April 3rd Virtual Worship
| The Order of Worship |
|---|
| The Bells Call Us To Worship |
| Prelude |
| Call to Worship |
| Hymn of Adoration |
| Confession of Sin |
| Kyrie |
| Assurance of Pardon |
| Greeting of Peace |
| Gloria |
| Scripture Reading: Luke 18:18-27 |
| A Message to Children |
| Worship in Music |
| Pastoral Prayer & The Lord's Prayer |
| Hymn of Reflection: |
| Sermon: What Must I Do to Be Accepted? |
| Communion Hymn |
| The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper |
| Hymn of Parting |
| Benediction |
| On Eagle's Wings |
| Postlude |
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Matthew Leone, Rene Vazquez
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Luke Poses Questions to Ponder: What Must I Do to Be Accepted?
A certain ruler asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; Honor your father and mother.’” He replied, “I have kept all these since my youth.” When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” But when he heard this, he became sad; for he was very rich. Jesus looked at him and said, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” He replied, “What is impossible for mortals is possible for God.”
[Reading above - Luke 18:18-27]
Belonging is important for us humans. We need a place and community of acceptance, where we are loved and can be ourselves. That is exactly what Jesus offers with his idea of the kingdom of God, that is an abundant life founded on God’s grace. This story reminds us to trust God to save us from the futile attempts to make ourselves worthy and acceptable. Give thanks that what we cannot do, God can!
Questions for Reflection:
The wealthy ruler has a good question to bring to Jesus. What is the question you would like Jesus to answer for you?
The commandments Jesus lists are those that govern our relationships with others. Why do you think Jesus mentioned these commandments in particular?
Jesus challenges the wealthy ruler to stop relying on his status and money to prove his worthiness and acceptability. Though the wealthy ruler cannot sell and distribute his wealth to the poor by his own power, Jesus invites him into a saving relationship with the grace of God which is able to do what we cannot do for ourselves. Belonging to and trusting in God and the community of God’s people is the power that can do the impossible. What is the impossible thing holding you back from life with God? How can Divine grace save you?
A Practice to Focus on Discipleship:
We are using an ancient spiritual practice called Lectio Divina. This is a prayerful way of reading a scripture passage with mindfulness of Christ’s Living Spirit in the words. Try this practice with today’s scripture lesson. At the beginning of the week please slowly read through these verses a few times in an attitude of prayer. Pay attention to a word or phrase that stands out. Then apply this word or phrase to the challenges and opportunities of each day in the week. At the end of the week look back and give thanks for the way Christ has helped you live as a more faithful disciple. If you need help or guidance, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com.
Sermon title and text for April 3rd:
Luke 19:32-40 | When Should I Keep Quiet and When Should I Shout Out?
