Author: knoxbayfieldpc

20 June 2021 Knox Bayfield Rev Dolson

The Lord be with you … and also with you.

Welcome to worship at Knox Presbyterian Bayfield on National Indigenous Peoples Sunday.

Hymn # 588   A prophet woman broke a jar

 

Call to Worship Psalm 133

How very good and pleasant it is  when sisters and brothers live together in unity!

It is like the precious oil on the head, like the dew that falls on the mountains of Zion. Together, let us worship God.

 

Hymn# 325  Eternal Father

 

Assurance of Pardon

Join me in prayer,

Most merciful God, we imagine that we can live without you, when you give us our very breath. We seek control over others rather than seek unity. Fear overtakes us

even though our lives are in your hands. Draw us back into your steadfast love, we pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

Sisters and brothers, the good news is this: grace is poured out like water; mercy flows like a never-ending stream, bathing us in goodness and love. Live as those who have received new life.

May the peace of Jesus Christ be with you. And also with you.

 Prayer For Illumination   

God of eternity, by the power of your Spirit, speak your Word to us this day. In hearing, may we know your truth and live more faithfully for you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Readings

1 Samuel 17:1-49,  Psalm 9:9-20, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13; Mark 4:35-41

May God bless our understanding of this, God’s holy word. The Word of the Lord.

 

Hymn   # 384      O breath of life

 

The Offering Of Our Life And Labour To The Lord         

Quote:         Give and it will be given to you. Luke 6:38

We are invited, even urged, to open our hearts wide and to place no boundaries on our affection for all people. Let us share generously with others.

 

Hymn # 474 The love of God comes close

 

Blessing Of Gifts & Prayers Of The People

Let us bring our concerns for the world and for one another to God, join with me in prayer.

God of the sky and sea, your world is filled with glory. You have set us in the midst of a garden and trusting us to its tending. We pray for your good Earth and the wisdom to care for it that generations to come may enjoy its fruits and revel in its beauty.

We are grateful, O God, that you call us to serve with the Holy Spirit, who fills us with patience, generosity and genuine love. We pray that all we return to you

will be used faithfully in ministry to the world.

God of the earthquake and the storm, your world is full of danger. Keep watch over your people and save them from despair. Strengthen and uphold them when trouble comes. God of power and might, may the rulers of this world seek your wisdom. Guide all nations in the ways of peace.

God of healing and comfort, pain and loss are all around. Soothe the frantic, embolden the fearful, ease the suffering of the sick. Give peace to all who grieve

and hope to those facing death. There are many within our church family in need of your special care at this time. We lift up Ron, Sandy, Rudy, Jane, Bonnie, Rob, Courtney and Kyla. We lift up all those who prefer to remain un-named as they face immense challenges of health and finances.  All-knowing, all-loving God, we cannot always voice our hidden cares. Hear our silent prayers. (silence)

O holy One, we desire to hear your voice of love, to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, and to see you clearly. By your Spirit who breathes within us, strengthen our faith, use our gifts, and work in our lives to bear witness to Christ who taught his disciples to pray, …Our Father who art in heaven, hallow’ed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Hymn #749 Be still my soul

 

Benediction

Be in this world as Christ’s hands and feet. Do not be afraid.

May the power of God uphold you, the peace of Christ rest upon you,

and the Holy Spirit defend you, now and always.

 

Postlude   #623  Holy, holy, holy

Questions for Reflection 

When do you let fear overtake you? How might you relinquish that fear and trust in Jesus Christ? Mark 4:35–41 tells of a time when the disciples were in great fear in a storm. Can you remember a time when you were in a frightening storm (literal or figurative) and felt in danger of being “swamped”? Did God feel far away or near to help you?

 

Morning Prayer

Did you hear, O God, the morning stars sing together this morning—just as you heard them at the dawn of creation? Open my ears today to the music of creation:

where it sings and rejoices, where it groans in travail, where it waits in silent longing. Though I am very small in the grand scheme of your design, teach me to tend the earth in ways that increase joy; to mend the earth in ways that restore fruitfulness; and to wait with the earth for the hope of redemption; in the name of Christ, my Savior. Amen.

Evening Prayer

Loving God, in your earthly life, when evening had come you led your disciples away from the crowds and the busyness of the day. You were so tired, you fell asleep in the boat . . .so tired that even a storm did not wake you up! You know our weariness well, our need to rest and sleep soundly. Help me too, then, to leave behind this crowded day, my crowded thoughts. Speak to me the words you spoke to the wind and the waves: Peace! Be still! And, in faith, I will try to let go

of all that has been today and rest, trusting in you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Daily Prayer

O Lord our God, when we cry out to you in distress, you bring us through desperate circumstances and hush the sea’s waves, so great is your power.

Help us to trust you, then, whatever we may face, knowing that you will lead us

to the harbor we have been hoping for. We offer you our thanks and praise. Amen.

Scripture readings next week

2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 and Psalm 130, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15; Mark 5:21-43

 

Hymn # 588      A prophet woman broke a jar

A prophet-woman broke a jar by Love’s divine appointing.

With rare perfume she filled the room presiding and anointing.

A prophet-woman broke a jar, the sneers of scorn defying.

With rare perfume she filled the room, preparing Christ for dying.

 

A faithful woman left a tomb by love’s divine commission.

She saw, she heard, she preached the Word, arising from submission.

A faithful woman left a tomb, with resurrection gospel;

she saw, she heard, she preached the Word, apostle to apostles.

 

Though woman-wisdom, woman-truth, for centuries were hidden,

unsung, unwritten and unheard, derided and forbidden,

the Spirit’s breath, the Spirit’s fire, on free and slave descending,

can tumble our dividing walls, our shame and sadness mending.

 

The Spirit knows, the Spirit calls, by Love’s divine ordaining,

the friends we need, to serve and lead, their powers and gifts unchanging.

The Spirit knows, the Spirit calls, from women, men and children,

the friends we need, to serve and lead. Rejoice, and make them welcome!

 

623  Holy, holy, holy          Words: traditional        Music: F Schubert

Refrain:      Holy, holy, holy, God almighty Lord!

Holy, holy, holy, everywhere adored!

God without beginning, God eternal One

reigns and rules forever all beneath the sun      Refrain

Power and love and wonder circling round God’s throne

Praise our God most holy, Lord of Life alone     Refrain

 

 

325  Eternal Father

Eternal Father, strong to save, Whose arm hath bound the restless wave, Who bade the mighty ocean deep Its own appointed limits keep: Oh hear us when we cry to thee For those in peril on the sea.

 

O Christ, whose voice the waters heard And hushed their raging at the word, Who walked upon the foaming deep And calm amid the storm didst sleep: Oh hear us when we cry to thee For those in peril on the sea.

 

O Holy Spirit, who did brood Upon the waters dark and rude, And bade their angry tumult cease, And gave, for wild confusion, peace: Oh hear us when we cry to thee For those in peril on the sea.

 

O Trinity of love and power, Our kindred shield in danger’s hour; From rock and tempest, fire and foe, Protect them where-so-e’er they go; Then evermore shall rise to thee Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

 

384  O breath of life

O Breath of life, come sweeping through us; Revive your church with life and power. O Breath of life, come cleanse, renew us, And fit your church to meet this hour.

 

O Wind of God, come bend us, break us, Till humbly we confess our need; Then in your tenderness remake us, Revive restore, for this we plead.

 

O Breath of love, come breathe within us, Renewing thought and will and heart:

Come, Love of Christ, afresh to win us, Revive your church in every part.

 

O Tongues of fire, come rest upon us, So we may speak your word aright; Kindle the flame of love among us; Equip your church to spread the light.

 

474  The love of God comes close

The love of God comes close where stands an open door, To let the stranger in,

To mingle rich and poor. The love of God is here to stay, Embracing those who walk the Way; The love of God is here to stay.

 

The peace of God comes close to those caught in the storm, Forgoing lives of ease

To ease the lives forlorn. The peace of God is here to stay, Embracing those who walk the Way; The peace of God is here to stay.

 

The joy of God comes close Where faith encounters fears, Where heights and depths of life Are found through smiles and tears. The joy of God is here to stay,

Embracing those who walk the Way; The joy of God is here to stay.

 

The grace of God comes close To those whose grace is spent, When hearts are tired or sore And hope is bruised and bent. The grace of God is here to stay,

Embracing those who walk the Way; The grace of God is here to stay.

 

The Son of God comes close Where people praise his name, Where bread and wine are blest And shared as when he came. The Son of God is here to stay, Embracing those who walk the Way; The Son of God is here to stay.

