The Aliso Creek Church Podcast

New Scripture for Today Podcast! Click here: https://sft.fireside.fm Opening Song: Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed? By Isaac Watts, arranged by Bob Kauflin (https://open.spotify.com/track/0YnG05VXvEO24OyJLg82CU?si=eb0c5a552a31403e) Lyrics: Alas and did my Savior bleed And did my Sov'reign die Would He devote that sacred head For such a worm as I Was it for sins that I had done He groaned upon the tree Amazing pity grace unknown And love beyond degree My God why would You shed Your blood So pure and undefiled To make a sinful one like me Your chosen precious child Well might the sun in darkness hide And shut his glories in When Christ the mighty Maker died For man the creature's sin Thus might I hide my blushing face While His dear cross appears Dissolve my heart in thankfulness And melt my eyes to tears Passage: 39 And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. 40 And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” 41 And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. 44 And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 And when he rose from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping for sorrow, 46 and he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation.” 47 While he was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He drew near to Jesus to kiss him, 48 but Jesus said to him, “Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” 49 And when those who were around him saw what would follow, they said, “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?” 50 And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. 51 But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him. 52 Then Jesus said to the chief priests and officers of the temple and elders, who had come out against him, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs? 53 When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” 54 Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest’s house, and Peter was following at a distance. 55 And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them. 56 Then a servant girl, seeing him as he sat in the light and looking closely at him, said, “This man also was with him.” 57 But he denied it, saying, “Woman, I do not know him.” 58 And a little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” But Peter said, “Man, I am not.” 59 And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, “Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean.” 60 But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” 62 And he went out and wept bitterly. 63 Now the men who were holding Jesus in custody were mocking him as they beat him. 64 They also blindfolded him and kept asking him, “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” 65 And they said many other things against him, blaspheming him. 66 When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people gathered together, both chief priests and scribes. And they led him away to their council, and they said, 67 “If you are the Christ, tell us.” But he said to them, “If I tell you, you will not believe, 68 and if I ask you, you will not answer. 69 But from now on the Son of Man shall be seated at the right hand of the power of God.” 70 So they all said, “Are you the Son of God, then?” And he said to them, “You say that I am.” 71 Then they said, “What further testimony do we need? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips.” (Luke 22:39–71 ESV) Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 2 by Gretchen Kirby Reflection Notes: This modal meditation centers around an intervallic pattern in the right hand that is anchored by deep bass octaves in the left hand and occasional supportive harmonies. Though somewhat haunting, the melodic motif provokes reflection. Prayer: O you from whom to be turned is to fall, to whom to be turned is to rise and in whom to stand is to abide forever, grant us in all our duties your help, in all our perplexities your guidance, in all our dangers your protection and in all our sorrows your peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Augustine

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New Scripture for Today Podcast! Click here: https://sft.fireside.fm Opening Song: O Sacred Head Now Wounded by Bernard of Clairvaux, Gregg Sewell, James Waddell Alexander and Paulus Gerhardt, arranged by Fernando Ortega (https://open.spotify.com/track/57CCLOlx2dqnSynxfjaJYb?si=94ad1380d45a40b0) Lyrics: O sacred Head now wounded With grief and shame weighed down Now scornfully surrounded With thorns Thine only crown How pale Thou art with anguish With sore abuse and scorn How does that visage languish Which once was bright as morn What Thou my Lord has suffered Was all for sinners' gain Mine mine was the transgression But Thine the deadly pain Lo here I fall my Savior 'Tis I deserve Thy place Look on me with Thy favor Assist me with Thy grace What language shall I borrow To thank Thee dearest Friend For this Thy dying sorrow Thy pity without end O make me Thine forever And should I fainting be Lord let me never never Outlive my love to Thee Passage: 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:5–11 ESV) Musical Reflection: O Sacred Head Now Wounded by Hans Leo Hassler Reflection Notes: This tune by Hassler is most famously set with the text “O Sacred, Now Wounded;” the most common harmonization was popularized by J.S. Bach in his St. Matthew Passion. It conveys the pathos of Christ’s death with deep sincerity. Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, in your tender love for us you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon himself our nature, and to suffer death upon the Cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and come to share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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New Scripture for Today Podcast! Click here: https://sft.fireside.fm Opening Song: Psalm 22 by Greg LaFollette (https://open.spotify.com/track/1KP4dy5hNaKe4aWfvidbFm?si=e75519764bf2415f) Lyrics: My God my God why have you forsaken me My God my God why have you forsaken me You promised me that you would never leave I'm crying out but you are not listening I'm crying out but you withhold your peace from me You promised me that you would never leave He trusts in the Lord all the mockers say So let God deliver him since he loves him My God my God why have you forsaken me My God my God why have you forsaken me You promised me that you would never leave You promised me that you would never leave You promised me that you would never leave Let God deliver him since he loves him Passage: 1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest. 3 Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel. 4 In you our fathers trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them. 5 To you they cried and were rescued; in you they trusted and were not put to shame. 6 But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by mankind and despised by the people. 7 All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads; 8 “He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!” 9 Yet you are he who took me from the womb; you made me trust you at my mother’s breasts. 10 On you was I cast from my birth, and from my mother’s womb you have been my God. 11 Be not far from me, for trouble is near, and there is none to help. (Psalm 22:1–11 ESV) Musical Reflection: Bless the Lord, My Soul by Jacques Berthier Reflection Notes: A contribution to the Taizé tradition, this tune by Berthier provides a reverent foundation for the text: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and bless God’s holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life.” Prayer: O, make your Word a swift Word, passing from the ear to the heart, from the heart to the lip and conversation; that, as the rain returns not empty, so neither may your Word, but accomplish that for which it is given. Amen. -George Herbert

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New Scripture for Today Podcast! Click here: https://sft.fireside.fm Opening Song: Stricken, Smitten and Afflicted by Thomas Kelly, arranged by Fernando Ortega (https://open.spotify.com/track/0HYtaMPPStYpHtThWCg6Tz?si=8ef9195b461d44e3) Lyrics: Stricken smitten and afflicted See him dying on the tree 'Tis the Christ by man rejected Yes my soul 'tis he 'tis he 'Tis the long-expected Prophet David's Son yet David's Lord By his Son God now has spoken 'Tis the true and faithful Word Tell me ye who hear him groaning Was there ever grief like his Friends thro' fear his cause disowning Foes insulting his distress Many hands were raised to wound him None would interpose to save But the deepest stroke that pierced him Was the stroke that Justice gave Ye who think of sin but lightly Nor suppose the evil great Here may view its nature rightly Here its guilt may estimate Mark the sacrifice appointed See who bears the awful load 'Tis the Word the Lord's Anointed Son of Man and Son of God Here we have a firm foundation Here the refuge of the lost Christ's the Rock of our salvation His the name of which we boast Lamb of God for sinners wounded Sacrifice to cancel guilt None shall ever be confounded Who on him their hope have built Passage: 13 Behold, my servant shall act wisely; he shall be high and lifted up, and shall be exalted. 14 As many were astonished at you— his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance, and his form beyond that of the children of mankind— 15 so shall he sprinkle many nations. Kings shall shut their mouths because of him, for that which has not been told them they see, and that which they have not heard they understand. 1 Who has believed what he has heard from us? And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? 2 For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him. 3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people? 9 And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the will of the LORD to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors. (Isaiah 52:13–53:12 ESV) Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect. Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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New Scripture for Today Podcast! Click here: https://sft.fireside.fm Opening Song: The Church’s One Foundation by Samuel John Stone and Samuel Sebastian Wesley, arranged by the Norton Hall Band (https://open.spotify.com/track/69CGXrJPJzTF4EUoO9SxC8?si=b2020af59cff4600) Lyrics: The Church's one foundation Is Jesus Christ her Lord She is His new creation By water and the Word From heav'n He came and sought her To be His holy bride With His own blood He bought her And for her life He died Elect from every nation Yet one o'er all the earth Her charter of salvation One Lord one faith one birth One holy name she blesses Partakes one holy food And to one hope she presses With every grace endued 'Mid toil and tribulation And tumult of her war She waits the consummation Of peace forevermore Till with the vision glorious Her longing eyes are blest And the great Church victorious Shall be the Church at rest Yet she on earth hath union With God the Three in One And mystic sweet communion With those whose rest is won O happy ones and holy Lord give us grace that we Like them the meek and lowly On high may dwell with Thee Though with a scornful wonder Men see her sore oppressed By schisms rent asunder By heresies distressed Yet saints their watch are keeping Their cry goes up how long And soon the night of weeping Shall be the morn of song Passage: 9 And he began to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard and let it out to tenants and went into another country for a long while. 10 When the time came, he sent a servant to the tenants, so that they would give him some of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 11 And he sent another servant. But they also beat and treated him shamefully, and sent him away empty-handed. 12 And he sent yet a third. This one also they wounded and cast out. 13 Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my beloved son; perhaps they will respect him.’ 14 But when the tenants saw him, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir. Let us kill him, so that the inheritance may be ours.’ 15 And they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? 16 He will come and destroy those tenants and give the vineyard to others.” When they heard this, they said, “Surely not!” 17 But he looked directly at them and said, “What then is this that is written: “‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’? 18 Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, and when it falls on anyone, it will crush him.” 19 The scribes and the chief priests sought to lay hands on him at that very hour, for they perceived that he had told this parable against them, but they feared the people. (Luke 20:9–19 ESV) Musical Reflection: “Amazing Grace,” Appalachian folk tunel Reflection Notes: This beloved tune, formally known as NEW BRITAIN, originates from the folk music of Appalachia. The melody is simple and outlines triads, making it memorable; the ascending line creates a triumphant climax. Prayer: Let us take refuge like deer beside the fountain of waters. Let our soul thirst, as David thirsted, for the fountain. What is the fountain? Listen to David: “With you is the fountain of life.” Let my soul say to this fountain: “When shall I come and see you face to face?” For the fountain is God himself. Ambrose

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Opening Song: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross by Isaac Wardell and Lowell Mason, arranged by Keith and Kristyn Getty (https://open.spotify.com/track/1HJJ7VbGM17QxqrcWUR5cx?si=ae6485140ee64e23) Lyrics: When I survey the wondrous cross On which the Prince of glory died My richest gain I count but loss And pour contempt on all my pride Forbid it Lord that I should boast Save in the death of Christ my God All the vain things that charm me most I sacrifice them to His blood See from His head His hands His feet Sorrow and love flow mingled down Did ever such love and sorrow meet Or thorns compose so rich a crown Were the whole realm of nature mine That were a present (an offering) far too small Love so amazing so divine Demands my soul my life my all Passage: 7 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. 8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— 10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. 16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained. (Philippians 3:7–16 ESV) Musical Reflection: All to Jesus I Surrender (SURRENDER) by Winfield S. Weeden Reflection Notes: This tune was originally intended to have two-part harmonies on the verse and four-part harmonies of the refrain; the additional harmonic fullness adds to the repeated emphasis of the words “I surrender all.” Prayer: Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of this world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Psalm 126 by Isaac Wardell (https://open.spotify.com/track/2Urw2FGFCqSaPhhH9DpAzx?si=b76fa1908cf24769) Lyrics: Our mouths they were filled filled with laughter Our tongues they were loosed loosed with joy Restore us O Lord Restore us O Lord Although we are weeping Lord help us keep sowing The seeds of Your kingdom For the day You will reap them Your sheaves we will carry Lord please do not tarry All those who sow weeping Will go out with songs of joy The nations will say He has done great things The nations will sing songs of joy Restore us O Lord Restore us O Lord Passage: 1 When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” 3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad. 4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negeb! 5 Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! 6 He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him. (Psalm 126:1–6 ESV) Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect. Prayer: Your glorious Majesty surround me, the blessed Trinity protect me, and the eternal Godhead preserve me. Your unlimited mercy support me; your loving kindness encompass me; your favor make me to rejoice. The eternal truth of God be my delight, the saving knowledge of Christ strengthen me, and the all-prevailing grace of God be sufficient for me. May the grace of God the Father lead me, the wisdom of God the Son be my consolation, and the power of the Holy Spirit enlighten me. Lord my Creator, stand by me; my Redeemer, save me; and my Comforter, dwell with me. Amen. -Johann Habermann

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Opening Song: No Other God by Steph Macleod (https://open.spotify.com/track/670uY91jVrMGQtK7Fj619U?si=341da58c69954192) Lyrics: No other God can judge The weight of sin that dwells in us And yet amid His grace His blood declares my guilt erased What is this love This ancient hope You come to me With righteous robes Clothing me in Your salvation No other God I know Would ever aim to bow so low That He would make a way To rise again in victory What is this love This ancient hope You come to me With righteous robes Clothing me in Your salvation You see my pain You hear my doubts And in the place You fix Your crown Adorning me with Your salvation I lift my eyes My head held high I know that I will fear no evil You call my name I rise again Your mercy bought my heart's revival Passage: 16 Thus says the LORD, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, 17 who brings forth chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: 18 “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. 19 Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. 20 The wild beasts will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches, for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, 21 the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise. (Isaiah 43:16–21 ESV) Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two. Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go with text by George Matheson, arranged by Keith and Kristyn Getty and Dana Masters (https://open.spotify.com/track/1CtZJm0ejdhsneGnaF1mm9?si=bbc08da2281140db) Lyrics: O Love that will not let me go I rest my weary soul in thee I give thee back the life I owe That in thine ocean depths its flow May richer fuller be O Light that follows all my way I yield my flick’ring torch to thee My heart restores its borrowed ray That in thy sunshine’s blaze Its day may brighter fairer be O Joy that seekest me through pain I cannot close my heart to thee I trace the rainbow through the rain And feel the promise is not vain That morn shall tearless be O Cross that liftest up my head I dare not ask to fly from thee I lay in dust life’s glory dead And from the ground there blossoms red Life that shall endless be Passage: * 11 And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14 And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to[a] one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. 17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ 20 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’[b] 22 But the father said to his servants,[c] ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. 25 “Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ 28 But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, 29 but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ 31 And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’” Musical Reflection: * Jesus Loves Me by William B. Bradbury *Reflection Notes: * This sweet and familiar song was written in 1861 for the composer’s church school and has become a favorite because of the warm reminders associated with its text: “Jesus loves me, this I know.” Prayer: Heavenly Father, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you: Look with compassion upon the heartfelt desires of your servants, and purify our disordered affections, that we may behold your eternal glory in the face of Christ Jesus; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Behold by Taylor Leonhardt (https://open.spotify.com/track/02zfYDk6yVRRJvzNwTLu4z?si=e68a623480394ee2) Lyrics: The empty filled the wounded healed The broken back together The poor are blessed the weary rest We will dance forever The blinded see the chained are free The doubtful now believer The outcast known the orphan home You are my Redeemer Behold behold behold what love can do Behold behold He's making all things new The lost return the voiceless heard The mourner now rejoicing The mountains shake the world awake Creation all composing The sad untrue the earth renewed The song has found its singer The darkness light the dead alive You are my Redeemer We've been struck down we're not destroyed We've sown in tears we'll reap in joy My eyes are open Behold behold *Passage: * Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.[a] The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling[b] the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Musical Reflection: Bless the Lord, My Soul by Jacques Berthier Reflection Notes: A contribution to the Taizé tradition, this tune by Berthier provides a reverent foundation for the text: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and bless God’s holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life.” Prayer: Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world: Evermore give us this bread, that he may live in us, and we in him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Psalm 34 (Taste and See) by Joe Rigney and Shane Barnard

Lyrics: I sought the Lord and He answered me

And delivered me from every fear

Those who look on Him are radiant

They'll never be ashamed

This poor man cried and the Lord heard me

And saved me from my enemies

The Son of God surrounds His saints

He will deliver them

Magnify the Lord with me

Come exalt His name together

Glorify the Lord with me

Come exalt His name forever

O taste and see that the Lord is good

O blessed is he who hides in Him

O fear the Lord O all you saints

He'll give you everything

Let us bless the Lord

Every day and night

Never ending praise

May our incense rise

Passage: Taste and See That the Lord Is Good

[a] Of David, when he changed his behavior before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away.

34 I will bless the Lord at all times;

his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord;

let the humble hear and be glad.

3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me,

and let us exalt his name together!

4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me

and delivered me from all my fears.

5 Those who look to him are radiant,

and their faces shall never be ashamed.

6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him

and saved him out of all his troubles.

7 The angel of the Lord encamps

around those who fear him, and delivers them.

8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!

Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

9 Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,

for those who fear him have no lack!

10 The young lions suffer want and hunger;

but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

11 Come, O children, listen to me;

I will teach you the fear of the Lord.

12 What man is there who desires life

and loves many days, that he may see good?

13 Keep your tongue from evil

and your lips from speaking deceit.

14 Turn away from evil and do good;

seek peace and pursue it.

15 The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous

and his ears toward their cry.

16 The face of the Lord is against those who do evil,

to cut off the memory of them from the earth.

17 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears

and delivers them out of all their troubles.

18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted

and saves the crushed in spirit.

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous,

but the Lord delivers him out of them all.

20 He keeps all his bones;

not one of them is broken.

21 Affliction will slay the wicked,

and those who hate the righteous will be condemned.

22 The Lord redeems the life of his servants;

none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned.

Musical Reflection: Nothing But The Blood (PLAINFIELD) by Robert Lowry

Reflection Notes: Lowry wrote several hymns for his congregation’s use in the late nineteenth century. This particular tune is pentatonic (only five notes used per octave) and falls within a small vocal range, which made it accessible for all parishioners to sing and enjoy.

Prayer: O Lord, you have mercy upon all—take away from me my sins, and mercifully kindle in me the fire of your Holy Spirit. Take away from me the heart of stone, and give me a heart of flesh, a heart to love and adore you, a heart to delight in you, to follow and to enjoy you, for Christ’s sake. Amen. Ambrose

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Opening Song: Jesus, Bread of Life by Audrey Assad and Fernando Ortega

Lyrics: Jesus bread of life manna from heaven

Broken for the world

Offered up for every man

The feast of angels

Becomes food for the weary

And hungry hearts are filled

When you open up your hand

Oh Lord come fill us with your love

This table laid for us

There is more than enough

Jesus bread of life

Sister take what you need anything I own

There is no famine here Jesus’ love will multiply

Brother what’s mine is yours you are not alone

There is no shortage here Jesus’ love satisfies

Jesus’ love satisfies

Passage: 19 The people came up out of the Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and they encamped at Gilgal on the east border of Jericho. 20 And those twelve stones, which they took out of the Jordan, Joshua set up at Gilgal. 21 And he said to the people of Israel, “When your children ask their fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’ 22 then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordan on dry ground.’ 23 For the LORD your God dried up the waters of the Jordan for you until you passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red Sea, which he dried up for us until we passed over, 24 so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, that you may fear the LORD your God forever.”

1 As soon as all the kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan to the west, and all the kings of the Canaanites who were by the sea, heard that the LORD had dried up the waters of the Jordan for the people of Israel until they had crossed over, their hearts melted and there was no longer any spirit in them because of the people of Israel.

2 At that time the LORD said to Joshua, “Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel a second time.” 3 So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the sons of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth. 4 And this is the reason why Joshua circumcised them: all the males of the people who came out of Egypt, all the men of war, had died in the wilderness on the way after they had come out of Egypt. 5 Though all the people who came out had been circumcised, yet all the people who were born on the way in the wilderness after they had come out of Egypt had not been circumcised. 6 For the people of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, until all the nation, the men of war who came out of Egypt, perished, because they did not obey the voice of the LORD; the LORD swore to them that he would not let them see the land that the LORD had sworn to their fathers to give to us, a land flowing with milk and honey. 7 So it was their children, whom he raised up in their place, that Joshua circumcised. For they were uncircumcised, because they had not been circumcised on the way.

8 When the circumcising of the whole nation was finished, they remained in their places in the camp until they were healed. 9 And the LORD said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” And so the name of that place is called Gilgal to this day.

10 While the people of Israel were encamped at Gilgal, they kept the Passover on the fourteenth day of the month in the evening on the plains of Jericho. 11 And the day after the Passover, on that very day, they ate of the produce of the land, unleavened cakes and parched grain. 12 And the manna ceased the day after they ate of the produce of the land. And there was no longer manna for the people of Israel, but they ate of the fruit of the land of Canaan that year.

(Joshua 4:19–5:12 ESV) Musical Reflection: “Breathe on Me, Breath of God,” tune by Robert Jackson

Reflection Notes: TRENTHAM is a tune by Robert Jackson, an English composer during the nineteenth century. It fits perfectly with the text for “Breath On Me, Breath of God,” by Edwin Hatch; each phrase is allotted ample space for reflection.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Run to the Father by Cody Carnes, Matt Maher, and Ran Jackson

Lyrics: I've carried a burden for too long on my own

I wasn't created to bear it alone

I hear Your invitation to let it all go

I see it now I'm laying it down

And I know that I need You

I run to the Father

I fall into grace

I'm done with the hiding

No reason to wait

My heart needs (found) a surgeon

My soul needs (found) a friend

So I'll run to the Father

Again and again

And again and again

You saw my condition

Had a plan from the start

Your Son for redemption

The price for my heart

I don't have a context

For that kind of love

I don't understand

I can't comprehend

All I know is I need You

Oh oh

Again and again

And again and again

Oh oh oh

(Again and again)

My heart has been in Your sights

Long before my first breath

Running into Your arms

Is running to life from death

I feel this rush deep in my chest

Your mercy is calling out

Just as I am You pull me in

And I know I need You now

Passage: 1 There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? 3 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 4 Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? 5 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”

6 And he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. 7 And he said to the vinedresser, ‘Look, for three years now I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I find none. Cut it down. Why should it use up the ground?’ 8 And he answered him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and put on manure. 9 Then if it should bear fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’”

10 Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. 11 And behold, there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. 12 When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your disability.” 13 And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God. 14 But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days in which work ought to be done. Come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” 15 Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger and lead it away to water it? 16 And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” 17 As he said these things, all his adversaries were put to shame, and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

(Luke 13:1–17 ESV)

Musical Reflection: I Need Thee Every Hour (NEED) by Robert Lowry

Reflection Notes: Each stanza of this familiar hymn was written by Annie Hawks as part of a poem. When she showed the composition to her pastor, Robert Lowry, he added the refrain and set the text to music for their congregation to enjoy. The musical lines always tend upward before falling back down, an apt parallel to the textual pleas reaching up to God.

