Sunday, December 30, 2018

Sermon for 30 December 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Exodus 13:1–3a, 11–15
Epistle Lesson: Colossians 3:12–17
Gospel Lesson: Luke 2:22–40

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Sermon for Christmas Eve 2018

The sermon was a letter written by Pastor Tom, read aloud.


“But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.” Micah 5:2



Dear God,

It’s me, Tom. But I guess you probably knew that already, part of the whole you being God thing. I’m writing to you tonight in hopes that this letter will get to you, even with so many letters to Santa being written this time of the year. It’s not that I’m a skeptic… or a Scrooge… but maybe just a little jaded, and tired, and in need of a little pick me up. I guess I’m writing to you rather than to Santa mainly because this, after all, was your holiday, your holy day, first… before Santa and his elves and the mall ever got a hold of it!

The thing about Christmas, God, which really strikes me, is how big everything seems to become. To hear Luke tell it in the Bible, Christmas is really about how you made big things small, so that we could comprehend them. Most of the time, for me, though, it’s about how I make small things big! I take this one day on the calendar and make it the largest event of the whole year! No other date on the calendar comes close, especially if you’re a kid (or in retail)!

My expectations always seem to grow to enormous proportions at Christmas. Remember when I was eight, and just had to have that toboggan? Or when I was fifteen and my life would be complete if only I had that darkroom setup –with enlarger, developer and chemicals? Or when… well, you know the rest, all of those small things that I dreamed would make all the difference in the world if only I could have them. I suppose my expectations have changed regarding Christmas, but they sure haven’t shrunk! I still expect more – more contentment, more satisfaction, more happiness, more gifts.

Maybe this Christmas will be different. Maybe this Christmas kids will be so overjoyed at the first present they open that they’ll actually forget the other packages lying under the tree, and they won’t throw it into the pile as they reach for the next one. Maybe if I buy this thing for this person, it’ll make up for the way I treat them, or ignore them, or take them for granted the other 364 days of the year.

Somehow, Lord, I manage to put an awful big hope on one small gift. My expectations get so big, Lord! I expect my life to be conflict free, my parties and gathering to be Martha Stewart worthy, my bank account to not be under attack. For everything in my life to be sweetness and light.

But it’s not just my expectations, or my credit card balance, that gets bigger at Christmas, but then you already know that. For some reason, Lord, this time of year always seems to tempt me into making huge the things that ought to be small, if I could just keep them in the proper perspective.

My anxieties grow larger. In the dark of late December, Lord, I get to thinking about another year gone, and the fact that I’m already this old, and “what have I done with these precious years”  and “is this where I’d imagined I’d be at this age?”… and it’s all going by so fast!

My pains and my losses always seem more magnified this time of year, too. Lord, why is it that every loss, every failure, every shortcoming seems to grow in my consciousness at Christmas? My lost loved ones, my failed relationships, my bad habit of selfishness, my fear of weakness and illness and getting older. My lack of trust in you… I have a way of making them big to the point of overwhelming, when in fact they should be so small, in light of what you’ve done for me, and all you’ve given me.  My fears balloon. Fear of the future. Fear of failure. Fear of hardship.

I know this might sound sort of whiny to you, God, and I apologize for that. But I want to be honest with you. My intent in writing to you this Christmas wasn’t to depress you, but rather to thank you.
Specifically, I want to thank you for Christmas and all that it means. My tendency to make small things huge isn’t your fault, and all of that garbage would overwhelm me if not for the fact that you, in your infinite wisdom, decided to make great things small… for me.

You, the creator of all things, came into my world in the smallest of places, Bethlehem, a backwater village out in the middle of nowhere. You, the Ancient of Days, came to a working-man carpenter and his bride-to-be, people of no greater position in society than me. You showed yourself first to shepherds, boys of no real social station, with the stink of the field on them. Most importantly, you wrapped your infinite self in the fragile, very mortal flesh of a baby. When you did that, coming to me in the smallest, most vulnerable form imaginable, you made it possible for me finally to receive you.  Christmas reminds me that in your coming first to the small places, there is now no place that is too small for you to visit. As sure as you were found in a manger, you must also be in my kitchen, in my bedroom, in my office, even in my car!

Christmas reminds me that as sure as you first revealed yourself as the promised Messiah to a bunch of scraggly shepherds, you most certainly will reveal yourself to me, even in the midst of all of my doubts and fears!

Christmas reminds me that with every present I unwrap, there are 1000s of other gifts from you that I fail to even recognize. 100s of these same gifts that I take for granted. And so few that I stop to thank you for. Yet in your love for me, you continue to shower them on me.

Christmas reminds me that in your work of making great things small, you aren’t finished yet. You have taken my sins, which, if I am honest with myself, are very great and many, and reduced them to nothing at all when Jesus took them to the cross. He gave his life for me. His great life, for my small life. His great holiness for my great sinfulness. You have even taken the grave, that small hole in the ground that I make out to be the greatest of bottomless caverns, and you’ve made it nothing but a blip on the screen, a small door through which your people pass to a life that lasts forever!

So… Thank-you, Lord Jesus, for your birth, for Christmas. Help me tonight to receive it, and you, with the faith of Mary and Joseph, with the wonder of the shepherds and with all of the joy of the angels.

Love,
Tom

Sunday, December 23, 2018

Sermon for 23 December 2018--Fourth Sunday in Advent

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Micah 5:2–5a
Epistle Lesson: Hebrews 10:5–10
Gospel Lesson: Luke 1:39–56

Sermon was based on the Epistle lesson.