 

749  Be still my soul

Be still my soul: The Lord is on thy side; bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;

leave to thy God to order and provide; in every change God faithful will remain.

Be still my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

 

Be still my soul: thy God doth undertake to guide the future wisely, as the past.

Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake; all now mysterious shall be bright at last. Be still my soul: the waves and winds still know the voice that ruled them here on earth below.

 

Be still my soul: when dearest friends depart, and all is darkened in the vale of tears, then shalt thou better know God’s love, God’s heart who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears. Be still my soul: thy Jesus can repay from his own fullness all death takes away.

 

Be still my soul: the hour is hastening on when we shall be forever with the Lord,

when disappointment, grief and fear are gone, sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored. Be still my soul: when change and tears are past, all safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

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Puzzling Parables 13 June 2021 Knox Bayfield Rev Dolson

The Lord be with you … and also with you.  Welcome to worship at Knox Presbyterian Bayfield. The people of Knox Bayfield acknowledge that we worship, live, play, and work on the traditional lands of the Anishinabewaki, Attiwonderonk (Neutral), and Mississauga peoples within Treaty 29, of 1827.

Hymn #588 A prophet woman broke a jar

Call to Worship  Psalm 92

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praise to God Most High; to declare God’s steadfast love in the morning through to God’s faithfulness at nighttime. Those who are planted in the God’s creation will flourish. No matter their age, they bear fruit and remain lush and fresh, proclaiming – God is righteous! God is my rock!

Hymn# 675  Precious Lord take my hand

Assurance of Pardon

2 Corinthians 5, Mark 4

God will not count our trespasses against us, longing instead for us to be reconciled. We come before God in honesty, humility, and hope.

Join with me in prayer…

Gracious God, we often miss your Spirit at work among us. Captivated by power and prestige, we overlook the mustard seeds you have planted all around. Forgive us for failing to notice where and how you are at work. Forgive us when we work against your plans and purposes— fostering divisions when you have called us to a ministry of reconciliation; beset by apathy when the world has such deep needs; building walls to keep people out when your branches offer generous nests.

Help us to grow in faithfulness, we pray, so that we might reach our fullest height of faith. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

We who walk by faith and not by sight believe the good news— If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything

has become new! Praise be to God for the mercy and grace that forgives our sins.

May the peace of Jesus Christ be with you. And also with you.

 

Prayer For Illumination   

Holy Spirit, by your mysterious power speak to us your truth and show us your wisdom, that we may know you more deeply and serve you more faithfully, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

Readings

1 Samuel 15:34-16:13, Psalm 20, 2 Corinthians 5:6-17; Mark 4:26-34

May God bless our understanding of this, God’s holy word. The Word of the Lord.

Hymn   # 348     Tell me the stories of Jesus

Puzzling Parables

There are important issues that are deliberated within our church and within our relationships in which we seek to discern God’s influence. Our faithful reading of scriptures help us to better understand how God is at work in our lives. Parables capture our imagination and help us to see what initially is not apparent. It may take a few moments or a lifetime of reflection to discern the message. In our reading today, we discover that some may not be able to hear the message. The parables can be puzzling.

Some of you may be aware that I was recently in quarantine. In May I travelled into Michigan to collect my son from college. While we quarantined together we enjoyed puzzles and playing scrabble and chess. It was good to spend time with him. I was prepared with lots of food and some chores for him to help with. He was able to effortlessly move heavy boxes from the main floor to the basement. Our time spent on games and puzzles allowed us to reconnect and it seemed to help us make sense of the directions in assembling new bookcases. The directions were much clearer after we had assembled one of the cabinets. Initially it was puzzling.

Did you know that there has been an increased interest in jigsaws and other puzzles during the pandemic? Marcel Danesi, a professor of semiotics – the study of signs and symbols – at the University of Toronto, has written a book on puzzles. During a recent interview^[1] on the surging popularity of puzzles, Danesi noted, “There is always a sense of chaos within us, due probably to the fact that life is so unpredictable. Life is a puzzle with no answers. Puzzles do have answers and reaching them provides a kind of instant and temporary relief from the angst. They restore order to the chaos in our minds. Henry Dudeney, a great puzzle-maker, put it this way: “Every good puzzle, like virtue, is its own reward.”  Danesi explained that when you concentrate on doing a puzzle it can provide a temporary retreat from the problems of the world. Studies indicate that puzzles may contribute to increased cognitive functioning and more effective regulation of distressing emotions.^[2] Puzzles, it seems, serve an important purpose in our lives. We often don’t see how different pieces of life fit together until we can look back from a different perspective.

Samuel may not have realized how the pieces of his life fit together. He was a prophet and a judge who was called to seek the first and then the second king. In today’s reading he was grieving the coming loss of King Saul who had disobeyed God’s command.  God told the grieving Samuel to travel to Bethlehem to anoint one of Jesse’s sons as the new king. Perhaps this interaction teaches that God meets us in our brokenness. Perhaps Samuel has been grieving for some time and God is pulling him into the present situation where he is needed.

When Samuel met with Eliab he thinks he may have found the one selected by God. Six of seven sons are considered but none are chosen. It would be the youngest, the shepherd, the one least expected. The next king of Israel would be Jesse’s son David.

This passage reminds us that God calls unlikely people to service and empowers them to accomplish that to which they are called. God doesn’t call the qualified, God qualifies the called. God will walk with David, as God walked with Samuel, as God promises to walk with us … correcting us, forgiving us, protecting us, and directing us  to see what God sees. There are many examples of unlikely leaders chosen by God. Moses, the reluctant prophet, Jacob who received Esau’s blessing, Joseph the powerful ruler over his brothers.  Many church leaders and ministers have doubted their abilities when they sensed God’s call. Yet, God chooses whom God chooses. The choosing and giving of the Spirit are not our actions, but God’s.  But why this young David? God’s criteria are not human criteria: “the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart”.

God selected and empowered David with his Spirit. The reader will discover that although David was flawed and his reign was complicated, he remained connected to God’s Spirit. He has been described as Israel’s greatest king.

We often puzzle over the scriptures. Doesn’t it seem that life is much easier when a simple explanation is provided. Perhaps, in yearning for simplicity, we miss pieces of the story. Life is complex, people are complicated. We discover the story from different perspectives to best understand. In some ways, it is like a recipe. The ingredients are only part of the recipe. It is helpful to understand the reasoning that underlies the process. This brings to mind the new cookbook that Deb Cosford is compiling as a fundraiser. She is almost finished gathering recipes so please send yours into her as soon as possible. Remember to include interesting anecdotes with your recipes. I’m thinking of the story about the teen  watching her mother prepare a ham and cutting off the ends before placing it in the oven.

“Mom, why do you cut the ends?” she asked. The mother paused, then said, “I think it helps soak up the juices while it’s baking. That’s the way your grandma always did it, so I’ve always cut them off. Why don’t you call grandma and ask her?”

So, the teen got on the phone and asked “Grandma, Mom is making a ham and cut off the ends before putting it in the oven. She said that it helps to soak up the juices. She said you’d know why because she learned how to cook from you.”

“I do cut off the ends of the ham before baking but I’m not sure why. I learned how to cook from my Mom. You should ask her.”

So, the inquisitive teen called her great Grandmother and asked “Great Grandma, mom and grandma said they learned how to cook a ham from watching you. Do you cut off the ends off the ham to help it soak up the juices?”

The Great Grandmother chuckled. “Oh, no sweetie. I just never had a pan big enough to hold a whole ham, so I always had to cut off the ends to make it fit.”

Sometimes we continue a pattern without understanding the reasoning behind it. Parables are puzzling. They capture our imagination and help us to see what is not apparent. The passage in Mark concludes with, “With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it.” I read it a few times because it kept drawing my attention. As they were able to hear it … How often do we miss important information because we do not understand what we have heard? How often do we not understand because we were not fully listening? Sometimes we are too distracted. There are many reasons why we don’t hear or comprehend the message.  Perhaps the message conflicts with our existing way of seeing the world. So we ignore it. Or, worse, we become antagonistic with it. We are comprised of body, mind, and spirit. In seeking to find balance within, we can be more open to God’s Spirit.

This passage contains 2 descriptions of God’s kingdom yet the one most referenced is the mustard seed. Do you recall the first parable?

…He also said, “The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground, and would sleep and rise night and day, and the seed would sprout and grow, he does not know how. The earth produces of itself, first the stalk, then the head, then the full grain in the head. But when the grain is ripe, at once he goes in with his sickle, because the harvest has come.”

