Author: freedfromfreedfor

Worship Resources for March 7, 2021

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3rd Sunday of Lent NL333: Lost Sheep, Coin, Son

Color: Purple
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Proper 19(24)C; Lent 4C
Psalm Text: Psalm 119:167-176
Sermon Text: Luke 15:1-32
Other Text Suggestions: Joshua 5:9-12; 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
Prayer of the Day (WP): Rejoicing Father, you celebrate when one of your lost children is found because no one is worthless to you. We stand humbled and in awe that you would count us among your most prized possessions. Give us eyes to see the priceless value of every living soul, for the sake of the one who became human for the sake of our souls, Jesus Christ our seeker. Amen.

Helpful Resources: SermonWriter, TextWeek, RevGalPals, re:Worship, Word&World, BibleHub

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #883. All People That on Earth Do Dwell
ELW #779. Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound
ELW #816. Come, My Way, My Truth, My Life
ELW #807. Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
ELW #679. For the Fruit of All Creation
ELW #740. God of the Sparrow
ELW #358. Great God, Your Love Has Called Us*
ELW #619. I Know That My Redeemer Lives!
ELW #650. In Christ There Is No East or West
ELW #592. Just As I Am, without One Plea
ELW #765. Lord of All Hopefulness
ELW #599. Lord Jesus, Think on Me
ELW #676. Lord, Speak to Us, That We May Speak
ELW #745. Lord, Teach Us How to Pray Aright
ELW #782. My Shepherd, You Supply My Need
ELW #460. Now the Silence
ELW #772. Oh, that the Lord Would Guide My Ways
ELW #606. Our Father, We Have Wandered
ELW #789. Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us
ELW #608. Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling
ELW #502. The King of Love My Shepherd Is
ELW #778. The Lord’s My Shepherd
ELW #587/8. There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy
ELW #659. Will You Let Me Be Your Servant
LBW #431. Your Hand, O Lord, in Days of Old
Various Hymnals From Ashes to the Living Font (1994) by Alan J. Hommerding
Various Hymnals Heaven Is Singing for Joy (El cielo canta alegría) (1958) by Pablo D. Sosa
Various Hymnals Ring the Bells of Heaven (1866) by W. O. Cushing
Various Hymnals Welcome! Wanderer, Welcome! (1884) by Horatius Bonar
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship;  LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
* Lenten Hymns

Other (mostly contemporary) options:

“Amazing Love” By Graham Kendrick.
“Go Get the Lost One” By Rain for Roots.
“Shine Into Our Night” By Joel Sczebel.
“Undo” By Kevin Huguley, Scott Davis, et al.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Dakota Road options:
“EVERYBODY’S GOT SOMETHING TO OFFER” 
“LIGHT AND LOVE”  
“PEOPLES CHURCH”
“REACH OUT” 
“WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE” 

Prayers of Intercession:

(Introduction and Conclusion from Revised Common Lectionary Prayers, copyright © 2002)

Beloved friends, in this season of repentance and healing, we accept God’s invitation to be ever-mindful of the needs of others, offering our prayers on behalf of God’s community in the church and the world.

A brief silence.

Rescue the church, O God, from divisions and schisms. Help us to find our unity and joy in your grace and good news. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Find and strengthen those who protect creation, O God. Work in us and through us to bring healing and wholeness to all that you have made. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help the leaders of countries, O God, to seek out the lost and oppressed. Set our minds on justice and peace that the world may better reflect your kingdom and rule. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Rescue the lost, O God. No matter how or why they may be lost, please bring them into healthy and supportive communities and surround them with love. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Find and strengthen those who heal, O God. Work in and through them to share your comfort and healing. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help us, O God, to search for those around us in any sort of need. Open our eyes to your presence in the people around us. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

You bring your flock home, O God. Thank you for our heavenly home and for those who have gone before us on the way to it. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill us with your strength to resist the seductions of our foolish desires and the tempter’s vain delights, that we may walk in obedience and righteousness, rejoicing in you with an upright heart. Amen.

