Old Memories and a touch of Joy

There are certain things that bring remembered joy and occasionally the memory comes right to the forefront simply because of something we see, feel, taste, hear that brings it back as if it were just yesterday.

Kite flying!  Beautiful, brightly coloured, lightweight forms that catch the wind and up, up, up it goes.  It is not without a little talent to keep it airborne. The immense joy at a successful launch is one thing but keeping it up brings out a whole other level of accomplishment.  Riding the wind just right and it can go higher and higher.  I googled kite flying to get a pretty picture, the first thing that popped up was the instructions on how to fly a kite.  So without wasting time I read the four simple steps, smiled, and laughed thinking however did we learn how to do this before having a computer look up the steps!  Then there were instructions on the best way to fly a kite.  The site that did pique my interest was where to buy the best kite.  Turns out there is the best Kite shop, I went online to look and singe my fingers at the price tags!  I am sure the plastic contraption (it was white with big round-looking eyes) that I had as a child did not cost much and could fly as well as any of these less cost-effective options that I viewed (they sure were pretty though!)

So what brings about this you may well wonder.  Kite flying is not something that I see a lot of even though there are quite a few windy days, but today a young family were attempting to get a kite airborne.  The little boy was super excited when it crashed and ran to collect it but when his Dad finally got it soaring in the air there was a little awe happening.  Several of us, Aslan and I as well as another man and his dog, stopped to admire the sight and neither of the dogs wanted to leave the park so fascinated were they.

I could not help but wonder why more people don't participate in this simple activity, I wondered why I no longer have a kite.  Did I say simple?  The kite shop would have me know it is not so simple.  Apparently, there is the single-line kite, sport kite, snow, surf, and traction to choose from.  Somehow I remember it being much simpler.  It was a great activity that kept us busy on beautiful windy days when we were in our cabin where we were safely away from power lines, had endless barrens and swampy bogs to run freely, and let's not forget the essential wind power to get that kite in the air and then learn the skill to keep it there riding the wind. 

It can be a  simple, inexpensive activity. (Little did I know until the forced research)  A little help from nature with the wind power.  Patience and perseverance to keep the kite in the air and hours of fun for those so inclined.  As I convinced Aslan to keep walking I wondered just where I might find an inexpensive kite these days --I am sure google will be more than happy to help -- and maybe just maybe I will give it a try to see if I still have the skill to keep it flying.

The Kite 

How bright on the blue

Is a kite when it’s new!

With a dive and a dip

It snaps its tail

Then soars like a ship

With only a sail

As over tides

Of wind it rides,

Climbs to the crest

Of a gust and pulls,

Then seems to rest

As wind falls.

When string goes slack

You wind it back

And run until

A new breeze blows

And its wings fill

And up it goes!

How bright on the blue

Is a kite when it’s new!

But a raggeder thing

You never will see

When it flaps on a string

In the top of a tree.

                                                                                                      By Harry Behn

Quarantine Ramblings --Day 8

The view from the deck near sundown

I remember reading that in biblical times people who were diagnosed with leprosy were required to shout loudly "Unclean, Unclean" (Leviticus 13:45) so that anyone that was coming near or could potentially come near would make sure to avoid them and of course the leper was required to avoid people at all cost.  It had to be a sad and lonely existence not to mention fearful for both the infected person and those that could potentially be affected.  

I am writing from quarantine as I observe the mandatory self isolation of my home province so that after fourteen days I can visit with my mother.  Quarantine is boring, I won't lie!  I returned home harmed with projects and books to pass my fourteen days but as one day blends into another and  as the projects and books are finished it all seems a blur.  There is an up side to isolation, there is time to do nothing guilt free because I am not allowed to go further than the deck (masked in case someone comes near).  I confess there are days I would love to go for my walk and I would be happy to shout "Unclean" just for the opportunity to move about a bit more.  But alas it is not to be and the fourteen days are slowly slipping by.

This time of isolation also means that I have had an opportunity to follow more news items and my mind boggles when I see a few that think their convenience outweighs the good of the majority and watch with much frustration as the numbers slowly climb because of the attitude of a few that refuse to consider the greater good.  I asked someone, if I did not follow the recommended rules; established to keep the majority healthy, to keep the vulnerable safe; how does one live with that short act of selfishness and inconvenience that can impact someone else in a very disastrous and potentially deadly manner?  A few weeks of inconvenience for me is a small price to pay and unlike the biblical times (that many like to quote) we are not ostracized completely by family, friends and society but we are asked to be more caring and compassionate so that we do our part to keep others safe.  

My quarantine has not been a bad experience.  Telephones, computers and multi-media keep us better connected than ever and never completely isolated and alone.   The weather has been wonderfully cooperative -- rain and wind for a few days, sun but windy and cold for the remainder-- making it too cold or too wet to want to wander far.   The seafood, of which I am enjoying in abundance, is fabulous and the ability to see family and friends safely at the end of the fourteen days will definitely have made it worthwhile.

Perhaps this time of pandemic and quarantine (yes, I agree,the pandemic has gone on for too long) calls each of us to do some serious self reflecting about who we are and what we would like to reflect to the world.  Will we be known for our care, patience, generous spirit, compassion or will we be the entire opposite?  Will we uphold what we are being asked to do; wear masks, quarantine if necessary, avoid large gatherings, worship in new ways; with a spirit of willingness so that we can eventually safely be together again? Or are we so foolish as to believe we have to be in a specific building at a specific time for God to know where we are?  Then there is the defiance that the regular working person feels when the restrictions seem to punish those who are doing all they can to follow the outlined rules and yet the real issues seem go unchecked -- check out nearly any Tim Horton's parking lot (large gatherings, no masks and no distancing either).

My quarantine has also forced reflection and the realization that I have become impatient and even intolerant of those that will not comply with public health directives forcing those who do comply to remain in isolation for longer and longer.  I hear levels of frustration increase and tolerance decrease.  I hear the anger that people feel when someone does not isolate as required and boom the cases increase exponentially.  Quarantine has kept me away from people it has not cut me off from conversation and information.  Nor has it caused me any serious physical impediments so that I can no longer see, hear of feel what others convey.  I do wonder what the end result of all of this will be when we once again gain the "normalcy" that we long for and I am reminded of a quote that I read somewhere, a little child who lives with autism said "I don't want to go back to normal, I want to go back to better."  

Easter 5 -- May 2, 2021

 

Prelude:    The Tree of Life My Soul Hath Seen CP 488

The tree of life my soul hath seen,
Laden with fruit, and always green:
The trees of nature fruitless be
Compared with Christ the apple tree.

His beauty doth all things excel.
By faith I know, but ne'er can tell
The glory which I now can see
In Jesus Christ the apple tree.