The seed is scattered and somehow it grows. When the grain is ripe, he harvests. How is it that we enjoy the fruits of God’s creation and forget to recognize God’s part in producing the fruit? We discover deep layers within this living text. The first parable draws the image of the kingdom of God. People are like a sleeping gardener who slept through the growing season but wakes up in time for the harvest.  Jesus builds on this first parable with a second story about mustard seed. Though this seed is among the smallest of seeds it will grow into a bush so large and lush that birds can make nests in its shade.

Just as God provides for the birds, God provides for humanity. How is it that we doubt that God will provide? The passage ends by saying that Jesus spoke the word only in parables to the crowd, “as they were able to hear it.” Jesus  describes God’s kingdom with short, provocative stories that help us to shift with our imaginations. The parables help us to experience a shift in the way we see ourselves, see God, and see one another.  Sometimes the shift is tiny. Sometimes it is our entire worldview that shifts.

Like the tiny mustard seed, the parables allow us to grow in significant ways.  Our imaginations are stirred in new and wondrous and confusing ways. The image of the seed is repeated in the gospels of Mark and John, in the book of Ezekiel, and Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. The parable of the scattered seed helps us to see that God’s kingdom includes the mystery of God’s grace.  We are encouraged to keep our imaginations open to the mysteries that seem to sit just beyond our grasp. Puzzles may be easy to solve because we can see the entire picture along with the puzzle pieces. The scriptures provide a way to see the world through God’s eyes.

The symbol of life growing out of a tiny seed that seems to be dead. Even with insignificant beginnings, God creates a mighty wind that will blow throughout the entire world. In the parables, Jesus invites us from every age and every place to join in this new way of being in the world.

Peace be with you.

Hymn # 807  We plough the fields

The Offering Of Our Life And Labour To The Lord            

Quote:  I don’t care too much for money, money can’t buy me love. The Beatles

God has provided us with all that we need. It is our privilege to give back to God.

Let us return a portion of what God has so freely given to us. Let us now humbly bring our gifts to the Lord.

 

 

Blessing Of Gifts & Prayers Of The People

Join me in prayer:

Generous loving God, who created all things and promises us an eternal realm, hear our prayers of intercession, spoken and unspoken.  We pray for peace. Eternal God, you sent Jesus Christ to break down the walls of hostility that divide us. Guide us to develop peace in places where greed, pride, and anger turn nation against nation, race against race, church against church.

We pray for the leaders of the church and the nations. God, guide the leaders of the church and the leaders of nations to your vision of creation. May they may lead with justice and goodwill.

We pray for the earth, God’s creation. God of creation, you made all things in your wisdom and love. Grant us all a reverence for the earth that we may use its resources rightly in the service of others and to your honor and glory.

Bless, O God, the gifts that we bring this day, that they may be a sign of our commitment to your kingdom and a pledge of our love for you and your world.

Multiply the work done by our time, treasures, and talents, that your presence and compassion may be known in all the earth.

We pray for those who are in pain in body and mind. Merciful God, you bear the pain of the world. Look with compassion on those who are sick. Stand with those who sorrow. Show them hope by your Word; bring healing as a sign of your grace. We pray for the Muslim community as they mourn. God of love and grace, help us to speak out against racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, gender-based violence, homophobia, and transphobia.

Let us pray for friends and families. God of love, in drawing us close to you may we learn to draw closer to each other. There are many within our church family in need of your special care at this time. We lift up Ron, Sandy, Rudy, Bonnie, Rob, Courtney and Kyla. We lift up all those who prefer to remain un-named as they face immense challenges of health and finances.

O holy One, we desire to hear your voice of love, to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, and to see you clearly. By your Spirit who breathes within us, strengthen our faith, use our gifts, and work in our lives to bear witness to Christ who taught his disciples to pray, …Our Father who art in heaven, hallow’ed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Hymn #689  Simply trusting everyday

 

Benediction  2 Corinthians 5

Be reconciled to God through Christ and join in the ministry of reconciliation, for the sake of the world. May God bless you with new life, Christ tend you in grace,

and the Holy Spirit guide your steps, as you walk by faith, now and forever.

Postlude   #623  Holy, holy, holy

Questions for Reflection 

How can you practice walking by faith and not by sight?

The passage from 2 Corinthians urges us to be reconciled, to engage in the ministry of reconciliation, and to be ambassadors for Christ. How can you join in a ministry of reconciliation as an ambassador of Christ?

 

Morning Prayer

New every morning are your mercies, Lord. And new also is this day, full of promise and possibility. Give me eyes to see your new creation that is already

coming into being, even as I come and go among familiar places. I pray that you will help me to see others not from a human point of view, but to see them through your eyes of love, grace, and second chances. I will try to walk by faith and not by sight alone. And I will look for ways that I can be a part of Christ’s ministry of reconciliation. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

 

Evening Prayer

Gracious God, It is good to declare your steadfast love in the morning and your faithfulness by night. For all the ways you loved me through the day that is past, I give you thanks. For your faithful watching over me tonight, I also give thanks. Like a bird asleep in its nest, secure on a sturdy branch, I—and all the world—rest in your wide embrace. Despite all evidence to the contrary, headlined in the news of this day, I trust that your kingdom is growing; that all of us are becoming a new creation through the grace of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Daily Prayer

God, you are the gardener of all creation. You plant this world with the seeds of your love and grow them with your faithfulness. We are your harvest; we find our meaning and sustenance in you. May our minds listen to you calling, may our hearts be attuned to your will, may our feet follow you in the world, through Jesus, the Word become flesh. Amen.

Scripture readings next week

4^th Sunday after Pentecost – National Indigenous Peoples Sunday

1 Samuel 17:1-49 and Psalm 9:9-20, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13; Mark 4:35-41

 

 

623   Holy, holy, holy         Words: traditional        Music: F Schubert

Refrain:    Holy, holy, holy, God almighty Lord!

Holy, holy, holy, everywhere adored!

God without beginning, God eternal One

reigns and rules forever all beneath the sun      Refrain

Power and love and wonder circling round God’s throne

Praise our God most holy, Lord of Life alone     Refrain

 

 

 

Hymn # 588      A prophet woman broke a jar

A prophet-woman broke a jar by Love’s divine appointing.

With rare perfume she filled the room presiding and anointing.

A prophet-woman broke a jar, the sneers of scorn defying.

With rare perfume she filled the room, preparing Christ for dying.

 

A faithful woman left a tomb by love’s divine commission.

She saw, she heard, she preached the Word, arising from submission.

A faithful woman left a tomb, with resurrection gospel;

she saw, she heard, she preached the Word, apostle to apostles.

 

Though woman-wisdom, woman-truth, for centuries were hidden,

unsung, unwritten and unheard, derided and forbidden,

the Spirit’s breath, the Spirit’s fire, on free and slave descending,

can tumble our dividing walls, our shame and sadness mending.

 

The Spirit knows, the Spirit calls, by Love’s divine ordaining,

the friends we need, to serve and lead, their powers and gifts unchanging.

The Spirit knows, the Spirit calls, from women, men and children,

the friends we need, to serve and lead. Rejoice, and make them welcome!

 

348   Tell me the stories of Jesus

Tell me the stories of Jesus I love to hear, things I would ask him to tell me

If he were here: scenes by the wayside, tales of the sea, stories of Jesus, tell them to me.

 

First, let me hear how the children stood round his knee, and I shall fancy his blessing resting on me: words full of kindness, deeds full of grace, all in the lovelight of Jesus’ face.

 

Tell me about the disciples from far and near, and I will listen among them eager to hear. Whose loaves and fishes did Jesus bless, showing the people God’s tenderness?

 

Tell me, in accents of wonder, how rolled the sea, tossing the boat in a tempest on Galilee, and how the Master, ready and kind, chided the billows and hushed the wind.

 

Into the city I’d follow the children’s band, waving a branch of the palm tree

high in my hand; one of his heralds, yes, I would sing loudest hosannas: Jesus is King!

 

675  Precious Lord take my hand

Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on, let me stand;

I am tired, I am weak, I am worn; through the storm, through the night,

lead me on to the light: take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.

 

When my way grows drear, precious Lord, linger near;

when my life is almost gone, hear my cry, hear my call;

hold my hand lest I fall: take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.

 

When the darkness appears and the night draws near,

and the day is past and gone, at the river I stand,

guide my feet, hold my hand: take my hand, precious Lord,  lead me home.