Sermon for 16 December 2018--Third Sunday in Advent

The readings for this morning were:


Old Testament Lesson: Zephaniah 3:14–20
Epistle Lesson: Philippians 4:4–7
Gospel Lesson: Luke 7:18–35

Sermon was based on Matthew 1:23 and John 1:12 & 13.

Friday, December 14, 2018

Sermon for 9 December 2018--2nd Sunday in Advent

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Malachi 3:1–7
Epistle Lesson: Philippians 1:2–11
Gospel Lesson: Luke 3:1–20

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Sermon for 2 December 2018--First Sunday in Advent

The readings for this Sunday were:

Old Testament Lesson: Jeremiah 33:14–16
Epistle Lesson: 1 Thess. 3:9–13
Gospel Lesson: Luke 21:25–36

Sermon was based on the Old Testament and Gospel Lessons.

Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Sermon for 25 November 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 1:15-23
Gospel Lesson: Matthew 25:31-46

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson. Additional scriptures mentioned were 2 Thessalonians 1:9, Revelation 7:14-16 & Galatians 3:10.


Sunday, November 18, 2018

Sermon for 18 November 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Daniel 12:1–3
Epistle Lesson: Hebrews 10:11–25
Gospel Lesson: Mark 13:1–13

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, November 11, 2018

Sermon for 11 November 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament :Lesson: 1 Kings 17:8–16
Epistle Lesson: Hebrews 9:24–28
Gospel Lesson: Mark 12:38–44

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

Sermon for 4 November 2018--All Saint's Day

The readings for this morning were:

First Lesson: Revelation 7:2–17
Epistle Lesson: 1 John 3:1–3
Gospel Lesson: Matthew 5:1–12.

Sermon was based on the First Lesson.

Sunday, October 28, 2018

Sermon for 28 October 2018--Reformation Day Service

The readings for this morning were:

First Lesson: Revelation 14:6–7
Epistle Lesson: Romans 3:19–28
Gospel Lesson: John 8:31–36

The sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Monday, October 22, 2018

Sermon for 21 October 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Ecclesiastes 5:10–20
Epistle Lesson: Hebrews 4:1–16
Gospel Lesson: Mark 10:23–31

Sermon was based on Hebrews 5:7-9.

Sunday, October 21, 2018

Sermon for 14 October 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson:Amos 5:6–7, 10–15
Epistle Lesson: Hebrews 3:12–19
Gospel Lesson: Mark 10:17–22

There is no recording of the sermon for this Sunday.

Monday, October 8, 2018

Sermon for 7 October 2018--Thanksgiving Service

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Epistle Lesson: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Gospel Lesson: Matthew 13:24-30

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson, Matthew 6:25-34, and Philippians 4:4-7.

Monday, October 1, 2018

Sermon for 30 September 2018

The readings this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Numbers 11:4–6, 10–16, 24–29
Epistle Lesson: James 5:1–20
Gospel Lesson: Mark 9:38–50

Sermon was based on the Old Testament Lesson.

Sunday, September 23, 2018

Sermon for 23 September 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Jeremiah 11:18–20
Epistle Lesson: James 3:13—4:10
Gospel Lesson: Mark 9:30–37.

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Sermon for 16 September 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Isaiah 50:4–10
Epistle Lesson: James 3:1–12
Gospel Lesson: Mark 9:14–29

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Sermon for 9 September 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Isaiah 35:4–7a
Epistle Lesson: James 2:1–10, 14–18
Gospel Lesson: Mark 7:24–37

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.


Sunday, September 2, 2018

Sermon for 2 September 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Deuteronomy 4:1–2, 6–9
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 6:10–20
Gospel Lesson: Mark 7:14–23

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.


Monday, August 27, 2018

Sermon for 26 August 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Isaiah 29:11–19
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 5:22–33
Gospel Lesson: Mark 7:1–13

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

Sermon 19 August 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Joshua 24:1–2a, 14–18
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 5:6–21
Gospel Lesson: John 6:51–69

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Sermon for 12 August 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: 1 Kings 19:1–8
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 4:17—5:2
New Testament Lesson: John 6:35–5

Sermon was based on the Old Testament Lesson.

Sunday, August 5, 2018

Sermon for 5 August 2018

The readings this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Exodus 16:2–15
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 4:1–16
Gospel Lesson: John 6:22–35

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Wednesday, August 1, 2018

Sermon for 29 July 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Genesis 9:8–17
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 3:14–21
Gospel Lesson: Mark 6:45–56

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Friday, July 27, 2018

Sermon for 22 July 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Jeremiah 23:1–6
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 2:11–22
Gospel Lesson: Mark 6:30–44

Sermon was based on Psalm 13.

Sunday, July 15, 2018

Sermon for 15 July 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Amos 7:7–15
Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 1:3–14
Gospel Lesson: Mark 6:14–29

Sermon was based on the Old Testament Lesson.


Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Sermon for 8 July 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Ezekiel 2:1–5
Epistle Lesson: 2 Corinthians 12:1–10
Gospel Lesson: Mark 6:1–13

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.