For happiness I long have sought,
And pleasure dearly I have bought:
I missed of all; but now I see
'tis found in Christ the apple tree.

I'm weary with my former toil,
Here I will sit and rest awhile:
Under the shadow I will be
of Jesus Christ the apple tree.

This fruit doth make my soul to thrive,
It keeps my dying faith alive;
Which makes my soul in haste to be
With Jesus Christ the apple tree.

Acknowledgement

Welcome

Gathering Hymn    He Came Down  CP 368

He came down that we may love;
He came down that we may love;
He came down that we may love;
Hallelujah for evermore.
        Leader:     Why did he come?
repeat stanza

He came down that we may know peace;
He came down that we may know peace;
He came down that we may know peace;
Hallelujah for evermore
        Leader: Why did he come?
repeat stanza

He came down that we may know joy;
He came down that we may know joy;
He came down that we may know joy;
Hallelujah for evermore
        Leader: Why did he come?
repeat stanza

Gathering (loosely based on the hymn “We Stand in Awe”)

As we gather ourselves, our thoughts and focus on the supreme mystery that is God we look all around us at the great cosmos, observe the wonders of the sky the beauty of nature and listen as it sings
This earth, our home is diverse and wonderful and constantly changing

Sometimes the wonders of nature sound harsh especially when the winds howl and animals roar and yet despite the predatory and destructive nature we listen and hear the harmony
Rebirth is constant, refreshing and gives vibrancy to the earth

Within the re-birth, there is a promise that new life will proceed
And here we find that we are received, accepted so that dreams can grow and we feel surrounded by awe that is God sharing the sacred dream

So gathering as we do in our sacred places, we pause again to reflect, to feel, and to commit
to thoughtful and mindful intention.
(Silence)

We wonder again about the ebb and flow of this living, breathing, expanding universe…
And of this community.
(Silence)
We give our attention right now to each other, to new beginnings, to this time, to this season.

Jubilate Deo        by Fred Dunn

Jubilate everybody
serve the Lord in all your ways
and come before His presence singing
Enter now his courts with praise

For the Lord our God is gracious
and His mercy’s everlasting.
Jubilate jubilate jubilate deo

Jubilate everybody
serve the Lord in all your ways
and come before His presence singing
Enter now his courts with praise

The Proclamation of the Word

A Reading from the Acts of the Apostles 8.26–40

Then an angel of the Lord said to Philip, ‘Get up and go towards the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.’ (This is a wilderness road.) So he got up and went. Now there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of her entire treasury. He had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning home; seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah. Then the Spirit said to Philip, ‘Go over to this chariot and join it.’ So Philip ran up to it and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah. He asked, ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ He replied, ‘How can I, unless someone guides me?’ And he invited Philip to get in and sit beside him. Now the passage of the scripture that he was reading was this:
‘Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter,
and like a lamb silent before its shearer,
so he does not open his mouth.
In his humiliation justice was denied him.
Who can describe his generation?
For his life is taken away from the earth.’
The eunuch asked Philip, ‘About whom, may I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?’ Then Philip began to speak, and starting with this scripture, he proclaimed to him the good news about Jesus. As they were going along the road, they came to some water; and the eunuch said, ‘Look, here is water! What is to prevent me from being baptized?’ He commanded the chariot to stop, and both of them, Philip and the eunuch, went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing. But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he was passing through the region, he proclaimed the good news to all the towns until he came to Caesarea.

Listen for the leading of the Spirit             R: Thanks be to God

Psalm 22.24–30     Refrain All the ends of the earth shall turn to the Lord.

For God does not despise nor abhor the poor in their poverty; neither turns away from them; * when they cry to the Lord, they are heard.
All the ends of the earth shall turn to the Lord.

My praise is of God in the great assembly; * I will perform my vows in the presence of those who worship the Lord. The poor shall eat and be satisfied, and those who seek the Lord shall give praise: * “May your heart live for ever!”
All the ends of the earth shall turn to the Lord.

All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord, * and all the families of the nations shall bow before God. For sovereignty belongs to the Lord, * who rules over the nations.
All the ends of the earth shall turn to the Lord.

To God alone all who sleep in the earth bow down in worship; * all who go down to the dust fall before God. My soul shall live for God; my descendants shall serve God; * they shall be known as the Lord’s for ever
All the ends of the earth shall turn to the Lord.

A Reading from the first letter of John 4.7–21

Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us.

By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father has sent his Son as the Saviour of the world. God abides in those who confess that Jesus is the Son of God, and they abide in God. So we have known and believe the love that God has for us.

God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them. Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness on the day of judgement, because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us. Those who say, ‘I love God’, and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.

Listen for the leading of the Spirit          R: Thanks be to God

Gradual Hymn    Love Is The Touch    MV89

Love is the touch of intangible joy;
love is the force that no fear can destroy;
love is the goodness we gladly applaud:
God is where love is, for love is of God.

Love is the lilt in a lingering voice;
love is the hope that can make us rejoice;
love is the cure for the frightened and flawed:
God is where love is, for love is of God.

Love is the light in the tunnel of pain;
love is the will to be whole once again;
love is the trust of a friend on the road:
God is where love is, for love is of God.

Love is the Maker, and Spirit, and Son;
love is the kingdom their will has begun;
love is the pathway the saints all have trod:
God is where love is, for love is of God.

The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. John 15.1–8
Glory to You, Lord Jesus Christ

‘I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-grower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

The Gospel of Christ                        R: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ

The Homily

An Affirmation of Faith (Liturgies for the Journey of Life by D. McRae-McMahom)

In response to the word, let us affirm our faith:

We believe in God, who when there was nothing
planted the seeds of life in all creation,
green in the desert, blossoms in the trees
and breath in the clay of human life.

We believe in Jesus Christ,
eternal seed of life, who entered the deaths of our existence,
trod deeply into our earthiness,
took into his body all our painfulness,
and lifted it into the victory of love.

We believe in the Holy Spirit
who waters our grief with tears,
nourishes us in the buds of life,
and tenderly cherishes our growings
until they break forth into the fruits of hope and faith. Amen

Offering Hymn    I Am The Bread            (by Brian R. Hoare/ Hope Publishing)

I am the bread, the bread of life, who comes to me will never hunger;
I am the bread, the bread of hunger.
I am the bread, the bread of Heaven;
Who feeds on me will never die.

And as you eat, remember me, my body broken on the tree;
My life was given to set you free,
And I’m alive forever more.

So I am the vine, and living vine; A part from me you can do nothing.
I am the vine, the real vine;
Abide in me and I in you.