 

689   Simply trusting everyday

Simply trusting every day, trusting through a stormy way, even when my faith is small, trusting Jesus, that is all.

 

Refrain:   Trusting as the moments fly, trusting as the days go by,

trusting Him whate’er befall, trusting Jesus, that is all.

 

Brightly doth his Spirit shine into this poor heart of mine;

while he leads I cannot fall, trusting Jesus, that is all.

 

Singing if my way be clear, praying, if the path be drear,

if in danger for him call, trusting Jesus, that is all.

 

Trusting him while life shall last, trusting him till earth be past,

till within the jasper wall, trusting Jesus, that is all.

 

807   We plough the fields

We plough the fields and scatter the good seed on the land

But it is fed and watered by God’s almighty hand

You send the snow in winter, the warmth to swell the grain, the breezes and the sunshine, and soft refreshing rain.

 

Refrain:     All good gifts around us are sent from heaven above

We thank you, Lord, we thank you, Lord for all your love

 

You only are the Maker of all things near and far

You paint the wayside flower, you light the evening star

The winds and waves obey you; by you the birds are fed much more to us, your children, you give our daily bread.

 

We thank you, our provider, for all things bright and good

The seedtime and the harvest, our life, our health, our food.

No gifts have we to offer for all your love imparts but that which you most welcome: our humble, thankful hearts.

 

 

[1] https://www.utoronto.ca/news/order-amid-chaos-u-t-researcher-why-puzzles-became-popular-pandemic-pastime

[2] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience#articles October 2018 Volume 10 Article 299

Trusting God 6 June 2021 Knox Bayfield Rev Dolson

The Lord be with you … and also with you.

The people of Knox Bayfield acknowledge that our community worship, live, play, and work on the traditional lands of the Anishinabewaki, Attiwonderonk (Neutral), and Mississauga peoples within Treaty 29, of 1827.

Hymn# 389  Breathe on me, breath of God

Call to Worship

Psalm 130

O give thanks to the Lord with your whole heart. God’s steadfast love endures forever. Thanks be to God!

 

Hymn# 472 We are God’s people

Assurance of Pardon 2Corinthians 4

Pray with me…

Gracious God, have mercy on us, as we fail to be faithful to you, though you have been faithful to us. You show us your wisdom, yet we go our own way. Our broken relationships with you and one another have created a deep poverty within us and our community. In your mercy, reconcile us to you and one another for the work of justice, peace, and love, through Jesus Christ. Amen.

Siblings in Christ, do not lose heart. When we call, God hears us; when we confess, God forgives us. We believe and so we proclaim: In Jesus Christ,

we are forgiven. May the peace of Jesus Christ be with you. And also with you.

Prayer For Illumination   

Holy God, let your Spirit now move in us, to turn us away from the temporary

and move us to your eternal love made visible in Jesus Christ, in whose name

we pray. Amen.

 

Readings

1 Samuel 8:1-22; 11:14-15; Psalm 130; 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1; Mark 3:20-35

May God bless our understanding of this, God’s holy word. The Word of the Lord.

Hymn   # 699     All the ways my Saviour leads me

Trusting God

Over the next several weeks the focus of our scripture readings will be on the books of Samuel, the letters to the Corinthians, and the gospel of Mark. We look into the scriptures to discover how God has been at work in the past and how that relates to our present time. We continue to struggle with many of the same issues that the scriptures describe. How can we learn from them? What action can we initiate to ensure God’s love and God’s will remains the premise of our lives?

Today our readings began with the Israelites requesting a king. Israel had been a theocracy, a community guided and protected by YHWH. They were set apart, distinctive from other nations, and they did not have a king. Israel was led by judges whom God raised up in times of need. These leaders included Moses, Miriam, Aaron, Deborah, Samson, Gideon, and Samuel. Each served not as a king or a queen but as a representative for God. They settled disputes, sought justice, and led them to victory over invading armies.

We discover that Samuel, the prophet and judge, was growing old after years of faithful service. His sons did not follow his good example as they “they took bribes and perverted justice”. The elders decided a king would be better to lead them. Perhaps Israel’s fear led them to believe it would be better to be like other nations. Israel was constantly under threat of attack from other nations, in part because of their geographical location along the trade routes. They hoped a monarchy would allow them a better defense. Their fear led them to turn away from God.

They were no longer content with God providing prophets and judges in time of need. They desired to be like other nations with kings. Samuel, their judge and prophet, was disturbed by their demands and turned to God. He was assured by God that the demand for a king could be met. Samuel then warned the people of the abuse of power that would occur with a monarchy governing the land of Israel. They were certain that an earthly king, a visible King would be honored and respected by the nation and, perhaps more importantly, by the neighbouring nations Despite his effort to dissuade them, Samuel anointed Israel’s first king, chosen by God.

We continue to struggle in our efforts to trust God. Life presents many challenging situations. It can be particularly difficult when we are afraid. When fear takes hold during illness, financial stress, or physical safety.  Discernment is challenging and difficult. Learning to be aware of the Spirit within our lives. What does it mean for you to trust God?

1. R. Niebuhr, in Christ and Culture, explores the challenges faced as the church is called to be in but not of the world. He explores the question of how do we live in society while we stand apart and critique it? In reality, it is easier to deal with absolutes, with rigid guidelines. Yes to this, no to that. Yet life is not experienced and lived out in such a way. Just as locating all the power within an earthly king corrupts, so does the setting of absolutes. Perhaps this is how the Israelites came to demand a king to lead them. Perhaps they were weary of living in the precarious position of trusting that God always would raise up a judge to lead them. Perhaps this is how the teachings from Jesus have been twisted by different groups.

Jesus reinforces the need to seek God’s will and to set aside the distractions. He speaks of action in living into our faith. Jesus speaks seriously of the realities of Satan and other demonic powers. Satan does not mean a personality with horns and a red tail, but it does name a power that is actively against the compassionate and reconciling love of God. The forces that act against God attempt to snare us. This can cause us to hurt ourselves, to hurt others, and to hurt God. The oppressive power of racism, which falsely causes one group to feel superior to another. There is the disruptive power of sexism, which tells us that one gender should dominate others. There is the power of materialism, which tempts us to believe that wealth is security and power. There is a disruption in the sense of connection between people when divisive structures take hold. Structures that are based on difference rather than inclusiveness. Caring love and respect are displaced by fear and faulty systemic structures.

Jesus teaches that such forces must be recognized and confronted. The ways of the world are flipped about with the loving faithfulness of God. Archbishop Desmond Tutu writes, “Goodness is stronger than hate.” In our weekly book discussion, we are discovering the ways in which the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu find joy in this troubled world. It is in our connections that we most clearly witness the love of God.

in Mark’s gospel we are reminded that the ministry of Jesus is open to everybody: Gentiles, Jews, the poor, the demented, the sick, working class, women, tax collectors, and outcasts. It seems the people who provoke intolerance from Jesus are those who are unable or unwilling to embrace the openhearted love of God and God’s love of our humanity. The scriptures remind us that we are all siblings in the eyes of God. The answer to Jesus’ question, “Who are my mother and my brothers?”  is found in “whoever does the will of God”.  We discover this vision of Christ’s extended family within the context of accusations of sorcery and demon possession against Jesus. Christ draws us into solidarity with all of humanity. He teaches that it is necessary to learn to weep with those who weep and to rejoice with those who rejoice. We are asked to live into the joy and suffering of humanity. To do so there needs to be a willingness to give up our self-absorption.

How do we live out the will of God? The apostle Paul writes that we can find comfort in knowing that Christ lives inside of us. He writes, “Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day”. When people are asked to describe their experience of God, they often begin by trying to describe moments they cannot fully explain. Moments in which they sense a spiritual dimension. Celtic Christianity describes such moments as “thin places.”  In his book The Sense of Being Stared At, Rupert Sheldrake observes how some animals have a sixth sense. For example, sharks and birds respond to the earth’s magnetic field. Sheldrake goes on to suggest human beings may not have this sixth sense, but may have what he calls a seventh sense. This seventh sense is a spiritual awareness that connects us to each other, to the world, and to the spiritual. He has observed that many sense when they are being observed, even when their backs were turned to the observer.  Have you ever thought of someone right before the phone rang, and then heard that person’s voice?