Tuesday, July 3, 2018

Sermon for 1 July 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Lamentations 3:22–33
Epistle Lesson: 2 Corinthians 8:1–9, 13–15
Gospel Lesson: Mark 5:21–43

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, June 24, 2018

Sermon for 24 June 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Job 38:1–11
Epistle Lesson: 2 Corinthians 6:1–13
Gospel Lesson: Mark 4:35–41

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, June 17, 2018

Sermon for 17 June 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Ezekiel 17:22–24
Epistle Lesson: 2 Corinthians 5:1–17
Gospel Lesson: Mark 4:26–34

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Sunday, June 10, 2018

Sermon for 10 June 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Genesis 3:8–15
Epistle Lesson: 2 Corinthians 4:13—5:1
Gospel Lesson: Mark 3:20–35

Sermon was based on the Old Testament Lesson.

Monday, June 4, 2018

Sermon for 3 June 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Deuteronomy 5:12–15
Epistle Lesson: 2 Corinthians 4:5–12
Gospel Lesson: Mark 2:23–28

Sermon was based on Genesis 3:8 & 9.


Sunday, May 27, 2018

Sermon for 27 May 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Isaiah 6:1–8
Second Lesson: Acts 2:14a, 22–36
Gospel Lesson: John 3:1–17.

Due to technical difficulties, there is no recording of the sermon.

Sunday, May 20, 2018

Sermon for 20 May 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Ezekiel 37:1–14
Epistle Lesson: Acts 2:1–21
Gospel Lesson: John 15:26––27; 16:4b–15

Sermon was based on the Old Testament Lesson.

Monday, May 14, 2018

Sermon for 13 May 2018

The readings for this morning were:

First Lesson: Acts 1:12–26
Epistle Lesson: 1 John 5:9–15
Gospel Lesson: John 17:11b–19

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Monday, May 7, 2018

Sermon for 6 May 2018

The readings for this morning were:
First Lesson: Acts 10:34–48
Epistle Lesson: 1 John 5:1–8
Gospel Lesson: John 15:9–17

Sermon was based on 2 Corinthians 5:23, John 3:16, & John 14:1-3.

Sunday, April 29, 2018

Sermon for 29 April 2018

The readings for this morning were:

First Lesson: Acts 8:26–40
Epistle Lesson: 1 John 4:1–11
Gospel Lesson: John 15:1–8

Sermon was based on 1 John 4:7 & 8.

Tuesday, April 24, 2018

Sermon for 22 April 2018

The readings for this morning were:

First Lesson: Acts 4:1–12
Epistle Lesson: 1 John 3:16–24
Gospel Lesson: John 10:11–18

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, April 15, 2018

Sermon for 15 April 2017

The readings for today were:

First Lesson: Acts 3:11–21
Epistle Lesson: 1 John 3:1–7
Gospel Lesson: Luke 24:36–49

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018

Sermon for 8 April 2018

The readings for this morning were:

First Lesson: Acts 4:32–35
Epistle Lesson: 1 John 1:1—2:2
Gospel Lesson: John 20:19–31

Sermon was based on both the Epistle and Gospel Lessons.

Monday, April 2, 2018

Sermon for 1 April 2018--Easter Sunday

The readings for today were:

Old Testament Lesson: Isaiah 25:6–9
Epistle Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:1–11
Gospel Lesson: Mark 16:1–8

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Friday, March 30, 2018

Order of Service and Sermon for 30 March 2018, Good Friday Service

A SERVICE OF TENEBRAE

A Service of Tenebrae, or "Shadows," is based on a twelfth–century late night/early morning service and is an extended meditation on the passion of Christ. The readings are taken from the Gospel of John 18:1–19:42.


GREETING & Explanations
P: God is light, in whom there is no darkness at all.
C: Jesus Christ is the light of the world.
P: And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world,
C: and we loved darkness rather than light.

Hymn: LW #241

PRAYER for Good Friday:

P: SURELY He has borne our grief and carried our sorrows He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. All we like sheep have gone astray and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.
C. Hear my prayer, O LORD:
P: ALMIGHTY God, we beseech you graciously to behold this your family, for which our Lord Jesus Christ was contented to be betrayed, and given up into the hands of wicked men, and to suffer death on the Cross; through the same Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, Who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, ever One God, world without end. Amen.
Fourteen candles, along with a central Christ candle, are lighted at this point or before the service begins; then one is extinguished at the conclusion of each section.
The First Reading

The first candle is extinguished.

The Second Reading
The second candle is extinguished.
The Third Reading
The third candle is extinguished.

The Fourth Reading
The fourth candle is extinguished.

The Fifth Reading
The fifth candle is extinguished.

The Sixth Reading
The sixth candle is extinguished.

Hymn: LW: #113
The Seventh Reading
The seventh candle is extinguished.

The Sermonette

The Eighth Reading
The eighth candle is extinguished.

The Ninth Reading
The ninth candle is extinguished.

The Tenth Reading
The tenth candle is extinguished.

The Eleventh Reading
The eleventh candle is extinguished.

The Twelfth Reading
The twelfth candle is extinguished.

The Offering - Hymn: LW # 110

The Thirteenth Reading
The thirteenth candle is extinguished.

The Fourteenth Reading
The fourteenth candle is extinguished.

The Fifteenth Reading
The Christ candle is taken away. The last section is read in darkness.

The Sixteenth Reading

CHOIR

Silence.  The room remains darkened with only illumination necessary for safety. The room now remains barren until Easter.


After the Choir leaves, all depart in silence.

Sermon was based on John 18:28 &29.



