning,

blackbird has spoken like the first bird.

Praise for the singing! Praise for the morning!

Praise for them, springing fresh from the Word!

2.

Sweet the rain's new fall sunlit from heaven,

like the first dewfall on the first grass.

Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden,

sprung in completeness where God's feet pass.

3 

Ours is the sunlight! Ours is the morning

born of the one light Eden saw play!

Praise with elation, praise every morning,

God's recreation of the new day!

Photo by Solaiman Hossen on Unsplash

Opening prayer and Lord's prayer

Lord’s Prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God's children

Hymn: All God's critters

(Key of G) 

1
All God's critters gotta place in the choir

Some sing low, some sing higher

Some sing out loud on the telephone wire

And some just clap their hands, 

or paws or anything they got now

2

Listen to the bass, it's the one on the bottom

Where the bullfrog croaks and the hippopotamus

Moans and groans with a big to do

And old cow just goes 'moo'

3

Well the dogs and the cats they take up the middle

Where the honeybee hums and the crickets fiddle

The donkey brays and the pony neighs

The old coyote howls

4

Listen to the top where the little bird sings

On the melody with the high note ringing

The hoot owl hoots over everything

And the blue jay disagrees

5

It's a simple song of livin' that’s sung everywhere 

By the ox and the fox and the grizzly bear 

The grumpy alligator and the hawk above 

The sly raccoon and the turtle dove 

Scripture reading 1 Peter 3:12-22

(English Standard Version)

Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good?

But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. 

Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated,

but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. 

Always be ready to make your defense to anyone 

who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you;

yet do it with gentleness and reverence. 

Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, 

those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ

may be put to shame.

For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God's will, 

than to suffer for doing evil.

For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. 

He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit,

in which also he went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison,

who in former times did not obey,

 when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, 

during the building of the ark, in which a few, that is, 

eight persons, were saved through water.

And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you—

not as a removal of dirt from the body, 

but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, 

through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, 

with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him.

May God bless to our understanding the reading of his holy word. 

Hymn: Higher ground

1

I’m pressing on the upward way,

New heights I’m gaining every day;

Still praying as I’m onward bound,

“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Refrain

Lord, lift me up and let me stand,

By faith, on Heaven’s tableland,

A higher plane than I have found;

Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.

2

My heart has no desire to stay

Where doubts arise and fears dismay;

Though some may dwell where those abound,

My prayer, my aim, is higher ground. R

3

I want to live above the world,

Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;

For faith has caught the joyful sound,

The song of saints on higher ground.  R

4

I want to scale the utmost height

And catch a gleam of glory bright;

But still I’ll pray till heav’n I’ve found,

“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.” R

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Prayers of the people  (VU 400)

Refrain

Lord, listen to your children praying,

Lord, send your Spirit in this place;

Lord, listen to your children praying,

send us love, send us power, send us grace!

Benediction 

As the rain hides the stars, 

as the autumn mist hides the hills, 

as the clouds veil the blue of the sky, 

so the dark happenings of our lives hide the shining of thy face from us. 

Yet, if we may hold thy hand in the darkness, it is enough. 

Since we know that, 

though we may stumble in our going, 

thou dost not fall. 

~ Traditional Gaelic

Hymn: How can I keep from singing

(VU716) 

1 

My life flows on in endless song,

above earth's lamentation.

I hear the sweet, though far off hymn

that hails a new creation.

Through all the tumult and the strife,

I hear the music ringing:

It finds an echo in my soul ,
how can I keep from singing?

2

What though my joys and comforts die?

My Saviour still is living.

What though the shadows gather 'round?

A new song Christ is giving.

No storm can shake my inmost calm,

while to that Rock I'm clinging:

since Love commands both heaven and earth,

how can I keep from singing?

3

When tyrants tremble, sick with fear,

and hear their death knells ringing:

when friends rejoice both far and near,

how can I keep from singing?

In prison cell and dungeon vile

our thoughts to them are winging:

when friends by shame are undefiled,

how can I keep from singing?

4

I lift my eyes; the cloud grows thin;

I see the blue above it;

and day by day this pathway smooths,

since first I learned to love it.

The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart,

a fountain ever springing:

all things are mine since I am Christ's -

how can I keep from singing?

Opening song: Holy Holy Holy

VU 315 (Key of G) 

1        
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God almighty!

Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee;

holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,

God in three persons, blessed Trinity!

2        

Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee,

casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;

cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee,

which wert, and art, and evermore shalt be.

3

Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,

though the eye made blind by sin thy glory may not see,

only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,

perfect in power, in love, and purity.

4        

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God almighty!

All thy works shall praise thy name

in earth and sky and sea;

holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,

God in three persons, blessed Trinity!

Welcome & Call to worship for Trinity Sunday

Call to worship
Inspired by the Lorica of St. Patrick (Rev. Bruce Prewer, Uniting Church of Australia)

I bind unto myself this day the strong name of the Trinity.