Paul reminds the reader that Elijah heard a still, small voice and Moses climbed a mountain to see God’s glory. He is urging us to recognize that we are able to discover God’s presence all around us. There is an old story about a disciple and his teacher. “Where shall I find God?” a disciple once asked. “Here,” the teacher said. “Then why can’t I see God?” “Because you do not look.” “But what should I look for?” the disciple continued. “Nothing. Just look,” the teacher said. “But at what?” “At anything your eyes alight upon,” the teacher said. “But must I look in a special kind of way?” “No, the ordinary way will do.” “But don’t I always look the ordinary way?” “No, you don’t,” the teacher said. “But why ever not?” the disciple pressed. “Because to look, you must be here. You’re mostly somewhere else,” the teacher said. We are encouraged to pause, to look, to trust that we will sense God’s presence in our lives by simply being present in the moment. Trust in the Spirit to guide you to this peaceful place within God’s creation.

Praise be to God.

Hymn # 648       I’m gonna live so God can use me

The Offering Of Our Life And Labour To The Lord            

Quote:         It is more blessed to give than to receive. Acts 20:35

Who are Christ’s brothers and sisters? Those who do the will of God. Loving God, loving neighbor, we share what we have as members of the household of Christ.

Blessing Of Gifts & Prayers Of The People

Join me in prayer which includes the PCC prayer for the Lives Lost at Kamloops Indian Residential School…

God of Creation, you set us in a fertile land where you provide all that is needed for abundant living. Yet we spoil your good creation in many needless ways. We pray for the renewal of creation as we seek to live more responsibly within it. Guide us to be better stewards of water, soil, and air.  Teach us how to live in ways that honor every living thing.

Loving God, you created people to live in relationship with you and with one another. Yet we neglect our relationships, emphasize our differences and linger on our disagreements. We pray you will guide us to new understandings and new ways of living with one another. Help us to pursue the slow work of peace rather than turning to escalating conflict. Guide us to care for the least and the lost not as unwanted burdens but as welcome siblings in your great household.

O Holy One, we lift up all who are part of the General Assembly as they gather to discern your will for this denomination. Be with them as the debate and discuss. May your Spirit guide them in nurturing love for one another so they might work together for the good of your church.

Renewing God, the fragility of human life evident within each of us. We come before you seeking relief for illness, pain, and suffering. We give thanks for the skills and talents of medical professionals, health care attendants, researchers, and caregivers.

We are grateful, O God, that you renew us spiritually day by day. Even as our bodies falter, we are always valued members of your creation.

There are many within our church family in need of your special care at this time. We lift up Ron, Sandy, Rudy, Jane, Bonnie, Rob, Courtney and Kyla. We lift up Rev Amanda Bisson as she resumes her ministry. We lift up all those who prefer to remain un-named as they face immense challenges of health and finances.

God, we are deeply saddened by the ongoing atrocities against your creation.

We have learned of more Indigenous children lost, more children who never were able to return to their families from schools they should never have been forced to attend in the first place. This news is devastating.

We pray first for healing for the children’s families and communities, who are met again today with pain too deep to name.

We acknowledge the actions of your church, our complicity in running residential schools and taking children like these, who were just found, from their families. We repent for the pain and ongoing harm we have caused. We ask for the will and wisdom to act to end that harm. We have asked for forgiveness and we are committed to work for healing and reconciliation. But we recognize that for many, that change came too late.

Comforting God, we pray for healing in the communities and families of all who experienced residential schools, comfort for all those grieving, and strength for all to pursue reconciliation.

O holy One, we desire to hear your voice of love, to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, and to see you clearly. By your Spirit who breathes within us, strengthen our faith, use our gifts, and work in our lives to bear witness to Christ who taught his disciples to pray, …Our Father who art in heaven, hallow’ed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Hymn #641        One more step along the way

Benediction

2 Cor. 4:16–18 Ps. 130:5–7 Gen. 3:9 Mark 3:35

Do not lose heart. Wait for the Lord. Hope in God whose steadfast love endures forever. May our Creator, who seeks and finds us, may Christ, who calls and claims us, may the Holy Spirit, who renews us day by day, sustain us until all that is temporary is gathered into God’s eternal glory.

Postlude   #623  Holy, holy, holy

Questions for Reflection 

2 Corinthians 4:16–18

As we age, we can see how our physical bodies suffer the wear and tear of life. Paul wrote, “our outer nature is wasting away”. Yet, Paul says it is possible for our “inner nature” to be renewed every day. What contributes to renewal in your inner life? How are you being prepared “for an eternal weight of glory”?

 

Morning Prayer

Morning has broken, loving God—the shards of light scattering the long darkness of night. Help me to carry into this day the sure knowledge of your forgiveness,

steadfast love, and great power to redeem. May I do your will in all my daily interactions so that your grace extends to more and more people. I begin in thanksgiving, your glory all around. Amen.

Evening Prayer

Spirit of God, come as the evening breeze, to carry away the cares and failings of this day. Help me put to rest the worries I have, the lists I keep, the regrets I weigh. You know me through and through — I cannot hide from you. May I lie down tonight covered in your forgiveness and love and redemption, and dream of things eternal. I pray in Christ’s name. Amen.

Daily Prayer

God of days, we praise your name, for your grace sustains us. We wait for you, Lord, for your word strengthens us. Our outer nature is wasting away day by day,

but our inner nature is being renewed by your daily bread. Grant us the eyes to see what cannot be seen and to gaze on what is eternal. May we revel in your work and be a visible witness of your invisible kingdom. In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Scripture readings next week –  3^rd Sunday after Pentecost

1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 and Psalm 20, 2 Corinthians 5:6-17; Mark 4:26-34

 

389   Breathe on me, breath of God

Breathe on me, breath of God; fill me with life anew,

that I may love what thou dost love and do what thou wouldst do.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, until my heart is pure,

until with thee I will one will, to do and to endure.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, till I am wholly thine,

until this earthly part of me glows with thy fire divine.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, so shall I never die,

but live with thee the perfect life of thine eternity.

 

623   Holy, holy, holy         Words: traditional        Music: F Schubert

Refrain:    Holy, holy, holy, God almighty Lord!

Holy, holy, holy, everywhere adored!

God without beginning, God eternal One

reigns and rules forever all beneath the sun      Refrain

Power and love and wonder circling round God’s throne

Praise our God most holy, Lord of Life alone     Refrain

 

472 We are God’s people

We are God’s people, the chosen of the Lord, born of the Spirit, established by the word; our cornerstone is Christ alone, and strong in him we stand: oh let us live transparently, and walk heart to heart and hand in hand.

 

We are God’s loved ones, the bride of Christ our Lord, for we have known it, the love of God out-poured; now let us learn how to return the gift of love once given:

oh let us share each joy and care and live with a zeal that pleases heaven.

 

We are the body of which the Lord is head, called to obey him, now risen from the dead; he wills us be a family, diverse yet truly one: oh let us freely give our gifts,

and so shall God’s work on earth be done.

 

We are a temple, the Spirit’s dwelling place, formed in great weakness, a cup to hold God’s grace; alone, we die, for on its own each ember loses fire: yet joined in one the flame burns on to give warmth and light, and to inspire.

 

641   One more step along the way

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.

Round the corners 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. Refrain

 

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. Refrain

 

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. Refrain

 

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.  Refrain

 

648 I’m gonna live so God can use me

I’m gonna live so God can use me (3x) anywhere, Lord, anytime!

I’m gonna work so God can use me (3x) anywhere, Lord, anytime!

I’m gonna pray so God can use me (3x) anywhere, Lord, anytime!

I’m gonna sing so God can use me (3x) anywhere, Lord, anytime!

 

699   All the ways my Saviour leads me

All the way my Saviour leads me— what have I to ask beside?

Can I doubt His tender mercy, who through life has been my Guide?

Heavenly peace, divinest comfort, here by faith in Him to dwell!

For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well

 

All the way my Saviour leads me— cheers each winding path I tread

Gives me grace for every trial, feeds me with the living bread.

Tho my weary steps may falter and my soul athirst may be

Gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! A spring of joy I see

 

All the way my Saviour leads me — O the fullness of His love!

Perfect rest to me is promised in my Father’s house above.

When my spirit, clothed immortal, wings its flight to realms of day

This my song through endless ages: “Jesus led me all the way!”

 

al anon POSTER DEC. 2020

Huron/Perth contact: 1-800-706-9833

A whole new ballgame 30 May 2021 Knox Bayfield Rev Dolson

The Lord be with you … and also with you.