Sermon for 29 March 22018--Maundy Thursday Lenten Service

In Bread and Wine

Opening Hymn: # 236

Opening Verses ………………………..…
(Tune: Abide With Me)
(Psalm 51:1-9; Isaiah 61:1; Ephesians 2:13)

Unto the Lord with broken hearts return.
Turn from your sins, and true repentance learn.
Grace and compassion flow from heav’n above,
For God is slow to anger, filled with love.

P: Happy are those who sins are forgiven, who’s wrongs are pardoned.
C: Happy are those whom the Lord does not accused of doing wrong and you are free from all the deceit.
P: When I did not confess my sins, I was worn out from crying all day long.
C: Do you know you punished me, Lord, my strength was completely drained, as moisture is dried up by the summer heat.
P: Then I confessed my sins to you; I cannot conceal my wrongdoings.
C: I decided to confess them to you, and you for gave all my sins.

Create in me a heart made clean from sin.
A steadfast spirit, Lord, renew within.
Your Holy Spirit ne’er remove from me,
But in your saving joy, Lord, Make me free.

P: In bread and wine,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: The Spirit of the Lord God is sent to bring good news to the oppressed and to bind up the broken-hearted.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: In Jesus Christ all who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. In him we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.


Let all who languish hear the healing word:
God has drawn near us; our request is heard.
Christ Jesus died, God’s promise to renew:
Where hearts are broken,
There God’s Love breaks through.

Prayer of the Day

The Old Testament Lesson………………………...Exodus 12:1-13

The Gospel Lesson ……………..……………….Matthew 26:20-30

Hymn: # 237

Sermonette

Glory be to Jesus, who in bitter pains,
Poured for me his life-blood, From his sacred veins.

Grace and life eternal, In that blood I find.
Blest be his compassion, Infinitely kind.

Glory be to Jesus, whose dear blood was shed
That from death God’s people Shall to life be led.

By his cross and passion We with God have peace,
For his blood has purchased From our sins release.

Glory be to Jesus Who, our cups to fill,
Came to be our servant, Faithful to God’s will.

Thus our faith is anchored In God’s promise true:
For where hearts are broken, There God’s love breaks through.


The Offering

The Prayers/ The Lord’s Prayer
Words of Institution

Communion Hymn: #240

Distribution

A Parting Blessing

P: In bread and wine,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, abounding in thanksgiving.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
C: Amen.

Closing Hymn: #247

The sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.


Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Sermon for 25 March 2018

The readings for this morning were:

Old Testament Lesson: Zechariah 9:9–12
Epistle Lesson: Philippians 2:5–11
Gospel Lesson: Mark 11:1-11

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.



Sermon & Order of Service for 21 March 2018--Lenten Service

When Christian Love and Care Break Forth

Opening Hymn: #408

Opening Verses ……………………..…(Tune: Glory Be to Jesus)
(Isaiah 53:1-3; Isaiah 61:1; Ephesians 2:13)

Glory be to Jesus, who in bitter pains,
Poured for me his life-blood, From his sacred veins.

Grace and life eternal, In that blood I find,
Blest be his compassion, infinitely kind!

P: Who would have believed what we now report? You could have seen the Lord‘s hand in this?
C: It was the will of the Lord that his servants grow like the plant taking root in dry ground.
P: He had no dignity or beauty to make us take notice of him. There was nothing attractive about him, nothing that would draw us to him.
C: We despised him and rejected him; he endured suffering and pain.
P: No one would even look at him we ignored him - we ignored him as if he were nothing

Glory be to Jesus, whose dear blood was shed
That from death God’s people, Might to life be led.

By his cross and passion We with God have peace,
For his blood has purchased From our sins release.

P: When Christian love and care break forth,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: The Spirit of the Lord God is sent to bring good news to the oppressed and to bind up the broken-hearted.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: In Jesus Christ all who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. In him we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.

Glory be to Jesus Who, our cups to fill,
Came to be our servant, Faithful to God’s will.

Thus our faith is anchored In God’s promise true:
For our broken spirits, There God’s love breaks through.

Prayer of the Day

The First Testament Lesson…………………..…..Romans 12:1-13

The Gospel Lesson ……………………...…………….Mark 14:1-9

Hymn: # 404

Sermonette

(Tune: Abide with Me)

Unto the Lord with broken spirits turn.
Turn from all greed and true repentance learn.
Grace and compassion flow from heav’n above,
For God is slow to anger, filled with love.

Create in me a heart made clean from sin.
A steadfast spirit, Lord, renew within.
Your Holy Spirit ne’er remove from me,
But in your saving joy, Lord, Make me free.

Let all who languish hear the faithful word:
God has drawn near us; our request is heard.
Christ Jesus died, God’s promise to renew:
For broken spirits,
There God’s Love breaks through.

The Offering

The Prayers/ The Lord’s Prayer

A Parting Blessing

P: When Christian care and love break forth,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, abounding in thanksgiving.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
C: Amen.

Closing Hymn: #402

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, March 18, 2018

Sermon for 18 March 2018

5th Sunday in Lent

ORDER -OF-WORSHIP

Pre-Worship Music: “Build Your House” & “You Shine”
Meditation
Opening Hymn: LW#101 “In the Cross of Christ I Glory”
Confession & Absolution
Song of Praise: “Revelation Song”
Children’s Talk
Scripture Readings
Old Testament Lesson – Jeremiah 31:31-34
Epistle Lesson – Hebrews 5:1-10
Gospel Lesson – Mark 10:32-43
Sermon Hymn: LW#379 “Come, Follow Me” Said Christ, the Lord”
Sermon
Nicene Creed
Offering Hymn: LW#458 “Oh, Worship the King “
Offering
Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer
The Words of Institution
The Sharing of the Peace
Communion Distribution
LW#249 “Your Table I Approach”
LW#231 “Lord Jesus, Think on Me”
LW#236 “Jesus Christ, Our Blessed Savior”
LW#243 “Here, O My Lord, I See You Face to Face”
Benediction
Closing Song: “Thine the Amen”

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.



