Order of Worship for Sunday, September 13th
Call to Worship: Psalm 24
Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. He will receive a blessing from the Lord and vindication from God his Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob.
Hymn: Breathe on Me, Breath of God
Opening Prayer:
Loving God, anoint us with your Holy Spirit today. Fill us with your truth that we may walk in your ways, adore you with our whole heart, and live in mutual support of one another. Receive our worship now, for we long to live for your glory. Through Jesus Christ, our savior, we pray. Amen.
Scripture Lesson: Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Deuteronomy 30:15–20 (NRSV): 15 See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and adversity. 16 If you obey the commandments of the LORD your God that I am commanding you today, by loving the LORD your God, walking in his ways, and observing his commandments, decrees, and ordinances, then you shall live and become numerous, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to possess. 17 But if your heart turns away and you do not hear, but are led astray to bow down to other gods and serve them, 18 I declare to you today that you shall perish; you shall not live long in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess. 19 I call heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live, 20 loving the LORD your God, obeying him, and holding fast to him; for that means life to you and length of days, so that you may live in the land that the LORD swore to give to your ancestors, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.
Pastoral Prayer:
Gracious God, you love knows no limits and your grace is beyond measure. We thank you for the gentle ways your mercy flows into our everyday lives. We are you children because you chose to love us – completely and unconditionally. Hear our pray today for yearn to be in your presence, abiding in your peace.
We pray for the welfare of our world. Calm the storm that rage between countries and communities and in our homes. Open our eyes to the beauty and splendor of our planet and inspire faithful stewardship so that future generations may also enjoy all you have made. Strengthen us to work together for the benefit of our neighbors near and far. Inspire our leaders at every level with wisdom and courage that reflects your compassion for all your people.
We lift our prayers for all who suffer and those who are in need; for all who are sick and hurting. Enable us to care for them with loving hearts as you bring wholeness to our lives and invite us to live in your love. Equip our health care worker: doctors, nurses, first responders, care givers, with tenderness and dedication to offer hope and healing through the power of your spirit.
Use your church, O God, to be a beacon of love and light that draws this community ever closer to your loving embrace. Hear our prayers today as we join them with the prayer Jesus taught us. . . Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by thy name. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and glory, forever. Amen.
Scripture Lesson: Matthew 5:21-26
Matthew 5:21–26 (NRSV): 21 “You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not murder’; and ‘whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, ‘You fool,’ you will be liable to the hell of fire. 23 So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. 25 Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.
Message: Salt and Light – The next level of Forgiveness
Hymn: Christ for the World We Sing
Benediction:
Love the Lord, hold fast to God, so that you may flourish in all you do. And may the wisdom of God, the love of Christ, and the peace of the Holy Spirt shine brightly in you this day and always. Amen.
Kent Smith, Pastor
Salem United Methodist Church
Weaverville, NC
(828) 645-6014