Welcome to worship at Knox Presbyterian Bayfield on the 1^st Sunday after Pentecost

Announcements

Mission Moment …   Supporting Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

Four years ago, the Myanmar military began a campaign of violent attacks against the Rohingya. Widespread killing, torture, robbery and assault forced over 700,000 Rohingya from their homes into neighbouring Bangladesh. Presbyterian World Service & Development (PWS&D) responded and continues to do so. We are providing lifesaving food assistance and temporary shelter, and ensuring that psychosocial support is available to those who need it. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the crowded refugee camps, PWS&D is helping ensure families have access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities. Families are also receiving food vouchers to help meet nutritional needs and boost the local economy.

 

Church Signs:  Honk if you love Jesus. Text and drive if you want to meet him.

Have you noticed an interesting or amusing church sign in your journeys? Share with the congregation by sending them to Rev Lisa.

 

We are thankful to Jean Walker, organist, for her efforts in performing the hymns for the YouTube video.

 

Join the conversation on Zoom! Our spring book discussion will focus on The Book of Joy-Lasting Happiness in a Changing World on Tuesday 2–3 pm.

 

The people of Knox Bayfield acknowledge that our community worship, live, play, and work on the traditional lands of the Anishinabewaki, Attiwonderonk (Neutral), and Mississauga peoples within Treaty 29, of 1827.

 

Hymn # 389  Breathe on me, breath of God

 

 

Call to Worship

Psalm 103:1

Bless the Lord, O my soul. And all that is within me, bless God’s holy name.

 

Assurance of Pardon

Join me in prayer…    Holy God, we know that you are always there to lead us, yet we somehow lose our way and fall back into fear. We confess that we stumble and recognize our need for you to lift us up to start again. Forgive us our failings, reconcile us with you, ourselves, and each other, through the power of Christ and the gift of your Spirit. Amen.

 

Siblings in Christ, hear the good news: We did not receive the spirit of slavery, but rather the spirit of adoption. You are God’s beloved children—forgiven, loved,

and free. May God’s peace be with you. And also with you.

 

Hymn# 436    God we praise you for the morning

 

Prayer For Illumination   

Come, Holy Spirit, giver of life; breathe into us that we may hear a word of truth this day. Draw us into communion, enable us to love, conspire to make us one with you for the world you so deeply love. Amen.

Readings

Isaiah 6:1-8; Psalm 29; Romans 8:12-17; John 3:1-17

May God bless our understanding of this, God’s holy word. The Word of the Lord.

 

Hymn   # 411     Stand up and bless the Lord

 

A whole new ballgame

Trinity Sunday invites us to reflect on the nature of the triune God.

The readings today allow us vastly different perspectives encounters with the divine.  Isaiah and Nicodemus struggle with teachings that tend to catch at all of us. We seem to get pulled up short and may even give in to the need to give our head a shake.

Isaiah has a vision where he is in the presence of the Trinity, the Lord of Hosts, the Divine Other lifted so high in glory and splendor that even the seraphs must cover their faces.

While he is surrounded by the awe and terror of God, Isaiah experienced a sense of unworthiness of himself and of his people. He feels unworthy to stand in the presence of God, yet, he is in there. He feels unworthy to serve, yet believes that he must. He is faced with this dilemma of feeling unworthy and feeling the deep call to serve when he exclaims, “Woe is me! I am lost.”  Isaiah’s equilibrium is in deep upheaval. It is when he proclaims his sin that he is cleansed and receives a clean heart. It is then that there is clarity to God’s call.

Both passages remind us of our struggle to feel worthy of God’s call on our life. I am reminded of the instability that occurs when we are learning new skills. We can feel inept and not up to the task. It may feel overwhelming when we try to learn a new way or skill set. Learning new skills can help us to better understand what we already know. Some coaches will use a form of this to help their players develop new ways of understanding the sport and deepen the relationships between the players. I have watched baseball coaches take the baseball team out onto the diamond to explain a new set of rules for that practice. The familiar routines are set aside and a new of playing is introduced. A major shift will be to reverse the order of running to the bases. When the batter hits the ball, they run to third, then to second, first and onto home. All the same equipment and players are on the familiar field yet a significant change has occurred. The struggle to understand and shift into the new game is real. They have fun working together as a team and they begin to see the game differently.

Nicodemus struggled to understand what Jesus was teaching him. Perhaps he was struggling in part because he was a religious leader and teacher of the law. The traditions, his understanding of scripture, his way of being in his community were well established. Yet, he saw the presence of God clearly with Jesus. He was curious about the teachings of this Rabbi and he was aware of the risks in following him.

In the safety of the night Nicodemus went to gain a better understanding of Jesus and discovered that he was called to  a new way of being. He discovered that religion was more than the observance of practices and rituals. It is a lesson that we learn as people throughout our lifetimes. When practices become routine, they may thwart spiritual sensitivity and awareness.  Jesus spoke of being born from God’s realm which Nicodemus considers from the plain, literal meaning of birth of the flesh. Jesus is speaking of spiritual birth. Perhaps we can understand the struggle from a 21st century setting.  There is often a struggle between science and spiritual faith. One is pitted against the other in a debate style argument. It seems that there need not be a debate of which is more true or real. There is spiritual faith and there is science. Both and. There is physical birth and there is spiritual birth. Both and. There is the need to form traditions and a need to engage in transformative overhaul of our ways of seeing and being.

Both Isaiah and Nicodemus discover God’s intention is to love and to make life whole. That love is ever constant and faithful. The invitation is given to each of us with the hope that we will respond.

The misunderstandings and feelings of unworthiness may catch us in a familiar place. It is like our mind is running down a familiar path and we are unaware of the scenery. Jesus tells Nicodemus, and us, that God’s kingdom is here. It is not a privilege to be earned in a far off galaxy in the distant future. There is nothing we can do to earn it. It is a gift from God, here and now, in our relationship with the triune God and with one another. Peace be with you.

 

Hymn # 592       I, the Lord of sea and sky

 

The Offering Of Our Life And Labour To The Lord            

Quote:         Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant. Robert Louis Stevenson (1850 – 1894), author

Psalm 81:6; Deuteronomy 5:13

God lifts the burdens from our shoulders and frees our hands from work, giving the gift of regular rest.        What, then, shall we lift up to God in thanksgiving? In freedom and joy we give back to God a portion of all we have received, that others may rest in fullness of life.

Blessing Of Gifts & Prayers Of The People

Psalm 81:6, Deuteronomy 5:12-15, Mark 3:5–6, Colossians 1:20

Join me in prayer:

Mighty God, you lift our burdens and free us from the oppressive weight.

We pray for people who long for freedom and wait for justice. We pray for all who are trapped in the violence of war and abuse; for those struggling against unjust laws; and those who are burdened with debt and unemployment.

Bring us out from every form of slavery into the abundant life you offer.

Healing God, you know the frailty of our human bodies and minds. You know the limitations we face. The fear and the pain, the loss of unclaimed gifts and abandoned dreams. We pray that we may be set free. Give us courage to face our challenges and to heal from wounds that linger from the past. Help us to see ourselves clearly, to put to good use what you have entrusted to us, and to boldly follow your voice and vision.

God of Sabbath rest, grant peace to your world wearied by the ravages of the pandemic. There are many within our church family in need of your special care at this time. We lift up Ron, Sandy, Rudy, Jane, Bonnie, Rob, Courtney and Kyla. We lift up all those who prefer to remain un-named as they face immense challenges of health and finances.

O holy One, we desire to hear your voice of love, to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, and to see you clearly. By your Spirit who breathes within us, strengthen our faith, use our gifts, and work in our lives to bear witness to Christ who taught his disciples to pray, …Our Father who art in heaven, hallow’ed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Hymn #687        Blessed Assurance

 

Benediction

Isaiah 6:8, Psalm 29:11

God said, “Whom shall I send, and who shall go for us?” And Isaiah said, “Here am I; send me!” Life-giving God, free us from our fear, fill us with your love, and send us forth in peace. May the Lord give strength to the people. May the Lord bless the people with peace! May the blessing of the God who creates, redeems, and restores be with you now and always.

Postlude   #623  Holy, holy, holy

 

Questions for Reflection 

Jesus invites us to be born from above to receive new and abundant life. Salvation, or abundant life, is understood as a present reality in the Gospel of John. If the gift of God’s love made known to us in Christ through the Spirit is stirred up by gratitude, what daily practice could increase your sense of gratitude? How could a simple practice of thanking God at any given moment in the day enliven your experience of salvation?

 

Morning Prayer

Life-giving God, awaken me to your threefold presence in the world this day

that I may share your love with others as freely as you have done for us in Christ. Amen.

 

Evening Prayer

Abba, I give thanks for the immeasurable gifts of this day, above all, for the gift of your love made known in Christ. How grateful I am that by his love I am counted as a precious member of your family. Mere words cannot convey the wonder of this love. Amen.