Sermon for 11 March 2018

4th Sunday of Lent
Order of Worship

Pre-Worship: “Your Grace is Enough” & “Filled with Your Glory”
Welcome
Opening Hymn: LW#201 “Lord Jesus Christ, Be Present Now”
Confession and Absolution
Song of Praise: “Hallelujah be Your Name”
Children’s Talk
Scripture Readings:
Old Testament Lesson – Numbers 21:4-9
Epistle Lesson – Ephesians 2:1-10
Gospel Lesson – John 3:14-21
Sermon Hymn: LW#312 “Jesus Shall Reign”
Sermon
Apostle’s Creed
Offering Hymn: LW#405 “We Give You But Your Own”
Offering
Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer
Benediction
Closing Hymn: LW#217 “On What Has Now Been Sown”

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.


Order of Worship for 14 March 2018, Lenten Service

When Pride is Shattered

Opening Hymn: #95

Opening Verses ………………………..…(Tune: Abide With Me)
(Psalm 51:1-9; Isaiah 61:1; Ephesians 2:13)

Unto the Lord with broken hearts return.
Turn from your sins, and true repentance learn.
Grace and compassion flow from heav’n above,
For God is slow to anger, filled with love.

P: Happy are those who sins are forgiven, who’s wrongs are pardoned.
C: Happy are those whom the Lord does not accused of doing wrong and you are free from all the deceit.
P: When I did not confess my sins, I was worn out from crying all day long.
C: Do you know you punished me, Lord, my strength was completely drained, as moisture is dried up by the summer heat.
P: Then I confessed my sins to you; I cannot conceal my wrongdoings.
C: I decided to confess them to you, and you for gave all my sins.

Create in me a heart made clean from sin.
A steadfast spirit, Lord, renew within.
Your Holy Spirit ne’er remove from me,
But in your saving joy, Lord, Make me free.

P: When pride is shattered
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: The Spirit of the Lord God is sent to bring good news to the oppressed and to bind up the broken-hearted.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: In Jesus Christ all who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. In him we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.


Let all who languish hear the healing word:
God has drawn near us; our request is heard.
Christ Jesus died, God’s promise to renew:
Where hearts are broken,
There God’s Love breaks through.

Prayer of the Day

The Old Testament Lesson……………………...2 Timothy 2:8-13

The Gospel Lesson ………………………….Luke 22:31-34; 54-64

Hymn: # 285

Sermonette

Glory be to Jesus, who in bitter pains,
Poured for me his life-blood, From his scared veins.

Grace and life eternal, In that blood I find.
Blest be his compassion, Infinitely kind.

Glory be to Jesus, whose dear blood was shed
That from death God’s people Shall to life be led.

By his cross and passion We with God have peace,
For his blood has purchased From our sins release.

Glory be to Jesus Who, our cups to fill,
Came to be our servant, Faithful to God’s will.

Thus our faith is anchored In God’s promise true:
For where hearts are broken, There God’s love breaks through.


The Offering

The Prayers/ The Lord’s Prayer

A Parting Blessing

P: When pride is shattered,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, abounding in thanksgiving.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
C: Amen.

Closing Hymn: #485

There is no recording of the sermon.

Saturday, March 10, 2018

Sermon for 7 March 2018--Lenten Service

God’s Love Breaks Through
When Human Strength Cannot Avail

Opening Hymn: #98

Opening Verses ……………………..…
(Tune: Glory Be to Jesus)
(Isaiah 53:4-6; Isaiah 61:1; Ephesians 2:13)

Glory be to Jesus, who in bitter pains,
Poured for me his life-blood, From his sacred veins.

Grace and life eternal, In that blood I find,
Blest be his compassion, infinitely kind!

P: He endured the suffering that should have been ours, the pain we should have borne
C: All the while we thought that his suffering was punishment sent by God.
P: but because of our sins he was wounded, beaten because of the evil we did.
C: We are healed by the punishment he suffered, made whole by the blows he received.
P: All of us where like sheep that were lost,
C: Each one of us going our own way.
P: But the Lord made the punishment fall on him,
C: The punishment all of us deserved.

Glory be to Jesus, whose dear blood was shed
That from death God’s people, Might to life be led.

By his cross and passion We with God have peace,
For his blood has purchased From our sins release.

P: When human strength cannot avail,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: The Spirit of the Lord God is sent to bring good news to the oppressed and to bind up the broken-hearted.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: In Jesus Christ all who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. In him we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.

Glory be to Jesus Who, our cups to fill,
Came to be our servant, Faithful to God’s will.

Thus our faith is anchored In God’s promise true:
For our broken spirits, There God’s love breaks through.

Prayer of the Day

The First Testament Lesson…………………..…..Romans 12:14-21

The Gospel Lesson ……………………...…………….Luke 22:35-53

Hymn: # 139

Sermonette

(Tune: Abide with Me)
Unto the Lord with broken hearts return.
Trust not your goodness, true repentance learn.
Grace and compassion flow from heav’n above,
For God is slow to anger, filled with love.

