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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

Boundaries and Visions 9 May 2021 Knox Bayfield Rev Dolson

The Lord be with you … and also with you.

Welcome to worship at Knox Presbyterian Bayfield on the sixth Sunday of Easter.

Announcements

Mission Moment … Ministry of Hope and Care

Fernando’s dream of becoming a police officer seemed out of reach when he and his brother were children living on the streets of Miscke, a rural village in Romania. Twelve years later, he attends university and is closer to fulfilling his dream thanks to Samuel House, where Fernando and his brother found a welcoming home. Samuel House is a Christian social ministry of the Reformed Church in Romania, Királyhágómellék District, providing nutritious food, education and after-school care to children from disadvantaged families. Presbyterians Sharing has been supporting this important ministry of hope and care since 2014.

 

We are thankful to Jean Walker, the Knox Bayfield organist, for her continued efforts in performing the hymns during the pandemic.

 

Remember… if you need to access the church building be sure to follow the pandemic protocols using face masks, hand sanitizer and include your name on the Contact Tracing List.

 

We will join together in a virtual Communion in the May 23^rd worship service. You are encouraged to participate with your communion elements of grape juice or wine and bread.  If you are able, you may wish to include a candle, a cross, and of course, your bible. Although we are apart across space and time, we will join together virtually to share the Lord’s supper.

 

Church Signs: Acting perfect in church is like dressing up for an x-ray.

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

 

A church cookbook is a treasured snapshot in time especially when it holds memories. Remember to dig out your favourite recipes for the new Knox Bayfield Cookbook. Include personal notes about the recipes, such as tips for serving, when you enjoy the dish, or how you discovered the recipe. Your comments will provide a delightful tidbit for the readers. Be sure your recipes are complete with ingredients and directions. Do it now as time is running out! Deb is asking for up to ten recipes from each of you. Send your recipes by email to: deb dot cosford13 at gmail dot com or Canada Post: PO Box 1594, Clinton ON N0M 1L0. A church cookbook offers years of experience and great cooking.

 

The Knox Bayfield Session will meet in Zoom on May 10^th.

 

Your contributions to the church and its ongoing work are appreciated. Your regular offerings allow the church to continue its good work. The Knox Session and Finance committee are diligent in their efforts to minimize expenses and meet financial commitments.

 

Are you aware that financial offerings are provided in many ways? Post-dated cheques, PAR (Pre Authorized Remittance), and e-transfers allow you to give intentionally, proportionally, and faithfully to the church. When you provide a dependable flow of contributions it helps significantly with budgeting and reduces paperwork. It is easy to set up and easy to make changes. For more information contact Brenda McLean (519 dash 524 dash 8645 or brmclean at hurontel dot on.ca) and she will guide you through the process.

 

Join the conversation on Zoom! Our spring book discussion will focus on The Book of Joy-Lasting Happiness in a Changing World  Douglas Abrams captures a seven-day conversation between the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu as they discuss, ‘How do we find and cultivate joy, even in the face of suffering?’ All are welcome May 11 – June 29 Tuesday 2–3 pm. Contact Rev Lisa 519-572-8529   revlisa dot knoxbayfield@icloud dot com for details. Book available at the Village Bookshop Bayfield https://villagebookshop.ca/

 

 

Land Acknowledgment

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 98

Sing to our God a new song. God has done marvelous things! Make a joyful noise to the Lord! Break forth into joyous song and sing praises. Let the sea roar and all that fills it. Let the world and its people sing together for joy!

 

Hymn# 528   Jesus calls us here to meet him

 

Assurance of Pardon   John 15

Join me in prayer,

Loving God, Christ  calls us to follow the commandment to love one another as he has loved us. We confess that we have fallen short of that love. We have not loved you or each other with our whole hearts.  Forgive us, we pray, and lead us toward wholeness, that we may be filled with your joy.         In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Friends in Christ… hear the good news! Anyone who is in Christ is a new creation.

The old life has gone and a new life has begun. Believe the gospel in Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.

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

 

Prayer For Illumination   

Acts 10:45

Pour out your Holy Spirit upon us, O God, in the reading of your Word, that we may hear what you have to say to us today. May your Holy Spirit be poured out upon us through Jesus Christ. Amen.

Readings

Psalm 98; Acts 10; 1 John 5:1-6; John 15:9-17

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

Hymn   # 422     Sing a new song unto the Lord

 

Boundaries and Visions

 

Boundaries are an important part of our everyday life. We have all discovered new boundaries during the pandemic. We have become familiar with social distancing and face masks – intentional physical boundaries. Other boundaries are such an integral part of life that you may not even notice them much anymore.  No-trespassing signs, floating ropes that separate areas in a pool or lake. The lines on the hockey rink and basketball court. Political borders that define provinces and countries and fences that separate your property from the neighbour are all boundaries. Some are visible, most are not. There are personal boundaries that might be crossed inadvertently because they are invisible. We have discovered that some are less able to shift their boundaries, even when mandated by extreme circumstances.