Worship Resources for February 28, 2021

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2nd Sunday of Lent NL332: Lament Over Jerusalem

Color: Purple
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Lent 3C; Lent 2C
Psalm Text: Psalm 122
Sermon Text: Luke 13:1-9, 31-35
Other Text Suggestions: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18; Philippians 3:17-4:1
Prayer of the Day (WP): Holy One of mighty power, your word is powerfully dangerous. Your word casts out demons. Your word heals incurable diseases. Your word devours empires. Your word transforms the fabric of the universe. Help us to stand in awe and fear of what your word is capable of doing. Give us courage to speak your word and wisdom to hear it, for the sake of the one whose very whisper can demolish sin, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Helpful Resources: SermonWriter, TextWeek, RevGalPals, re:Worship, Word&World, BibleHub

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #779. Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound
ELW #508. As Rain from the Clouds
ELW #645. Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation
ELW #733. Great Is Thy Faithfulness
ELW #324. In the Cross of Christ I Glory*
ELW #592. Just As I Am, without One Plea
ELW #768. Lead Me, Guide Me
ELW #660. Lift High the Cross
ELW #735. Mothering God, You Gave Me Birth
ELW #596/7. My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less
ELW #858/9. Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
ELW #831. The God of Abraham Praise
ELW #587/8. There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy
ELW #613. Thy Holy Wings
ELW #566. When Twilight Comes
ELW #719. Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life
ELW #484. You Satisfy the Hungry Heart (Gift of Finest Wheat)
LBW #427. O Jesus Christ, May Grateful Hymns Be Rising
Various Hymnals Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy (1759) by J. Hart
Various Hymnals From Ashes to the Living Font (1994) by Alan J. Hommerding
Various Hymnals Shelter Me, O God (1984) by Bob Hurd
Various Hymnals You Are My Hiding Place (1981) by Maranatha! Music
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship;  LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
* Lenten Hymns

Other (mostly contemporary) options:

“Broken” By Michael Himes.
“Death Was Arrested” By Adam Kersh, Brandon Coker, et al.
“God Of The Poor (Beauty For Brokenness)” By Graham Kendrick.
“The Lost are Found” By Ben Fielding, Sam Knock.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Dakota Road options:
“ALL MY RELATIVES”
“BRING YOUR MERCY” 
“DO JUSTICE” 
“LOVE TO THE WORLD” 
“MERCY” 

Prayers of Intercession:

(Introduction and Conclusion from Revised Common Lectionary Prayers, copyright © 2002)

Beloved friends, in this season of repentance and healing, we accept God’s invitation to be ever-mindful of the needs of others, offering our prayers on behalf of God’s community in the church and the world.

A brief silence.

For religious communities, that they may share peace, love, and justice with each other and the world. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For the beauty of the earth, that we may be ever more dedicated to protecting and preserving what you have entrusted to us. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For governments and leaders of governments, that they may devote themselves to service and compassion towards their citizens. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For the lonely and brokenhearted, that they may find support and community and experience your great love for them. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For all who suffer in mind or body, that they may know your presence and find comfort and healing. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For us worshipping together now, that we may go forth from our worship in order to love and serve our neighbors. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

For the saints who now rest in you (especially,…), that we may follow in their footsteps to our eternal home with you. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill us with your strength to resist the seductions of our foolish desires and the tempter’s vain delights, that we may walk in obedience and righteousness, rejoicing in you with an upright heart. Amen.