         The Creator’s gifts of earth and sky,

         the flowing creeks and fertile land,

         the winter sun and summer moon,

         the roaring sea and golden sand.

I bind unto myself this day the Christ who wears our human clay.

         The baby sleeping in a stall,

         the healer touching our disease,

         the man of love upon the cross,

         the risen friend who hears our pleas.

I bind unto myself this day the Spirit who is here to stay.

The breath that makes the broken whole,

the truth that flows like liquid light,

the wind that sweeps my dusty soul,

the fire that warms the darkest night.

From now unto infinity,

         The strong name of the Trinity.

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord,

the maker of heaven and earth.                                        

Psalm 124:8

Opening prayer & Lord’s Prayer song

Through your word and spirit you created all things.

In Jesus Christ, the word made flesh,

You reveal your salvation in all the world.

Through your Holy Spirit,

You give us a share in your life and love.

Keep us firm in this faith,

And fill us with the vision of your glory,

That we may serve and praise you all our days;

Through Jesus Christ our Lord,

Who is alive and reigns with you

and the Holy Spirit,

One God now and forever. Amen.

Lord’s Prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

A time for all God’s children

Hymn: We are a gentle angry people

(Key of C)

We are a gentle angry people       X 2

and we’re singing, singing for our lives.

We are a justice seeking people  X 2

and we’re singing, singing for our lives.

We are young and old together    X 2

and we’re singing, singing for our lives.

We are a land of many colours     X 2

and we’re singing, singing for our lives.

We are a gentle, loving people      X 2

and we’re singing, singing for our lives.

Scripture: Romans 5: 1-5; John 16: 12-15

(English Standard Version)

Romans 5 1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

John 16 12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

May God bless to our understanding this reading of his holy word.

Hymn: The Apostle’s creed

(Tune: Arfon Major [Key of D]) 

1  

I believe in God almighty

Author of all things that be

Maker of the earth and heavens
Keeper of the sky and sea

I believe in God’s Son, Jesus

Now for us both Lord and Christ

Of the Spirit and of Mary

Born to bring abundant life

2

I believe that Jesus suffered
Scourged and scorned and crucified
Taken from the cross, was buried
True life there had truly died
I believe that on the third day
Christ was raised up from the grave
Then ascended to God’s right hand
He will come to judge and save

3

I believe in God’s own Spirit
Bonding all the saints within
One church, catholic and holy
Where forgiveness frees from sin
In the body’s resurrection
For the breaking of death’s chain
Gives the life that’s everlasting
This the faith that I have claimed

Note: This version of The Apostle’s creed is written by Sylvia G. Dunstan and set to the tune of Arfon or Tros y Garreg.

Sermon

Prayers of the people & benediction

(Adapted from Harry K. Zeller, Brethren Hymnal)

And now may the courage of early morning's dawning,

And the strength of eternal hills at noontime,
And the peace of open spaces at evening's ending,
And the love of God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit abide in our hearts and in our lives;

Now and always.

Amen

Hymn: God of grace and God of glory

VU 686 (Key of G)  

1        

God of grace and God of glory, on your people pour your power;

now fulfil your church's story; bring its bud to glorious flower.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the facing of this hour.

for the facing of this hour.

2

Lo, the hosts of evil round us corn your Christ, assail your ways;

fears and doubts too long have bound us; free our hearts to work and praise.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the living of these days.

for the living of these days.

3        

Cure your children's warring madness, bend our pride to your control;

shame our wanton selfish gladness, rich in goods and poor in soul.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, lest we miss your kingdom's goal.

lest we miss your kingdom's goal.

4        

Set our feet on lofty places, gird our lives that they may be armoured with all

Christlike graces, pledged to set all captives free.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,that we fail not them nor thee.

that we fail not them nor thee.

Hymn: Your love is amazing

MV 26

1

Your love is amazing, steady and unchanging,

your love is a mountain, firm beneath my feet.

Your love is a myst’ry, how you gently lift me.

When I am surrounded your love carries me.

     Refrain (2X)

     Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah

     Your love makes me sing.

2    

Your love is surprising, I can feel it rising,

all the joy that’s growing deep inside of me.

Ev’ry time I see you all your goodness shines through.

I can feel this God song rising up in me.

3    

Repeat verse 1.

Last line of refrain: Your love makes me sing. Hallelujah.

Welcome and Call to worship for Pentecost Sunday

Welcome

Call to worship for Pentecost Sunday

Spirit of God, wind of hope, blow far from us

all dark despair,

all deep distress,

all groundless fears,

all sinful desires,

all Satan’s snares,

all false values,

all selfish wishes,

all wasteful worries.

Spirit of God, wind of joy, blow into us

your holy presence,

your living love,

your healing touch,

your splendid courage,

your mighty strength,

your perfect peace,

your caring concern,

your divine grace,

your boundless joy.

Spirit of God, wind of creation blow strong, blow fresh, blow now.

Family of God, from whom does our help come?