Prayer: Let your mighty hand and outstretched arm, O Lord, still be our defense; your mercy and loving kindness in Jesus Christ your dear Son, our salvation; your true and holy Word, our instruction; your grace and Holy Spirit, our comfort and consolation unto the end, and in the end. Amen.

-John Bradford

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Opening Song: Come After Me by Caroline Cobb

Lyrics: If you would follow Me

You must lay down your life

Take up your cross and count as loss

Your glory and your pride

The riches of this world

All power and human praise

Will slip like sand right through your hands

But My love will remain

Come

Come after Me come after Me

Don’t lose your life trying to save it

I know it’s hard but it’s worth it

You’ll see

Come after Me

If you would follow Me

My way leads first to death

But then to life My risen life

To lasting joy and rest

I’m the treasure in the field

You must sell your all to buy

But the riches there beyond compare

It makes the cost seem light

If I am anything I must be everything

Come after Me

If I am anything I must be everything

Come after Me

If I am anything I must be everything

Come after Me

If I am anything I must be everything

Come after Me

If I am anything I must be everything

Come after Me

Passage: 1 For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, 2 and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, 3 and all ate the same spiritual food, 4 and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ. 5 Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

6 Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. 7 Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.” 8 We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. 9 We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, 10 nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. 11 Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. 12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

(1 Corinthians 10:1–13 ESV)

Musical Reflection: All to Jesus I Surrender (SURRENDER) by Winfield S. Weeden

Reflection Notes: This tune was originally intended to have two-part harmonies on the verse and four-part harmonies of the refrain; the additional harmonic fullness adds to the repeated emphasis of the words “I surrender all.”

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you: Look with compassion upon the heartfelt desires of your servants, and purify our disordered affections, that we may behold your eternal glory in the face of Christ Jesus; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: East/West (Psalm 103) by Paul Zach Lyrics: Bless the Lord O my soul

All that is within me bless His name

He's forgives all our sin

He is slow to anger full of grace

As high as the heavens are up above

So is the greatness of His love

As far as the east is from the west

He removes our sin from us

As far as the east is from the west

For the Lord knows our frame

Short our days from dust to dust we fade

But His love will remain

Merciful to those who fear his name

The steadfast love of the Lord

Is from everlasting to everlasting

Passage: 1 Bless the LORD, O my soul,

and all that is within me,

bless his holy name!

2 Bless the LORD, O my soul,

and forget not all his benefits,

3 who forgives all your iniquity,

who heals all your diseases,

4 who redeems your life from the pit,

who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,

5 who satisfies you with good

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

6 The LORD works righteousness

and justice for all who are oppressed.

7 He made known his ways to Moses,

his acts to the people of Israel.

8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,

slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

9 He will not always chide,

nor will he keep his anger forever.

10 He does not deal with us according to our sins,

nor repay us according to our iniquities.

11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,

so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;

12 as far as the east is from the west,

so far does he remove our transgressions from us.

13 As a father shows compassion to his children,

so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.

14 For he knows our frame;

he remembers that we are dust.

15 As for man, his days are like grass;

he flourishes like a flower of the field;

16 for the wind passes over it, and it is gone,

and its place knows it no more.

17 But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him,

and his righteousness to children’s children,

18 to those who keep his covenant

and remember to do his commandments.

19 The LORD has established his throne in the heavens,

and his kingdom rules over all.

20 Bless the LORD, O you his angels,

you mighty ones who do his word,

obeying the voice of his word!

21 Bless the LORD, all his hosts,

his ministers, who do his will!

22 Bless the LORD, all his works,

in all places of his dominion.

Bless the LORD, O my soul!

(Psalm 103:1–22 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 1 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: A repetitive pattern in the left hand provides a meditative foundation while the right hand experiments with ascending lines. The tune is meant to be joyful and evoke delight.

Prayer: O Lord, in whose hands are life and death, by whose power I am sustained, and by whose mercy I am spared—look down upon me with pity. Forgive me that I have until now so much neglected the duty which you have assigned to me... Make me to remember, O God, that every day is your gift, and ought to be used according to your command… through Jesus Christ. Amen.

-Samuel Johnson

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Opening Song: Holy Ground by Ryan Williams, Taylor Heinzen, and Wesley Schrock.

Lyrics: I have felt the shadow

I walked for miles in the night

Heard Your mercy echo

Through the twilight of my mind

I’m falling on this holy ground

Held within Your glory

How great are You God

My Jesus take this broken sound

Mend it in Your mercy

How great are You God

Bursting through like starlight

Your love reflecting over me

No more reason to hide God

I give You everything

Jesus You’re the answer

For weary eyes and many doubts

Though my past keeps calling

All the more I’ll praise You now

Now all my failures fade in You on You

And all life’s colors change in You in You

Passage: 1 Now Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian, and he led his flock to the west side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 And the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush. He looked, and behold, the bush was burning, yet it was not consumed. 3 And Moses said, “I will turn aside to see this great sight, why the bush is not burned.” 4 When the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” 5 Then he said, “Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” 6 And he said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God.

7 Then the LORD said, “I have surely seen the affliction of my people who are in Egypt and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters. I know their sufferings, 8 and I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 9 And now, behold, the cry of the people of Israel has come to me, and I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptians oppress them. 10 Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” 12 He said, “But I will be with you, and this shall be the sign for you, that I have sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.”

13 Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” 14 God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” 15 God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘The LORD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This is my name forever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations.

(Exodus 3:1–15 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune

Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Blessed Is He by Josh Garrels

Lyrics:

“Blessed Is He”

You will not see me

Again until you can say

Blessed is He

Who comes in the name of the Lord

Yeshua

Amen

Passage: 22 He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem. 23 And someone said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25 When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’ 26 Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’ 27 But he will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!’ 28 In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God but you yourselves cast out. 29 And people will come from east and west, and from north and south, and recline at table in the kingdom of God. 30 And behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”

31 At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32 And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. 33 Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.’ 34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 35 Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’”

(Luke 13:22–35 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” tune by William Bradbury

Reflection Notes: The tune BRADBURY is named for its composer, a New Englander from the first half of the nineteenth century. The sweet melody for the verses repeats, then is followed by a strong refrain.

Prayer: Almighty God, you know that we have no power in ourselves to help ourselves: Keep us both outwardly in our bodies and inwardly in our souls, that we may be defended from all adversities that may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts that may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Take Heart by Leslie Jordan and Taylor Leonhardt

Lyrics: “Take Heart”

Hear all you children of Heaven's promise

Shivering under clouds of gloom

Hear all you wond'ring where your God is

Jesus weeps tonight with you

Take heart take heart He has overcome the world

Take heart take heart He has overcome (the world)

Hear all you weary trouble's companion

Praying to find a peace unknown

Where sorrow's river hollowed a canyon

The Wounded Healer's water flows

Our joy is born in labor pains

Love suffers long but not in vain

Our joy is born in labor pains

Love suffers long but not in vain

He has overcome the world

Passage: 17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.

(Philippians 3:17–4:1 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect.

Prayer: O Lord Jesus Christ, give us a measure of your spirit that we may be enabled to obey your teaching to pacify anger, to take part in pity, to moderate desire, to increase love, to put away sorrow, to cast away vainglory, not to be vindictive, not to fear death, ever entrusting our spirit to immortal God, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns world without end.

-Apollonius [(d. c. 185–190). A Roman senator who was particularly well read in the philosophy of the pagans. He was forced to appear before the praetorian prefect Perennes and was eventually martyred.]

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Opening Song: Psalm 27 (I Will See Your Goodness) by Greg LaFollette

Lyrics: You are my light

My light Lord

You are my salvation

You are my rock

My rock Lord

You’re my firm foundation

O Hallelujah

O You are good good

O Hallelujah

Bless You God

So in my day of trouble

I will hope and trust

Hide me in Your shelter

Defend and lift me up

I am sure of this

That I will see Your goodness

In the land of the living

I am sure of this

That I will see the goodness

Of the Lord

Passage: 1 The LORD is my light and my salvation;

whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the stronghold of my life;

of whom shall I be afraid?

2 When evildoers assail me

to eat up my flesh,

my adversaries and foes,

it is they who stumble and fall.

3 Though an army encamp against me,

my heart shall not fear;

though war arise against me,

yet I will be confident.

4 One thing have I asked of the LORD,

that will I seek after:

that I may dwell in the house of the LORD

all the days of my life,

to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD

and to inquire in his temple.

5 For he will hide me in his shelter

in the day of trouble;

he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;

he will lift me high upon a rock.

6 And now my head shall be lifted up

above my enemies all around me,

and I will offer in his tent

sacrifices with shouts of joy;

I will sing and make melody to the LORD.

7 Hear, O LORD, when I cry aloud;

be gracious to me and answer me!

8 You have said, “Seek my face.”

My heart says to you,

“Your face, LORD, do I seek.”

9 Hide not your face from me.

Turn not your servant away in anger,

O you who have been my help.

Cast me not off; forsake me not,

O God of my salvation!

10 For my father and my mother have forsaken me,

but the LORD will take me in.

11 Teach me your way, O LORD,

and lead me on a level path

because of my enemies.

12 Give me not up to the will of my adversaries;

for false witnesses have risen against me,

and they breathe out violence.

13 I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the LORD

in the land of the living!

14 Wait for the LORD;

be strong, and let your heart take courage;

wait for the LORD!

(Psalm 27:1–14 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Breathe on Me, Breath of God,” tune by Robert Jackson

Reflection Notes: TRENTHAM is a tune by Robert Jackson, an English composer during the nineteenth century. It fits perfectly with the text for “Breath On Me, Breath of God,” by Edwin Hatch; each phrase is allotted ample space for reflection.

Prayer: I beseech you, merciful God, to allow me to drink from the stream that flows from your fountain of life. May I taste the sweet beauty of its waters, which sprang from the very depths of your truth. O Lord, you are that fountain from which I desire with all my heart to drink. Give me, Lord Jesus, this water, that it may quench the burning spiritual thirst within my soul, and purify me from all sin. I know, King of glory, that I am asking from you a great gift. But you give to your faithful people without counting the cost, and you promise even greater things in the future. Indeed, nothing is greater than yourself, and you have given yourself to humankind on the cross. Therefore, in praying for the waters of life, I am praying that you, the source of those waters, will give yourself to me. You are my light, my salvation, my food, my drink, my God.

-Columbanus [(543–615). A teacher, missionary, and founder of monasteries who fought against corruption in the church. His Irish Latin poetry, rules and letters were formational for the culture of the time period.]

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Opening Song: Promises by Aaron Moses, Dante Bowe, Joe L. Barnes, Keila Alvarado, Lemuel Marin, and Phillip Carrington Gaines

Lyrics: “Promises”

God of Abraham You're the God of covenant

Of faithful promises

Time and time again You have proven

You do just what You say

Though the storms may come

And the winds may blow

I'll remain steadfast

And let my heart learn when You speak a word

It will come to pass

Great is Your faithfulness to me

From the rising sun to the setting same

I will praise Your name

Great is Your faithfulness to me

Oh

Seasons change

You remain the same

God from age to age

Though the earth may pass away

Your word remains the same yeah

Your history can prove

There's nothing You can't do

You're faithful and true

Oh Your faithfulness

It never runs out

Oh Your faithfulness

Oh it never runs out

(Never runs out)

It never runs out

(Never runs out)

I put my faith in Jesus

My anchor to the ground

My hope and firm foundation

He'll never let me down

From the rising sun to the setting same

I will praise Your name

I'll still bless You

Passage: 1 After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” 2 But Abram said, “O Lord GOD, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” 3 And Abram said, “Behold, you have given me no offspring, and a member of my household will be my heir.” 4 And behold, the word of the LORD came to him: “This man shall not be your heir; your very own son shall be your heir.” 5 And he brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” 6 And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness.

7 And he said to him, “I am the LORD who brought you out from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land to possess.” 8 But he said, “O Lord GOD, how am I to know that I shall possess it?” 9 He said to him, “Bring me a heifer three years old, a female goat three years old, a ram three years old, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” 10 And he brought him all these, cut them in half, and laid each half over against the other. But he did not cut the birds in half. 11 And when birds of prey came down on the carcasses, Abram drove them away.

12 As the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell on Abram. And behold, dreadful and great darkness fell upon him. 13 Then the LORD said to Abram, “Know for certain that your offspring will be sojourners in a land that is not theirs and will be servants there, and they will be afflicted for four hundred years. 14 But I will bring judgment on the nation that they serve, and afterward they shall come out with great possessions. 15 As for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you shall be buried in a good old age. 16 And they shall come back here in the fourth generation, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete.”

17 When the sun had gone down and it was dark, behold, a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch passed between these pieces. 18 On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates,

(Genesis 15:1–18 ESV)

Musical Reflection: JESUS LOVES ME by William B. Bradbury

Reflection Notes: This sweet and familiar song was written in 1861 for the composer’s church school and has become a favorite because of the warm reminders associated with its text: “Jesus loves me, this I know.”

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Perfect Peace by Tenielle Neda

Lyrics: Do not be anxious for anything

But in prayer surrender to Him

For my peace I leave you, my peace I give

To those who trust the Lord

You will keep in perfect peace

Those whose minds are steadfast

You will keep in perfect peace

Those who trust the Lord

Are you not more precious than gold?

Or the flowers of the field so beautifully clothed

Why then worry about tomorrow?

What you need your Father knows

You will keep in perfect peace

Thosе whose minds are steadfast

You will keep in pеrfect peace

Those who trust the Lord

When my soul is cast down

I'll recount Your love

The calm amidst the chaos

I hear You say, "Child come"

Come

Passage: 19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”

24 Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.”

26 Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” 28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

(John 20:19–31 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Air on the G String” from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major by J.S. Bach

Reflection Notes: The slow, descending bass line creates musical “steps” in an elegant fashion while a suspended melody several octaves above creates a satisfying combination of sound registers.

Prayer: Almighty God, through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, you revealed the way of eternal life to every race and nation: Pour out this gift anew, that by the preaching of the Gospel your salvation may reach to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Call Upon Him by Rachael Lampa, Sandra McCracken, and Trillia Newbell

Lyrics: Call upon Him call upon Him

There is power in the Name

Call upon Him call upon Him

There is power in the Name

When I don’t have the words

When the spirit hurts

When my sorrow’s too deep to understand

Will You hear my voice saying speak oh Lord

Mighty God Healing King take my hand

And in the night I pray

When I feel afraid

When there is no friend that I can see

Can You hold me safe

Can You break these chains

Prince of Peace Father please set me free

Passage: 9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. 11 For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. 13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

14 How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.

(Romans 10:9–17 ESV)

Musical Reflection: All to Jesus I Surrender (SURRENDER) by Winfield S. Weeden

Reflection Notes: This tune was originally intended to have two-part harmonies on the verse and four-part harmonies of the refrain; the additional harmonic fullness adds to the repeated emphasis of the words “I surrender all.”

Prayer: Almighty God, through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, you revealed the way of eternal life to every race and nation: Pour out this gift anew, that by the preaching of the Gospel your salvation may reach to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Psalm 96 (Let the Earth Rejoice) by Robbie Seay

Lyrics: Let the heavens be glad

Let the earth rejoice

Let the sea roar and all that fills it

Let the earth rejoice

Let the heavens be glad

Let the earth rejoice

Let the sea roar and all that fills it

Let the field exult and everything in it

Sing let the earth rejoice

Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy

Before the Lord for He comes

For He comes to judge the earth

He will judge the world in righteousness

For He comes to judge the earth

And the peoples in his faithfulness

Let the heavens be glad

Let the earth rejoice

Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy

Before the Lord for He comes

Passage: 1 Oh sing to the LORD a new song;

sing to the LORD, all the earth!

2 Sing to the LORD, bless his name;

tell of his salvation from day to day.

3 Declare his glory among the nations,

his marvelous works among all the peoples!

4 For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised;

he is to be feared above all gods.

5 For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols,

but the LORD made the heavens.

6 Splendor and majesty are before him;

strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.

7 Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples,

ascribe to the LORD glory and strength!

8 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name;

bring an offering, and come into his courts!

9 Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness;

tremble before him, all the earth!

10 Say among the nations, “The LORD reigns!

Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved;

he will judge the peoples with equity.”

11 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;

let the sea roar, and all that fills it;

12 let the field exult, and everything in it!

Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy

13 before the LORD, for he comes,

for he comes to judge the earth.

He will judge the world in righteousness,

and the peoples in his faithfulness.

(Psalm 96:1–13 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Bless the Lord, My Soul by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: A contribution to the Taizé tradition, this tune by Berthier provides a reverent foundation for the text: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and bless God’s holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life.”

Prayer: O Lord God, Father of mercies, the fountain of comfort and blessing, of life and peace, of plenty and pardon, who fills heaven with your glory, and earth with your goodness—I give you the most earnest, the most humble, and most enlarged returns of my glad and thankful heart, for you have refreshed me with your comforts, and enlarged me with your blessing. You have made my flesh and my bones to rejoice, for, besides the blessings of all mankind, the blessings of nature, and the blessings of grace, the support of every minute, and the comforts of every day, you have opened your bosom, and at this time have poured out an excellent expression of your loving kindness. Amen.

-Jeremy Taylor

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Opening Song: The Year of His Favor (Isaiah 61) by Caroline Cobb

Lyrics: The Spirit of the Lord is on You

A King anointed for the cross

To the helpless You bring good news

You come to bind the broken heart

Speaking freedom to the captive

Comfort to the ones who grieve

To the downcast You bring justice

To the needy one relief

You give beauty for ashes

You pour out the oil of gladness

The year of His favor comes

The year of His favor

You give to the weak and faint

A garment of joy and praise

The year of His favor comes

You come to raise up what’s been ruined

Rivers in a desert waste

You are the Lord and You will do this

For the glory of Your name

Come Lord

The broken dance (come Lord)

The blind will see (come Lord)

The sick are healed (come Lord)

The mute will sing (come Lord)

The dead alive (come Lord)

The sinner free (come Lord)

The kingdom’s here (come Lord)

At last the King (oh)

Come Lord

Passage: 1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,

because the LORD has anointed me

to bring good news to the poor;

he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives,

and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;

2 to proclaim the year of the LORD’S favor,

and the day of vengeance of our God;

to comfort all who mourn;

3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion—

to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,

the oil of gladness instead of mourning,

the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;

that they may be called oaks of righteousness,

the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.

4 They shall build up the ancient ruins;

they shall raise up the former devastations;

they shall repair the ruined cities,

the devastations of many generations.

(Isaiah 61:1–4 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune

Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Solid Rock arranged by Edward Mote and LOVKN

Lyrics: My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus Chris and righteousness

I dare not trust the sweetest frame

But wholly lean on Jesus' name

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

When darkness veils his loving face

I rest on His unchanging grace

In every high and stormy gale

My anchor holds within the veil

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

His oath, His covenant, His blood

Support me in the whelming flood

When around my soul give way

He then is all my hope and stay

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

When He shall come with trumpet sound

Oh, may I then in Him be found

In Him, my righteousness alone

Faultless to stand before the throne

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

Passage: 39 He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher. 41 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 42 How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye.

43 “For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit, 44 for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. 45 The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

46 “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? 47 Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. 49 But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”

(Luke 6:39–49 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Piano Sonata No. 16 in C Major, K. 545: II. Andante by W. A. Mozart

Reflection Notes: In true fashion for Mozart’s middle movements, this Andante blooms slowly with gentle and delicate notes; the melody ascends in joyful fashion at the most climactic points before settling back down with the satisfying left hand harmonies.

Prayer: Almighty God, heavenly Father, because we are so weak in ourselves that we cannot stand even for a moment, and moreover, our sworn enemies—the devil, the world, and our own flesh—do not cease to attack us; will you, therefore, keep and strengthen us by the power of your Holy Spirit, so that we may firmly resist them and not go down to defeat in this spiritual war, but remain persistent until we finally obtain the complete victory and reign together with your Son, our Lord and Protector Jesus Christ, in your kingdom forevermore. Amen.

-Zacharias Ursinus

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Opening Song: Praise the King by Corey Voss, Dustin Smith, Michael Bryce Jr., and Michael Farren

Lyrics:

There's a reason why the curse of sin is broken

There's a reason why the darkness runs from light

There's a reason why we stand here now forgiven

Jesus is alive

There’s a reason why we are not overtaken

There’s a reason why we sing on through the night

There’s a reason why our hope remains eternal

Jesus is alive

Praise the King He is risen

Praise the King He's alive (yeah)

Praise the King death's defeated

Hallelujah He's alive (oh)

(Hallelujah He's alive)

There's a reason why our hearts can be courageous

There's a reason why the dead are made alive

There's a reason why we share His resurrection

Jesus is alive (oh He's alive)

Oh He's alive

The grave could not ignore it

When all of heaven's roaring

Hell where is your victory

Death where is your sting

The world could not ignore it

When all the saints are roaring

Hell where is your victory

Death where is your sting

Hallelujah He’s alive (oh)

Hallelujah He’s alive

Passage: 50 I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51 Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. 53 For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality.

54 When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:

“Death is swallowed up in victory.”

55 “O death, where is your victory?

O death, where is your sting?”

56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

(1 Corinthians 15:50–58 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 2 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This modal meditation centers around an intervallic pattern in the right hand that is anchored by deep bass octaves in the left hand and occasional supportive harmonies. Though somewhat haunting, the melodic motif provokes reflection.