Create in me a heart made clean from sin.
A steadfast spirit, Lord, renew within.
Your Holy Spirit ne’er remove from me,
But in your saving joy, Lord, Make me free.

Let all who languish hear the healing word:
God has drawn near us; our request is heard.
Christ Jesus died, God’s promise to renew:
Where lives are broken,
There God’s Love breaks through.

The Offering

The Prayers/ The Lord’s Prayer

A Parting Blessing:

P: When human strength is gone,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, abounding in thanksgiving.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
C: Amen.

Closing Hymn: #488

The sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, March 4, 2018

Sermon for 4 March 2018

3rd Sunday in Lent

ORDER -OF WORSHIP

Pre-Worship Music: “Oh Lord My Shepherd Be” & “Lord I Need You”
Meditation
Opening Hymn: LW#202 “Dearest Jesus, at Your Word”
Confession & Absolution
Song of Praise: “Lord Reign in Me”
Children’s Talk
Scripture Readings
Old Testament Lesson – Exodus 20:1-17
Epistle Lesson – 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
Gospel Lesson – John 2:13-25
Sermon Hymn: LW#182 “Jesus! Name of Wondrous Love”
Sermon
Nicene Creed
Special Music Selection
Offering
Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer
The Words of Institution
The Sharing of the Peace
Communion Distribution
“Jesus Messiah”
LW#99 “Not All the Blood of Beasts”
LW#246 “Lord Jesus Christ, You Have Prepared”
LW#238 “O Lord, We Praise You”
Benediction
LW#267 “For Me to Live Is Jesus”

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Saturday, March 3, 2018

Sermon for 28 February 2018--Lenten Service

God’s Love Breaks Through: When Hearts are Broken

Opening Hymn: #94

Opening Verses ………………………..…(Tune: Abide With Me)
(Psalm 51:1-9; Isaiah 61:1; Ephesians 2:13)

Unto the Lord with broken pride return.
Trust not your judgements; true repentance learn.
Grace and compassion flow from heav’n above,
For God is slow to anger, filled with love.

P: From the depths of my despair I call to you, Lord.
C: hear my cry O Lord listen to my call for help.
P: If you kept a record of sins who could escape being condemned?
C: but you forgive us so that we should stand in awe of you
P: I wait eagerly for the Lords help and in his Word I trust
C: I wait for the Lord more eagerly then watchmen wait for the dawn, then watchmen wait for the dawn.

Create in me a heart made clean from sin.
A steadfast spirit, Lord, renew within.
Your Holy Spirit ne’er remove from me,
But in your saving joy, Lord, Make me free.

P: When other answers fall and fail,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: The Spirit of the Lord God is sent to bring good news to the oppressed and to bind up the broken-hearted.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: In Jesus Christ all who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. In him we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.


Let all who languish hear the gracious word:
God has drawn near us; our request is heard.
Christ Jesus died, God’s promise to renew:
Where pride is broken,
There God’s Love breaks through.

Prayer of the Day

Response…………………………………..(Tune: Glory be to Jesus)

Glory be to Jesus, who in bitter pains,
Poured for me his life-blood, From his scared veins.

Grace and life eternal, In that blood I find.
Blest be his compassion, Infinitely kind.

The Epistle Lesson………………………………….………...Romans 5:6-11

Glory be to Jesus, whose dear blood was shed
That from death God’s people Shall to life be led.

By his cross and passion We with God have peace,
For his blood has purchased From our sins release.

The Gospel Lesson ……………………………….Matthew 27:11-26

Glory be to Jesus Who, our cups to fill,
Came to be our servant, Faithful to God’s will.

Thus our faith is anchored In God’s promise true:
For where hearts are broken, There God’s love breaks through.

Hymn: # 97

Sermonette

Creedal Hymn…………………..(Tune: Go to Dark Gethsemane)

Through chaotic darkness broke Thine own voice and light awoke
Summoned by thy Word alone, Earth thy footstool, heav’n thy throne,
Still resounds with echoes strong Of their great Creator’s song.

When the time had fully come, Broke into the world thy Son,
Born of Mary, born to end Death’s dark reign, our hearts to mend
Sent into our world to die, Now he lives and reigns on high.

Still thy Holy Spirit binds Broken hearts and souls and minds,
Binds thy Church throughout all time, Binds thy saints in light sublime,
Till, with life renewed, shall we All thy heav’nly glories see.

The Offering

The Prayers/ The Lord’s Prayer

A Parting Blessing

P: When other answers fall and fail,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, abounding in thanksgiving.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
C: Amen.

Closing Hymn: #484

*****************

Sermon was based on Matthew 27:11-26

Sunday, February 25, 2018

Sermon for 25 February 2018

2nd Sunday of Lent
Order of Worship

Pre-Worship: “Blessed Be the Name of the Lord” & “I Lift My Eyes Up”
Welcome
Opening Hymn: LW#101 “In the Cross of Christ I Glory”
Confession and Absolution
Song of Praise: “How Great is Our God”
Children’s Talk
Scripture Readings
Old Testament Lesson – Exodus 34:29-35
Epistle Lesson – 1 Corinthians 3:12-18
Gospel Lesson – Mark 9:2-9
Sermon Hymn: LW#280 “Jesus, Your Boundless Love So True”
Sermon
Apostle’s Creed
Offering Hymn: LW#327 “How Blessed Is This Place, O Lord”
Offering
Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer
Benediction
Closing Hymn: LW#216 “Almighty Father, Bless the Word”

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

Friday, February 23, 2018

Sermon for 21 February 2018--Lenten Service

Order of Worship
God’s Love Breaks Through: When Lives are Broken

Opening Hymn: #90

Opening Verses ……………………..…(Tune: Glory Be to Jesus)
(Isaiah 53:7-9; Isaiah 61:1; Ephesians 2:13)

Glory be to Jesus, who in bitter pains,
Poured for me his life-blood, From his sacred veins.