Worship Resources for February 21, 2021

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1st Sunday of Lent NL331: Good Samaritan

Color: Purple
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Proper 10(15)C; Proper 11(16)C
Psalm Text: Psalm 15
Sermon Text: Luke 10:25-42
Other Text Suggestions: Amos 7:7-17; Colossians 1:1-14
Prayer of the Day (WP): Compassionate God, how easily you love those who look unlovable to us! How readily you welcome undesirables into your home! How slow we are to follow your example. Turn our hearts toward all who are considered outcast, shunned, and unclean so that we may love our neighbor without pity or apathy, for the sake of the one who became flesh to cleanse the world of sin and death forever, Jesus Christ our redeemer. Amen

Helpful Resources: SermonWriter, TextWeek, RevGalPals, re:Worship, Word&World, BibleHub

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #520. Dearest Jesus, at Your Word
ELW #402. Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ
ELW #419. For All the Faithful Women
ELW #679. For the Fruit of All Creation
ELW #714. O God of Mercy, God of Light
ELW #708. Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love
ELW #696. Jesus Calls Us; o’er the Tumult
ELW #599. Lord Jesus, Think on Me
ELW #295. Of the Father’s Love Begotten
ELW #789. Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us
ELW #310. Songs of Thankfulness and Praise
ELW #800. Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart
ELW #729. The Church of Christ, in Every Age
ELW #742. What a Friend We Have in Jesus
ELW #725. When the Poor Ones (Cuando el pobre)
ELW #359. Where Charity and Love Prevail
ELW #719. Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life
LBW #435. O God, Whose Will Is Life and Good
LBW #502. Thee Will I Love, My Strength
WOV #783. Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God
Various Hymnals Inspired by Love and Anger (1949) by John Bell
Various Hymnals Lo! I Come with Joy (1747) by Charles Wesley
Various Hymnals They Asked, “Who’s My Neighbor?” (1981) by Jan Wesson
Various Hymnals When I Needed a Neighbor (1965) by Sydney Carter
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship;  LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
* Lenten Hymns

Other (mostly contemporary) options:

“Compassion Hymn” By Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, et al.
“God Of The Poor (Beauty For Brokenness)” By Graham Kendrick.
“My Song is Love Unknown” By John Nicholson Ireland, Samuel Crossman.
“Sweetly Broken” By Jeremy Riddle.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Dakota Road options:
“DRAW NEAR” 
“FROM NOW ON” 
“IN GOD’S EYES” 
“JUSTICE MEANS” 
“MAKE ME AN INSTRUMENT”
“WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE” 

Prayers of Intercession:

(Introduction and Conclusion from Revised Common Lectionary Prayers, copyright © 2002)

Beloved friends, in this season of repentance and healing, we accept God’s invitation to be ever-mindful of the needs of others, offering our prayers on behalf of God’s community in the church and the world.

A brief silence.

Teach the church what it means to love and serve our neighbors, keep us from hypocrisy and fear that we may truly see and reach out towards all people. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach humanity to care for the earth as you care for it, help us to see the interconnectedness of the world and work to preserve what you have entrusted to us. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach our leaders the ways of justice and peace, and grant us all the humility to set the welfare of all over our own personal desires. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach us to reach out in love and support to those around us, pursuing loving and edifying relationships and community. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach us how to best love and support those who are suffering in mind body or soul (especially,…) and grant us the courage to care for them. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach this assembly how to walk in your ways and how to best serve our communities and neighbors. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

We give you thanks for the teaching of the saints and we pray that we too may sound forth your praise and glory in our thoughts, words, and deeds. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill us with your strength to resist the seductions of our foolish desires and the tempter’s vain delights, that we may walk in obedience and righteousness, rejoicing in you with an upright heart. Amen.

Worship Resources for February 14, 2021

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Transfiguration Sunday NL329: Transfiguration

Color: White
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Transfiguration C, Lent 2C
Psalm Text: Psalm 36:5-10
Sermon Text: Luke 9:28-45
Other Text Suggestions: Exodus 34:29-35, 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2
Prayer of the Day (WP): Dazzling Lord, in blinding light you showed your disciples a hint of your power and purpose. Reveal yourself to us today. Show us what you desire of us and how to broadcast your love to the world, for the sake of the one who keeps company with the prophets Moses and Elijah, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Helpful Resources: SermonWriter, TextWeek, RevGalPals, re:Worship, Word&World, BibleHub