Prayer: Almighty and merciful God, in your goodness keep us, we pray, from all things that may hurt us; that we, being ready both in mind and body, may accomplish with joyful hearts those things which belong to your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Brighter than the Sun by Caleb Choo, Jonathan Ogden, and Nathan Stirling.

Lyrics:

Oh Lord

You love

More than anyone

Oh Lord

You shine

Brighter than the sun

I've been searching

For a love like Yours and

I am seeking longing

To know You more

With my whole heart

I was made to worship You

My saviour Jesus

'Cause You're the source of my life

I love You Lord

There’s nothing in this world that I want more

You’re everything

That every human heart is searching for

You are the source of the love that I need

You are the river

The fountain the stream

You go beyond all that we can conceive

So open my eyes Father I want to see

You are the way You’re the truth and the life

All that I need I believe You provide

You will shine forth in Your glory and might

'Til even the darkness is turned into light

Passage: 1 It is good to give thanks to the LORD,

to sing praises to your name, O Most High;

2 to declare your steadfast love in the morning,

and your faithfulness by night,

3 to the music of the lute and the harp,

to the melody of the lyre.

4 For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work;

at the works of your hands I sing for joy.

5 How great are your works, O LORD!

Your thoughts are very deep!

6 The stupid man cannot know;

the fool cannot understand this:

7 that though the wicked sprout like grass

and all evildoers flourish,

they are doomed to destruction forever;

8 but you, O LORD, are on high forever.

9 For behold, your enemies, O LORD,

for behold, your enemies shall perish;

all evildoers shall be scattered.

10 But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox;

you have poured over me fresh oil.

11 My eyes have seen the downfall of my enemies;

my ears have heard the doom of my evil assailants.

12 The righteous flourish like the palm tree

and grow like a cedar in Lebanon.

13 They are planted in the house of the LORD;

they flourish in the courts of our God.

14 They still bear fruit in old age;

they are ever full of sap and green,

15 to declare that the LORD is upright;

he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.

(Psalm 92:1–15 ESV)

Musical Reflection: It Is Well With My Soul (VILLE DU HAVRE) by Philip Bliss

Reflection Notes: A hymn born in tragedy, “It is Well” was penned by Horatio Spafford after hearing that his daughters had all perished in a shipwreck. Through this devastation, Spafford and his wife clung to the promise of God’s goodness. Spafford’s immortal words were set to music by his good friend and hymn writer, Philip Bliss; Bliss titled the tune “Ville du Havre” after the ship on which Spafford’s children had died.

Prayer: Most loving Father, whose will it is for us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing but the loss of you, and to cast all our care on you who care for us: Preserve us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, that no clouds of this mortal life may hide from us the light of that love which is immortal, and which you have manifested to us in your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Illuminate the Shadows by Isaac Wardell and Paul Zach

Lyrics: Illuminate the shadows

Comfort those who are cast down

Illuminate the shadows

Be our refuge in the time of storm

God our help in the time of trouble

(God our help in the time of trouble)

Illuminate the shadows

Cast the evil ruler from His throne

Illuminate the shadows

Break oppression with your mighty arm

Illuminate the shadows

'Til every idol has been trampled on

Illuminate the shadows

'Til every statue comes tumbling down

Bring hope to the hopeless

Passage: 1 The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD: 2 “Stand in the gate of the LORD’S house, and proclaim there this word, and say, Hear the word of the LORD, all you men of Judah who enter these gates to worship the LORD. 3 Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Amend your ways and your deeds, and I will let you dwell in this place. 4 Do not trust in these deceptive words: ‘This is the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD.’

5 “For if you truly amend your ways and your deeds, if you truly execute justice one with another, 6 if you do not oppress the sojourner, the fatherless, or the widow, or shed innocent blood in this place, and if you do not go after other gods to your own harm, 7 then I will let you dwell in this place, in the land that I gave of old to your fathers forever.

8 “Behold, you trust in deceptive words to no avail. 9 Will you steal, murder, commit adultery, swear falsely, make offerings to Baal, and go after other gods that you have not known, 10 and then come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, ‘We are delivered!’—only to go on doing all these abominations? 11 Has this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, I myself have seen it, declares the LORD. 12 Go now to my place that was in Shiloh, where I made my name dwell at first, and see what I did to it because of the evil of my people Israel. 13 And now, because you have done all these things, declares the LORD, and when I spoke to you persistently you did not listen, and when I called you, you did not answer, 14 therefore I will do to the house that is called by my name, and in which you trust, and to the place that I gave to you and to your fathers, as I did to Shiloh. 15 And I will cast you out of my sight, as I cast out all your kinsmen, all the offspring of Ephraim.

(Jeremiah 7:1–15 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Coram Deo by Antoine Bradford

O Lord, open our lips and our mouths will declare Your praise.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end,

Amen.

The Scripture for today is Genesis 45:3-11 and 21-28.

Let’s prepare our hearts to hear from God’s word as we listen to Coram Deo by Antoine Bradford. Sliding guitar, atmospheric synthesizer chords, and airy background vocals create a sun-soaked sound. The text reinforces Jesus’s steadfast qualities in the midst of life’s ups and downs as the vocalist sings of the joy found in chasing after Him.

Lyrics: Time and time again

I know that I've seen Your hands

Holy and holding me up

Again and again

And through all the ups and the downs

Thorny and golden crowns

Faithful You've always been

My heart sings in wonder

Oh, and I can't help but say

Lord, You are everything to me

Jesus, You are everything to me

In You I have my being

And Your love's a living stream

Constant and overflowing

And it satisfies all of my longings

My heart sings in wonder, oh-oh

And I can't help but say

Lord, You are everything to me

Jesus, You are everything

In You I have my being

Have more of You

All my joy is found in chasing You

And I'll chase You till I have more of You

All my joy is found in chasing You

And I'll chase You till I have more of You

All my joy is found in chasing You

And I'll chase You till I have more of You

Passage: 3 And Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence.

4 So Joseph said to his brothers, “Come near to me, please.” And they came near. And he said, “I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. 5 And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. 6 For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest. 7 And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. 8 So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt. 9 Hurry and go up to my father and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph, God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; do not tarry. 10 You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near me, you and your children and your children’s children, and your flocks, your herds, and all that you have. 11 There I will provide for you, for there are yet five years of famine to come, so that you and your household, and all that you have, do not come to poverty.’

21 The sons of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the command of Pharaoh, and gave them provisions for the journey. 22 To each and all of them he gave a change of clothes, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silver and five changes of clothes. 23 To his father he sent as follows: ten donkeys loaded with the good things of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain, bread, and provision for his father on the journey. 24 Then he sent his brothers away, and as they departed, he said to them, “Do not quarrel on the way.”

25 So they went up out of Egypt and came to the land of Canaan to their father Jacob. 26 And they told him, “Joseph is still alive, and he is ruler over all the land of Egypt.” And his heart became numb, for he did not believe them. 27 But when they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had said to them, and when he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of their father Jacob revived. 28 And Israel said, “It is enough; Joseph my son is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”

(Genesis 45:3–11, 21–28 ESV)

Musical Reflection: I Need Thee Every Hour (NEED) by Robert Lowry

Reflection Notes: Each stanza of this familiar hymn was written by Annie Hawks as part of a poem. When she showed the composition to her pastor, Robert Lowry, he added the refrain and set the text to music for their congregation to enjoy. The musical lines always tend upward before falling back down, an apt parallel to the textual pleas reaching up to God.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: The Day of the Lord (Psalm 37) by Wendell Kimbrough

O Lord, open our lips and our mouths will declare Your praise.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end,

Amen.

The Scripture for today is Psalm 37:8-17.

Let’s prepare our hearts to hear from God’s word as we listen to The Day of the Lord (Psalm 37) by Wendell Kimbrough. The earnest vocals, hints of tambourine, and instrumentation lend a ballad-like nature to this song. Repetition of the text reminds us to hold on because “it’s not long ‘til the Day of the Lord.”

Lyrics:

It’s not long ’til the boastful

Are silenced and shamed

It’s not long ’til the wealth

Of the wicked’s reclaimed

And the ones who have waited

With eyes on the Lord

Will shine like the sun forevermore

It’s not long ’til the Day of the Lord

Just be still and be faithful

And dwell in the land

Put your trust in the Savior

And cling to his hand

When your heart burns with anger

For all that is wrong

Do not let the dark steal your song

It’s not long ’til the Day of the Lord

It’s not long till the Day of the Lord

Everything that is broken will soon be restored

It’s not long till the Day of the Lord

Do not fear for the wicked

With weapons of war

For the Lord is the shelter

And strength of the poor

And our God comes with laughter

Let him be your joy

The power of the sword he’ll destroy

It’s not long till the Day of the Lord

Passage: 8 Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath!

Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.

9 For the evildoers shall be cut off,

but those who wait for the LORD shall inherit the land.

10 In just a little while, the wicked will be no more;

though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there.

11 But the meek shall inherit the land

and delight themselves in abundant peace.

12 The wicked plots against the righteous

and gnashes his teeth at him,

13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,

for he sees that his day is coming.

14 The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows

to bring down the poor and needy,

to slay those whose way is upright;

15 their sword shall enter their own heart,

and their bows shall be broken.

16 Better is the little that the righteous has

than the abundance of many wicked.

17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,

but the LORD upholds the righteous.

(Psalm 37:8–17 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Amazing Grace,” Appalachian folk tune

Reflection Notes: This beloved tune, formally known as NEW BRITAIN, originates from the folk music of Appalachia. The melody is simple and outlines triads, making it memorable; the ascending line creates a triumphant climax.

Prayer: Most loving Father, whose will it is for us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing but the loss of you, and to cast all our care on you who care for us: Preserve us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, that no clouds of this mortal life may hide from us the light of that love which is immortal, and which you have manifested to us in your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Instrument of Peace by Isaac Wardell, Jessica Fox, Liz Vice, Orlando Palmer, and Paul Zach

Lyrics: Lord make me

An instrument of peace

Where is there hatred let me sow love

Where there is darkness let me sow light

For in the giving we shall receive

And in the dying we’re given life

Lord make me

An instrument of peace

Where there is sorrow let me sow hope

Where there is doubt let me sow faith

Where is injury your pardon give

Your consolation to those in pain

Lord make me

An instrument of peace

Passage: 27 “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29 To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. 30 Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. 31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.

32 “If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. 35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. 36 Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.

37 “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38 give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”

(Luke 6:27–38 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Prelude in C Major, BWV 846 by J.S. Bach

Reflection Notes: Bach’s well-known prelude spins out a series of modulations, almost imperceptible at first. The new harmonies continually unfold in a way that intrigues but never shocks.

Prayer: O Lord, support us all the day long through this trouble-filled life, until

the shadows lengthen, and the evening comes, and the busy world

is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then in

your mercy grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at

the last.

Amen.

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Opening Song: Dust We Are and Shall Return by John Arndt, Kate Gungor, and Michael Gungor

Lyrics: From dust we've come

And dust we are

And shall return

Be still my soul

And let it go

Just let it go

Glory to God

In the highest

Glory to God

In the highest

Naked we came

And shall return

Into the grave

Be still my soul

And let it go

Just let it go

Glory to God

In the highest

Glory to God

In the highest

Be still my soul

Lord make me whole

Be still my soul

Lord make me whole

Be still my soul

Lord make me whole

Glory to God

Passage: 35 But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body do they come?” 36 You foolish person! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. 37 And what you sow is not the body that is to be, but a bare kernel, perhaps of wheat or of some other grain. 38 But God gives it a body as he has chosen, and to each kind of seed its own body. 39 For not all flesh is the same, but there is one kind for humans, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish. 40 There are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is of one kind, and the glory of the earthly is of another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for star differs from star in glory.

42 So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. 43 It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45 Thus it is written, “The first man Adam became a living being”; the last Adam became a life-giving spirit. 46 But it is not the spiritual that is first but the natural, and then the spiritual. 47 The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven. 48 As was the man of dust, so also are those who are of the dust, and as is the man of heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. 49 Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven.

(1 Corinthians 15:35–49 ESV)

Musical Reflection:

All to Jesus I Surrender (SURRENDER) by Winfield S. Weeden

Reflection Notes: This tune was originally intended to have two-part harmonies on the verse and four-part harmonies of the refrain; the additional harmonic fullness adds to the repeated emphasis of the words “I surrender all.”

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: O Lord, open our lips and our mouths will declare Your praise.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end,

Amen.

The Scripture for today is Luke 6:17-26.

Let’s prepare our hearts to hear from God’s word as we listen to Blessed Are the Ones by Audrey Assad, Derek Webb, and Sandra McCracken. Brisk patterns and percussion sounds establish a dance-like walk; additional guitars enter with a sense of urgency. The poetic imagery depicts the joy with which we can relinquish material possessions and embrace the life Christ has set before us. The chorus references the famous line from C.S. Lewis’s book, The Last Battle: “I have come home at last! This is my real country! I belong here. This is the land I have been looking for all my life, though I never knew it till now. Come further up, come further in!”

Lyrics: We're tossing pennies in the well

Empty pockets all turned out

Happy shining blessed are the ones who hunger

When our poverty is plain

I try to burn it in my brain

And trace a line around your face to paint a picture

Chorus 1

So further up and further in

We have nowhere else to go

We plant the seeds of toil and tears

It's beauty we will sow

Blessed are the ones blessed are the ones

Blessed are the hungry ones

Verse 2

Let's build a house with turned out doors

So we can share what love affords

And pour ourselves out

Like a wine that we've been saving

So when our well is running dry

Or when we raise our glasses high

Happy shining are the faces of the thirsty

Chorus 2

So further up and further in

We have nowhere else to go

Would You give us seeds of toils and tears

It's beauty we will sow

Blessed are the ones blessed are the ones

Blessed are the thirsty ones

Bridge

Love is all we need

Chorus 3

So further up and further in

We have nowhere else to go

'Cause when all we have is what we need

It's joy that we will sow

Blessed are the ones blessed are the ones

Blessed are the hungry ones

Passage: 17 place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, 18 who came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. And those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. 19 And all the crowd sought to touch him, for power came out from him and healed them all.

20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.

21 “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.

22 “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! 23 Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.

24 “But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.

25 “Woe to you who are full now, for you shall be hungry. “Woe to you who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep.

26 “Woe to you, when all people speak well of you, for so their fathers did to the false prophets.

(Luke 6:17–26 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune

Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two.

Prayer: Almighty God, look mercifully upon your people, that by your great goodness they may be governed and preserved evermore; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: O Lord, open our lips and our mouths will declare Your praise.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end,

Amen.

The Scripture for today is 1 Corinthians 15:12-20.

Let’s prepare our hearts to hear from God’s word as we listen to Christ Our Hope in Life and Death by Jordan Kauflin, Keith Getty, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, and Matthew Merker (sung by Shane and Shane). This arrangement stretches the march-like contemporary hymn into a more drawn-out, emotional reflection. Each chorus explodes with triumph in a welcome of voices, percussion, and harmony, a representation of Christ’s victory over death.

Lyrics:

What is our hope in life and death

Christ alone Christ alone

What is our only confidence

That our souls to Him belong

Who holds our days within His hand

What comes apart from His command

And what will keep us to the end

The love of Christ in which we stand

O sing hallelujah

Our hope springs eternal

O sing hallelujah

Now and ever we confess

Christ our hope in life and death

What truth can calm the troubled soul

God is good God is good

Where is His grace and goodness known

In our great Redeemer's blood

Who holds our faith when fears arise

Who stands above the stormy trial

Who sends the waves that bring us nigh

Unto the shore the rock of Christ

Unto the grave what will we sing

Christ He lives Christ He lives

And what reward will heaven bring

Everlasting life with Him

There we will rise to meet the Lord

Then sin and death will be destroyed

And we will feast in endless joy

When Christ is ours forevermore

Passage: 12 Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. 15 We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. 16 For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. 18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19 If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.

20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

(1 Corinthians 15:12–20 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Sacred Head Now Wounded by Hans Leo Hassler

Reflection Notes: This tune by Hassler is most famously set with the text “O Sacred, Now Wounded;” the most common harmonization was popularized by J.S. Bach in his St. Matthew Passion. It conveys the pathos of Christ’s death with deep sincerity.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, in you we live and move and have our being: We humbly pray you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that we are ever walking in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song:

Psalm 1 by Poor Bishop Hooper

Lyrics:

Oh the joy, the joy, the joy

Of those who delight in the law of the lord

Oh the joy, the joy, the joy of those

Who meditate day and night in the law of the lord

Let all my delight be only in

Your sweet and right instruction

Like trees along the river with leaves that never wither

Everything they do will prosper in you

Passage:

1 Blessed is the man

who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,

nor stands in the way of sinners,

nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD,

and on his law he meditates day and night.

3 He is like a tree

planted by streams of water

that yields its fruit in its season,

and its leaf does not wither.

In all that he does, he prospers.

4 The wicked are not so,

but are like chaff that the wind drives away.

5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,

nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous;

6 for the LORD knows the way of the righteous,

but the way of the wicked will perish.

(Psalm 1:1–6 ESV)

Musical Reflection:

Harp meditation No. 1 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes:

A repetitive pattern in the left hand provides a meditative foundation while the right hand experiments with ascending lines. The tune is meant to be joyful and evoke delight.

Prayer:

We beseech you, O Lord, to purify our consciences by your daily visitation; that when your Son our Lord comes, he may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. The Gelasian Sacramentary

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Opening Song: O Lord, open our lips and our mouths will declare Your praise.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end,

Amen.

The Scripture for today is Jeremiah 17:5-10.

Let’s prepare our hearts to hear from God’s word as we listen to By the Streams by Jonathan Ogden. A steady rhythmic pattern is established by sustained piano tones; other electronic instruments are gradually layered on top. The vocal line is gentle as the text expresses yearning to be planted like a tree by the streams of living water.

Lyrics: I have found my souls delight

In You Lord In you lord

I have found my souls delight

In Your eyes In your eyes

Your word is water to my soul

Your word is life to me

Plant me like a tree by the streams of living water

Plant me like a tree by the streams by the streams

Day and night

I will meditate on Your word

Passage: 5 Thus says the LORD:

“Cursed is the man who trusts in man

and makes flesh his strength,

whose heart turns away from the LORD.

6 He is like a shrub in the desert,

and shall not see any good come.

He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness,

in an uninhabited salt land.

7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,

whose trust is the LORD.

8 He is like a tree planted by water,

that sends out its roots by the stream,

and does not fear when heat comes,

for its leaves remain green,

and is not anxious in the year of drought,

for it does not cease to bear fruit.”

9 The heart is deceitful above all things,

and desperately sick;

who can understand it?

10 “I the LORD search the heart

and test the mind,

to give every man according to his ways,

according to the fruit of his deeds.”

(Jeremiah 17:5–10 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Air on the G String” from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major by J.S. Bach

Reflection Notes: The slow, descending bass line creates musical “steps” in an elegant fashion while a suspended melody several octaves above creates a satisfying combination of sound registers.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Altogether Good by Brian Eichelberger and Zach Bolen

Lyrics: How could we recount the ways

That You have multiplied our faith

The wisdom of Your ways

The currents of Your grace expressed

In every moment every wave

In the longing of our souls

In the darkness where we go

You are there You are love

You are altogether good

In the weakness of our faith

In the silence where we wait

You are here You're enough

You are altogether good

Through our joys and in our griefs

You have led us to believe

The wisdom of Your ways

The currents of Your grace express

Our only hope for all our days

You are altogether good

I love You Lord I love You Lord

You are my more

Wholly present and pure

(You are altogether good)

Passage: Luke 5:1-11

On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” 9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”[a] 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.

Musical Reflection: “Amazing Grace,” Appalachian folk tune

Reflection Notes: This beloved tune, formally known as NEW BRITAIN, originates from the folk music of Appalachia. The melody is simple and outlines triads, making it memorable; the ascending line creates a triumphant climax.

Prayer: O Lord, our heavenly Father, keep your household the Church continually in your true religion, that we who trust in the hope of your heavenly grace may always be defended by your mighty power; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Morning by Morning by Ben Smith, Daniel Bashta, Mack Brock, and Pat Barrett

Lyrics: Daily daily I surrender

Grace for today is all that I need

Surprised by Your mercy

It's new every morning

Awaken my soul to sing (2X)

I will trust where You lead

I will trust when I can't see

Morning by morning

Great is Your faithfulness to me

Breath by breath overtaken by want

One step at a time when I'm overwhelmed

Strength for today

Bright hope for tomorrow

I will trust with all my heart

You are good You always are

Morning by morning

Great is Your faithfulness to me

All fear be reminded

My future is secure

Oh my Father has spoken

And He keeps His every word

Oh I will trust

Oh morning by morning

Passage: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

Now I would remind you, brothers,[a] of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, 2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.

3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me. 9 For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me. 11 Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.

Musical Reflection: JESUS, REMEMBER ME by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: “Jesus, Remember Me” is a tune from the French Taizé tradition; these simple songs are meant to be repeated indefinitely with added instrumentation or voice parts. They are meant to be meditative and allow for prayer. 4

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, in your tender love for us you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon himself our nature, and to suffer death upon the Cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and come to share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Speak Peace (Psalm 85) by Daniel Snoke

Lyrics: Speak peace to Your people

Speak peace to Your saints

Speak peace to Your people

Speak peace to all the earth

Surely His salvation is at hand

Unfailing love and truth have met

Righteousness will cover all the earth

And His glory now fills the land

Speak peace to Your people

Speak peace to Your saints

Speak peace to Your people

Speak peace to all the earth

Lord, revive Your joy in us again

And let us hear what You will say

Will Your anger always be on us

Will You not restore us again

You have covered all our sin

We have been restored again

Show us Your unfailing love

Grant us salvation

Speak peace to Your people

Speak peace to Your saints

Speak peace to Your people

Speak peace to all the earth

Passage: Psalm 85

Lord, you were favorable to your land;

you restored the fortunes of Jacob.