As you drink, remember me my blood was shed up the tree;
My life was given to set you free,
And I’m alive for ever more.

So eat this bread, and drink this wine, and as you do receive this life of mine.
All that I am, I give to you, that you may live forever more.

Prayer over the Gifts

Gracious God, you show us your way and give us your divine life. May everything, we do be directed by the knowledge of your truth. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the risen Lord. Amen

Prayers of Intercession             (written by Terri and posted on RevGalBlogPals                                                                                              http://revgalblogpals.blogspot.ca/ )

For all the blessings of this life, families, friends, colleagues, neighbours, and strangers, who nurture us, so that the love of God may grow within. That Your love, your Word, like a seed, may grow to produce in us, good fruit.
May your love be like a seed, taking root and growing strong.

For the leaders of the nations, provinces, cities and towns that they may lead with strong hearts and gentle hands and generous spirits, with compassion and mercy, with wisdom and grace.
May they reflect your will guiding all their actions and decisions.
May your love be like a seed, taking root and growing strong.

For those who serve in harms way, those who live in dangerous places, those who live in areas of war and strife, those who live in fear, those who worry about employment, bills, food, and struggle just to find dignity in life.  May your grace bring peace and safety to all people, one to another.
May your love be like a seed, taking root and growing strong.

For those who suffer from any illness or disease of mind, body, or spirit.
Restore these, and all those we carry in our hearts, to fullness of health that only you, O God, can bring.
May your mercy shower each of us with healing mercy and love.
May your love be like a seed, taking root and growing strong.

For those who are dying, and for those who have died and send your comforting love.
Give solace to those who mourn, Console those who grieve.
May your grace surround us like a mantle upon our heads, a shawl upon our shoulders, a hand, to hold our hand.
May your love, be like a seed, taking root and growing strong. Amen

The Lord’s Prayer

Collect
Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Give us grace to love one another and walk in the way of his commandments, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

The Blessing

Closing Hymn    It Only Takes A Spark        (Kurt Kaiser/ Budjohn Songs)

It only takes a spark
To get a fire going
And soon all those around
Can warm up in its glowing

That's how it is with God's love
Once you've experienced it
You spread God’s love to everyone
You want to pass it on

What a wondrous time is spring
When all the trees are budding
The birds begin to sing
The flowers start their blooming;

That's how it is with God's love
Once you've experienced it
You want to sing it's fresh like spring
You want to pass it on

I wish for you, my friend
this happiness that I've found
on God you can depend
It matters not where you're bound
I'll shout it from the mountain top

I want my world to know
The Lord of love has come to me
I want to pass it on

Dismissal (Rex Hunt Liturgies)

As we leave our gathering and time of celebration: may we remember that each day offers more things than we can do.

So let us go now as those who would see not only what the world is but what we can make it be,
and may our hands, our hearts, our voices be turned toward making it so.

We Go in Peace!  Thanks be to God, Alleluia

Postlude    Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing    CP 354

Come, thou Font of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious measure,
Sung by flaming tongues above;
O the vast, the boundless treasure
Of my God’s unchanging love.

Here I make faith’s affirmation;
Thus far by thy help I’ve come,
And I hope, by the compassion,
Safely to arrive at home.
Jesus sought me when a stranger;
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed his precious blood

O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let thy goodness, like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it
Prone to leave God I love
Take my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for thy courts above.

Easter 4 -- Good Shepherd/Vocations Sunday

 

Prelude     Hymns of Adoration (Instrumental)

Land Acknowledgement 

Welcome 
Welcome home to St Paul’s Fort Garry on this fourth Sunday of Easter! Today is Good Shepherd Sunday, which is a day to celebrate Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd. Today is also the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, which is a day when we intentionally pray for vocations to ordained ministry, to the religious life, and to those who serve in lay ministries - and we pray for each other, as we endeavour to use the gifts that God has given each of us: gifts to humbly serve others, and to continue the mission of Jesus.

Gathering Hymn 585 Lord Whose Love in Humble Service
Lord, who’s love in humble service
bore the weight of human need,
who upon the cross, forsaken,
worked your mercy’s perfect deed;
we your servants, bring the worship
not of voice alone, but heart;
consecrating to your purpose
every gift which you impart.

Still your children wander homeless;
still the hungry cry for bread;
still the captives long for freedom;
still in grief we mourn our dead.
As you, Lord, in deep compassion
healed the sick and freed the soul,
by your spirit send your power
to our world to make it whole.

As we worship, grant us vision
till your love’s revealing light
in its height and depth and greatness
dawns upon our quickened sight
making known the needs and burdens
your compassion bids us bear,
stirring us to ardent service,
your abundant life to share.

Gathering of the Community

Jesus said, I AM the good shepherd
The one who tends us, guides us into pastures, and who recognises the sounds of our names.

Jesus said, I AM the good shepherd
The one who bends to heal us, travels through the deepest valleys with us, and who gives up everything for us.

Jesus said, I AM the good shepherd
The one whose rod and staff comfort us, whose strength and love hold us, and whose cup of love runs over.

Jesus said, I AM the good shepherd
And we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Let us gather here: God’s People in God’s love for God’s world.

Collect  (BAS 339)

O God of peace, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, that great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, make us perfect in every good work to do your will, and work in us that which is well-pleasing in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Proclamation of the Word

A Reading from Acts of the Apostles, Acts 4: 5-12

“The next day their rulers, elders, and scribes assembled in Jerusalem, with Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly family. When they had made the prisoners stand in their midst, they inquired, “By what power or by what name did you do this?”

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, if we are questioned today because of a good deed done to someone who was sick and are asked how this man has been healed, let it be known to all of you, and to all the people of Israel, that this man is standing before you in good health by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead. This Jesus is ‘the stone that was rejected by you, the builders; it has become the cornerstone.’

There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved”.”

The word of the Lord.            All: Thanks be to God

Psalm 23    by Stuart Townend

The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want. He makes me lie in pastures green.
He leads me by the still, still waters, God’s goodness restores my soul.

I will trust, I will trust in You. I will trust, I will trust in You.
Endless mercy follows me goodness will lead me home.


And I will trust in You, alone. And I will trust in You alone, for your endless mercy follows me Your goodness will lead me home.

He guides my ways in righteousness, and God anoints my head with oil, and my cup, it overflows with joy. I feast on his pure delights.

I will trust, I will trust in You. I will trust, I will trust in You.
Endless mercy follows me goodness will lead me home.

And though I walk the darkest path, I will not fear the evil one, For You are with me, Your rod and staff are for comfort I need to know.

I will trust, I will trust in You. I will trust, I will trust in You.
Endless mercy follows me goodness will lead me home.