Our help comes from the Lord,

the maker of heaven and earth.                              

Psalm 124:8

Opening prayer and Lord’s Prayer song

Opening prayer

(inspired by Galatians 5: 22-23)

O bounteous spirit,

I ask you to bring forth in my life your fruits:

the fruit of love,

so I may love you above all things and all others for your sake;

the fruit of joy,

that I may find my delight in your service;

the fruit of peace,

that I may be pardoned through your mercy and may rest in your love;

the fruit of long-suffering

so that I may bear, with patience, all afflictions;

the fruit of gentleness,

that I may subdue all anger and take calmly and sweetly

all trials and provocations;

the fruit of meekness,

that I may forgive freely all who have hurt me

and endure with patience all burdens that are laid upon me;

the fruit of temperance

that I may restrain all my desires

and bring them into the subjection of your holy will. Amen.

* posted on Spread Jesus.

Lord’s Prayer song

The Lord's Prayer

Words: Jim Strathdee Music: Anon; arr. by All Oppenheimer; accomp. by Jim Strathdee. In The faith we sing (2000). A supplement to The United Methodist Hymnal (1989).

Hymn: Spirit of gentleness

VU 375

Refrain
Spirit, spirit of gentleness,

blow thro' the wilderness calling and free,

Spirit, spirit of restlessness,

stir me from placidness,

Wind, wind on the sea.

1      

You moved on the waters, you called to the deep,

then you coaxed up the mountains from the valleys of sleep;

and over the eons you called to each thing:

wake from your slumbers and rise on your wings. R

2      

You swept thro' the desert, you stung with the sand,

and you goaded your people with a law and a land;

and when they were blinded with their idols and lies,

then you spoke thro' your prophets to open their eyes. R

3

You sang in a stable, you cried from a hill,

then you whispered in silence when the whole world was still;

and down in the city you called once again,

when you blew through your people on the rush of the wind. R

4

You call from tomorrow, you break ancient schemes,

from the bondage of sorrow the captives dream dreams,

our women see visions, our men clear their eyes,

with bold new decisions your people arise. R

A Time for all God’s children

Hymn: I am the dream

MV 106

1
I am the dream and you the dreamer.

I am the song and you are the rhyme.

You are the tune sung in ev’ry silence.

You are the now in the endless stream of time.

2

I am the bell and you the silence.

You are the yearning I cannot curtail.

I am the blest and you the blessing.

You are the wilds in which I lose my trail.

3

You are the word and I the echo.

You are the leader and I am the led.

You are the joy and I the laughter.

You are the rock on which I lay my head.

Scripture: Galatians 5: 22-26 (The Message)

22-23 
But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

23-24 
Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified.

25-26 
Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.

(But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. [English Standard Version])

May God bless to our understanding this reading of His holy word.

Hymn: Search me O God

(Tune: Now is the hour [Key of G]) 

1        

Search me, O God, and know my heart today;     

Try me, O Saviour, know my thoughts, I pray.

See if there be some wicked way in me;

Cleanse me from every sin and set me free.

2        

I praise thee, Lord, for cleansing me from sin;

Fulfill thy word, and make me pure within.

Fill me with fire where once I burned with shame;

Grant my desire to magnify thy name.

3

Lord, take my life, and make it wholly thine;

Fill my poor heart with thy great love divine.

Take all my will, my passion, self and pride;

I now surrender, Lord In me abide.

4

O Holy Ghost, revival comes from thee;

Send a revival, start the work in me.

Thy word declares thou wilt supply our need;

For blessings now, O Lord, I humbly plead.

Sermon

Prayers of the people and benediction

Prayers of the people

Benediction 

The gifts of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23 &1 Corinthians 12: 4-5)

Minister The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

All            love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
                 gentleness, and self-control.

Minister There are different kinds of spiritual gifts,

All            but the same spirit is the source of them all.

Minister There are different kinds of service,

All            but we serve the same Lord.

Minister God works in different ways,

All            but it is the same God

                 who does the work in all of us.

                 In all of us;

                 Everywhere;

                 all the time.

                 Amen.

Hymn: I Feel the winds of God today

VU 625 (Key of Em)

1        

I feel the winds of God today;

today my sail I lift,

though heavy oft with drenching spray

            and torn with many a rift;

if hope but light the water's crest,

            and Christ my bark will use,

I'll seek the seas at his behest,

            and brave another cruise.

2        

It is the wind of God that dries

            my vain regretful tears,

until with braver thoughts shall rise

            the purer, brighter years;

if cast on shores of selfish ease

            or pleasure I should be,

O let me feel your freshening breeze,

            and I'll put back to sea.

3        

If ever I forget your love

            and how that love was shown,

lift high the blood-red flag above;

            it bears your name alone.

Great pilot of my onward way,

            you will not let me drift.

I feel the winds of God today;

            today my sail I lift.

Hymn: We are a rainbow

1
There are many colours in a rainbow
All bound together as one
They are the promise of tomorrow
Our hope for all the days to come