2 You forgave the iniquity of your people;

you covered all their sin. Selah

3 You withdrew all your wrath;

you turned from your hot anger.

4 Restore us again, O God of our salvation,

and put away your indignation toward us!

5 Will you be angry with us forever?

Will you prolong your anger to all generations?

6 Will you not revive us again,

that your people may rejoice in you?

7 Show us your steadfast love, O Lord,

and grant us your salvation.

8 Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,

for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints;

but let them not turn back to folly.

9 Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him,

that glory may dwell in our land.

10 Steadfast love and faithfulness meet;

righteousness and peace kiss each other.

11 Faithfulness springs up from the ground,

and righteousness looks down from the sky.

12 Yes, the Lord will give what is good,

and our land will yield its increase.

13 Righteousness will go before him

and make his footsteps a way.

Musical Reflection: It Is Well With My Soul (VILLE DU HAVRE) by Philip Bliss

Reflection Notes: A hymn born in tragedy, “It is Well” was penned by Horatio Spafford after hearing that his daughters had all perished in a shipwreck. Through this devastation, Spafford and his wife clung to the promise of God’s goodness. Spafford’s immortal words were set to music by his good friend and hymn writer, Philip Bliss; Bliss titled the tune “Ville du Havre” after the ship on which Spafford’s children had died.

Prayer: O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Battle Belongs by Brian Johnson and Phil Wickham

Lyrics: When all I see is the battle

You see my victory

When all I see is a mountain

You see a mountain moved

And as I walk through the shadow

Your love surrounds me

There's nothing to fear now

For I am safe with You

So when I fight I'll fight on my knees

With my hands lifted high

O God the battle belongs to You

And every fear I lay at Your feet

I'll sing through the night

O God the battle belongs to You

And if You are for me

Who can be against me

For Jesus there's nothing

Impossible for You

When all I see are the ashes

You see the beauty

When all I see is a cross

God You see the empty tomb

Almighty Fortress You go before us

Nothing can stand against

The power of our God

You shine in the shadows

You win every battle

Nothing can stand against

The power of our God

O God the battle belongs to You

Passage: Judges 6:11-24

Now the angel of the Lord came and sat under the terebinth at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, while his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the winepress to hide it from the Midianites. 12 And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor.” 13 And Gideon said to him, “Please, my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our fathers recounted to us, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has forsaken us and given us into the hand of Midian.” 14 And the Lord[a] turned to him and said, “Go in this might of yours and save Israel from the hand of Midian; do not I send you?” 15 And he said to him, “Please, Lord, how can I save Israel? Behold, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house.” 16 And the Lord said to him, “But I will be with you, and you shall strike the Midianites as one man.” 17 And he said to him, “If now I have found favor in your eyes, then show me a sign that it is you who speak with me. 18 Please do not depart from here until I come to you and bring out my present and set it before you.” And he said, “I will stay till you return.”

19 So Gideon went into his house and prepared a young goat and unleavened cakes from an ephah[b] of flour. The meat he put in a basket, and the broth he put in a pot, and brought them to him under the terebinth and presented them. 20 And the angel of God said to him, “Take the meat and the unleavened cakes, and put them on this rock, and pour the broth over them.” And he did so. 21 Then the angel of the Lord reached out the tip of the staff that was in his hand and touched the meat and the unleavened cakes. And fire sprang up from the rock and consumed the meat and the unleavened cakes. And the angel of the Lord vanished from his sight. 22 Then Gideon perceived that he was the angel of the Lord. And Gideon said, “Alas, O Lord God! For now I have seen the angel of the Lord face to face.” 23 But the Lord said to him, “Peace be to you. Do not fear; you shall not die.” 24 Then Gideon built an altar there to the Lord and called it, The Lord Is Peace. To this day it still stands at Ophrah, which belongs to the Abiezrites.

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 3 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This harp reflection features rich, full chords with a strong melody. The tension between major and minor chords reflects the challenges and triumphs of life.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: You Came For Me by Amanda Williams, Leslie Jordan, and Sally Lloyd-Jones

Lyrics: Hiding in plain sight praying for some peace

Carrying my burden looking for relief

Wearied as I was I felt You close to me

Reaching out Your hand You offered me a drink

And You wouldn’t speak to me a single word

If You only knew the things I've done

You came for me Jesus

In spite of my shame

You called me by name

You came for me Jesus

I’ll leave all that I know

Just to go where You go

Springs of Living Water welling up in me

Bringing life abundant setting my heart free

And it’s more than I can hope

Oh it’s more than I can dream

A love so overwhelming it fills the depths in me

I’ll never be thirsty

Forever forever

I’ll never be thirsty

Forever forever

I’ll leave all that I know

Just to go where You go

Passage: Luke 4:21-32

And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” 22 And all spoke well of him and marveled at the gracious words that were coming from his mouth. And they said, “Is not this Joseph's son?” 23 And he said to them, “Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, ‘“Physician, heal yourself.” What we have heard you did at Capernaum, do here in your hometown as well.’” 24 And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his hometown. 25 But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heavens were shut up three years and six months, and a great famine came over all the land, 26 and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. 27 And there were many lepers[a] in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.” 28 When they heard these things, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath. 29 And they rose up and drove him out of the town and brought him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they could throw him down the cliff. 30 But passing through their midst, he went away.

31 And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath, 32 and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word possessed authority.

Musical Reflection: All to Jesus I Surrender (SURRENDER) by Winfield S. Weeden

Reflection Notes: This tune was originally intended to have two-part harmonies on the verse and four-part harmonies of the refrain; the additional harmonic fullness adds to the repeated emphasis of the words “I surrender all.”

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, you stretched out your arms of love on the hard wood of the Cross that everyone might come within the reach of your saving embrace: So clothe us in your Spirit that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those who do not know you to the knowledge and love of you; for the honor of your Name. Amen.

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Opening Song: You Hear Me by Jonathan Ogden

Lyrics:

Lord your ways are higher than my mind

Could ever reach

But still you call me to come and speak with You

And now I speak straight to the king above all kings

And I know that You are always listening

And You hear me

Oh I know You hear me

If you give to me a crown then at Your feet

I lay it down

Passage: 1 Cor 14:12-25

So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.

13 Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful. 15 What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also. 16 Otherwise, if you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider say “Amen” to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying? 17 For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up. 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue.

20 Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature. 21 In the Law it is written, “By people of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners will I speak to this people, and even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord.” 22 Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign[b] not for unbelievers but for believers. 23 If, therefore, the whole church comes together and all speak in tongues, and outsiders or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are out of your minds? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, 25 the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you.

Musical Reflection: “Breathe on Me, Breath of God,” tune by Robert Jackson

Reflection Notes: TRENTHAM is a tune by Robert Jackson, an English composer during the nineteenth century. It fits perfectly with the text for “Breath On Me, Breath of God,” by Edwin Hatch; each phrase is allotted ample space for reflection.

Prayer: O God, you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth, and sent your blessed Son to preach peace to those who are far off and to those who are near: Grant that people everywhere may seek after you and find you; bring the nations into your fold; pour out your Spirit upon all flesh; and hasten the coming of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Omnipotent Yet Intimate by Anna Bartlett Warner, Benjamin Potter, Elyssa Smith, Gable Patrick Price, Ryan Gilpin, and William Batchelder Bradbury

Lyrics: Omnipotent yet intimate

By hand you rended heaven

In skin and flesh

In humbleness

The Godhead has descended

Though you handcrafted the cosmos

Though your words have formed the heavens

Heart to heart you speak to me

Hand in hand you’re fathering me

Interstellar yet cellular

You comprehend our complex

From earthquaking

To hearts-breaking

You care for our condition

Yes Jesus Loves me

Heart to heart you speak to me

Yes Jesus Loves me

Yes Spirit Loves me

Yes Father Loves me

Hand in hand you’re fathering

Heart to heart you speak to me

Hand in hand you’re fathering

The cosmic triune deity

Disclosed to me His mystery

Eternally

Restored to me

A love that’s never failing

Passage: Ps 71:11-20

...and say, “God has forsaken him;

pursue and seize him,

for there is none to deliver him.”

12 O God, be not far from me;

O my God, make haste to help me!

13 May my accusers be put to shame and consumed;

with scorn and disgrace may they be covered

who seek my hurt.

14 But I will hope continually

and will praise you yet more and more.

15 My mouth will tell of your righteous acts,

of your deeds of salvation all the day,

for their number is past my knowledge.

16 With the mighty deeds of the Lord God I will come;

I will remind them of your righteousness, yours alone.

17 O God, from my youth you have taught me,

and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.

18 So even to old age and gray hairs,

O God, do not forsake me,

until I proclaim your might to another generation,

your power to all those to come.

19 Your righteousness, O God,

reaches the high heavens.

You who have done great things,

O God, who is like you?

20 You who have made me see many troubles and calamities

will revive me again;

from the depths of the earth

you will bring me up again.

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 2 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This modal meditation centers around an intervallic pattern in the right hand that is anchored by deep bass octaves in the left hand and occasional supportive harmonies. Though somewhat haunting, the melodic motif provokes reflection.

Prayer: O God, you know that we are set in the midst of many grave dangers, and because of the frailty of our nature we cannot always stand upright: Grant that your strength and protection may support us in all dangers and carry us through every temptation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Canvas and Clay by Ben Smith, Chris Tomlin, and Pat Barrett

Lyrics: In my mother's womb

You formed me with Your hands

Known and loved by You

Before I took a breath

When I doubt it Lord remind me

I'm wonderfully made

You're an artist and a potter

I'm the canvas and the clay

(And) You make all things work together

For my future and for my good

You make all things work together

For Your glory and for Your name

There's a healing light

Just beyond the clouds

Though I've walked through fire

I see clearly now

I know nothing has been wasted

No failure or mistake

You're an artist and a potter

I'm the canvas and the clay

When I doubt it Lord remind me

I'm wonderfully made

You're an artist and a potter

I'm the canvas and the clay

I know nothing has been wasted

No failure or mistake

You're an artist and a potter

I'm the canvas and the clay

You're not finished with me

You're not finished with me yet

Passage: Jer 1:4-10

Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying,

5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,

and before you were born I consecrated you;

I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

6 Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” 7 But the Lord said to me,

“Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’;

for to all to whom I send you, you shall go,

and whatever I command you, you shall speak.

8 Do not be afraid of them,

for I am with you to deliver you,

declares the Lord.”

9 Then the Lord put out his hand and touched my mouth. And the Lord said to me,

“Behold, I have put my words in your mouth.

10 See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms,

to pluck up and to break down,

to destroy and to overthrow,

to build and to plant.”

Musical Reflection: I Need Thee Every Hour (NEED) by Robert Lowry

Reflection Notes: Each stanza of this familiar hymn was written by Annie Hawks as part of a poem. When she showed the composition to her pastor, Robert Lowry, he added the refrain and set the text to music for their congregation to enjoy. The musical lines always tend upward before falling back down, an apt parallel to the textual pleas reaching up to God.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Open Our Eyes by Advent Birmingham

Lyrics: When we see the risen Savior with the bread that he has blessed,

He becomes the living Servant, heav’nly food for holy rest.

Stay with us, for day is fading, feast with us, O secret King,

Show to us how Scripture’s story speaks of you in everything.

Do not our hearts burn now?

For you’re here in power.

Jesus, show yourself the Author and Perfecter of our faith,

In your living and your dying, consummation of God’s grace.

From creation to the exile, incarnation to the grave,

Resurrection to ascension; come, O Jesus, come to save.

Do not our hearts burn now?

For you’re here in power.

Open our eyes, shine on our sight,

O risen Lord, reigning on high;

Give us your life, bread from the skies;

Lift up our hearts, open our eyes.

You’re the Word that spoke creation, you’re the end of Moses’ Law,

You’re the goal of Abram’s blessing, you’re the King whom David saw;

You’re the Day the prophets longed for, you’re the covenant of grace,

You’re the hero of the Scriptures, now we see you face to face.

Do not our hearts burn now?

For you’re here in power.

Jesus, show yourself the Prophet, Jesus, show yourself the King,

Jesus, show yourself the Priest, all in all, and everything.

credits

Passage: Luke 4:14-21

And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and a report about him went out through all the surrounding country. 15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.

Jesus Rejected at Nazareth

16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read. 17 And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written,

18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,

because he has anointed me

to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives

and recovering of sight to the blind,

to set at liberty those who are oppressed,

19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”

20 And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”

Musical Reflection: “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” tune by William Bradbury

Reflection Notes: The tune BRADBURY is named for its composer, a New Englander from the first half of the nineteenth century. The sweet melody for the verses repeats, then is followed by a strong refrain.

Prayer: Give us grace, O Lord, to answer readily the call of our Savior Jesus Christ and proclaim to all people the Good News of his salvation, that we and the whole world may perceive the glory of his marvelous works; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Joy of the Lord by Chris Llewellyn, Ed Cash, and Gareth Gilkeson

Lyrics: Though the tears may fall my song will rise

My song will rise to You

Though my heart may fail my song will rise

My song will rise to You

While there’s breath in my lungs

I will praise You Lord

In the dead of night I’ll lift my eyes

I’ll lift my eyes to You

When the waters rise I’ll lift my eyes

I’ll lift my eyes to You

While there’s hope in this heart

I will praise You Lord

The joy of the Lord is my strength

In the darkness I’ll dance

In the shadows I’ll sing

The joy of the Lord is my strength

When I cannot see You with my eyes

Let faith arise to You

When I cannot feel Your hand in mine

Let faith arise to You

God of mercy and love I will praise You Lord

Oh You shine with glory Lord of light

I feel alive with You

In Your presence now I come alive

I am alive with You

There is strength when I say

I will praise You Lord

When sorrow comes my way

You are the shield around me

Always You remain

My courage in the fight

I hear You call my name Jesus I am coming

Walking on the waves reaching for Your light

Passage: Nehemiah 8:1-12

And all the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate. And they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses that the Lord had commanded Israel. 2 So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could understand what they heard, on the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand. And the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. 4 And Ezra the scribe stood on a wooden platform that they had made for the purpose. And beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand, and Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam on his left hand. 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people, and as he opened it all the people stood. 6 And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. 7 Also Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites,[a] helped the people to understand the Law, while the people remained in their places. 8 They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly,[b] and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.

This Day Is Holy

9 And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. 10 Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 11 So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” 12 And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them.

Musical Reflection: Harp meditation No. 1 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: A repetitive pattern in the left hand provides a meditative foundation while the right hand experiments with ascending lines. The tune is meant to be joyful and evoke delight.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Let It Be So With Your Church by Caroline Cobb Smith

Lyrics: As our Jesus in love touched the leper

Offered grace when they’d cast a stone

As He ate with the outcasts and sinners

With His church let it be so

As He preached the good news of the kingdom

As He healed them both body and soul

As He gave up His life for God’s children

With His church let it be so

Let it be so with Your church oh God

We are Your hands and feet

As Jesus bent low to serve in love

So with us let it be

Let us go with our Lord to the margins

To the broken the poor and the lost

By His Spirit we’ll push back the darkness

Let His church take up her cross

Come help us Lord Jesus to love as You loved

Oh let it be so

We remember Your gospel how You first loved us

Oh let it be so

To seek justice love mercy and care for the weak

Oh let it be so

To live now in light of the kingdom we seek

Oh let it be so

Passage: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27

For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves[a] or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts,[b] yet one body.

21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, 24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.

Musical Reflection: Jesus Loves Me by William B. Bradbury

Reflection Notes: This sweet and familiar song was written in 1861 for the composer’s church school and has become a favorite because of the warm reminders associated with its text: “Jesus loves me, this I know.”

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God… Grant that all who have been reborn into the fellowship of Christ’s Body may show forth in their lives what they profess by their faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: From the Rising of the Sun (Psalm 113) by Sandra McCracken

Lyrics:

Hallelujah give praise you servants

Praise the name of the Lord

Let the name of the Lord be blessed

For now and forevermore

From the rising of the sun to its going down

Let the name of the Lord be praised

From the rising of the sun

The Lord is high above all nations

And His glory above the heavens

Who is like the Lord our God

Who sits enthroned on high

Who is like the Lord our God

Stoops to behold the heavens and the earth

Passage: Psalm 113

Praise the Lord!

Praise, O servants of the Lord,

praise the name of the Lord!

2 Blessed be the name of the Lord

from this time forth and forevermore!

3 From the rising of the sun to its setting,

the name of the Lord is to be praised!

4 The Lord is high above all nations,

and his glory above the heavens!

5 Who is like the Lord our God,

who is seated on high,

6 who looks far down

on the heavens and the earth?

7 He raises the poor from the dust

and lifts the needy from the ash heap,

8 to make them sit with princes,

with the princes of his people.

9 He gives the barren woman a home,

making her the joyous mother of children.

Praise the Lord!

Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect.

Prayer: O Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day: Defend us by your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor run into any danger; and that, guided by your Spirit, we may do what is righteous in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Sing to the Lord (Banner) by Ben Smith, Chris Tomlin, Daniel Bashta, Ed Cash, and Pat Barrett

Lyrics:

Sing to the Lord a new song

Sing to the Lord all the earth

In the beauty of His holiness

The beauty of His holiness

Sing to the Lord a new song

Sing to the Lord O my soul

In the wonders of His mighty hand

The wonders of His mighty hand

Great is the Lord we cry

(And) Greatly to be praised

Let ev'ry nation rise and say

Our God reigns our God reigns

Sing to the Lord a new song

Worship the Lord evermore

In the glory of His majesty

The glory of His majesty

Your banner Your banner over us is love

Unfailing love

Praise God from whom all blessings flow

Praise Him all creatures here below

Praise Him above ye heav'nly host

Praise Father Son and Holy Ghost

Passage: Psalm 96

Oh sing to the Lord a new song;

sing to the Lord, all the earth!

2 Sing to the Lord, bless his name;

tell of his salvation from day to day.

3 Declare his glory among the nations,

his marvelous works among all the peoples!

4 For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised;

he is to be feared above all gods.

5 For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols,

but the Lord made the heavens.

6 Splendor and majesty are before him;

strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.

7 Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples,

ascribe to the Lord glory and strength!

8 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;

bring an offering, and come into his courts!

9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness;[a]

tremble before him, all the earth!

10 Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns!

Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved;

he will judge the peoples with equity.”

11 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;

let the sea roar, and all that fills it;

12 let the field exult, and everything in it!

Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy

13 before the Lord, for he comes,

for he comes to judge the earth.

He will judge the world in righteousness,

and the peoples in his faithfulness.

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 3 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This harp reflection features rich, full chords with a strong melody. The tension between major and minor chords reflects the challenges and triumphs of life.

Prayer: Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light

of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word

and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's

glory, that he may be known, worshiped, and obeyed to the

ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with

you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and

for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Day by Day by Isaac Wardell and Lowana Wallace

Lyrics: Server you remind us of our Savior's bowl and towel

Teacher you are raising up a child to be kind

Lawyer give us hope

That justice one day will surround us

May God's kingdom come

On earth His will be done

Lord be close to us

Lord have mercy on us

Lord please put Your hand on us

Day by day

Farmer you are working for a table full of bounty

Painter with each color you are teaching us to see

Nurse yours are the healing hands

That touch the poor and broken

Carpenter you frame a house

For those who need protection

Laborer you lift a heavy burden for the weak

Leaders build a city

That all children may rejoice in

Passage: Now concerning[a] spiritual gifts,[b] brothers,[c] I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.

4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

Musical Reflection: “Air on the G String” from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major by J.S. Bach

Reflection Notes: The slow, descending bass line creates musical “steps” in an elegant fashion while a suspended melody several octaves above creates a satisfying combination of sound registers.

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, you are the fountain of all peace, spiritual and temporal. We humbly pray, in your great goodness grant us that peace which the world cannot give, that we may ever live in your fear, obedient to your commandments, to the end that you may deliver us from all our enemies; through your dear Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: We Will Feast in the House of Zion by Josh Moore and Sandra McCracken

Lyrics: We will feast in the house of Zion

We will sing with our hearts restored

He has done great things we will say together

We will feast and weep no more

We will not be burned by the fire

He is the Lord our God

We are not consumed by the flood

Upheld protected gathered up

In the dark of night before the dawn

My soul be not afraid

For the promised morning oh how long

Oh God of Jacob be my strength

Every vow we’ve broken and betrayed

You are the faithful one

And from the garden to the grave

Bind us together bring shalom

Passage: On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples. 3 When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” 4 And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.” 5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

6 Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons.[a] 7 Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. 8 And he said to them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.” So they took it. 9 When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.” 11 This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him.

Musical Reflection: “Amazing Grace,” Appalachian folk tune

Reflection Notes: This beloved tune, formally known as NEW BRITAIN, originates from the folk music of Appalachia. The melody is simple and outlines triads, making it memorable; the ascending line creates a triumphant climax.

Prayer: O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: None But Jesus by Brooke Ligertwood

Lyrics: In the quiet in the stillness

I know that You are God

In the secret of Your presence

I know there I am restored

When You call I won't refuse

Each new day again I'll choose

There is no one else for me

None but Jesus

Crucified to set me free

Now I live to bring Him praise

In the chaos in confusion

I know You're sovereign still

In the moment of my weakness

You give me grace to do Your will

When You call I won't delay

This my song through all my days

All my delight is in You Lord

All of my hope

All of my strength

All my delight is in You Lord

Forevermore

Passage: Isaiah 62:1-5

For Zion's sake I will not keep silent,

and for Jerusalem's sake I will not be quiet,

until her righteousness goes forth as brightness,

and her salvation as a burning torch.

2 The nations shall see your righteousness,

and all the kings your glory,

and you shall be called by a new name

that the mouth of the Lord will give.

3 You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord,

and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.

4 You shall no more be termed Forsaken,[a]

and your land shall no more be termed Desolate,[b]

but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her,[c]

and your land Married;[d]

for the Lord delights in you,

and your land shall be married.