A Reading from the first letter of John, 1 John 3:16-24

“We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us - and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?

Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have boldness before God; and we receive from him whatever we ask, because we obey his commandments and do what pleases him.

And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. All who obey his commandments abide in him, and he abides in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.”

The word of the Lord.        All: Thanks be to God.

Gradual Hymn          Are You A Shepherd (MV 126)

Are you a shepherd, good shepherd who leads us safely through danger while calming our fears?
Are you a father who shelters and feeds us, shares in our laughter and wipes away tears?

chorus
Yes, you are shepherd, parent and teacher, but you are greater than all that we know.
Holy and living, loving and giving,
God, you are with us wherever we go.

Are you a parent, good parent who bears us comforts protects us and helps us to rest?
Are you a teacher who daily prepares us, challenging students to offer their best?

chorus
Yes, you are shepherd, parent and teacher, but you are greater than all that we know.
Holy and living, loving and giving,
God, you are with us wherever we go.

Great, gentle shepherd, for ever beside us, lead all your children in paths that are right.
Great, loving parent, wise teacher, you guide us. We want to love you and bring you delight.

chorus
Yes, you are shepherd, parent and teacher, but you are greater than all that we know.
Holy and living, loving and giving,
God, you are with us wherever we go.

The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. John 10:11-18 

Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away—and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. For this reason, the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it up again. I have received this command from my Father.”

The Gospel of Christ.        Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Sermon 

The Apostles’ Creed
Let us confess the faith of our baptism, as we say,

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

The Prayers of the People

Inspired by ‘New Ways’ in ‘The Pattern of Our Days: Liturgies and Resources for Worship’, Edited by Kathy Galloway, Iona Community and by “World Day of Prayer for Vocations”, accessed online at

https://nrvc.net/292/publication/11357/article/15674-world-day-of-prayer-for-vocations-april-25-2021

Creator God, You made each of us and blessed us with an abundance of gifts.
Guide us to use these gifts to serve others, and to continue the mission of Jesus.
Send us out into the world,
so that the Gospel is preached,
the poor are served with love, and
the suffering are comforted.

Generous God, You have shown us the way that leads to everlasting life.
Help us to remember our own baptismal call, and stir within us the passion to respond to this call, with
courage and creativity,
boundless compassion,
abundant generosity, and
radical availability.

Merciful God, You sent your beloved Jesus, to be your servant of justice in our broken world.
Disrupt our comfortable lives and complacent attitudes.
Show us new ways to care, and new ways to touch the hearts of all, and give us
a wider vision of the world,
a broader view of justice, and
dreams of peace that are not defined by boundaries of geography or race or religion,
or by the limitations of worldly structures and systems.

Gracious God, we thank you for those who have responded to your call, and who have committed themselves to service in the Church, including those who serve in the priesthood, the diaconate, the religious life, and lay ministry. Bless and strengthen them, and grant them courage and peace as they continue to dedicate themselves to service in the Church. We thank you also for those who are discerning their vocation. Bless and strengthen them, and grant them wisdom and perseverance.

Jesus, you are the Good Shepherd.
You know each of us and you call us by name to serve in faith.
Help us respond generously to your voice.

When we are fearful of the unknown, give us courage.
When we worry that we are not up to the task,
Remind us that you would not call us if you did not believe in us.

When we get tired, or feel disappointed with the way things are going,
Remind us that you can bring change and hope
Out of the most difficult situations.

Open our eyes and our ears that wherever we go,
we may hear your voice calling us by name;
calling us to serve, calling us to share, calling us to praise,
so that we never give up on the promise of your kingdom,
where the world is transformed, and all can enjoy life in all its fullness.   Amen.

Confession and Absolution

Dear friends in Christ, God is steadfast in love and infinite in mercy; God welcomes sinners and invites them to this table. Let us confess our sins, confident in God’s forgiveness.

God of steadfast love and purpose, you know how we love to serve you in the sunshine of our success, and how we tend to shrink away from the trial of suffering. Forgive our unfaithfulness, and teach us to walk with steady obedience in both success and suffering, through Jesus Christ, your faithful servant.

Almighty God have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

The Peace (Adapted from “Prayers for an Inclusive Church (2009)”)

Lord of the sheepfold, give us strength to work for peace in the world that You came to serve.
And just as God poured out the grace of forgiveness and peace through Christ Jesus,
Let us also share that same grace amongst ourselves, through offering a socially distanced sign of peace.

Peace be with you.
And also with you.

Offertory Hymn          A Place at the Table   (by Lori True and Shirley Erena Murray)

For everyone born, a place at the table,
for everyone born, clean water and bread,
a shelter, a space, a safe place for growing,
for everyone born, a star overhead,

chorus
and God will delight when we are creators
of justice and joy, compassion and peace:
yes, God will delight when we are creators
of justice, justice and joy!

For woman and man, a place at the table,
revising the roles, deciding the share,
with wisdom and grace, dividing the power,
for woman and man, a system that's fair,            chorus

For young and for old, a place at the table,
a voice to be heard, a part in the song,
the hands of a child in hands that are wrinkled,
for young and for old, the right to belong,        chorus    

For just and unjust, a place at the table,
abuser, abused, with need to forgive,
in anger, in hurt, a mindset of mercy,
for just and unjust, a new way to live,            chorus   

For everyone born, a place at the table,
to live without fear, and simply to be,
to work, to speak out, to witness and worship,
for everyone born, the right to be free,          chorus     

Prayer over the Offering  (from BAS Propers 339)
God of loving care, you spread before us the table of life, and give us the cup of salvation to drink.  Keep us always in the fold of your Son Jesus Christ, our Saviour and our shepherd.  Amen

The Great Thanksgiving (Eucharistic Prayer V, Scottish Episcopal Church in “Anglican Eucharistic Liturgies”, p. 61)

The Lord be with you.
And also with you.

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

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.

Worship and praise belong to you, Creator,
In every place and at all times.
You made us, all the people of the world, and everything that is.

You give us the daylight.
Your Word lights up our minds.
Jesus was born among us, to be the light in our darkness.
Your Spirit lives in us, so that we can look at the world with your eyes.
One day we will be with you in heaven,
But already we laugh with the saints and angels, and sing their joyful song:

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.

Creator, you never forget us or turn away from us, even when we fail you.
You sent your beloved Jesus who gave his life for us.

Jesus healed those who were sick,
Cared for those who were poor,
And cried with those who were sad.
Jesus forgave sinners, and taught us to forgive.
For all your love, we give you thanks
In the way that Jesus showed us.

On the night before Jesus died, while he was having supper with his friends,
He took bread and offered you thanks.
He broke the bread, and gave it to them, saying:
“Take, eat. This is my Body: it is broken for you.”