Daily Prayer

Holy God, source of all goodness, you gave your Son for the life of the world

and sent your Spirit that your love might abide within us. Teach us how to love each other this day, that we may have life, and have it abundantly, with you, in Christ, and through the Holy Spirit. Amen.

 

Scripture readings next week

1 Samuel 8:1-22; 11:14-15; Psalm 138; 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1; Mark 3:20-35

 

389   Breathe on me, breath of God

Breathe on me, breath of God; fill me with life anew,

that I may love what thou dost love and do what thou wouldst do.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, until my heart is pure,

until with thee I will one will, to do and to endure.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, till I am wholly thine,

until this earthly part of me glows with thy fire divine.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, so shall I never die,

but live with thee the perfect life of thine eternity.

 

623   Holy, holy, holy         Words: traditional        Music: F Schubert

Refrain:    Holy, holy, holy, God almighty Lord!

Holy, holy, holy, everywhere adored!

God without beginning, God eternal One

reigns and rules forever all beneath the sun      Refrain

Power and love and wonder circling round God’s throne

Praise our God most holy, Lord of Life alone     Refrain

 

436   God we praise you for the morning

God, we praise you for the morning; hope springs forth with each new day,

new beginning, prayer and promise, joy in work and in play.

 

God, we praise you for creation, mountains, seas and prairie land.

Waking souls find joy and healing in your bountiful hand.

 

God, we praise you for compassion, all the loving that you show;

human touching, tears and laughter, help your children to grow.

 

God, we praise you for your Spirit, Comforter and daily friend;

restless searcher, gentle teacher, strength and courage you send.

 

 

God, we praise you for the Saviour, come that we may know your ways.

In his loving, dying, rising, Christ is Lord of our days.

 

Hallelujah, hallelujah, Hallelujah, hallelujah!

Hallelujah, hallelujah! Christ is Lord of our days!

 

411   Stand up and bless the Lord

Stand up and bless the Lord; God’s people now rejoice;

Stand up and bless the Lord your God with heart and soul and voice.

 

Though high above the praise, above all blessing high,

Who would not fear God’s holy name, and praise and magnify?

 

Oh for the living flame from God’s own altar brought,

To touch our lips, our minds inspire, and wing to heaven our thought.

 

God is our strength and song; Now is salvation ours.

God’s love in Christ we now proclaim With all our ransomed powers.

 

Stand up and bless the Lord; The Lord your God adore;

Stand up and bless God’s glorious name henceforth forevermore.

 

592   I, the Lord of sea and sky

I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry. All who dwell in dark and sin my hand will save. I who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright. 8Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send?  Refrain

 

Refrain:    Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord? I have heard you calling in the night.,

I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.

 

I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people’s pain. I have wept for love of them: they  turn away. I will break their hearts of stone, give them hearts for love alone. I will speak my word to them. Whom shall I send?  Refrain

 

I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame. I will set a feast for them; my hand will save. Finest bread I will provide till their hearts be satisfied.

I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send?  Refrain

 

687   Blessed Assurance

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! Oh what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of his Spirit, washed in his 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.

 

Perfect submission, perfect delight, Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;

Angels descending bring from above, echoes of mercy, whispers of love.  Refrain

 

Perfect submission, all is at rest; I in my Saviour am happy and blest,

Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with his goodness, lost in his love. Refrain

Witness Communion & Pentecost 23 May 2021 Knox Bayfield Rev Dolson

The Lord be with you … and also with you.

Land Acknowledgement

The people of Knox Bayfield acknowledge that our community worship, live, play, and work on the traditional lands of the Anishinabewaki, Attiwonderonk (Neutral), and Mississauga peoples within Treaty 29, of 1827.

HYMN #389  Breathe on me, breath of God

Call to Worship   Psalm 1

Happy are those who do not ridicule and scoff. Happy are those who delight in God’s teachings and meditate on them day and night. They are like trees planted by streams of water. They yield fruit in due season, and their leaves do not wither.

Call to Confession and Assurance of Pardon

Psalm 1, John 17

Join me in prayer for with the call to confession,

God, you call us to delight in your teachings, yet we can become cynical and doubtful.  We pray for your healing and restoration. Guard us and protect us. Sanctify us in truth and teach us to recognize and reject evil. We pray all this in the name of Christ, amen.

We are children of the Holy God, the God who forgives and loves eternally.

By the power of God’s Spirit, forgive yourself and others as God in Christ forgives you.

May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. And also with you.

Hymn    #290   Immortal, immortal God only wise

 Prayer For Illumination   

John 17

O holy One, may the reading of your Word sanctify us in the truth and bring us to joy with you. Amen.

Readings

Ezekiel 37:1-14; Psalm 104:24-34, 35b;

Acts 2:1-21; Romans 8:22-27; John 15:26 – 16: 15

May God bless our understanding of God’s holy word. The word of the Lord.

Witness

It can be difficult and challenging to live in the midst of change. Yet, change is continual throughout our lives. Change occurs during every life transition – when we transition from one part of our life to another or when external factors significantly impact our well being. We experience change when we begin or end relationships, fall in love, start a family, watch children grow and leave home. The death of a loved one brings great change as they continue their journey home to be with the Creator.

The scripture readings this morning speak of times of major transitions.  The prophet Ezekial is speaking to the people of Judah who had been exiled to foreign lands. In the book of Acts and gospel of John the disciples lived during the tumultuous time during and after Christ’s physical presence among them. These stories provide rich imagery of rushing wind with the many voices of Pentecost and the re-animation hope as dry bones come to life. The re-birth of hope and faith with the Spirit of Truth as guide.

In the book of Acts, the physician Luke wrote about the disciples gathering to celebrate Pentecost, Shavuot as it is known in the Jewish tradition. Shavuot is a festival that happens fifty days after Passover to celebrate the time of God giving the Torah to Moses. Christians celebrate Pentecost fifty days after Easter Sunday; fifty days after the resurrection, when the Spirit arrived as we wait for Christ. Pentecost is the reversal of the effects of the tower of Babel, when the languages of the world were “confused” and people were scattered. (Genesis 11)

There is a rabbinic tradition that tells of when the Ten Commandments were given. There was  a single sound, yet when that sound went out … it divided into seven voices and then seventy , so that every people received the law in their own language. The law was meant to share the will of God, to guide the people of creation.  In giving the Spirit on Pentecost, the church received God’s Spirit to guide the people. The Spirit is intended for all… to unite us with prophecies, visions, and dreams. ..united in diversity…the diversity of age, gender, and social status …united by the great outpouring of the Spirit.

A memory came to mind as I read and re-read the scripture.  I recalled walking in Hebron, watching a group of children passing through a checkpoint controlled by the Israeli military armed with automatic guns. In the fall of 2014 I travelled with a small group in a Presbyterian Church study tour in the Middle East.  During the tour of Hebron, the guides from the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI – pronounced “yappie”) walked with us. They shared stories of their work in Palestine. This organization offers a vital demonstration of God’s love in the world.

EAPPI, coordinated by the World Council of Churches, is a mission effort supported in part by the PCC. It was developed when Churches in Jerusalem identified the need to bring an international presence to the West Bank. Their vision is a future when the Palestinian occupation has ended, a future where Palestinians and Israelis enjoy a just peace with freedom and security based on international law.

Their mission is to witness life under occupation; to engage with local peoples pursuing peace; to change the international community’s involvement in the conflict; and to urge others to take action against injustice in the region. They have a core set of values of love, truth, justice, peace, and reconciliation. EAPPI is a response of the global Church to the call of the local Church. The organization works with people of all faiths and of no faith.

Their goal is to walk with the Palestinians, live directly with the local community, and work with local and international organizations. The volunteers spend 3 months living in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Their placement allows them to experience life under occupation. EAPPI advocates for change when they help to focus global attention on the situation. It is a biblical model for acting justly in the way of Christ. The volunteers gather from around the world, from many cultures, with many languages. They seek to understand the truth and then share the truth of their experience when they return to their communities.

The gospel is proclaimed for everyone; repentance and forgiveness are offered to all who call on the name of the Lord. Within our church tradition we recognize Pentecost completing the cycle that begins with Ash Wednesday and continues through Lent, Holy Week and Easter. It is the capstone of a journey that moves symbolically from ashes to fire. Pentecost helps us to better understand the gospels: Jesus Christ offers salvation to all, and the church exists to proclaim it. Pentecost affirms our participation as disciples in the body of Christ. We are challenge to live into its promise of the witness of the church. Praise be to God.