5 For as a young man marries a young woman,

so shall your sons marry you,

and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride,

so shall your God rejoice over you.

Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune

Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: All of Your Ways Are Peace by The Porter’s Gate

Lyrics: All of Your ways are peace

All of Your ways are peace

Though are we are pressed on every side

We trust that You are peace

All of Your words are truth

Though we have heard so many lies

We trust Your words are truth

All of Your ways are just

Though we may say it through our tears

We trust that You are just

All of Your ways are peace

Passage: 34 So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), 37 you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

(Acts 10:34–38 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Bless the Lord, My Soul by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: A contribution to the Taizé tradition, this tune by Berthier provides a reverent foundation for the text: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and bless God’s holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life.”

Prayer: Father of all mercies, you revealed your boundless compassion to your apostle Saint Peter in a three-fold vision: Forgive our unbelief, we pray, and so strengthen our hearts and enkindle our zeal, that we may fervently desire the salvation of all people, and diligently labor in the extension of your kingdom; through him who gave himself for the life of the world, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Opening Song: Take My Heart With Altar Fire by Advent Birmingham

Lyrics: All seeing God, you see my deeds;

You see my faults by light of day.

You see my sins concealed in darkness:

Turn my deeds to holy ways;

Turn my deeds to holy ways.

All hearing God, you hear my words;

You hear each lie, each hurtful phrase.

You hear my pride in secret slander:

Turn my tongue to truth and grace;

Turn my tongue to truth and grace.

Take away my love of sinning,

Straighten every bent desire;

Fix my soul upon your promise:

Take my heart with altar fire;

Take my heart with altar fire.

All knowing God, you know my heart;

You know my yearnings deep inside;

You know my hidden motivations:

Turn my heart to pure delight;

Turn my heart to pure delight.

Take away my love of sinning,

Straighten every bent desire;

Fix my soul upon your promise:

Take my heart with altar fire;

Take my heart with altar fire.

Fire of God, consume my heart;

And burn it down to only faith,

Til all that’s left of me is only you.

Christ my glory, Christ my praise.

Take away my love of sinning,

Straighten every bent desire;

Fix my soul upon your promise:

Take my heart with altar fire;

Take my heart with altar fire.

Passage: 15 As the people were in expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Christ, 16 John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”

18 So with many other exhortations he preached good news to the people. 19 But Herod the tetrarch, who had been reproved by him for Herodias, his brother’s wife, and for all the evil things that Herod had done, 20 added this to them all, that he locked up John in prison.

21 Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

(Luke 3:15–22 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Breathe on Me, Breath of God,” tune by Robert Jackson

Reflection Notes: TRENTHAM is a tune by Robert Jackson, an English composer during the nineteenth century. It fits perfectly with the text for “Breath On Me, Breath of God,” by Edwin Hatch; each phrase is allotted ample space for reflection.

Prayer: Eternal Father, at the baptism of Jesus you revealed him to be your Son, and your Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove: Grant that we, who are born again by water and the Spirit, may be faithful as your adopted children; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Psalm 89 by Poor Bishop Hooper

Lyrics: i will sing of your steadfast love

forever forever

young and old they will all hear of

forever forever

unfailing love and faithfulness

forever forever

enduring as the heavens

forever forever

you have said of your chosen one

forever forever

to your servant david sworn

forever forever

i will make your sons as kings

forever forever

they will have the throne for eternity

forever forever

the north the south you created them

forever forever

and you hold it all in your strong right hand

forever forever

righteousness and justice

forever forever

are the foundation where your throne sits

forever

and to the godly ones you spoke of old

forever forever

it is david i have exalted

forever forever

with my holy oil i anointed him

forever forever

so that my hand can be established

forever forever

oh lord how long will this go on

forever forever

oh lord how long will your anger burn

forever forever

where’s your steadfast love of old

forever forever

the love you swore to david’s own

forever forever

Passage: 20 I have found David, my servant;

with my holy oil I have anointed him,

21 so that my hand shall be established with him;

my arm also shall strengthen him.

22 The enemy shall not outwit him;

the wicked shall not humble him.

23 I will crush his foes before him

and strike down those who hate him.

24 My faithfulness and my steadfast love shall be with him,

and in my name shall his horn be exalted.

25 I will set his hand on the sea

and his right hand on the rivers.

26 He shall cry to me, ‘You are my Father,

my God, and the Rock of my salvation.’

27 And I will make him the firstborn,

the highest of the kings of the earth.

28 My steadfast love I will keep for him forever,

and my covenant will stand firm for him.

29 I will establish his offspring forever

and his throne as the days of the heavens.

(Psalm 89:20–29 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect.

Prayer: O God, the King eternal, whose light divides the day from the night and turns the shadow of death into the morning: Drive far from us all wrong desires, incline our hearts to keep your law, and guide our feet into the way of peace; that, having done your will with cheerfulness during the day, we may, when night comes, rejoice to give you thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly by Chris Tomlin, Jason Ingram, and Pat Barrett

Lyrics: It all comes down to this

What you require of me

Love my neighbor as myself

And You above all things

Act justly love mercy walk humbly

With You God

In all things in all ways walk humbly

With You God

It all comes down to this

To be Your hands and feet

Good news to all the world

The truth will set us free

It's beauty for ashes

It's mourning to dancing

It's closer and closer

The Kingdom of heaven

Years from now we'll see

The fruit our hands have sown

Faith just like a seed

The only way it grows

Passage: 1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold,

my chosen, in whom my soul delights;

I have put my Spirit upon him;

he will bring forth justice to the nations.

2 He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,

or make it heard in the street;

3 a bruised reed he will not break,

and a faintly burning wick he will not quench;

he will faithfully bring forth justice.

4 He will not grow faint or be discouraged

till he has established justice in the earth;

and the coastlands wait for his law.

5 Thus says God, the LORD,

who created the heavens and stretched them out,

who spread out the earth and what comes from it,

who gives breath to the people on it

and spirit to those who walk in it:

6 “I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness;

I will take you by the hand and keep you;

I will give you as a covenant for the people,

a light for the nations,

7 to open the eyes that are blind,

to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,

from the prison those who sit in darkness.

8 I am the LORD; that is my name;

my glory I give to no other,

nor my praise to carved idols.

9 Behold, the former things have come to pass,

and new things I now declare;

before they spring forth

I tell you of them.”

(Isaiah 42:1–9 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Nothing But The Blood (PLAINFIELD) by Robert Lowry

Reflection Notes: Lowry wrote several hymns for his congregation’s use in the late nineteenth century. This particular tune is pentatonic (only five notes used per octave) and falls within a small vocal range, which made it accessible for all parishioners to sing and enjoy.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: We Three Kings (We’re Not Lost) by Ben Cantelon, Chris Llewellyn, Gareth Gilkeson

Lyrics: We three kings of orient are

Bearing gifts we traverse afar

Field and fountain moor and mountain

Following yonder star

Born a king on Bethlehem's plain

Gold I bring to crown him again

King forever ceasing never

Over us all to reign

O star of wonder star of night

Star with royal beauty bright

Westward leading still proceeding

Guide us to thy perfect light

Frankincense and myrrh I bring

See him there our Savior and king

Heaven sings alleluia

Alleluia the earth will sing

In the dark we're not lost

When it's hard we're not lost

Don't lose heart

We're never truly lost

Passage: 1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:

6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;

for from you shall come a ruler

who will shepherd my people Israel.’”

7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

(Matthew 2:1–12 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Of the Father’s Love Begotten (DIVINUM MYSTERIUM)

Reflection Notes: This meterless hymn flows freely, a clear indicator of its plainchant origins. The rich text by Marcus Aurelius Clemens Prudentius was a response to the Council of Nicea in the early Church; it establishes belief in the Trinity and Christ’s nature as fully man and fully God.

Prayer: O God, by the leading of a star you manifested your only Son to the peoples of the earth: Lead us, who know you now by faith, to your presence, where we may see your glory face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Grace and Peace by Joel Sczebel

Lyrics: Grace and peace oh how can this be

For lawbreakers and thieves

For the worthless the least

You have said that our judgment is death

For all eternity without hope without rest

Oh what an amazing mystery

What an amazing mystery

That Your grace has come to me

Grace and peace oh how can this be

The matchless King of all

Paid the blood price for me

Slaughtered Lamb what atonement You bring

The vilest sinner's heart

Can be cleansed can be free

Grace and peace oh how can this be

Let songs of gratefulness

Ever rise never cease

Loved by God and called as a saint

My heart is satisfied

In the riches of Christ

Oh what an amazing love I see

What an amazing love I see

That Your grace has come to me

Passage: 1 For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— 2 assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3 how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. 4 When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. 6 This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God’s grace, which was given me by the working of his power. 8 To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, 10 so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him.

(Ephesians 3:1–12 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Bless the Lord, My Soul by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: A contribution to the Taizé tradition, this tune by Berthier provides a reverent foundation for the text: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and bless God’s holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life.”

Prayer: O God of peace, who hast taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and in confidence shall be our strength: By the might of thy Spirit lift us, we pray thee, to thy presence, where we may be still and know that thou art God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Instrument of Peace by Isaac Wardell, Jessica Fox, Liz Vice, Orlando Palmer, and Paul Zach

Lyrics: Lord make me

An instrument of peace

Where is there hatred let me sow love

Where there is darkness let me sow light

For in the giving we shall receive

And in the dying we’re given life

Lord make me

An instrument of peace

Where there is sorrow let me sow hope

Where there is doubt let me sow faith

Where is injury your pardon give

Your consolation to those in pain

Lord make me

An instrument of peace

Passage: 1 Give the king your justice, O God,

and your righteousness to the royal son!

2 May he judge your people with righteousness,

and your poor with justice!

3 Let the mountains bear prosperity for the people,

and the hills, in righteousness!

4 May he defend the cause of the poor of the people,

give deliverance to the children of the needy,

and crush the oppressor!

5 May they fear you while the sun endures,

and as long as the moon, throughout all generations!

6 May he be like rain that falls on the mown grass,

like showers that water the earth!

7 In his days may the righteous flourish,

and peace abound, till the moon be no more!

10 May the kings of Tarshish and of the coastlands

render him tribute;

may the kings of Sheba and Seba

bring gifts!

11 May all kings fall down before him,

all nations serve him!

12 For he delivers the needy when he calls,

the poor and him who has no helper.

13 He has pity on the weak and the needy,

and saves the lives of the needy.

14 From oppression and violence he redeems their life,

and precious is their blood in his sight.

(Psalm 72:1–7, 10–14 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Prelude in C Major, BWV 846 by J.S. Bach

Reflection Notes: Bach’s well-known prelude spins out a series of modulations, almost imperceptible at first. The new harmonies continually unfold in a way that intrigues but never shocks.

Prayer: O God, the King eternal, whose light divides the day from the night and turns the shadow of death into the morning: Drive far from us all wrong desires, incline our hearts to keep your law, and guide our feet into the way of peace; that, having done your will with cheerfulness during the day, we may, when night comes, rejoice to give you thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Light After Darkness by Advent Birmingham

Lyrics: Light after darkness, gain after loss,

Strength after weakness, crown after cross;

Sweet after bitter, hope after fears,

Home after wandering, praise after tears.

Sheaves after sowing, sun after rain,

Sight after mystery, peace after pain;

Joy after sorrow, calm after blast,

Rest after weariness, sweet rest at last.

Weeping may remain for a night

But joy arrives in morning’s new light

I’ll praise the God of merciful plight

Still I will praise him, still I will praise him, my God.

Near after distant, gleam after gloom,

Love after loneliness, life after tomb;

After long agony, rapture of bliss,

Right was the pathway, leading to this.

You give and you take away

In darkness still I will say:

“A good God I serve this day.”

Still I will praise you, still I will praise you.

Passage: 1 Arise, shine, for your light has come,

and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you.

2 For behold, darkness shall cover the earth,

and thick darkness the peoples;

but the LORD will arise upon you,

and his glory will be seen upon you.

3 And nations shall come to your light,

and kings to the brightness of your rising.

4 Lift up your eyes all around, and see;

they all gather together, they come to you;

your sons shall come from afar,

and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.

5 Then you shall see and be radiant;

your heart shall thrill and exult,

because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you,

the wealth of the nations shall come to you.

6 A multitude of camels shall cover you,

the young camels of Midian and Ephah;

all those from Sheba shall come.

They shall bring gold and frankincense,

and shall bring good news, the praises of the LORD.

(Isaiah 60:1–6 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Amazing Grace,” Appalachian folk tune

Reflection Notes: This beloved tune, formally known as NEW BRITAIN, originates from the folk music of Appalachia. The melody is simple and outlines triads, making it memorable; the ascending line creates a triumphant climax.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Today If You Hear Him by Taylor Leonhardt

Lyrics: Today if you hear him,

Skipping rocks on the river,

Laughing in the garden,

Like when you were young.

Today if you hear him,

Walking through the pine woods,

Racing down the big hill,

Calling you to come.

Don't be too grown, oh,

For your own sake.

Let the children come,

Let us become like children today.

Today if you hear him,

Let your feet take off running,

Don't worry who is watching,

Let him kiss you on the face.

Let the children come,

Let us become like children today.

Passage: 2 And Pharisees came up and in order to test him asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” 3 He answered them, “What did Moses command you?” 4 They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of divorce and to send her away.” 5 And Jesus said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart he wrote you this commandment. 6 But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ 7 ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, 8 and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. 9 What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

10 And in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. 11 And he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, 12 and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”

13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” 16 And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.

(Mark 10:2–16)

Musical Reflection: Jesus Loves Me by William B. Bradbury

Reflection Notes: This sweet and familiar song was written in 1861 for the composer’s church school and has become a favorite because of the warm reminders associated with its text: “Jesus loves me, this I know.”

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve: Pour upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

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Opening Song: O Perfect Father by Steph Macleod

Lyrics: O Perfect Father on Heaven’s throne

Who gave my orphan heart a home

Treasured and destined before all time

Forever claimed by Your love divine

What wondrous kindness shown to me

To know that I’m eternally

A chosen child of God above

The perfect Father with perfect love

You never fail me You never leave

You will provide my every need

Joyful or burdened I seek Your face

O Father You never turn away

Your presence is my perfect peace

No other place I long to be

A chosen child of God above

The perfect Father with perfect love

Whom shall I fear in the days to come

You are the great Almighty One

Formed in Your image I bear Your name

Yet in Your heart still my heart remains

My silent prayer You always hear

You cradle every secret tear

A chosen child of God above

The perfect Father with perfect love

Father my Father who reigns on High

Your sovereign name be glorified

Lead me through life with great words of truth

My passion Father to worship You

What joy to serve You all my days

I live to follow and obey

A chosen child of God above

The perfect Father with perfect love

What joy to follow all my days

I live to follow and obey

A chosen child of God above

The perfect Father with perfect love

Passage: 1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

5 For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking.

6 It has been testified somewhere,

“What is man, that you are mindful of him,

or the son of man, that you care for him?

7 You made him for a little while lower than the angels;

you have crowned him with glory and honor,

8 putting everything in subjection under his feet.”

Now in putting everything in subjection to him, he left nothing outside his control. At present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to him. 9 But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.

10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. 11 For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers,

12 saying,

“I will tell of your name to my brothers;

in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.”

(Hebrews 1:1–4; 2:5–12)

Musical Reflection: Bless the Lord, My Soul by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: Another contribution to the Taizé tradition, this tune by Berthier provides a reverent foundation for the text: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and bless God’s holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life.” Prayer: O God, who desires not the death but the repentance of sinners, we beseech you, in your loving kindness, to turn your people to yourself; that when they devote themselves to you, you may remove the scourges of your anger; through Jesus Christ our Lord. The Gelasian Sacramentary

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Opening Song: Psalm 26 by Ben and Noelle Kilgore

Lyrics: I have trusted in You, O Lord.

Therefore I shall not slide

Search my heart and affections, Lord.

Your lovingkindness before my eyes.

You washed Your hands with my innocence

I fall at Your altar

And I’ll sing with thanksgiving

And tell of Your wondrous good

Alleluia, alleluia!

Alleluia, alleluia to the Lord most high

I love to be in Your house, O Lord

Where Your glory and honor dwell

Gather not my soul with darkness, God

Of Your redemption I live to tell

Alleluia, alleluia!

Alleluia, alleluia to the Lord most high

You are merciful, O Lord

From the top of my lungs I sing

You place my feet on an even place

To You, my rescuing King

Alleluia, alleluia!

Alleluia, alleluia to the Lord most high

Passage: 1 Vindicate me, O LORD,

for I have walked in my integrity,

and I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.

2 Prove me, O LORD, and try me;

test my heart and my mind.

3 For your steadfast love is before my eyes,

and I walk in your faithfulness.

4 I do not sit with men of falsehood,

nor do I consort with hypocrites.

5 I hate the assembly of evildoers,

and I will not sit with the wicked.

6 I wash my hands in innocence

and go around your altar, O LORD,

7 proclaiming thanksgiving aloud,

and telling all your wondrous deeds.

8 O LORD, I love the habitation of your house

and the place where your glory dwells.

9 Do not sweep my soul away with sinners,

nor my life with bloodthirsty men,

10 in whose hands are evil devices,

and whose right hands are full of bribes.

11 But as for me, I shall walk in my integrity;

redeem me, and be gracious to me.

12 My foot stands on level ground;

in the great assembly I will bless the LORD.

(Psalm 26:1–12)

Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect.

Prayer: Look mercifully, O Lord, we beseech you, on the affliction of your people; and let not our sins prevail to destroy us, but rather your abundant mercy to save us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. The Leonine Sacramentary

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Opening Song: We Are Not Overcome by Bifrost Arts

Lyrics: Flesh will fail and bones will break

thieves will steal, the earth will shake

Night will fall, the light will fade

The Lord will give and take away

Put no trust in the earth

in the sod you stand upon

Flowers fade into dust

The Lord will make a place for us

Because of His great Love

We are not overcome

Because of His great Love

We are not overcome

Have no fear for your life

Turn your cheek, turn your cheek

Bear the yoke of love and death

The Lord will give all life and breath

Because of His great Love

We are not overcome

Because of His great Love

We are not overcome

Passage: 1 There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil.

1 Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them to present himself before the LORD. 2 And the LORD said to Satan, “From where have you come?” Satan answered the LORD and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking up and down on it.” 3 And the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil? He still holds fast his integrity, although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason.” 4 Then Satan answered the LORD and said, “Skin for skin! All that a man has he will give for his life. 5 But stretch out your hand and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse you to your face.” 6 And the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, he is in your hand; only spare his life.”

7 So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and struck Job with loathsome sores from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head. 8 And he took a piece of broken pottery with which to scrape himself while he sat in the ashes.

9 Then his wife said to him, “Do you still hold fast your integrity? Curse God and die.” 10 But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women would speak. Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.

(Job 1:1; 2:1–10)

Musical Reflection: It Is Well With My Soul (VILLE DU HAVRE) by Philip Bliss

Reflection Notes: A hymn born in tragedy, “It is Well” was penned by Horatio Spafford after hearing that his daughters had all perished in a shipwreck. Through this devastation, Spafford and his wife clung to the promise of God’s goodness. Spafford’s immortal words were set to music by his good friend and hymn writer, Philip Bliss; Bliss titled the tune “Ville du Havre” after the ship on which Spafford’s children had died.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Silent Night by Franz Xaver Gruber, and arranged by Jason Ingram, John Freeman Young, Joseph Mohr, Lauren Daigle, and Paul Mabury

Lyrics: Silent night holy night

All is calm all is bright

'Round yon virgin mother and Child

Holy infant so tender and mild

Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night holy night

Shepherds quake at the sight

Glories stream from heaven afar

Heav'nly hosts sing Alleluia

Christ the Saviour is born

Silent night holy night

Son of God love's pure light

Radiant beams from Thy holy face

With the dawn of redeeming grace

Jesus Lord at Thy birth

Passage: 1 Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel,

you who lead Joseph like a flock.

You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth.

2 Before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh,

stir up your might

and come to save us!

3 Restore us, O God;

let your face shine, that we may be saved!

4 O LORD God of hosts,

how long will you be angry with your people’s prayers?

5 You have fed them with the bread of tears

and given them tears to drink in full measure.

6 You make us an object of contention for our neighbors,

and our enemies laugh among themselves.

7 Restore us, O God of hosts;

let your face shine, that we may be saved!

(Psalm 80:1–7 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence (PICARDY)

Reflection Notes: Adapted from a medieval French folk tune, PICARDY was later arranged by esteemed English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams as a congregational hymn. The minor tonalities and scalar phrasing are very reminiscent of chant and serve to create a hushed environment in which to reflect on the rich text.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: There Blooms A Rose in Bethlehem by Neil DeGrade

Lyrics: There blooms a rose in Bethlehem

From tender stem hath sprung

Of Jesse's line this flower grows

As men of old have sung

Isaiah told us long ago

About this rose we'd find

In virgin arms we shall behold

The Savior of mankind

The glories of the heavens

Surrounded shepherds bright

The angels sang a sign was shown

The Christ was born that night

What mystery they came upon

The sign the heralds laud

In manger slept the Holy One

In flesh the Son of God

This flow'r in bloom a scent so sweet

That greets us in the air

It has dispelled with hopefulness

The sting of death's despair

Foretold this rose was born to die

But would not see decay

So those who place their faith in Him

Shall blossom from the grave

So those who place their faith in Him

Shall blossom from the grave

Passage: 5 Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said,

“Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired,

but a body have you prepared for me;

6 in burnt offerings and sin offerings

you have taken no pleasure.

7 Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God,

as it is written of me in the scroll of the book.’”