After supper, Jesus took the cup, he offered you thanks, and gave it to them saying:
“Drink this, all of you. This is my Blood of the new covenant;
it is poured out for you, and for all, that sins may be forgiven.
Do this in the remembrance of me.”

So, as we do what Jesus told us,
we open our hearts to him;
we remember how Jesus died and rose again to live in us now.
Together with Jesus, we offer you these gifts:
in them, we give you ourselves.

Send your Holy Spirit on us and on this bread and this wine,
that they may be the Body and Blood of Christ,
and that, sharing your life,
we may travel in your company to our journey’s end.

With all your people we give you thanks and 

praise through the Son and in the Spirit now and forever.    Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Breaking of the Bread

We break this bread
Communion in Christ’s body once broken.

Let your Church be the wheat which bears its fruit in dying.
If we have died with Christ, we shall live with Christ; if we hold firm, we shall reign with Christ.

The gifts of God for the People of God.
Thanks be to God.

Communion          Ubi Caritas   CP 553

Ubi caritas et amor ubi caritas, Deus ibi est.

Your love O Jesus Christ has gathered us together.

Let us be one in love together in the one bread of Christ.

Live in charity and steadfast love,
Live in charity; God will dwell with you

Ubi caritas et amor ubi caritas, Deus ibi est.

Prayer after Communion 
God of steadfast love, watch over the Church redeemed by the blood of your Son.
May we who share in these holy mysteries come safely to your eternal kingdom, where there is one flock and one shepherd. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the risen Lord.  Amen

Doxology
Glory to God,

whose power, working in us,
can do infinitely more
than we can ask or imagine.
Glory to God from generation to generation,
in the Church and in Christ Jesus,
for ever and ever. Amen.


Closing Hymn      465 Here In This Place New Light

Here in this place new light is streaming
now is the darkness vanished away.
See in this space our fears and our dreamings
brought here to you in the light of this day.
Gather us in- the lost and forsaken;
gather us in- the blind and the lame;
call to us now and we shall awaken;
we shall arise at the sound of our name.

We are the young- our lives are a mystery;
we are the old - who yearn for your face.
We have been sung throughout all of history,
called to be light to the whole human race.
Gather us in- the rich and the haughty;
Gather us in- the proud and the strong;
give us a heart so meek and so lowly;
give us the courage to enter the song.

Here we will take the wine and the water;
here we will take the bread of new birth.
Here you shall call your sons and your daughters,
call us anew to be salt for the earth.
Give us to drink the wine of compassion;
give us to eat the bread that is you;
nourish us well, and teach us to fashion
Lives that are holy and hearts that are true.

Not in the dark of buildings confining,
Not in some heaven, light years away,
but here in this place the new light is shining;
Now is the kingdom, now is the day.
Gather us in and hold us forever;
gather us in and make us your own;
gather us in- all peoples together,
fire of love in our flesh and our bone.


Blessing 

May the God of peace who raised from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in you that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen

Dismissal
With Christ as our Shepherd,
We go from here into fresh pastures.

With Christ as our Shepherd,
We find security and peace.

With Christ as our Shepherd,
We find a safe haven.

With Christ as our Shepherd,
We find life in all its fullness.

Go now through the gate of this sheepfold and go with the blessing of God,
Embracing, enfolding, and surrounding you, Today, tomorrow, and forevermore.    Amen.


Postlude      Joyful, Joyful

Arr. By Mervyn Warren

Joyful, joyful, Lord, we adore thee.
God of glory, Lord of love.
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,
Hail thee as the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness,
Drive the dark of doubt away.
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us with the light.
Fill us with the light.
Oh, fill us with the light of day.

Joyful, joyful, Lord, we adore thee.
God of glory, Lord of love.
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,
Hail thee as the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin, sin and sadness,
Drive the dark of doubt away.
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us, fill us with the light of day. Light of day.

Come and join the chorus!
The mighty, mighty chorus
Which the morning stars began.
The Father of Love is reigning over us.
He watches over everything, so we sing:

Joyful, joyful, Lord, we adore thee.
God of glory, Lord of love.
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,
Hail thee as the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin, sin and sadness,
Drive the dark of doubt away.
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us. Fill us.
Fill us, fill us with the light of day.
Light of day!

Easter 3

 

Pre-Lude     THEY LIVE IN YOU
By: Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin and Lebo M
From: The Lion King: The Broadway Musical

Night
And the spirit of life calling.
And a voice
With the fear of a child asking.

Wait,
There’s no mountain too great.
Hear these words and have faith.
Oh, have faith.

He lives in you.
He lives in me.
He’s watching over everything we see.
In every creature, in every star
In your reflection he lives in you.

They live in you.
They live in me.
They’re watching over everything we see.
In every creature, in every star
In your reflection, they live in you.

Acknowledgement of the Land

Welcome

Focusing for the Service:      From Sacredius

How do we find the faith to believe the story of Easter, Jesus?
How do we grasp its truth?
We can only accept it; refusing to reduce it to scientific debate or historical literalism
kneeling with humility and awe beside the blood-stained cross and the empty grave;
For then, we are your witnesses.

How do we understand the mystery of your death and life, Jesus?
How do we explain it?
We can only live it; allowing it to permeate every grain of this sand that forms us,
every thought, every priority, every act and every interaction,
For then we are your witnesses,
and you deserve nothing less from us. Amen.

Gathering Song        I FOUND HIM CRADLED    625 CP

I found him cradled in a lamplit barn;
His mother Mary rocked him.
The child was God they hung today
On a big cross and they mocked him there.
One day on, the tomb is silent;
One day on, all heaven weeps;
One day on and even starlight
Hid from Christ who sleeps.

I heard him laughing in the temple court
The day his parents lost him.
The boy was God they hung today
And Ill never know what it cost him there.
Two days on, the tomb is silent;
Two days on all heaven weeps;
Two days on, and still the starlight
His from Christ who sleeps.

I saw him weeping over sin and death,
The sick and dying round him.
The man was God they hung today
On a big high cross when I found him there.
Three days on, the tomb is open!
Three days on, the loud refrain:
Christ has died, and Christ has risen,
Christ will come again.

The Gathering (Sacredius)

As we gather in our places, listen for the echo of God's Voice still moving in the air.
Lord, open our ears to hear You speak to us.

Now we meet, as eternity is expressed in time.
Lord, open our eyes to see You smile on us.

Once again, the Word of God is revealed among us in physical form.
Lord, open our hearts to welcome You into our lives.