One persistent and significant impact during the pandemic has been our inability to gather in the sanctuary. We mourn the loss of seeing our friends and neighbours on Sunday morning. I yearn for the day when you are here with me in the sanctuary. Many of you sit in the pew, gather your thoughts, and let go of the outside busy-ness. There is a certain stillness that seems to be more conducive in the sanctuary. The experience of connecting with God on Sunday morning when we allow ourselves to let go, to breathe deeply, and to fully exhale. To some degree you can experience this where you are now. Try this with me. Close your eyes, deeply inhale, hold, and fully breathe out. And again.

This practice of measured breathing can be part of your prayer practices. You may experience the presence of the spirit as you let go and allow yourself to be more aware of God’s realm, more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence. Spiritual practices teach us to recognize and experience the divine. Listen carefully with your minds and your hearts to better discern the Spirit.

The readings from the book of Acts provides intertwined accounts of the Spirit with Cornelius and Simon Peter. This poignant story connects individuals within God’s earthly family as the Spirit guides them to deeper understanding. Acknowledging our spiritual connection with God enables us to be fully present in our spiritual lives.  To find our way, to step into the person that God intends us to be.  To fulfill our role here, in this place, at this time. It can be difficult to discern when our lives are stressful and difficult. We may lose sight of the signs. Often our culture encourages us to ignore spiritual signs, to compartmentalize our lives, and create barriers within our selves. It is helpful to set time aside for prayer and contemplation. Even just a few moments spent in prayer, seeking direction from God.

In our reading from the book of Acts, Peter and Cornelius have both set time aside for prayer. We find that Peter is a Jewish Christian who practices a kosher diet while Cornelius is a Roman Centurian and Gentile. The two men are strong voices in this passage. Yet, I wonder if the story is really about them. William Willimon wrote: “The real ‘hero’ of this story, the ‘star’ of the drama is not Peter nor Cornelius but the gracious and prodding One who makes bold promises and keeps them, who finds a way even in the midst of human distinctions and partiality between humans.” The Holy Spirit transforms the lives of both men. It is not an easy process, which is demonstrated as Peter struggles to understand the extravagance of the Spirit and the wideness of God’s grace.

We, the readers, encounter Cornelius in Caesarea, a devout man who fears God, prays regularly and provides for the needy. Cornelius has a vision where the Spirit tells him to send for the apostle Peter. Meanwhile, Peter in Joppa is on the rooftop praying where he has a vision of a great sheet of creatures being offered as food.  He is told … ‘what God has made clean, you must not call profane.” Peter’s hunger grew as this vision happened three times. The messengers sent by Cornelius went to Peter as he continued to reflect on the visions. Peter began to understand as they arrived at the home of Cornelius. The pieces were fitting together – the great sheet, the unclean animals, and the Gentile household. When he arrived, he said, “You know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean.”

Peter then preached about Jesus of Nazareth, appointed with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. Then Peter asked a question that astounded them even more: “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” Perhaps you can hear the echo of the question posed by the Ethiopian eunuch in our readings a few weeks ago. The Ethiopian asked Philip, “Look, here is water! What is to prevent me from being baptized?”

Discerning the movement of the Spirit in our lives can be challenging when we are encouraged to understand aspects of life differently. There can be good and sound reason to follow tradition. There are also good and sound reason for change, especially when traditional practices harm, exclude, and oppress. Jesus modelled the necessity of mindful change. He taught inclusion which went against the traditions of the church. Our faith within the reformed tradition is premised on the belief that the reformed church is always reforming. The passage reminds us that Peter and Cornelius did not cross over the traditional boundaries on their own. It was the Spirit who empowered them and encouraged them to see life differently. The Spirit broke down the barriers between this Jew and Gentile encouraging them to experience God’s grace. Peter noted, “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him”  God does not discriminate. God is a God of justice. Paul wrote, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galations 3:28)

We discover that the Holy Spirit can be disruptive.  Jesus taught about the Spirit and prepared the disciples as he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. He told them to stay in the city until the power from on high was shared by the Spirit. Church historian Rosemary Radford Ruether says that the church must be organized to do two things. First to pass on the traditions and, secondly, to be open to the winds of the Holy Spirit by which the tradition comes alive in each generation.

In the book of Acts, the disciples share the gospel story with those who have not yet heard. The Holy Spirit surprises many, including Philip and Peter. Sometimes, the Spirit surprises the church and is received despite the potential and actual disruption. Sometimes tradition has become so deeply entrenched that the Spirit is rebuffed and pushed away. Sometimes the Holy Spirit has a hard time getting through to us. Too often we persist with known ways, resisting the nudging of the Spirit. How can we be open to the Spirit?  God is at work in our relationships, our occupations, and all the matters in our lives. God is present in all the great and the mundane elements of life. God is part of all that we do.  Listen for the nudging.  Hear the Word of God in the quiet moments of your day.

Peace be with you.