8 When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), 9 then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He does away with the first in order to establish the second. 10 And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

(Hebrews 10:5–10 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming (ES IST EIN ROS) by Michael Praetorius

Reflection Notes: Praetorius composed this tune in the early seventeenth century while working at various court and church appointments in Germany. The somewhat melancholy nature of the melody reflects the theological tension of the text: the rose of Christ is born to die, but will rise again in resurrection glory.

Prayer: Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of

darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this

mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in

great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again

in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead,

we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and

reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

Amen.

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Opening Song: O Little Town of Bethlehem by Lewis Henry Redner and Phillips Brooks, arranged by Ross Fishburn and Shane Barnard

Lyrics: O little town of Bethlehem

How still we see thee lie

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep

The silent stars go by

Yet in thy dark streets shineth

The everlasting light

The hopes and fears of all the years

Are met in thee tonight

For Christ is born of Mary

And gathered all above

While mortals sleep

The angels keep their watch

Of wondering love

O morning stars together

Proclaim the holy birth

And praises sing to God the King

And peace to men on earth

How silently how silently

The wondrous gift is given

So God imparts to human hearts

The blessings of His Heaven

No ear may hear His calling

But in this world of sin

Where meek souls will receive Him still

The dear Christ enters in

O holy Child of Bethlehem

Descend to us we pray

Cast out our sin and enter in

Be born to us today

We hear the Christmas angels

The great glad tidings tell

O come to us abide with us

Our Lord Emmanuel

Passage: 2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,

who are too little to be among the clans of Judah,

from you shall come forth for me

one who is to be ruler in Israel,

whose coming forth is from of old,

from ancient days.

3 Therefore he shall give them up until the time

when she who is in labor has given birth;

then the rest of his brothers shall return

to the people of Israel.

4 And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD,

in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God.

And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great

to the ends of the earth.

5 And he shall be their peace.

When the Assyrian comes into our land

and treads in our palaces,

then we will raise against him seven shepherds

and eight princes of men;

(Micah 5:2–5 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Come, O Come Emmanuel (VENI, VENI, EMMANUEL) by Thomas Helmore

Reflection Notes: The tune VENI IMMANUEL comes from a 15th century chant and originally served as part of a requiem mass. Thomas Helmore adapted it for congregational use as a hymn in the late 1800s, while still retaining the speech-like flow of the original chant. The text dates back to the 8th century and was translated from Latin to English by J. M. Neal.

Prayer: Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and as we are sorely hindered by our sins from running the race that is set before us, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Hark, original music and words by Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy and Charles Wesley, additional words and music by Joth Hunt

Lyrics: Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the newborn King

Peace on earth and mercy mild

God and sinners reconciled

Joyful all ye nations rise

Join the triumph of the skies

With angelic hosts proclaim

Christ is born in Bethlehem

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the newborn King

Hark the herald angels sing

Christ by highest heaven adored

Christ the everlasting Lord

Late in time behold Him come

Offspring of the Virgin’s womb

Hail the flesh the Godhead see

Hail the incarnate Deity

Pleased as man with man to dwell

Jesus our Emmanuel

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the new born King

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the new born King

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the new born King

Hail the Heaven-born Prince of Peace

Hail the Son of righteousness

Light and life to all He brings

Risen with healing in His wings

Mild He lays His glory by

Born that man no more may die

Born to raise the sons of earth

Born to give them second birth

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the new born King

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the new born King

Passage: 7 He said therefore to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruits in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. 9 Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”

10 And the crowds asked him, “What then shall we do?” 11 And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” 12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13 And he said to them, “Collect no more than you are authorized to do.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages.”

15 As the people were in expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Christ, 16 John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”

18 So with many other exhortations he preached good news to the people.

(Luke 3:7–18 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Angels We Have Heard on High (GLORIA), French carol

Reflection Notes: This joyful French carol describes the scene found in Luke 2:8-15. Angels surprise shepherds in the Bethlehem fields and share the good news of the Savior’s birth. The famous chorus of cascading “glorias” emulates the angels’ song from that special night.

Prayer: Come, true light.

Come, life eternal.

Come, hidden mystery.

Come, light that knows no evening. Come, for your name fills our hearts with longing and is ever on our lips;

yet who you are and what your nature is, we cannot say or know. Come, Alone to the alone. Come, for you are yourself the desire that is within me.

Come, my breath and life. Come, the consolation of my humble soul.

Come, my joy, my glory, my endless delight.

A prayer of Symeon of Chrysopolis (present-day Üsküdar, Turkey), adapted from The Oxford Book of Prayer

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Opening Song: O Come, All You Unfaithful by Bob Kauflin and Lisa Clow

Lyrics: O come all you unfaithful

Come weak and unstable

Come know you are not alone

O come barren and waiting ones

Weary of praying

Come see what your God has done

Christ is born Christ is born

Christ is born for you

O come bitter and broken

Come with fears unspoken

Come taste of His perfect love

O come guilty and hiding ones

There is no need to run

See what your God has done

He's the Lamb who was given slain for our pardon

His promise is peace for those who believe

He's the Lamb who was given slain for our pardon

His promise is peace for those who believe

So come though you have nothing

Come He is the offering

Come see what your God has done

Passage: 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 4:4–7 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Of the Father’s Love Begotten (DIVINUM MYSTERIUM)

Reflection Notes: This meterless hymn flows freely, a clear indicator of its plainchant origins. The rich text by Marcus Aurelius Clemens Prudentius was a response to the Council of Nicea in the early Church; it establishes belief in the Trinity and Christ’s nature as fully man and fully God.

Prayer: Most loving Father, whose will it is for us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing but the loss of you, and to cast all our care on you who care for us: Preserve us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, that no clouds of this mortal life may hide from us the light of that love which is immortal, and which you have manifested to us in your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Light of the World by Lauren Daigle, Paul Duncan, and Paul Mabury

Lyrics: The world waits for a miracle

The heart longs for a little bit of hope

O come O come Emmanuel

A child prays for peace on earth

And she's calling out from a sea of hurt

O come O come Emmanuel

And can you hear the angels singing

Glory to the Light of the world

Glory the Light of the world is here

The drought breaks with the tears of a mother

A baby’s cry is the sound of love come down

Come down Emmanuel woh

He is the song for the suffering

He is Messiah the Prince of peace has come

He has come Emmanuel oh

Glory to the light of the world

For all who wait for all who hunger

For all who’ve prayed for all who wonder

Behold your King behold Messiah

Emmanuel Emmanuel

Glory to the light of the world

Behold your King behold Messiah

Emmanuel Emmanuel

The world waits for a miracle

The heart longs for a little bit of hope

O come O come Emmanuel

Passage: 2 “Behold, God is my salvation;

I will trust, and will not be afraid;

for the LORD GOD is my strength and my song,

and he has become my salvation.”

3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.

4 And you will say in that day:

“Give thanks to the LORD,

call upon his name,

make known his deeds among the peoples,

proclaim that his name is exalted.

5 “Sing praises to the LORD, for he has done gloriously;

let this be made known in all the earth.

6 Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,

for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.”

(Isaiah 12:2–6 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus, tune by Rowland Hugh Prichard

Reflection Notes: This jubilant Advent text was written by the well-known hymn writer, Charles Wesley. While several tunes have been used over the years, one of the most popular for the Advent season is HYFRIDOL, a lilting Welsh melody composed by Rowland Hugh Prichard in the early nineteenth century.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Prepare Him Room by Rebecca Elliott and Dave Fournier

Lyrics: O behold the mystery now unfolds

See the star shine on the virgin foretold

Angels sing and light up the sky

Hope rings out in a newborn's cry

Swing wide you ancient gates

For Christ is born today

Prepare Him room prepare Him room

Let the King of Glory enter in

God with us the promise has come to be

This the one the prophets were longing to see

In the darkness a blazing light

To the hungry the words of life

His kingdom now is near

For those with ears to hear

Oh our hearts as busy as Bethlehem

Hear Him knock don't say there's no room in the inn

Through the cradle cross and grave

See the love of God displayed

Now He's risen and He reigns

Praise the Name above all names

Passage: 14 Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion;

shout, O Israel!

Rejoice and exult with all your heart,

O daughter of Jerusalem!

15 The LORD has taken away the judgments against you;

he has cleared away your enemies.

The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst;

you shall never again fear evil.

16 On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem:

“Fear not, O Zion;

let not your hands grow weak.

17 The LORD your God is in your midst,

a mighty one who will save;

he will rejoice over you with gladness;

he will quiet you by his love;

he will exult over you with loud singing.

18 I will gather those of you who mourn for the festival,

so that you will no longer suffer reproach.

19 Behold, at that time I will deal

with all your oppressors.

And I will save the lame

and gather the outcast,

and I will change their shame into praise

and renown in all the earth.

20 At that time I will bring you in,

at the time when I gather you together;

for I will make you renowned and praised

among all the peoples of the earth,

when I restore your fortunes

before your eyes,” says the LORD.

(Zephaniah 3:14–20 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming (ES IST EIN ROS) by Michael Praetorius

Reflection Notes: Praetorius composed this tune in the early seventeenth century while working at various court and church appointments in Germany. The somewhat melancholy nature of the melody reflects the theological tension of the text: the rose of Christ is born to die, but will rise again in resurrection glory.

Prayer: O Lord Jesus Christ, you sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Grant that the ministers and stewards of your mysteries may likewise make ready your way, by turning the hearts of the disobedient toward the wisdom of the just, that at your second coming to judge the world, we may be found a people acceptable in your sight; for with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus by Charles Wesley, Rita West, and Rowland Hugh Prichard

Lyrics: Come Thou long expected Jesus

Born to set thy people free

From our fears and sins release us

Let us find our rest in thee

Israel's strength and consolation

Hope of all the earth thou art

Dear desire of every nation

Joy of every longing heart

Born thy people to deliver

Born a child and yet a King

Born to reign in us forever

Now thy gracious kingdom bring

By thine own eternal Spirit

Rule in all our hearts alone

By thine all sufficient merit

Raise us to thy glorious throne

You're our joy

You're our hope

Israel's strength and consolation

Hope of all the earth thou art

Dear desire of every nation

Joy of every longing heart

Passage: 3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. 8 For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

(Philippians 1:3–11 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus, tune by Rowland Hugh Prichard

Reflection Notes: This jubilant Advent text was written by the well-known hymn writer, Charles Wesley. While several tunes have been used over the years, one of the most popular for the Advent season is HYFRIDOL, a lilting Welsh melody composed by Rowland Hugh Prichard in the early nineteenth century.

Prayer: Ever-present God, you taught us that the night is far spent and the day is at hand. Grant that we may ever be found watching for the coming of your Son. Save us from undue love

of the world, that we may wait with patient hope for the day of the Lord, and so abide in him, that when he shall appear, we may not be ashamed; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A prayer from the Church of Scotland

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Opening Song: Prepare Him Room by Rita Baloche

Lyrics: Who is man that You would care for us

You clothed Yourself in flesh to draw us near

In sinful men You've made our hearts Your home

To make Your glory known Your redemption clear

Let ev'ry heart prepare Him room

For nothing else compares with You

Restore the joy of our salvation Lord

Prepare our hearts for more of You

No greater love has anyone than this

To sacrifice the gift of Your only Son

So we lay aside all the earthly things

And all that comes between this great divide

Passage: 1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, 2 during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3 And he went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet,

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

‘Prepare the way of the Lord,

make his paths straight.

5 Every valley shall be filled,

and every mountain and hill shall be made low,

and the crooked shall become straight,

and the rough places shall become level ways,

6 and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’”

(Luke 3:1–6 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence (PICARDY)

Reflection Notes: Adapted from a medieval French folk tune, PICARDY was later arranged by esteemed English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams as a congregational hymn. The minor tonalities and scalar phrasing are very reminiscent of chant and serve to create a hushed environment in which to reflect on the rich text.

Prayer: O Lord Jesus Christ, at your first coming you humbled yourself because of our sins. At your second coming our sins will be done away with by your mercy, and we will be numbered with your saints in glory everlasting; through your merits, O blessed Savior, with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God, now and forever. Amen.

A prayer from the ancient Mozarabic church (ca. 400–600 CE). The Mozarabs were Christians who lived in Hispania (modern-day southern Spain).

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Opening Song: Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming by Michael Praetorius and Blake Flattley

Lyrics: Lo how a rose e’er blooming

From tender stem hath sprung

Of Jesse’s lineage coming

As prophets long have sung

It came a flow’ret bright

Amid the cold of winter

When half spent was the night

Isaiah ‘twas foretold it

The rose I have in mind

With Mary we behold it

The virgin mother kind

To show God’s love aright

She bore to us a Savior

When half spent was the night

O Savior child of Mary

Who felt our human woe

O Savior King of glory

Who dost our weakness know

Bring us at length we pray

To the bright courts of heaven

And to the endless day

Passage: 68 “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,

for he has visited and redeemed his people

69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of his servant David,

70 as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old,

71 that we should be saved from our enemies

and from the hand of all who hate us;

72 to show the mercy promised to our fathers

and to remember his holy covenant,

73 the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us

74 that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies,

might serve him without fear,

75 in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.

76 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High;

for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways,

77 to give knowledge of salvation to his people

in the forgiveness of their sins,

78 because of the tender mercy of our God,

whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high

79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

(Luke 1:68–79 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming (ES IST EIN ROS) by Michael Praetorius

Reflection Notes: Praetorius composed this tune in the early seventeenth century while working at various court and church appointments in Germany. The somewhat melancholy nature of the melody reflects the theological tension of the text: the rose of Christ is born to die, but will rise again in resurrection glory.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: O Come, O Come Emmanuel by Jason Ingram, John Mason Neale, Lauren Daigle, Paul Mabury, Thomas Helmore

Lyrics: O come O come Emmanuel

And ransom captive Israel

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appear

O Come Thou Dayspring come and cheer

Our spirits by Thine advent here

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night

And death's dark shadows put to flight

Rejoice rejoice Emmanuel

Shall come to thee O Israel

O come Desire of nations bind

All peoples in one heart and mind

Bid envy strife and quarrels cease

Fill the whole world with Heaven's peace

Shall come to you O Israel

Passage: 1 “Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap. 3 He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, and they will bring offerings in righteousness to the LORD. 4 Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the LORD as in the days of old and as in former years.

(Malachi 3:1–4 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Come, O Come Emmanuel (VENI, VENI, EMMANUEL) by Thomas Helmore

Reflection Notes: The tune VENI IMMANUEL comes from a 15th century chant and originally served as part of a requiem mass. Thomas Helmore adapted it for congregational use as a hymn in the late 1800s, while still retaining the speech-like flow of the original chant. The text dates back to the 8th century and was translated from Latin to English by J. M. Neal.

Prayer: Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to

preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation:

Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins,

that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our

Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy

Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Be On the Lookout by Caroline Cobb Smith and Paul Zach

Lyrics: Lift up your head

Be on the lookout

Wake from your bed

Don’t fall asleep

Lift up your head

He’s coming soon now

Get yourself ready

For the coming of the King

Could a mother forget her children?

Could a husband forget his wife?

How much more, then, will He remember?

Will He come and set things right?

Lift up your head

Be on the lookout

Wake from your bed

Don’t fall asleep

Lift up your head

He’s coming soon now

Get yourself ready

For the coming of the King

Cast aside all the works of darkness

Live as children of the day

Light your lamps and keep them burning

Till we see our bridegroom’s face

Lift up your head

Be on the lookout

Wake from your bed

Don’t fall asleep

Lift up your head

He’s coming soon now

Get yourself ready

For the coming of the King

See those fields, they’re ripe for harvest

See the work that’s left undone

Take to the world his love and justice

Singin’ “Let his kingdom come!”

Oh let his kingdom come!

Passage: 25 “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, 26 people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

29 And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. 31 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

34 “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

(Luke 21:25–36 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus, tune by Rowland Hugh Prichard

Reflection Notes: This jubilant Advent text was written by the well-known hymn writer, Charles Wesley. While several tunes have been used over the years, one of the most popular for the Advent season is HYFRIDOL, a lilting Welsh melody composed by Rowland Hugh Prichard in the early nineteenth century.

Prayer: Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of

darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of

this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit

us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come

again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the

dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives

and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and

for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song:

Teach Us Your Ways by Isaac Wardell, Leslie Jordan, Orlando Palmer, and Paul Zach

Lyrics: Teach us Your ways teach us Your ways

As we learn from one another

Learn to love each other

Teach us Your ways

Teach us to give teach us to give

Give ourselves for one another

Learn to love each other

Teach us to give

Teach us to weep teach us to weep

Let us weep with one another

Learn to love each other

Teach us to weep

Hallelujah hallelujah

Let us learn from one another

Learn to love each other

Teach us Your ways

Passage: 9 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 10 as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith?

11 Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.

(1 Thessalonians 3:9–13 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 1 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: A repetitive pattern in the left hand provides a meditative foundation while the right hand experiments with ascending lines. The tune is meant to be joyful and evoke delight.

Prayer: Incline, O Lord, thy merciful ears, and illuminate the darkness of our hearts by the light of thy visitation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Gelasian Sacramentary

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Opening Song: 25 by Red Rocks Worship

Passage: 1 To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul.

2 O my God, in you I trust;

let me not be put to shame;

let not my enemies exult over me.

3 Indeed, none who wait for you shall be put to shame;

they shall be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.

4 Make me to know your ways, O LORD;

teach me your paths.

5 Lead me in your truth and teach me,

for you are the God of my salvation;

for you I wait all the day long.

6 Remember your mercy, O LORD, and your steadfast love,

for they have been from of old.

7 Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions;

according to your steadfast love remember me,

for the sake of your goodness, O LORD!

8 Good and upright is the LORD;

therefore he instructs sinners in the way.

9 He leads the humble in what is right,

and teaches the humble his way.

(Psalm 25:1–9 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Breathe on Me, Breath of God,” tune by Robert Jackson

Reflection Notes: TRENTHAM is a tune by Robert Jackson, an English composer during the nineteenth century. It fits perfectly with the text for “Breath On Me, Breath of God,” by Edwin Hatch; each phrase is allotted ample space for reflection.

Prayer: Grant us, O Lord, not to mind earthly things but to love things heavenly; and even now, while we are placed among things that are passing away, to cleave to those that shall abide through Jesus Christ our Lord. The Leonine Sacramentary

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Opening Song: O Righteous Branch by Caroline Cobb Smith

Lyrics: Oh righteous branch from Jesse's root

Please come and bring Your kingdom

The lion dwelling with the lamb

Bring peace and life and freedom

Oh Son of David come to rule

And reign in us forever

Come write Your law upon our hearts

And keep us like a shepherd

Hallelujah Jesus we wait for You

Hallelujah Jesus come soon come soon

Messiah come Your Spirit give

Turn stony hearts to flesh

Redeem us from captivity

The power of sin and death

Jesus come soon come soon

At last at last the morning comes

With healing in its wings

We'll leap like calves loosed from their stalls

For You have done great things

Yes You have done great things

Passage: 14 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. 15 In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David, and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. 16 In those days Judah will be saved, and Jerusalem will dwell securely. And this is the name by which it will be called: ‘The LORD is our righteousness.’

(Jeremiah 33:14–16 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Come, O Come Emmanuel, chant adapted by Thomas Helmore

Reflection Notes: The tune VENI IMMANUEL comes from a 15th century chant and originally served as part of a requiem mass. Thomas Helmore adapted it for congregational use as a hymn in the late 1800s, while still retaining the speech-like flow of the original chant. The text dates back to the 8th century and was translated from Latin to English by J. M. Neal.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Holding My World by Chris Tomlin, Christy Nockels, and Kristian Stanfill

Lyrics: This is Your world You make it

All of creation is breathing

Because You sustain it Jesus

By Your powerful word

You spoke out the earth and the heavens

I will not worry or fret

My God is the God who will never forget

All of His goodness and all of His promises

(He's) Holding my world in His hands

These are Your days You give them

All for Your fame

And all for Your glorious kingdom Jesus

You have ordained all things

To dwell in Your purpose

I am Your child beloved

All of my days my future is laid

In Your promise Jesus

To the end of the age

I am not alone or forgotten

Passage: 33 So Pilate entered his headquarters again and called Jesus and said to him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?” 35 Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” 37 Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.”

(John 18:33–37 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Jesus, Remember Me by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: “Jesus, Remember Me” is a tune from the French Taizé tradition; these simple songs are meant to be repeated indefinitely with added instrumentation or voice parts. They are meant to be meditative and allow for prayer.

Prayer: Look down, O Lord, from your heavenly throne, illumine the darkness of this night with your celestial brightness, and from the children of light, banish the deeds of darkness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Ambrosian Sacramentary

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Opening Song: Behold Him by Mitch Wong and Paul Baloche

Lyrics: He who was before there was light

Walked across the pages of time

He who made every living thing

Behold Him

He who heard humanity's cry

Left His throne to wake as a child

He became like the least of us

Behold Him

Jesus Son of God Messiah

The Lamb the roaring Lion

Oh be still and behold Him

He who dined with sinners and saints

Healed the blind the lost and the lame

Even now He is in our midst

Behold Him

He who chose a criminal's end

Paid with blood to settle our debt

Buried death as He rose to life

Behold Him

Jesus Son of God Messiah

The Lamb the roaring Lion

Oh be still and behold Him

Jesus Alpha and Omega

Our God the risen Savior

Oh be still and behold Him

Holy holy holy

Is the Lord God Almighty

Worthy worthy worthy

To receive all praise

Passage: 4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne,

5 and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood 6 and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen.

8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

(Revelation 1:4–8 ESV)

Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect.