O God, you reveal yourself in simple, created things. We thank You for speaking to us through various symbols, and deeds. We thank You for the Word of life planted like a seed in our hearts. May the fruit it bears be good and plentiful, bringing praise to You. Amen

The Proclamation of the Word

A Reading from the Acts of the Apostles (3:12-19)
When Peter saw it, he addressed the people, "You Israelites, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we had made him walk? The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our ancestors has glorified his servant Jesus, whom you handed over and rejected in the presence of Pilate, though he had decided to release him. But you rejected the Holy and Righteous One and asked to have a murderer given to you, and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses. And by faith in his name, his name itself has made this man strong, whom you see and know; and the faith that is through Jesus has given him this perfect health in the presence of all of you. "And now, friends, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. In this way, God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, that his Messiah would suffer. Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out

Listen for the Leading of the Spirit          R: Thanks be to God

Psalm 4 MV 103

Kama-na-'o 'I'O o koka-kou Aku-a.  Faithful, faithful is our God

Kama-na-'o 'I'O o koka-kou Aku-a.  Faithful, faithful is our God

In love there is no one more faithful than our God

who brings light in our darkness.

The God who shares the breath of life with you and me,

all living things upon the earth

In quiet moments God whispers tenderly

the mystery of unending love.

For God is good, and holds us as we sleep,

to wake us to the morning light.

The mercy of our God we seek to share each day,

to help each other on our way,

to be God's hands and heart with tender care.

God's faithfulness is always there.

When we share, we share respect and care,

the gifts and bonds of human kindness.

And in our journey, may love lead the way.

To be God's living, sing this day

A Reading from the first letter of John (3:1-7)
See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God's children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in him, there is no sin. No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has either seen him or known him. Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous.

Listen for the Leading of the Spirit                  R: Thanks be to God

Gradual Hymn   WE WHO LIVE BY SOUND AND SYMBOL 69 CP

We who live by sound and symbol,
We who learn from sight and word,
Find these married in the person
Of the one we call our Lord.
Taking bread to his body,
Taking wine to be his blood,
He let thought take flesh in action;
He let faith take root in food.

Not just once with special people,
Not just hidden deep in time,
But whatever Christ is followed,
Earthly fare becomes sublime.
Though to sound this seems a mystery,
Though to sound this seems absurd,
Yet in faith, which seems like folly,
We meet Jesus Christ our Lord.

God, our maker, Send your spirit
To pervade the bread we break.
Let it bring the life we long for
And the love which we forsake.
Blind us closer to each other,
Both forgiving and forgiven;
Give us grace in this and all things
To discern the hand of heaven.

The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Luke (24:36b-48)
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ

While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." They were startled and terrified, and thought that they were seeing a ghost. He said to them, "Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Touch me and see; for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have." And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, he said to them, "Have you anything here to eat?" They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate in their presence. Then he said to them, "These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you--that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled." Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and he said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.

The Gospel of Christ              R: Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ

Homily

An Affirmation of Faith
(An Easter Affirmation – First United Methodist Church of Olympia (fumcoly.org))

We believe in an astounding God, who surprises us on Easter morning, who reveals through an empty tomb how overflowingly full of God the creation is. We believe in God, who is light in the darkness, who never gives up on love, who is always working for our good, who weeps when we weep and laughs when we laugh, who calls us to be more than we are as God relentlessly transforms our tears into alleluias.

We believe in the Christ, present at and in the creation, heard in the words of prophets, enfleshed in the birth of a long-sought Messiah, alive in the lessons taught to disciples, not stuck in a tomb of despair, nailed to cross, or buried in the past, but living forever, and walking with us on our journeys today, seen in our stories, present in everything we can see, touch, and imagine.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the invisible presence of God, the joy, hope, and peace of possibilities opening all around us all the time. We believe the Spirit calls us to community, to compassion, to welcome, and to acts of mercy and justice so that the whole world will quiver with wonder and hope.

We are people of faith in the risen Christ, and we see our Christ in everyone and in everything. We strive to live in such a way that the world will see Christ rising again, in us and through us, with the message of Easter. God cannot be contained; Not by books, not by traditions, not by institutions, and not by tombs. God lives. Christ is risen. Alleluia. Amen.

Offering Hymn  SPIRIT OPEN MY HEART  MV 79

Chorus
Spirit, open my heart to the joy and pain of living.
As you love may I love, in receiving and giving,
Spirit, open my heart.

God replace my stony heart with a heart that’s kind and tender.
All my coldness and fear to your grace I now surrender.                Chorus

Write your love upon my heart as my law, my goal, my story.
In each thought, word, deed may living bring you glory.              Chorus      

May I weep with those who weep, share the joy of sister, brother.
In the welcome of Christ, may we welcome one another.               

Prayer over the Gifts
Creator of all, you wash away our sins in water, you give us new birth by the Spirit, and redeem us in the blood of Christ. As we celebrate the resurrection, renew your gift of life within us. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the risen Lord. Amen

Prayers of the People     (lutherancore.com)

Let us pray to our victorious Savior on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people.
A brief silence

Lord Jesus, we can scarcely imagine seeing you face to face. It’s even harder to imagine looking at each other, and seeing you – perfectly reflected in everyone’s face! Thank you for that promise. Give us grace, when it’s hard to see you in ourselves and each other, to cling to that promise, and to catch a glimpse of your love shining through.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make you Church in your image. In its words, let unbelievers hear your challenge, forgiveness, and invitation. In its deeds, let them see your love. In its worship, let them see your beauty. In its cross-bearing, let them see your life.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your persecuted sisters and brothers the grace to speak St. Peter’s words to their tormentors: “You act in ignorance; repent, believe in him, and be forgiven.”
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make this congregation bold to proclaim you as our risen Lord. Help us to speak and act in ways that reflect your holiness and love to those around us.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to our children your dearest blessings. Teach them to trust you with all their heart, and to find happiness in sharing your love with their friends and family.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Deliver all people from the powers of sin, evil, and death. Raise up leaders who seek to do your Father’s will. Especially we pray for our elected and appointed leaders, and for the welfare of this country. Establish your people in righteousness, liberty, and peace.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Look with kindness upon all who tend the land and feed the nations with the fruits of their labour. Make them wise and faithful stewards of your bounty. Grant sun and rain in due measure, and preserve your good land from blight, drought, flood, wind, and fire.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray on behalf of all whose needs of body, soul and mind are great. Especially we lift before you the needs of: ……. Change their suffering into patient endurance, and their sorrow into enduring hope. Transform shame, guilt, and despair into hope-filled repentance, and the power of death into living joy.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, we thank you for fulfilling all your promises to those who died trusting in you. Comfort those who mourn. Walk with us throughout our life’s journey. Transform us into your blest likeness. On that great day when we see you face to face, let us with perfect clarity see you also in the faces of all whom you have redeemed.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

The Collect
O God, your Son made himself known to his disciples in the breaking of bread. Open the eyes of our faith, that we may see him in his redeeming work, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

The Blessing     A FRANCISCAN BENEDICTION
May God bless you with Discomfort …
at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships,
so that you may live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with Anger …
at Injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
so that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.