Grace and life eternal, In that blood I find,
Blest be his compassion, infinitely kind!

P: He was treated harshly, but endured it humbly,
C: He never said a word.
P: Like a lamb about to be slaughtered, like a sheep about to be sheared,
C: he never said a word.
P: He was arrested, sentenced and led off to die,
C: And so few cared about his fate.
P: He was put to death for the sins of our people,
C: He was placed in a grave with evil men, he was buried with the rich.
P: Even though he had never committed a crime or even told a lie.

Glory be to Jesus, whose dear blood was shed
That from death God’s people, Might to life be led.

By his cross and passion We with God have peace,
For his blood has purchased From our sins release.

P: Where lives are broken,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: The Spirit of the Lord God is sent to bring good news to the oppressed and to bind up the broken-hearted.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!

P: In Jesus Christ all who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. In him we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.

Glory be to Jesus Who, our cups to fill,
Came to be our servant, Faithful to God’s will.

Thus our faith is anchored In God’s promise true:
For where lives re broken, There God’s love breaks through.

Prayer of the Day

Response…………………………………..(Tune: Abide with Me)

Unto the Lord with broken hearts return.
Trust not your goodness, true repentance learn.
Grace and compassion flow from heav’n above,
For God is slow to anger, filled with love.

The First Testament Lesson………………..Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9

Create in me a heart made clean from sin.
A steadfast spirit, Lord, renew within.
Your Holy Spirit ne’er remove from me,
But in your saving joy, Lord, Make me free.


The Gospel Lesson ……………………...…………….Luke 23:32-43

Let all who languish hear the healing word:
God has drawn near us; our request is heard.
Christ Jesus died, God’s promise to renew:
Where lives are broken,
There God’s Love breaks through.

Hymn: # 96

Sermonette

“Jesus, remember me, when you come into your kingdom.
Jesus, remember me, when you come into your kingdom.”

Creedal Hymn…………………..(Tune: Go to Dark Gethsemane)

Through chaotic darkness broke Thine own voice and light awoke
Summoned by thy Word alone, Earth thy footstool, heav’n thy throne,
Still resounds with echoes strong Of their great Creator’s song.

When the time had fully come, Broke into the world thy Son,
Born of Mary, born to end Death’s dark reign, our hearts to mend
Sent into our world to die, Now he lives and reigns on high.

Still thy Holy Spirit binds Broken hearts and souls and minds,
Binds thy Church throughout all time, Binds thy saints in light sublime,
Till, with life renewed, shall we All thy heav’nly glories see.

The Offering

The Prayers/ The Lord’s Prayer

A Parting Blessing

P: When human strength is gone,
C: God’s love breaks through!
P: As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, abounding in thanksgiving.
C: In Jesus Christ, God’s love breaks through!
P: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
C: Amen.

Closing Hymn: #368

Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, February 18, 2018

Sermon for 18 February 2018

1st Sunday in Lent
ORDER OF WORSHIP

Pre-Worship Music: “King of Majesty” & “Hosanna”

Meditation

Opening Hymn: LW#203 “O Day of Rest and Gladness”

Confession & Absolution

Song of Praise: “Our God is Greater”

Children’s Talk

Scripture Readings
Old Testament Lesson – Genesis 22:1-18
Epistle Lesson – James 1:12-18
Gospel Lesson – Mark 1:9-15

Sermon Hymn: “God of Wonders”

Sermon

Nicene Creed

Offering Hymn: “Hallelujah Be Your Name”

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

The Words of Institution

The Sharing of the Peace

Communion Distribution
LW#359 “Just as I Am”
“Waves of Grace”
“Majesty”

Benediction

“Happy Day”

Sermon was based on the Epistle Lesson.

.

Saturday, February 17, 2018

Sermon for Ash Wednesday, 14 February 2018

Ash Wednesday

Order of Worship



Opening Hymn: LW#95 “Grant, Lord Jesus, that My Healing”

Opening Verses: based on Psalm 51:1-9, Isaiah 61:1 & Ephesians 2:13

Responsive Readings

Prayer of the Day

Responsive Reading

Scripture Readings

Old Testament Reading – Joel 2:12-19

Gospel Reading – Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

Sermon Hymn: LW#91 “My Song Is Love Unknown”

Sermonette

Imposition of Ashes

Creedal Hymn

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

Parting Blessing

Closing Hymn: LW#485 “Now Rest Beneath Night’s Shadow”



Monday, February 12, 2018

Sermon for 11 February 2018


Transfiguration of Our Lord

Order of Worship



Pre-Worship: “Oh Lord, My Shepherd Be” & “Blessed be Your Name”

Welcome

Opening Hymn: LW#96 “Come to Calvary’s Holy Mountain”

Confession and Absolution

Song of Praise: “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”

Children’s Talk

Scripture Readings:

Old Testament Lesson – Exodus 34:29-35

Epistle Lesson – 1 Corinthians 3:12-18

Gospel Lesson – Mark 9:2-9

Sermon Hymn: LW#429 “I Leave All Things to God’s Direction”

Sermon

Apostle’s Creed

Offering Hymn: LW#433 “Come, My Soul, with Every Care”

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction

Closing Hymn: LW#368 “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less”


Sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson.