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to restore all

things in your well-beloved Son, the King of kings and Lord of

lords: Mercifully grant that the peoples of the earth, divided

and enslaved by sin, may be freed and brought together

under his most gracious rule; who lives and reigns with you

and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: My Dwelling Place (Psalm 91) by Keith and Kristyn Getty

Lyrics: My dwelling place is God Most High

My refuge and my fortress

When plague and pestilence draw nigh

I’m hidden in His presence

When terrors fall and arrows fly

His shield will be my safety

When stones across my pathway lie

On angels’ wings I’m carried

My dwelling place is God Most High

A present help in danger

I rest secure in Love’s pure light

Beneath My Master’s favor

He freed me from the fowler’s snare

Where sin and shame had bound me

Deceived I made my refuge there

Till fearless He came for me

Wonderful powerful my hope and my defender

Mighty God Emmanuel my dwelling place forever

My dwelling place is God Most High

I’ll never seek another

For I am His and He is mine

My heart He’ll keep forever

I know the Name on Whom I call

He promises to answer

With life he satisfies my soul

And crowns me with his pleasure

Passage: 1 Remember, O LORD, in David’s favor,

all the hardships he endured,

2 how he swore to the LORD

and vowed to the Mighty One of Jacob,

3 “I will not enter my house

or get into my bed,

4 I will not give sleep to my eyes

or slumber to my eyelids,

5 until I find a place for the LORD,

a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob.”

6 Behold, we heard of it in Ephrathah;

we found it in the fields of Jaar.

7 “Let us go to his dwelling place;

let us worship at his footstool!”

8 Arise, O LORD, and go to your resting place,

you and the ark of your might.

9 Let your priests be clothed with righteousness,

and let your saints shout for joy.

10 For the sake of your servant David,

do not turn away the face of your anointed one.

11 The LORD swore to David a sure oath

from which he will not turn back:

“One of the sons of your body

I will set on your throne.

12 If your sons keep my covenant

and my testimonies that I shall teach them,

their sons also forever

shall sit on your throne.”

13 For the LORD has chosen Zion;

he has desired it for his dwelling place:

14 “This is my resting place forever;

here I will dwell, for I have desired it.

15 I will abundantly bless her provisions;

I will satisfy her poor with bread.

16 Her priests I will clothe with salvation,

and her saints will shout for joy.

17 There I will make a horn to sprout for David;

I have prepared a lamp for my anointed.

18 His enemies I will clothe with shame,

but on him his crown will shine.”

(Psalm 132:1–18 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” tune by William Bradbury

Reflection Notes: The tune BRADBURY is named for its composer, a New Englander from the first half of the nineteenth century. The sweet melody for the verses repeats, then is followed by a strong refrain.

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, mercifully look on our infirmities, and in all our dangers and necessities stretch forth your right hand to help and defend us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Gregorian Sacramentary

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Opening Song: Covenant by Andy and Rachel Graham

Lyrics: A solemn oath from God to man,

For the seed of Abraham.

Wrought in fire and sealed with blood,

Ratified by God the Son.

The righteous seed, the chosen one,

Remembrance of God's mercy come.

Quick to rescue, strong to save,

God in flesh, in blood, in bone.

You are God to us, You are God to us

You are God to us, You keep your covenant

This covenant at Calvary

Hangs upon a sinner's tree.

Death and grave could not contain.

Raised to life, he overcame!

You are God to us, You are God to us

You are God to us, You keep your covenant

We call on the name of the Lord, YHWH

We call on the name of the Lord.

We call on the name of the Lord,

YHWH, YHWH

We call on the name of the Lord, YHWH

We call on the name of the Lord.

We call on the name of the Lord,

YHWH, YHWH

Filled with power from on high.

Holy Spirit, God divine.

In my life your will be done.

Father let your kingdom come.

Passage: 1 Now these are the last words of David:

The oracle of David, the son of Jesse,

the oracle of the man who was raised on high,

the anointed of the God of Jacob,

the sweet psalmist of Israel:

2 “The Spirit of the LORD speaks by me;

his word is on my tongue.

3 The God of Israel has spoken;

the Rock of Israel has said to me:

When one rules justly over men,

ruling in the fear of God,

4 he dawns on them like the morning light,

like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning,

like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.

5 “For does not my house stand so with God?

For he has made with me an everlasting covenant,

ordered in all things and secure.

For will he not cause to prosper

all my help and my desire?

6 But worthless men are all like thorns that are thrown away,

for they cannot be taken with the hand;

7 but the man who touches them

arms himself with iron and the shaft of a spear,

and they are utterly consumed with fire.”

(2 Samuel 23:1–7 ESV)

Musical Reflection: All to Jesus I Surrender (SURRENDER) by Winfield S. Weeden

Reflection Notes: This tune was originally intended to have two-part harmonies on the verse and four-part harmonies of the refrain; the additional harmonic fullness adds to the repeated emphasis of the words “I surrender all.”

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Stayed on Him by Darren Mulligan, Gabriel Patillo, Kyle Williams, Terrian Woods

Lyrics: There's a world full of mercy and peace

Mercy and peace

Waiting for me

There's a land for the lost and the least

Where they dine with the King

Waiting for me

Yeah His holiness fills up the temple

Still He took my sin and my shame

I didn't deserve to be rescued

Still He has called me by name

I'll stand firm with confidence

'Til He comes again 'til He comes again

I'll keep my mind stayed on Him

'Til the very end 'til the very end

I will keep my mind

Stayed on Him stayed on Him

I will keep my mind

Stayed on Him stayed on Him

There's a Savior with wounds you can see

In His hands and His feet

Waiting for me

There's a place where His glory is seen

It's beyond my wildest dreams

Waiting for me

I know You're the God who reigns

I know You're the God who saves

I know that You walk on waves

I know that You'll never change

Passage: 1 And as he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” 2 And Jesus said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”

3 And as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?” 5 And Jesus began to say to them, “See that no one leads you astray. 6 Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray. 7 And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. 8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains.

(Mark 13:1–8 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Air on the G String” from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major by J.S. Bach

Reflection Notes: The slow, descending bass line creates musical “steps” in an elegant fashion while a suspended melody several octaves above creates a satisfying combination of sound registers.

Prayer: Almighty and merciful God . . . grant, we beseech you, that we may so faithfully serve you in this life that we fail not finally to attain your heavenly promises, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Leonine Sacramentary

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Opening Song: Fullness of Joy (Psalm 16) by Caroline Cobb and Shane Barnard

Lyrics: O God, You are my refuge

I know without You

I have no good thing

O God, You are my portion

My chosen portion

You are what I need

No other god beside You

You hold my lot and fill my cup

Oh beautiful inheritance

You are enough

In Your presence, there is fullness

There is fullness of joy

At Your right hand, there is goodness

Boundless goodness

Forevermore

I choose You, Lord

O God, You go before me

You're right beside me

In my darkest night

My God, You hold my future

My hope it rests secure

In the finished work of Christ

My heart is glad, my soul rejoices

You hold me fast, You won't let go

Your ways are good, and good for me

I'm Yours and Yours alone

In Your presence, there is fullness

There is fullness of joy

At Your right hand, there is goodness

Boundless goodness

Forevermore

I choose You, Lord

Your Holy One has risen up

He's overcome the grave

The path of life is opened wide

For He has made a way

In Your presence, there is fullness

There is fullness of joy

At Your right hand, there is goodness

Boundless goodness

Forevermore

I choose You, Lord

Passage: A Miktam of David.

1 Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.

2 I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord;

I have no good apart from you.”

3 As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones,

in whom is all my delight.

4 The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply;

their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out

or take their names on my lips.

5 The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup;

you hold my lot.

6 The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;

indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

7 I bless the LORD who gives me counsel;

in the night also my heart instructs me.

8 I have set the LORD always before me;

because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;

my flesh also dwells secure.

10 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,

or let your holy one see corruption.

11 You make known to me the path of life;

in your presence there is fullness of joy;

at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

(Psalm 16:1–11 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 3 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This harp reflection features rich, full chords with a strong melody. The tension between major and minor chords reflects the challenges and triumphs of a woman’s life.

Prayer: O Lord God, who sees that we put not our trust in anything that we do; mercifully grant that by your power we may be defended against all adversity, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Gregorian Sacramentary

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Opening Song: Red Sea Road by Christa Wells, Ellie Holcomb, and Nicole Witt

Lyrics: We’ve buried dreams

Laid them deep into the earth behind us

Said our goodbyes

At the grave but everything reminds us

God knows we ache when He asks us to go on

How do we go on

We will sing to our souls

We won’t bury our hope

Where He leads us to go there’s a red sea road

When we can’t see the way He will part the waves

And we’ll never walk alone down a red sea road

How can we trust

When you say you will deliver us

From all of this pain

That threatens to take over us well

Well this desert’s dry but the ocean may consume

And we’re scared to follow you

Oh help us believe

You are faithful you’re faithful

When our hearts are breaking

You are faithful you’re faithful

Oh grant us eyes to see

You are faithful you’re faithful

Teach us to sing

You are faithful you’re faithful

You’re faithful

No we’ll never walk alone down a red sea road

Passage: 4 On the day when Elkanah sacrificed, he would give portions to Peninnah his wife and to all her sons and daughters. 5 But to Hannah he gave a double portion, because he loved her, though the LORD had closed her womb. 6 And her rival used to provoke her grievously to irritate her, because the LORD had closed her womb. 7 So it went on year by year. As often as she went up to the house of the LORD, she used to provoke her. Therefore Hannah wept and would not eat. 8 And Elkanah, her husband, said to her, “Hannah, why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart sad? Am I not more to you than ten sons?”

9 After they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh, Hannah rose. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the LORD. 10 She was deeply distressed and prayed to the LORD and wept bitterly. 11 And she vowed a vow and said, “O LORD of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head.”

12 As she continued praying before the LORD, Eli observed her mouth. 13 Hannah was speaking in her heart; only her lips moved, and her voice was not heard. Therefore Eli took her to be a drunken woman. 14 And Eli said to her, “How long will you go on being drunk? Put your wine away from you.” 15 But Hannah answered, “No, my lord, I am a woman troubled in spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the LORD. 16 Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for all along I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation.” 17 Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” 18 And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.

19 They rose early in the morning and worshiped before the LORD; then they went back to their house at Ramah. And Elkanah knew Hannah his wife, and the LORD remembered her. 20 And in due time Hannah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Samuel, for she said, “I have asked for him from the LORD.”

(1 Samuel 1:4–20 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Bless the Lord, My Soul by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: A contribution to the Taizé tradition, this tune by Berthier provides a reverent foundation for the text: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and bless God’s holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life.”

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Seasons Change by Antoine Bradford

Lyrics: Oh I know seasons change

And pain, pain makes you grow

And all the mistakes of yesterday

Are making me whole

'Cause you are the perfect designer

Oh Jesus, all of my life collides in…

You were there even when I thought you left

And all of my doubt, and all of my suffering is not in vain

Oh and in the darkest times, your love is my sunlight

And I am reminded that I'm not forgotten

'Cause you stay the same, even when seasons change

So draw near, make me like those who dream

Come near to me again

Lord you are all that I need

My hope and my strength within

Even through shadows I see

Oh Jesus, constant and faithful friend

Oh you were there

Even when I thought you left

And all of my doubt, and all of my suffering is not in vain

Oh and in the darkest time

Your love is my sunlight

I am reminded, that I'm not forgotten

'Cause you stay the same

Even when seasons change

Passage: 11 And every priest stands daily at his service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. 14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.

15 And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying,

16 “This is the covenant that I will make with them

after those days, declares the Lord:

I will put my laws on their hearts,

and write them on their minds,”

17 then he adds,

“I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”

18 Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.

19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

(Hebrews 10:11–25 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune

Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two.

Prayer: Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for

our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn,

and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and ever

hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have

given us in our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with

you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Everything by Jason Ingram, Lauren Daigle, and Paul Mabury

Lyrics: Even the sparrow

Has a place to lay its head

So why would I let worry steal my breath

Even the roses

You have clothed in brilliant red

Still I'm the one you love more than this

You give me everything

I need

Even the oceans

Push and pull at your command

So you can still my heart with your hand

You tell the seasons

When it's time for them to turn

So I will trust you even when it hurts

When I can't see you lead me

When I can't hear you show me

When I can't stand you carry me

When I'm lost you will find me

When I'm weak you are mighty

You are everything I need

Passage: 38 And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplaces 39 and have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, 40 who devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”

41 And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. 43 And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. 44 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

(Mark 12:38–44 ESV)

Musical Reflection: All to Jesus I Surrender (SURRENDER) by Winfield S. Weeden

Reflection Notes: This tune was originally intended to have two-part harmonies on the verse and four-part harmonies of the refrain; the additional harmonic fullness adds to the repeated emphasis of the words “I surrender all.”

Prayer: We beseech you, almighty God, look on the hearty desires of your humble servants, and stretch forth the right hand of your majesty to be our defense against all our enemies, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Jesus Paid It All by Kings (MHM)

Lyrics: And I hear the Savior say

Thy strength indeed is small

Child of weakness watch and pray

Find in Me thine all in all

'Cause Jesus paid it all

All to Him I owe

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow

Lord now indeed I find

Thy pow'r and Thine alone

Can change the leper's spots

And melt the heart of stone

And when before the throne

I stand in Him complete

Jesus died my soul to save

My lips shall still repeat

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow

Oh praise the One Who paid my debt

And raised this life up from the dead

Passage: 24 For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. 25 Nor was it to offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters the holy places every year with blood not his own, 26 for then he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, 28 so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.

(Hebrews 9:24–28 ESV)

Musical Reflection: It Is Well With My Soul (VILLE DU HAVRE) by Philip Bliss

Reflection Notes: A hymn born in tragedy, “It is Well” was penned by Horatio Spaffor after hearing that his daughters had all perished in a shipwreck. Through this devastation, Spafford and his wife clung to the promise of God’s goodness. Spafford’s immortal words were set to music by his good friend and hymn writer, Philip Bliss; Bliss titled the tune “Ville du Havre” after the ship on which Spafford’s children had died.

Prayer: O God, whose blessed Son came into the world that he might

destroy the works of the devil and make us children of God

and heirs of eternal life: Grant that, having this hope, we may

purify ourselves as he is pure; that, when he comes again

with power and great glory, we may be made like him in his

eternal and glorious kingdom; where he lives and reigns with

you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Psalm 127 by The Corner Room

Lyrics: Unless the Lord builds the house,

Those who build it labor in vain.

Unless the Lord watches over the city,

The watchman stays awake in vain.

It is in vain

That you rise up early

And go late to rest,

Eating the bread of anxious toil;

For he gives to his beloved sleep.

Behold, children are

A heritage from the Lord,

The fruit of the womb is a reward.

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior

Are the children of one's youth.

Blessed is the man

Who fills his quiver with them!

He shall not be put to shame

When he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

Passage: A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon.

1 Unless the LORD builds the house,

those who build it labor in vain.

Unless the LORD watches over the city,

the watchman stays awake in vain.

2 It is in vain that you rise up early

and go late to rest,

eating the bread of anxious toil;

for he gives to his beloved sleep.

3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,

the fruit of the womb a reward.

4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior

are the children of one’s youth.

5 Blessed is the man

who fills his quiver with them!

He shall not be put to shame

when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

(Psalm 127:1–5 ESV)

Musical Reflection: “Breathe on Me, Breath of God,” tune by Robert Jackson

Reflection Notes: TRENTHAM is a tune by Robert Jackson, an English composer during the nineteenth century. It fits perfectly with the text for “Breath On Me, Breath of God,” by Edwin Hatch; each phrase is allotted ample space for reflection.

Prayer: O Lord, from whom all good things do come, grant to us your humble servants, that by your holy inspiration we may think those things that be good, and by your merciful guiding may perform the same, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: Altogether Good by Brian Eichelberger and Zach Bolen

Lyrics: How could we recount the ways

That You have multiplied our faith

The wisdom of Your ways

The currents of Your grace expressed

In every moment every wave

In the longing of our souls

In the darkness where we go

You are there You are love

You are altogether good

In the weakness of our faith

In the silence where we wait

You are here You're enough

You are altogether good

Through our joys and in our griefs

You have led us to believe

The wisdom of Your ways

The currents of Your grace express

Our only hope for all our days

You are altogether good

I love You Lord I love You Lord

You are my more

Wholly present and pure

(You are altogether good)

Passage: 1 Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, should I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you? 2 Is not Boaz our relative, with whose young women you were? See, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. 3 Wash therefore and anoint yourself, and put on your cloak and go down to the threshing floor, but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 But when he lies down, observe the place where he lies. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down, and he will tell you what to do.” 5 And she replied, “All that you say I will do.”

13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And he went in to her, and the LORD gave her conception, and she bore a son. 14 Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a redeemer, and may his name be renowned in Israel! 15 He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has given birth to him.” 16 Then Naomi took the child and laid him on her lap and became his nurse. 17 And the women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, “A son has been born to Naomi.” They named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.

(Ruth 3:1–5; 4:13–17 ESV)

Musical Reflection: Jesus Loves Me by William B. Bradbury

Reflection Notes: This sweet and familiar song was written in 1861 for the composer’s church school and has become a favorite because of the warm reminders associated with its text: “Jesus loves me, this I know.”

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Never Lost by Chris Brown Steven Furtick Tiffany Hudson

Lyrics: Miracles when You move

Such an easy thing for You to do

Your hand is moving right now

You are still showing up

At the tomb of every Lazarus

Your voice is calling me out

Right now I know You're able

My God come through again

You can do all things

You can do all things but fail

'Cause You've never lost a battle

No You've never lost a battle

And I know I know You never will

Everything's possible

By the power of the Holy Ghost

A new wind is blowing right now

Breaking my heart of stone

Taking over like it's Jericho

My walls are all crashing down

You've never lost a battle

You never will

Never never

Yes I know I know You never will

I know I know You never will

Passage: 32 Now when Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet, saying to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. 34 And he said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man also have kept this man from dying?”

Jesus Raises Lazarus

38 Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for dhe has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?” 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. 42 I knew that you always hear me, but I said this on account of the people standing around, that they may believe that you sent me.” 43 When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.” 44 The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”

Musical Reflection: “Amazing Grace,” Appalachian folk tune

Reflection Notes: This beloved tune, formally known as NEW BRITAIN, originates from the folk music of Appalachia. The melody is simple and outlines triads, making it memorable; the ascending line creates a triumphant climax.

Prayer: Almighty God, you have taught us through your Son that love is the fulfilling of the law. Grant that we may love you with our whole heart and our neighbors as ourselves; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Leonine Sacramentary

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Opening Song: I Am Making All Things New by Wendell Kimbrough

Lyrics: Then I saw the heavens open

For the former things were past

And I heard my Savior singing

I have come for you at last

I will wipe away death’s sorrow

You will no more cry or grieve

To the thirsty I give healing

From the spring of life come drink

For behold I am making all things new

Write this down every word is true

Tell the world what I come to do

I am making all things new

Then I saw God’s holy city

New Jerusalem descend

And a voice announced with splendor

I will dwell with you my friends

I will be your God forever

You will never leave my side

You were always my beloved

Now at last you’ll be my Bride

We will no more fear the darkness

And the night will be like day

For the Lamb in all his beauty

Like a torch will light our way

And the gates of that great city

Never close to those who come

Every nation brings its glory

To our new creation home

Passage: 1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

5 And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 6 And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.

(Revelation 21:1–6)

Musical Reflection: Piano Sonata No. 16 in C Major, K. 545: II. Andante by W. A. Mozart

Reflection Notes: In true fashion for Mozart’s middle movements, this Andante blooms slowly with gentle and delicate notes; the melody ascends in joyful fashion at the most climactic points before settling back down with the satisfying left hand harmonies.

Prayer: Almighty and merciful God, it is only by your gift that your

faithful people offer you true and laudable service: Grant

that we may run without stumbling to obtain your heavenly

promises; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and

reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for

ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: White As Snow by Jon Foreman

Lyrics: Have mercy on me, oh God

According to Your unfailing love

According to Your great compassion

Blot out my transgressions

Would You create in me a clean heart, oh, God?

Restore in me the joy of Your salvation

The sacrifices of our God

Are a broken and a contrite heart

Against You and You alone

Have I sinned?

Would You create in me a clean heart, oh, God?

Restore in me the joy of Your salvation

Wash me white as snow

And I will be made whole

Passage: 1 The earth is the LORD’S and the fullness thereof,

the world and those who dwell therein,

2 for he has founded it upon the seas

and established it upon the rivers.

3 Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD?

And who shall stand in his holy place?

4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,

who does not lift up his soul to what is false

and does not swear deceitfully.

5 He will receive blessing from the LORD

and righteousness from the God of his salvation.

6 Such is the generation of those who seek him,

who seek the face of the God of Jacob. Selah

7 Lift up your heads, O gates!

And be lifted up, O ancient doors,

that the King of glory may come in.

8 Who is this King of glory?

The LORD, strong and mighty,

the LORD, mighty in battle!

9 Lift up your heads, O gates!

And lift them up, O ancient doors,

that the King of glory may come in.

10 Who is this King of glory?

The LORD of hosts,

he is the King of glory! Selah

(Psalm 24:1–10)

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 2 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This modal meditation centers around an intervallic pattern in the right hand that is anchored by deep bass octaves in the left hand and occasional supportive harmonies. Though somewhat haunting, the melodic motif provokes reflection.

Prayer: Grant us, Lord, to hope on your name, which is the primal source of all creation,

and open the eyes of our hearts that we may know you. . . .

We ask you, Master, to be our helper and protector.

Save those among us who are in distress; have mercy on the humble; raise up the fallen;

show yourself to those in need; heal the sick; turn back those of your people who wander;

feed the hungry; ransom our prisoners; raise up the weak; comfort the discouraged.

Let all the nations know that you are the only God, that Jesus Christ is your servant,

and that we are your people and the sheep of your pasture.

[A prayer of Clement of Rome (35–99 CE).]