May God bless you with Tears …
to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, and war,
so that you may reach our your hand to comfort them
and to turn their pain into joy.

And may God bless you with enough Foolishness …
to believe that you can make a difference in this world 

so that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen.

Closing Hymn   WE ARE CHILDREN OF THE LORD

We are children of the Lord,
Gathered here to pray together.
We are one within God’s love.
This we know were certain of.

Creator, hear the song we sing,
As we bring our world before you.
Soon your word will sow the seed
Sow your strength within our need.

Sing, O children to the Lord,
All the world is hushed and waiting,
As we lift our hearts above
Simply living in God’s love.

Dismissal     (Bruce Pewter)

If the God who raised Jesus from the dead is for us, who dare be against us?
We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Step out into the world in humble confidence:
there is nothing about to happen that God has not foreseen,
and no situation where Christ will not be there ahead of you,
preparing a place and an opportunity for you.
Thanks be to God. Amen! Alleluia!!

PostLude    GRAVES INTO GARDENS
Brandon Lake, Chris Brown, Steven Furtick and Tiffany Hammer

I searched the world but it couldn’t fill me. Man’s empty praise, and treasures that fade are never enough.
Then you came along and out me back together, and every desire is now satisfied here in your love.

Oh there’s nothing better than you. There’s nothing better than you. Lord there’s nothing, nothing better than you.

I’m not afraid to show you my weakness. My failures and flaws, Lord, you’ve seen them all, and you still call my friend.
Cause the God of the mountain is the God of the valley. There is a place your mercy and grace wont find me again.

You turn mourning to dancing, you give beauty for ashes. You turn graves into gardens, you turn bones into armies. You turn seas into highways, you’re the only one who can. You’re the only one who can.

Oh there’s nothing better than you. There’s nothing better than you. Lord there’s nothing, nothing better than you.
Oh there’s nothing better than you. There’s nothing better than you. Lord there’s nothing, nothing better than you.

Easter 2

 

Prelude    Yours be the Glory

Acknowledgement

Welcome

Gathering Hymn        PEACE IN OUR TIME
Tune-In Song Book- David Brown

Light transcendent shine in to our hearts today
Fan the breeze of compassion
Guide our sacrificial action
Living God stand beside us on the way.

Take the lives that we offer
Show us peace in our days
Take the lives that we offer
Show us peace in our days.

Love transcendent source of life and of our song
Spark the flames if your justice
Be our righteous indignation
living one always with us on the road.

Take the lives that we offer
Show us peace at the close
Take the lives that we offer
Show us peace in our days.

Joy transcendent lord of history and now
Open eyes that are blinded
Teach us Christ to be disciples
Living God walk beside us on the climb.

Take the lives that we offer
Show us peace in our time.
Take the lives that we offer
Show us peace in our days.

Gathering (Bread for the Journey editor Ruth Duck)
Spring changes are occurring all around us and new life and beginnings burst forth
The Earth is awakening from the winter and begins its renewal of life

The cycle of life, living and dying continues
As it has for centuries past and years to come

Lent has passed, Easter Sunday has been celebrated
But the message of hope, new life, renewal, new possibilities remain! Glory to God Alleluia

Together We Pray
Source of all living things, we praise you for the power of recurring re-creation of life we see around us, and for the timeless resurrection of Jesus our Christ. May these signs so inspire us to manifest your presence in our relationships and actions, that those cries of joy first heard on Easter morning may echo through the centuries to our time and place. Amen

Canticle MORE THAN WE CAN ASK FOR OR IMAGINE        CP 86

More than we can ask or imagine,
More than we can ever dare to dream,
We are the children of heaven’s creation,
God’s own beloved, each called by name.
And we cry, Glory! Glory!
Glory to God who calls us by name!
Glory! Glory! Glory to God!
Glory we sing!

More than we will ever imagine,
More than we will ever understand;
We are sent to walk with compassion,
To live out God’s love by heart and by hand.
And we cry, Glory! Glory!
Glory to God who presses us on!
Glory! Glory! Glory to God!
Glory our song!

More than we can ask or imagine,
More than we could ever desire;
Out of the dust God’s building a kingdom,

Like wine from the press, like bread from the fire.
And we cry, Glory! Glory!
Glory to God! Glory we cry!
Glory! Glory!
Glory on Earth, Glory on high!
Glory! Glory! Glory to God!
Glory we cry!
Glory! Glory! Glory on earth!
Glory on high!
Glory on earth! Glory on high!

The Proclamation of the Word

A READING FROM THE BOOK OF ACTS
Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.         (ACTS 4:32-35)

Listen for the Leading of the Spirit                 R: Thanks be to God

Psalm 133        REFRAIN How good it for all is to live together in unity.

Oh, how good and pleasant it is when brethren live together in unity!
It is like fine oil upon the head that runs down upon the beard,
Upon the beard of Aaron, and runs down upon the collar of his robe. R

It is like the dew of Hermon that falls upon the hills of Zion.
For there Love has ordained the blessing: life for evermore. R

A READING FROM THE FIRST LETTER OF JOHN

We declare to you what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life - this life was revealed, and we have seen it and testify to it, and declare to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us - we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete. This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him while we are walking in darkness, we lie and do not do what is true; but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. (1:1-2:2)

Listen for the Leading of the Spirit                     R: Thanks be to God

Gradual Hymn    THEY’LL KNOW WE ARE CHRISTIANS
Songwriters: Peter Scholtes

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that our unity may one day be restored.

chorus
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love (by our love).

We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land.        Chorus

We will work with each other, we will work side by side,
We will work with each other, we will work side by side,
And we'll guard each one's dignity and save each one’s pride.    Chorus

All praise to the Father, From whom all things come
And all praise to Creator who makes us one,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, God’s only Son.                           Chorus 

THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ACCORDING TO JOHN
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ

When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe." A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name. (20:19-31)

The Gospel of Christ                         R: Praise to you Lord, Lord Jesus Christ

Homily

Thomas (adapted from ‘The Pattern of Our Days: Liturgies and Resources for Worship’, Iona Community)

Put your hand, Thomas,
On the unaccompanied migrant child, imprisoned and scared.

Reach out your hands, Thomas,
And place them on the poor and the oppressed, the homeless and the hungry.

Place your finger, Thomas,
On the list of the women, who have been murdered or are missing.