 

Hymn # 476       Amigo de Cristo / Friends of the Lord

The Offering Of Our Life And Labour To The Lord            

Quote:       And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13

Let us demonstrate our friendship with Christ and our love for our neighbors

by generously contributing to the lasting fruit of Christ’s love.

 

Blessing Of Gifts & Prayers Of The People

Psalm 98; John 15; Acts 10:45

Join me in prayer:

We sing for joy, O God, for you judge the world with righteousness and fairness between nations and between people. We pray for the poor and the desperate and for those who abuse and oppress. Comfort those who suffer and correct those who cause suffering, that your justice may be known in all the earth. We pray for families, communities, and nations torn apart by violence. Heal the broken places and imbue your earth with peace.

Holy God, in Christ you have chosen humanity to know your will in the world. We humbly offer a portion of what you have provided to us so that your love may be known both near and far.

We pray for the sick and the dying, for those who are friendless and lonely,

for those living with grief or depression. Bring them your friendship and renew their joy. We pray for ourselves, your church, that we may bear fruit of peace, hope, and love, fruit that will last.

There are many within our church family in need of your special care at this time. Many are struggling with the impact of the pandemic, particularly a deep sense of isolation. 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 #655        Give me oil in my lamp

 

 

 

 

Benediction

John 15:11, Psalm 98:1

Live in the joy of Christ’s love and in all the marvelous things that God is doing! May the righteous fairness of God, the loving friendship of Christ, and the gift of the Holy Spirit go with you all. Amen

 

Postlude   #623  Holy, holy, holy

Questions for Reflection 

In our Gospel lesson this week, Jesus speaks of his extreme love for us, calls us his friends, and says that he makes known to us everything that he hears from God. How does thinking of Christ as our friend, Lord and Master—affect our daily living?

 

Morning Prayer

Holy One, I begin today breathing in your love for me, for others, and for the world. Keep me mindful of all the marvelous things you are doing around and within me today. Help me to feel my friendship with Jesus and his confidence in me. Maintain in my heart the image of myself as a tree, bearing the fruit of Christ’s love everywhere I go today. Amen.

Evening Prayer

God, you are both judge and friend. Even as I review my day, I give it over to you. I let go of the good, the bad, and the in-between, trusting in your care for me. I am content this night to abide in your love. I breathe in your joy and your peace. Whatever I need, I ask of you in Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

 

Daily Prayer

Loving God, help us to love others as Christ has loved us. Bring us into the spiritual joy of living our lives as your friend, and teach us to abide in your love, that we may show that love to the world. Amen.

 

Scripture readings next week –    7^th Sunday of Easter

Acts 1:1-26; Psalm 1; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53

 

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

 

528   Jesus calls us here to meet him

Jesus calls us here to meet him as, through word and song and prayer,

We affirm God’s promised presence where his people live and care.

Praise the God who keeps his promise; Praise the Son who calls us friends;

Praise the Spirit who, among us, To our hopes and fears attends.

 

Jesus calls us to confess him Word of Life and Lord of all,

Sharer of our flesh and frailness saving all who fail or fall.

Tell his holy human story; Tell his tales that all may hear;

Tell the world that Christ in glory came to earth to meet us here.

 

Jesus calls us to each other: Found in him are no divides.

Race and class and sex and language: Such are barriers he derides.

Join the hands of friend and stranger; Join the hands of age and youth;

Join the faithful and the doubter In their common search for truth.

 

 

Jesus calls us to his table rooted firm in time and space,

Where the church in earth and heaven finds a common meeting place.

Share his bread and wine, his body; Share the love of which we sing;

Share the feast for saints and sinners hosted by our Lord and King.

 

422 Sing a new song unto the Lord

Refrain:    Sing a new song unto the Lord; Let your song be sung from mountain’s height. Sing a new song unto the Lord, singing hallelujah!

 

For God’s people dance for joy. Oh come before the Lord,

Play for the Lord on glad tambourines, and let your trumpet sound. Refrain

 

Rise, O children, from your sleep; your Saviour now has come.

He has turned your sorrow to joy, And filled your soul with song. Refrain

 

Glad my soul for I have seen the glory of the Lord.

The trumpet sounds; the dead shall be raised I know my Saviour lives. Refrain

 

 

 

476   Amigo de Cristo / Friends of the Lord

Refrain:    Amigos de Cristo; we’re friends of the Lord;

Amigos de Cristo; we’re friends of the Lord.

For we’ve been forgiven and we’ve been restored;

Amigos de Cristo; we’re friends of the Lord.

 

Friends of the covenant renewed each morn baptized and loving it, we’ve been reborn. Gift of the dove is ours forevermore. Amigos de Cristo; we’re friends of the Lord. Refrain

 

Born of a family, the young and old, we’ll be on hand to see new life unfold.

We understand the need to be made whole. Amigos de Cristo; we’re friends of the Lord.       Refrain

 

655   Give me oil in my lamp

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!

 

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.

 

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. Refrain

 

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. Refrain