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Opening Song: There Will Be A Day by Caroline Cobb

Lyrics: There will be a day

When the house of God

Like a mountain o’er the hills

Will be lifted up

As a river flows

Ever to the sea

All the nations will flow to Him

Like a living stream

There will be a day

When the Prince of peace

Will break the bow and sword

And make all wars cease

And our guns and bombs

Will be melted down

Into plowshares for the harvest

How we're longing for it now

When we'll go to the mountain of God

We'll walk in His ways

We'll look on His face

We'll go to the mountain of God

We'll cast down our pride

And walk in His light

On the mountain of God

There will be a day

And it's drawing near

When He'll lift the veil of death

And He'll dry our tears

And with joy we'll go

To His wedding feast

And His glory will fill up the earth

Like the waters fill the sea

On the mountain of God

Passage: 6 On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples

a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine,

of rich food full of marrow, of aged wine well refined.

7 And he will swallow up on this mountain

the covering that is cast over all peoples,

the veil that is spread over all nations.

8 He will swallow up death forever;

and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces,

and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth,

for the LORD has spoken.

9 It will be said on that day,

“Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us.

This is the LORD; we have waited for him;

let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.”

(Isaiah 25:6–9)

Musical Reflection: “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” tune by William Bradbury

Reflection Notes: The tune BRADBURY is named for its composer, a New Englander from the first half of the nineteenth century. The sweet melody for the verses repeats, then is followed by a strong refrain.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Rescue by Antoine Bradford

Lyrics: Like a moth to the flame

A fish to the bait

I am lured away from You

And the temptation to stray

Pulls on my strings

And sometimes I don't refuse

But You

Know just what to do

And always come to my rescue

But the wave crashes again

With the weight of my sin

And I'm carried out to sea

As my hands reach for the sky

Fear grips my mind

But strangely, there's a peace

'Cause You

Know just what to do (You know what to do)

And always comе to my rescue

No matter how dark be my days

You are my sunshine in the rain

Passage: 46 And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.” 50 And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” 52 And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way.

(Mark 10:46–52)

Musical Reflection: It Is Well With My Soul (VILLE DU HAVRE) by Philip Bliss

Reflection Notes: A hymn born in tragedy, “It is Well” was penned by Horatio Spaffor after hearing that his daughters had all perished in a shipwreck. Through this devastation, Spafford and his wife clung to the promise of God’s goodness. Spafford’s immortal words were set to music by his good friend and hymn writer, Philip Bliss; Bliss titled the tune “Ville du Havre” after the ship on which Spafford’s children had died.

Prayer: Let your merciful ears, O Lord, be open to the prayers of your humble servants; and that they may obtain their petitions, make them to ask such things as shall please you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Gelasian Sacramentary

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Opening Song: High Priest by Jonathan Ogden

Lyrics: Oh the humility of a King inside a manger

Our shepherd and our saviour on the cross

You gave Your life for me

Now, how can I repay You?

All the riches I could gain are not enough

You are the Prince of Peace

You're our great high priest

You have made a way for me

You have set me free

You got thirsty, You got tired

You were tempted, You were tried

And You can fully sympathise

Cause You know just what it's like to live this life

Fully God and fully man, who can fully comprehend the mystery?

You are the Prince of Peace

You're our great high priest

You have made a way for me

You have set me free

I've found freedom in You Jesus

There is nothing in between us

You turn mourning into dancing

And sorrow into joy, oh Lord

Passage: 23 The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, 24 but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. 25 Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.

26 For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. 27 He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. 28 For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever.

(Hebrews 7:23–28)

Musical Reflection: Nothing But The Blood (PLAINFIELD) by Robert Lowry

Reflection Notes: Lowry wrote several hymns for his congregation’s use in the late nineteenth century. This particular tune is pentatonic (only five notes used per octave) and falls within a small vocal range, which made it accessible for all parishioners to sing and enjoy.

Prayer: Father, my Father,

enlarge my heart that it may be big enough

to receive the greatness of your love.

Stretch my heart that it may take into it

all those who with me around the world believe in Jesus Christ. Stretch it that it may take into it

all those who do not know him,

but who are my responsibility

because I know him.

And stretch it that it may take in

all those who are not lovely in my eyes,

and whose hands I do not want to touch;

through Jesus Christ, my Savior.

(A prayer from Africa, adapted from Morning, Noon and Night)

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Opening Song: Psalm 34 by Shane & Shane

Lyrics: I sought the Lord

And He answered me

And delivered me

From every fear

Those who look on Him

Are radiant

They'll never be ashamed

This poor man cried

And the Lord heard me

And saved me from

My enemies

The Son of God

Surrounds His saints

He will deliver them

Magnify the Lord with me

Come exalt His name together

Glorify the Lord with me

Come exalt His name forever

Oh, taste and see

That the Lord is good

Oh, bless us here

Who hides in Him

Oh, fear the Lord

Oh, all you saints

He'll give you everything

Magnify the Lord with me

Come exalt His name together

Glorify the Lord with me

Come exalt His name forever

Let us bless the Lord

Every day and night

Neverending praise

May our incense rise

Passage: 1 I will bless the LORD at all times;

his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

2 My soul makes its boast in the LORD;

let the humble hear and be glad.

3 Oh, magnify the LORD with me,

and let us exalt his name together!

4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me

and delivered me from all my fears.

5 Those who look to him are radiant,

and their faces shall never be ashamed.

6 This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him

and saved him out of all his troubles.

7 The angel of the LORD encamps

around those who fear him, and delivers them.

8 Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good!

Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous,

but the LORD delivers him out of them all.

20 He keeps all his bones;

not one of them is broken.

21 Affliction will slay the wicked,

and those who hate the righteous will be condemned.

22 The LORD redeems the life of his servants;

none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned.

(Psalm 34:1–8, 19–22)

Musical Reflection: O Lord, Hear My Prayer by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: This song from the Taizé community contains a series of pleas: “O Lord, hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me.” The repeated notes emphasize the insistence of the sung prayer, while the descending lines indicate a deep, almost despairing desire to connect.

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us the gifts of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain what you promise, make us love what you command; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Till I Found You by Phil Wickham

Lyrics: I searched through the Earth for something that could satisfy

A peace for the hurt I had buried deep inside

Knees on the floor, I finally found everything I needed

You lifted my soul and opened up my eyes

And I never knew anything lasts forever

Till I found You, till I found You

I never dreamed anything could be better

Till I found You, till I found You

You're rewriting my story

And I'm brand new like a morning

Oh, I never knew anything lasts forever

Till I found You

Gone are the days I'm chasing after what won't last

I'm done with building these castles that crumble like sand

Oh, knees on the floor

I finally found that everything I

Needed was always right in front of me

You gave me a name

You changed everything, yeah yeah

I never knew anything lasts forever

Till I found You, till I found You

I never dreamed anything could be better

Till I found You, till I found You

You're rewriting my story

And I'm brand new like a morning

Oh, I never knew anything lasts forever

Till I found You

Passage: 1 Then Job answered the LORD and said:

2 “I know that you can do all things,

and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.

3 ‘Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?’

Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,

things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.

4 ‘Hear, and I will speak;

I will question you, and you make it known to me.’

5 I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,

but now my eye sees you;

6 therefore I despise myself,

and repent in dust and ashes.”

10 And the LORD restored the fortunes of Job, when he had prayed for his friends. And the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before. 11 Then came to him all his brothers and sisters and all who had known him before, and ate bread with him in his house. And they showed him sympathy and comforted him for all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him. And each of them gave him a piece of money and a ring of gold.

12 And the LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning. And he had 14,000 sheep, 6,000 camels, 1,000 yoke of oxen, and 1,000 female donkeys. 13 He had also seven sons and three daughters. 14 And he called the name of the first daughter Jemimah, and the name of the second Keziah, and the name of the third Keren-happuch. 15 And in all the land there were no women so beautiful as Job’s daughters. And their father gave them an inheritance among their brothers. 16 And after this Job lived 140 years, and saw his sons, and his sons’ sons, four generations. 17 And Job died, an old man, and full of days.

(Job 42:1–6, 10–17)

Musical Reflection: Harp meditation No. 1 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: A repetitive pattern in the left hand provides a meditative foundation while the right hand experiments with ascending lines. The tune is meant to be joyful and evoke delight.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: Day by Day by the Porter’s Gate

Lyrics: Server, you remind us of our Savior’s bowl and towel.

Teacher, you are raising up a child to be kind.

Lawyer, give us hope that justice one day will surround us:

May God’s kingdom come

On earth His will be done,

Lord, be close to us

Lord, have mercy on us.

Lord, please put Your hand on us day by day.

Farmer, you are working for a table full of bounty.

Painter, with each color you are teaching us to see.

Nurse, yours are the healing hands that touch the poor and broken:

Refrain

Carpenter, you frame a house for those who need protection.

Laborer, you lift a heavy burden for the weak.

Leaders, build a city that all children may rejoice in:

Refrain

Passage: 35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” 39 And they said to him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, 40 but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. 42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

(Mark 10:35–45)

Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune

Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two.

Prayer: Grant us, Lord, to hope on your name, which is the primal source of all creation,

and open the eyes of our hearts that we may know you. . . .

We ask you, Master, to be our helper and protector. Save those among us who are in distress; have mercy on the humble; raise up the fallen; show yourself to those in need; heal the sick; turn back those of your people who wander; feed the hungry; ransom our prisoners; raise up the weak; comfort the discouraged. Let all the nations know that you are the only God, that Jesus Christ is your servant, and that we are your people and the sheep of your pasture.

[A prayer of Clement of Rome (35–99 CE).]

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Opening Song: O Love That Will Not Let Me Go (Heritage) by As Isaac

Lyrics: O Love that will not let me go

I rest my weary soul in Thee

I give Thee back the life I owe

That in thine ocean depths its flow

May richer, fuller be

What kind of love is this?

That You would call me friend

What kind of love is this?

This is my heritage

O Joy that seekest me through pain

I cannot close my heart to Thee

I trace the rainbow through the rain

And feel the promise is not vain

That morn shall tearless be

What kind of love is this?

That You would call me friend

What kind of love is this?

This is my heritage

Your song over all my years

My perfect inheritance

What kind of love, what kind of love is this!

O Cross that liftest up my head

I dare not ask to fly from thee;

I lay in dust life's glory dead

And from the ground there blossoms red

Life that shall endless be

Passage: 1 For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2 He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. 3 Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. 4 And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was.

5 So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him,

“You are my Son,

today I have begotten you”;

6 as he says also in another place,

“You are a priest forever,

after the order of Melchizedek.”

7 In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. 9 And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, 10 being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.

(Hebrews 5:1–10)

Musical Reflection: O Sacred Head Now Wounded by Hans Leo Hassler

Reflection Notes: This tune by Hassler is most famously set with the text “O Sacred, Now Wounded;” the most common harmonization was popularized by J.S. Bach in his St. Matthew Passion. It conveys the pathos of Christ’s death with deep sincerity.

Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations: Preserve the works of your mercy, that your Church throughout the world may persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Call Him Good (Psalm 104) by Sandra McCracken, Derek Webb, and Don Chaffer

Lyrics: Call Him good my soul

I am here to declare my affection for You

Call Him good my soul

You who are wrapped in glory

Dressed in greatness

For covering You choose light

Your clothes sunset and moon-rise

For a tent You stretch out the heavens

For a roof You pitch the sky

Call Him good my soul

You who made the earth

And You made its frame stable forever

You who made the earth

And You wrapped it in a gown of waters

Passage: 1 Bless the LORD, O my soul!

O LORD my God, you are very great!

You are clothed with splendor and majesty,

2 covering yourself with light as with a garment,

stretching out the heavens like a tent.

3 He lays the beams of his chambers on the waters;

he makes the clouds his chariot;

he rides on the wings of the wind;

4 he makes his messengers winds,

his ministers a flaming fire.

5 He set the earth on its foundations,

so that it should never be moved.

6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment;

the waters stood above the mountains.

7 At your rebuke they fled;

at the sound of your thunder they took to flight.

8 The mountains rose, the valleys sank down

to the place that you appointed for them.

9 You set a boundary that they may not pass,

so that they might not again cover the earth.

24 O LORD, how manifold are your works!

In wisdom have you made them all;

the earth is full of your creatures.

35 Let sinners be consumed from the earth,

and let the wicked be no more!

Bless the LORD, O my soul!

Praise the LORD!

(Psalm 104:1–9, 24, 35)

Musical Reflection: “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” tune by William Bradbury

Reflection Notes: The tune BRADBURY is named for its composer, a New Englander from the first half of the nineteenth century. The sweet melody for the verses repeats, then is followed by a strong refrain.

Prayer: O Lord, prepare our hearts for prayer, our lips for your praise, our souls for your truth. Fill us with reverence for all that belongs to your holy name: your house, your worship, your Word; that we may benefit by these means of grace. And stretch forth, O Lord, the arms of your mercy over us and the right hand of your help toward us, that we may seek you with our whole heart and obtain what we rightly ask; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Opening Song: How Great Thou Art by Shane & Shane

Lyrics: O Lord my God

When I in awesome wonder

Consider all the worlds

Thy hands have made

I see the stars

I hear the rolling thunder

Thy pow'r throughout

The universe displayed

Then sings my soul

My Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art

Then sings my soul

My Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art

When through the woods

And forest glades I wander

And hear the birds

Sing sweetly in the trees

When I look down

From lofty mountain grandeur

And hear the brook

And feel the gentle breeze

And when I think

That God His Son not sparing

Sent Him to die

I scarce can take it in

That on the cross

My burden gladly bearing

He bled and died

To take away my sin

When Christ shall come

With shout of acclamation

And take me home

What joy shall fill my heart

Then I shall bow

In humble adoration

And there proclaim

My God how great Thou art

Passage: 1 Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said:

2 “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?

3 Dress for action like a man;

I will question you, and you make it known to me.

4 “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?

Tell me, if you have understanding.

5 Who determined its measurements—surely you know!

Or who stretched the line upon it?

6 On what were its bases sunk,

or who laid its cornerstone,

7 when the morning stars sang together

and all the sons of God shouted for joy?

34 “Can you lift up your voice to the clouds,

that a flood of waters may cover you?

35 Can you send forth lightnings, that they may go

and say to you, ‘Here we are’?

36 Who has put wisdom in the inward parts

or given understanding to the mind?

37 Who can number the clouds by wisdom?

Or who can tilt the waterskins of the heavens,

38 when the dust runs into a mass

and the clods stick fast together?

39 “Can you hunt the prey for the lion,

or satisfy the appetite of the young lions,

40 when they crouch in their dens

or lie in wait in their thicket?

41 Who provides for the raven its prey,

when its young ones cry to God for help,

and wander about for lack of food?

(Job 38:1–7, 34–41)

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 3 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This harp reflection features rich, full chords with a strong melody. The tension between major and minor chords here can reflect the challenges and triumphs that we see in God’s creation.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: You Must Increase by Advent Birmingham

Lyrics: You are holy, and I am not;

You must increase, and I must decrease.

You are perfect, and I am not;

You must increase, and I must decrease.

You are wisdom, and I am not;

You must increase, and I must decrease.

Your grace is all I need,

For your power works best in weakness; Your grace is all I need:

You must increase, and I must decrease.

You are faithful, and I am not;

You must increase, and I must decrease.

You are in control, and I am not;

You must increase, and I must decrease.

I have been crucified with Christ,

No longer I, but Christ who lives;

The life I now live, I live by faith,

In the Son who gave himself for me.

Passage: 17 And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” 20 And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” 21 And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 22 Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

23 And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” 28 Peter began to say to him, “See, we have left everything and followed you.” 29 Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, 30 who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

(Mark 10:17–31)

Musical Reflection: Prelude in C Major, BWV 846 by J.S. Bach

Reflection Notes: Bach’s well-known prelude spins out a series of modulations, almost imperceptible at first. The new harmonies continually unfold in a way that intrigues but never shocks.

Prayer: Lord, we pray that your grace may always precede and follow us, that we may continually be given to good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

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Opening Song: Before the Throne of God Above by Charitie Lees Bancroft and Vikki Cook (sung by Shane Barnard and Shane Everett)

Lyrics: Before the throne of God above

I have a strong and a perfect plea

A great high priest, whose name is love

Who ever lives and pleads for me

My name is graven on his hands

My name is written on his heart

I know that while in heaven he stands

No tongue can bid me thence depart

When Satan tempts me to despair

And tells me of the guilt within

Upward I look and see him there

Who made an end of all my sin

Because a sinless savior died

My sinful soul is counted free

For God, the Just, is satisfied

To look on him and pardon me

Hallelujah, Hallelujah, praise the one

Risen son of God

Behold him there, the risen lamb

My perfect spotless righteousness

The great unchangeable I am

The king of glory and of grace

One in himself, I cannot die

My soul is purchased by his blood

My life is hid with Christ on high

With Christ, my savior and my God

Hallelujah, Hallelujah

Praise the one, risen son of God

Hallelujah, Hallelujah

Praise the one, risen son of God

Passage: 12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

(Hebrews 4:12–16)

Musical Reflection: “Amazing Grace,” Appalachian folk tune

Reflection Notes: This beloved tune, formally known as NEW BRITAIN, originates from the folk music of Appalachia. The melody is simple and outlines triads, making it memorable; the ascending line creates a triumphant climax.

Prayer: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred let me sow love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek To be consoled as to console;

To be understood as to understand;

To be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.

[St. Francis of Assisi (ca. 1181–1226)]

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Opening Song: Psalm 22 by Poor Bishop Hooper

Lyrics: My God my God why have you forsaken me

Why have you abandoned me

My God my God why are you so far away

When i plead and plead

My God my God every day i call to you

Still you're never answering

My God my God every night i know you hear my voice

But i can't quite seem to find relief

Yet you are holy enthroned in praise

Israel they trusted you and they were saved

They cried out to you and were shown the way

Up out of darkness

Up out of darkness into the place you made

My God my God they've pierced my hands my feet

I can see the people counting up my bones

My God my God they've divided what i own among themselves

And gambled for my clothes

My God my God, i'm captivated by a thirst that ties my tongue

And dries up all the strength inside of me

My God my God though i don't know of who i sing

Or what these lines so true foresee

Would you come quickly

Yet you are holy enthroned in praise

Israel they trusted you and they were saved

Could I cry out to you in the very same way

Bring me up out of darkness

Up out of darkness up out of darkness into the place you made

But he has not despised me or left me in affliction

He did not his face from me he did not hide his face

The humble will eat and be satisfied

Those who seek the Lord will praise him

The families of all nations the ends of the earth remember

And people yet unborn proclaim he alone has all dominion

He did not hide his face

Passage: 1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?

2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer,

and by night, but I find no rest.

3 Yet you are holy,

enthroned on the praises of Israel.

4 In you our fathers trusted;

they trusted, and you delivered them.

5 To you they cried and were rescued;

in you they trusted and were not put to shame.

6 But I am a worm and not a man,

scorned by mankind and despised by the people.

7 All who see me mock me;

they make mouths at me; they wag their heads;

8 “He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him;

let him rescue him, for he delights in him!”

9 Yet you are he who took me from the womb;

you made me trust you at my mother’s breasts.

10 On you was I cast from my birth,

and from my mother’s womb you have been my God.

11 Be not far from me,

for trouble is near,

and there is none to help.

12 Many bulls encompass me;

strong bulls of Bashan surround me;

13 they open wide their mouths at me,

like a ravening and roaring lion.

14 I am poured out like water,

and all my bones are out of joint;

my heart is like wax;

it is melted within my breast;

15 my strength is dried up like a potsherd,

and my tongue sticks to my jaws;

you lay me in the dust of death.

(Psalm 22:1–15)

Musical Reflection: Harp Meditation No. 2 by Gretchen Kirby

Reflection Notes: This modal meditation centers around an intervallic pattern in the right hand that is anchored by deep bass octaves in the left hand and occasional supportive harmonies. Though somewhat haunting, the melodic motif provokes reflection.

Prayer: I have no other helper than you,

no other father, no other redeemer, no other support. I pray to you.

Only you can help me.

My present misery is too great.

Despair grips me,

and I am at my wits’ end.

I am sunk in the depths,

and I cannot pull myself up or out.

If it is your will, help me out of this misery.

Let me know that you are stronger

than all misery and all enemies.

O Lord, if I come through this,

please let the experience

contribute to my and my brothers’ blessing.

You will not forsake me; this I know.

Amen.

(A prayer from a young Ghanian Christian. Taken from I Lie on My Mat and Pray.)

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Opening Song: Loving Kind by Antoine Bradford

Lyrics: It's been awhile since I felt You near to me,

And all I hold is the vagueness of Your memory

Why did I roam so far from You oh Lord,

I had You right inside the center of my heart, and I took it for granted but

You always stayed by my side, and You always answered my cry

And when I fall You catch me

Cause You are the Loving Kind

So take me into Your loving arms again,

Cause I'm so tired of dancin' with my sin

Why did I roam so far from You oh Lord,

I had You right inside the center of my heart and I took it for granted but

You always stayed by my side, and You always answered my cry

And when I fall You catch me

Cause You are the Loving Kind

Passage: 1 Then Job answered and said:

2 “Today also my complaint is bitter;

my hand is heavy on account of my groaning.

3 Oh, that I knew where I might find him,

that I might come even to his seat!

4 I would lay my case before him

and fill my mouth with arguments.

5 I would know what he would answer me

and understand what he would say to me.

6 Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power?

No; he would pay attention to me.

7 There an upright man could argue with him,

and I would be acquitted forever by my judge.

8 “Behold, I go forward, but he is not there,

and backward, but I do not perceive him;

9 on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him;

he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him.

16 God has made my heart faint;

the Almighty has terrified me;

17 yet I am not silenced because of the darkness,

nor because thick darkness covers my face.

(Job 23:1–9, 16–17)

Musical Reflection: Jesus, Remember Me by Jacques Berthier

Reflection Notes: “Jesus, Remember Me” is a tune from the French Taizé tradition; these simple songs are meant to be repeated indefinitely with added instrumentation or voice parts. They are meant to be meditative and allow for prayer.

Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

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Opening Song: His Mercy is More by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa

Lyrics: Praise the Lord!

His mercy is more

Stronger than darkness, new every morn