Stroke the cheek, Thomas,
Of the man gasping for breath, as he is pinned down by one who was meant to serve and to protect.

Touch, Thomas,
The gaping wounds of our world.

Feel, Thomas,
The primal wounds of our neighbours.

Grasp my hands, Thomas,
And believe.

An Affirmation of Faith (Rex Hunt Liturgies)
In response to the word reflected on, and the primal wounds of the world let us share an affirmation of faith.

Beckoning Christ, you call us out of our comfortable ghetto of 'us' and 'them'
to risk discipleship without walls.

You call us into a world-wide fellowship where God is worshipped above all others.

You call us into a world-wide fellowship where prayer is offered day and night.
You call us into a worldwide fellowship where we can share what we are with others who love you.

You call us into a world-wide fellowship where each person has something to give to the whole.

You call us into a world-wide fellowship where compassion and respect shape missionary endeavour.

Keep on beckoning us out of our safe havens into your rich fellowship of challenge and reconciliation, faith and hope.

Offering Hymn     The Peace of Christ
by Glen Soderholm

May the Peace of Christ be with you, and also with you.
May the Peace of Christ be with you; in all you do.

It is like precious oil, that flows down Aaron’s beard
And as dew falls on the mountain the blessing bursts forth here.

And may the Peace of Christ be with you, and also with you.
And may the Peace of Christ be with you; in all you do.

So we throw down all our weapons
And the things we long to control
And call now for Jesus’s presence to restore our very souls.

And may the Peace of Christ be with you, and also with you.
And may the Peace of Christ be with you; in all you do.
In all you do.

We turn now from the solitary to the dance of kindred hearts
And laughing with each other as each one takes their part.

And may the Peace of Christ be with you, and also with you.
And may the Peace of Christ be with you; in all you do.

And may the Peace of Christ be with you, and also with you.
And may the Peace of Christ be with you; in all you do.

Prayer over the Gifts
God of grace, you have freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom in your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Accept all we offer you this day and strengthen us in the new life you have given us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Prayers of the People (Lutheran Coalition for Renewal http://lutherancore.website/)
Let us pray to our victorious Savior on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, thank you for being so patient with your followers. Thank you for breathing your Spirit and your peace upon us. Thank you for giving us your own work of forgiving the sins of all who are humble enough to seek forgiveness and grace. Give us the faith, hope, and charity to believe, worship, and obey you always.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Holy Spirit upon your Church, so that it may never doubt your Resurrection, but always proclaim you as the crucified and risen Savior of the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour your Holy Spirit into your persecuted followers, so that their faith in you is unwavering and their witness to you is both gracious and bold.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come with your forgiveness, grace, and peace to the people of this congregation. Make us hunger for your Word and thirst for your goodness. Give us a vision of your love for each of us. Help us to serve you by serving others in your name.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Holy Spirit upon skeptics, doubters, and all whose confidence in your grace has been shaken by tragedy. Use us to lead them gently into your house. Lift them with your wounded hands. Transform their unbelief into unshakeable faith in you, their Lord and God.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give the leaders of the nations, and all people entrusted to their care, that peace which the world cannot give. Send your Holy Spirit into the world. Let repentant faith and deeds of mercy bring the light of your saving love to hearts darkened by the powers of sin, evil and death.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

The other disciples sought out Thomas when he was grieving and in despair. Teach us to be your disciples, seeking out and walking with others even when they despair of your love. Give us grace to be gentle, winsome, patient, yet persistent as we invite them to taste and see your goodness.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring the peace of your forgiveness, the healing of your dear touch, and the joy of your salvation to all whose lives are shadowed by suffering to body, mind or soul. Especially we remember before you: {List}. Cheer their hearts, renew their faith, and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Jesus, you have been raised from death, and you promise your resurrection life to all whom you have redeemed. We entrust into your strong arms the lives of all who have fallen asleep in you. Wipe away the tears of all who grieve. Turn our doubt into unshakeable confidence. Grant that all whom you have redeemed may see you face to face and cry out in adoration and joy, “My Lord and my God!”
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Prayer of Confession

Christ has risen and we have risen to new life with him. Yet we must confess the ways we have continued to remain in our tombs of sin and death.

Living Lord, when we stand before the empty tomb, we don’t always feel the joy of resurrection.
We feel fear, doubt, and distrust. We feel empty.

Forgive the fear that paralyzes us at the brink of new life.
Forgive our doubt of your love.
Forgive our distrust of your surprising, joyous plan.
Fill our emptiness with your glorious light.
Raise us to abundant new life for the glory of your name.

Words of Assurance
Wake up, sleeper! Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.
Sisters and brothers, Christ has forgiven our sins.
Christ calls us to new life. Christ will lead us into righteousness. Amen.

~ written by Greg Scheer, http://www.gregscheer.com/

The Lord’s Prayer

The Collect
Almighty and eternal God, the strength of those who believe and the hope of those who doubt, may we, who have not seen, have faith and receive the fullness of Christ’s blessing, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

The Blessing
May you trust in God’s promises to his people: peace, security, blessing
even when they are difficult to believe.

May you know that God’s news is good news, nourishing, true
even when people tell you it is not.

And when you encounter doubt, may you strengthen your belief guiding you in his perfect wisdom and counsel.

And may the grace and peace of God the Creator, the Redeemer, and the Sustainer come upon you this day and remain with you always. Amen.

Closing Hymn    Sent Out in Jesus' Name
MV:212 Traditional Song, Cuba
English Translation: Jorge Maldonado

(Spanish) En-via-do soy de Dios mi ma-no lis-ta es-ta pa-ra cons-tru-ir con El un mun-do fra-ter- nal.
(English) Sent out in Jesus’ name, our hands are ready now to make the world the place in which the                    kingdom comes.

(sp) Los an-ge-les no son en-via-dos a cam-biar un mon-do de do-lor por mun un mun-do de paz.
        Me ha to-ca-do ami ha-cer-lo rea-li-dad a-yu-da-me, Senor aha-certu vo-lun-tad.

(en) The angels cannot change a world of hurt and pain into a world of love, of justice and peace.
        The task is ours to do, to set it really free. O help us to obey and carry out your will.

(en) Sent out in Jesus’ name, our hands are ready now to make the world the place in which the                     kingdom comes.

(sp) Los an-ge-les no son en-via-dos a cam-biar un mon-do de do-lor por mun un mun-do de paz.
        Me ha to-ca-do ami ha-cer-lo rea-li-dad a-yu-da-me, Senor aha-certu vo-lun-tad.

(sp) En-via-do soy de Dios mi ma-no lis-ta es-ta pa-ra cons-tru-ir con El un mun-do fra-ter-nal.

The Dismissal