Hymn # 626       Lord of all power

 The Offering Of Our Life And Labour To The Lord           

Quote:       Gentleness, self-sacrifice and generosity are not the exclusive possession of one race or religion. Mahatma Ghandi (1849–1968), lawyer, social activist

God invites us to give the testimony of our hearts in practical offerings of money and time. We testify to God’s love in many ways including our gifts. 1 John 5:10

 

Blessing Of Gifts & Prayers Of The People

John 17:6, Acts 1:25, Psalm 1

Join me in prayer:

Holy God, this world is peopled by those who delight in your teachings and those who scoff at your ways.     Guide us to meditate on you day and night, that we may be an influence for good in the world. We pray for the people and the leaders of this diverse world. Sanctify them in your truth, that there may be peace and harmony on earth.

Jesus has made God known and we belong to God. We dedicate these gifts to God’s service and to the glory of God’s name. Let us pray for the world and ask that we may be given the grace to be faithful disciples of Jesus.

We pray for those who are sick or suffering, that they may know your protection and care. We pray for your church, that by the marriage of your grace and our faith we may serve you and our neighbors.

We pray for Earth itself, your marvelous creation. Inspire and help us to be good stewards, now and for the future. Make holy all for which we pray— the poor, the infirm, the church, the world— for holiness and wholeness come from you.

There are many within our church family in need of your special care at this time. We lift up Ron, Sandy, Rudy, Jane, Bonnie, Rob, Courtney and Kyla. We lift up all those who prefer to remain un-named as they face immense challenges of health and finances.

O holy One, we pray for clarity, passion, and true fellowship to awake us to your presence. We pray all this in the name of Jesus the Christ, who taught his disciples to pray…Our Father who art in heaven, hallow’ed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Invitation to the Table

Hymn #534 All who hunger, gather gladly

 

 

Affirmation of Faith  

#539 The Apostles’ Creed* [in unison] 

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Communion Prayer

(Responsive in Bold)

As we are called to come to The Table, we remember that this is the table of Jesus Christ, who has prepared a banquet for everyone.

All who seek to be nourished and sustained in the journey of faith, all who seek wholeness and compassionate paths to peace and justice, and all who walk in love and charity with your companions on the Way are called to gather around the Table.

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

It is right to give our thanks and praise.

 

Blessed and holy are you, O God, creator of all things.  In the beginning, you spoke… and at your word your Spirit moved over the waters, bringing order, light, and life out of chaos.  You knit together our inward parts, made us in your image and breathed breath and life into us.  When we turn away from you and our love fails, your love remains constant. When we wander off and follow ways of sin and death you call us from our scattered lives to repentance, unity and peace.

Therefore, with choirs of angels and archangels and with those of every time and place, we give you praise and glory:

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,

heaven and earth are full of your glory.

Hosanna in the highest.

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.

Hosanna in the highest.

Holy, mighty and tender God, in time you sent word to Mary that she would conceive a son and call him Jesus and in him we saw your promises made flesh.  Dwelling among us we heard and saw Good News: he preached reconciliation and the Kingdom of God, he healed the sick, fed the hungry, and ate with sinners.  In his suffering, death and resurrection, he delivered us from sin and death and revealed your living and redeeming hope for all people.  And when he ascended into heaven, your Holy Spirit came to be our Counsellor and Comforter.

And so, remembering Christ’s life, love, death, and resurrection, we proclaim the mystery of faith

Christ was promised. Christ was born.

Christ has died. Christ is risen.

Christ will come again.

Gracious God, pour out your Holy Spirit upon us and upon these your gifts of bread and wine, that the bread we break and the cup we share may be the communion of the body and blood of Christ. Through Christ, with Christ, in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor are yours, almighty God, world without end.

O Holy One, although we are apart and we join our voices together across space and time to speak the words that Christ taught his disciples …  Our Father who art in heaven, hallow’ed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen..

Words of Institution and Invitation

Jesus, in the night in which he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you: this do in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, he took the cup, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood: as often as you drink of it, do this in remembrance of me.’ We break this bread, the communion in Christ’s body once broken. We drink this cup, communion in Christ’s blood once shed. These are the gifts of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.

 

Prayer after Communion

Join me in prayer…

Eternal God, we thank you for this holy mystery in which you have given yourself to us and we praise you for breaking into the world. Send us out in peace for we have seen, have heard, and been fed by your grace.  Keep us faithful and alert for signs of Christ’s coming and lead us to live lives marked by truth and light, in the name of Jesus we pray.  Amen.

 

Hymn* # 556    Now let us from this table rise

Benediction

Living in the love of Christ, be open to God calling you into a new ministry. Go in the Spirit of peace. Jesus Christ has given us into the arms of a loving God. May God bless you and keep you this day and forevermore.

Postlude  #389  Holy, Holy, Holy

 

 

Questions for Reflection 

In the first chapter of Acts, when the eleven seek to replace Judas with a new apostle, they ask God to reveal who that should be by casting lots. How do you think God’s will is revealed to us today? Is it revealed in more than one way?

Morning Prayer

Holy One, thank you for the ability to begin my day in prayer. Guide my path today. No matter what happens, help me to feel that I belong to you, and bring me home to you at the end of the day. Amen.

Evening Prayer

Loving God, thank you for claiming me as your own. I have been in the world all day, but I also know that I am in you. Give me the grace to let go of this day and entrust it to your care. Be with me as I sleep this night and continue to sanctify me in your embrace. Amen.

Daily Prayer

Holy One, open us to the possibility that we are being chosen to be new disciples with new ministries in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Scripture readings next week

Isaiah 6:1-8; Psalm 29; Romans 8:12-17; John 3:1-17

389   Breathe on me, breath of God

Breathe on me, breath of God; fill me with life anew,

that I may love what thou dost love and do what thou wouldst do.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, until my heart is pure,

until with thee I will one will, to do and to endure.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, till I am wholly thine,

until this earthly part of me glows with thy fire divine.

 

Breathe on me, breath of God, so shall I never die,

but live with thee the perfect life of thine eternity.

623   Holy, holy, holy         Words: traditional        Music: F Schubert

Refrain:    Holy, holy, holy, God almighty Lord!

Holy, holy, holy, everywhere adored!

God without beginning, God eternal One

reigns and rules forever all beneath the sun      Refrain

 

Power and love and wonder circling round God’s throne

Praise our God most holy, Lord of Life alone     Refrain

 

290   Immortal, immortal God only wise

         Immortal, invisible, God only wise, in light inaccessible hid from our eyes,

Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.

 

Unresting, unhasting and silent as light, or wanting, nor wasting, thou rulest in might; Thy justice like mountains high soaring above Thy clouds, which are fountains of goodness and love.

 

To all life thou givest, to both great and small; In all life thou livest, the true life of all; We blossom and flourish like leaves on the tree, And wither, and perish, but naught changeth thee.

 

Great Father of glory, pure Father of light, Thine angels adore thee, all veiling their sight; All laud we would render: oh help us to see ‘tis only the splendour of light hideth thee.

 

626   Lord of all power

Lord of all power, I give you my will in joyful obedience your tasks to fulfil.

Your bondage is freedom, your service is song, and, held in your keeping, my weakness is strong.

 

Lord of all wisdom, I give you my mind, rich truth that surpasses our knowledge to find. What eye has not seen and what ear has not heard

is taught by your Spirit and shines from your word.

 

Lord of all bounty, I give you my heart; I praise and adore you for all you impart: your love to inspire me, your word to obey, I walk in your freedom to the end of the way.

 

Lord of all being, I give you my all. If e’er I disown you, I stumble and fall;

but, sworn in glad service your word to obey, I walk in your freedom to the end of the way.

 

534   All who hunger, gather gladly

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.

 

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.

 

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 days in gratitude.

Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good.

 

 

 

#556                Now let us from this Table Rise Now let us from this table rise Renewed in body, mind and soul; With Christ we die and live again, Whose selfless love has made us whole.   With minds alert, upheld by grace, To spread the Word in speech and deed, We follow in the steps of Christ, At one with all in hope and need.   To fill each human house with love, It is the sacrament of care; The work that Christ began to do We humbly pledge ourselves to share.   Then give us grace, companion-God, To choose again the pilgrim way, And help us to accept with joy The challenge of tomorrow’s day.

 

Click on this link to access newsletter:  PC_Spring2021

https://presbyterian.ca/2021/05/14/statement-on-recent-violence-in-gaza/

The Ascension 16 May 2021 Knox Bayfield Rev Dolson