Sunday, February 4, 2018

Sermon for 4 February 2018


5th Sunday after Epiphany



ORDER -OF WORSHIP



Pre-Worship Music: “How Great is Our God” & “Our God is Greater”

Meditation

Opening Hymn: LW#206 “God Himself is Present”

Confession & Absolution

Song of Praise: “What a Beautiful Name”

Children’s Talk

Scripture Readings

Old Testament Reading – Isaiah 40:21-31

Epistle Reading – 1 Corinthians 9:16-27

Gospel Reading – Mark 1:29-39

Sermon Hymn: LW#379 “Come, Follow Me” Said Christ, the Lord”

Sermon

Nicene Creed

Offering Hymn: LW#402 “Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us”

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

The Words of Institution

The Sharing of the Peace

Communion Distribution

“Oh Lord, My Shepherd Be”

LW#239 “Soul, Adorn Yourself with Gladness”

LW#295 “Blest Be the Tie that Binds”

LW#238 “O Lord, We Praise You”

Benediction

Closing Hymn: LW#247 “Sent Forth by God’s Blessing”



In lieu of a sermon, we watched a video. Pastor Tom based it on Philippians 4:4-9, 12 & 13.

(Click on the word "video" to open the link)



Sunday, January 28, 2018

Sermon for 28 January 2018

4th Sunday after Epiphany

Order of Worship



Pre-Worship: “I Love to Tell the Story” & “Abide with Me”

Welcome

Opening Hymn: LW#203 “O Day of Rest and Gladness”

Confession and Absolution

Song of Praise: “Ten Thousand Reasons”

Children’s Talk

Scripture Readings

Old Testament Reading – Deuteronomy 18:15-20

Epistle Lesson – 1 Corinthians 8:1-13

Gospel Reading – Mark 1:21-28

Sermon Hymn: LW#366 “I Lay My Sins on Jesus”

Sermon

Apostle’s Creed

Offering Hymn: LW#403 “Praise and Thanksgiving”

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction

Closing Hymn: LW#312 “Jesus Shall Reign”

Monday, January 22, 2018

Sermon for 21 January 2018


3rd Sunday after Epiphany



ORDER -OF WORSHIP



Pre-Worship Music: “All God’s Creatures” & “Build Your House”

Meditation

Opening Hymn: LW#86 “Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning”

Confession & Absolution

Song of Praise: “Grace to Grace”

Children’s Talk

Scripture Readings
Old Testament Reading – Jonah 3:1-5, 10

Epistle Reading – 1 Corinthians 7:29-35

Gospel Reading – Mark 1:14-20

Sermon Hymn: LW#283 “You Are the Way; to You Alone”

Sermon

Nicene Creed

Installation of Council Members

Offering Hymn: LW#415 “All Depends on Our Possessing” vs. 1-3, 6

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

The Words of Institution

The Sharing of the Peace

Communion Distribution

LW#359 “Just As I Am”

LW#366 “I Lay My Sins on Jesus”

LW#139 “Jesus Lives! The Victory’s Won”

LW#242 “I Come, O Savior, to Your Table”

Benediction

Closing Hymn: “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”






Sunday, January 14, 2018

Service for 14 January 2018

2nd Sunday after Epiphany

Order of Worship



Pre-Worship: “Hallelujah (Your Love is Amazing)” & “Be My Guide”

Welcome

Opening Hymn: LW#197 “Lord, Open Now My Heart to Hear”
Confession and Absolution

Song of Praise: “Here I Am to Worship”

Children’s Talk

Scripture Readings

Old Testament Reading – 1 Samuel 3:1-10

Epistle Lesson – 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

Gospel Reading – John 1:43-51

Sermon Hymn: LW#279 How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds”

Sermon

Apostle’s Creed

Offering Hymn:: LW#404 “Take My Life, O Lord, Renew”

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction

Closing Hymn: LW#221 “Savior, Again to Your Dear Name”

Sunday, January 7, 2018

Sermon for 7 January 2018


1st Sunday after Epiphany

Baptism of Our Lord

ORDER OF WORSHIP



Pre-Worship Music: “Our God is Greater” & “What a Beautiful Name”

Meditation

Opening Hymn: LW#75 “As With Gladness Men of Old”

Confession & Absolution

Song of Praise: “Lord, Reign in Me”

Children’s Talk

Scripture Readings:

Old Testament Lesson – Genesis 1:1-5

Epistle Lesson – Romans 6:1-11

Gospel Lesson – Mark 1:4-11

Sermon Hymn: LW#77 “The People That in Darkness Sat”

Sermon

Nicene Creed

Offering Hymn: LW#88 “Songs of Thankfulness and Praise”

Offering

Prayers of the Church/The Lord’s Prayer

The Words of Institution

The Sharing of the Peace

Communion Distribution

“How Deep the Father’s Love for Us”

LW#99 “Not All the Blood of Beasts”

LW#246 “Lord Jesus Christ, You Have Prepared”

LW#242 “I Come, O Savior, to Your Table”

Benediction

Closing Hymn: LW#79 “O Jesus, King of Glory”



The sermon was based on the Gospel Lesson, plus Ephesians 2:8, Acts 2:38, and Galatians 3:26 & 27.