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #565. All Praise to Thee, My God, This Night
ELW #838. Beautiful Savior
ELW #515. Break Now the Bread of Life
ELW #610. O Christ, the Healer, We Have Come
ELW #807. Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
ELW #733. Great Is Thy Faithfulness
ELW #632. O God, Our Help in Ages Past
ELW #618. Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer
ELW #315. How Good, Lord, to Be Here!*
ELW #834. Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
ELW #658. O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts
ELW #335. Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross
ELW #317. Jesus on the Mountain Peak*
ELW #841. Lift Every Voice and Sing
ELW #563. O Light Whose Splendor Thrills
ELW #751. O Lord, Hear My Prayer (The Lord Is My Song)
ELW #579. Lord, You Give the Great Commission
ELW #566. When Twilight Comes
ELW #316. Oh, Wondrous Image, Vision Fair*
ELW #787. On Eagle’s Wings
ELW #864/5. Praise, My Soul, the God of Heaven
ELW #843. Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness
ELW #858/9. Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
ELW #671. Shine, Jesus, Shine
ELW #821. Shout to the Lord
ELW #559. O Splendor of God’s Glory Bright
ELW #667. Take Up Your Cross, the Savior Said
ELW #587/8. There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy
ELW #677. This Little Light of Mine
ELW #613. Thy Holy Wings
ELW #511. Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness
ELW #445. Wash, O God, Our Sons and Daughters
ELW #719. Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life
LBW #324. O Love That Will Not Let Me Go
WOV #696. I’ve Just Come from the Fountain
Various Hymnals God Is Here Today (1999) by Javier Mateo
Various Hymnals Open the Eyes of My Heart (1997) by Paul Baloche
Various Hymnals Transform Us (1993) by Sylvia Dunstan
Various Hymnals We are standing on holy ground (1983) by Geron Davis
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship;  LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
* Epiphany/Time After Epiphany Hymns

Other (mostly contemporary) options based on both:

“Be Still And Know” By Steven Curtis Chapman.
“In the Secret” By Andy Park.
“Weak Man” By Ed Cash, Jack Mooring, et al.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Dakota Road options:
“GOD OF STARS AND DISTANT PLANETS”
“HEART OF THE PEOPLE” 
“LOVE CAN BREAK THROUGH” 
“MESSIAH” 
“YOU SET US FREE” 

Prayers of Intercession:

(Introduction and Conclusion from Revised Common Lectionary Prayers, copyright © 2002)

O God, as your Son drew apart to be in prayer with you, we offer our prayers for the transformation of the world and the church.

A brief silence.

Glorious Lord, transform your church and turn it into a true reflection of your just and peaceful kingdom here on earth. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Glorious Lord, transform creation and restore waterways and forests, oceans and mountains to the great splendor you first formed them to be. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Glorious Lord, transform the nations and the leaders of nations into people that care for one another and work for equity and justice. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Glorious Lord, transform the hearts and minds of any who struggle with mental illness and are burdened with anguish, anxiety, or any other invisible pain. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Glorious Lord, transform the bodies and minds of any who struggle with disease and are burdened with chronic illness, sudden sickness, or any other visible pain. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Glorious Lord, transform the lives of this assembly by turning us ever outwards towards our neighbors. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

Glorious Lord, you transformed the lives of countless saints before us, transform our lives too. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You revealed your glory and presence in your beloved Son, Jesus the Christ. In receiving our prayers, reveal the glory and presence of your Spirit alive in the world today, free us from all doubts, and empower us to act as a transfigured people. Amen.

An update on the future of this blog.

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

So, my big news is that I have taken a new call out in Virginia (MN winters got too cold!). The congregation I will be serving uses the RCL (I may try to talk them into trying the NL at some point). Despite that, I am only 4 months away from having written/curated resources for all four years of the NL cycle. Since I have just a few months left, I intend to finish this project. Then, over the summer I will reorganize this blog so that it is easier to find the NL resources. I will also be contemplating what direction to take this site once I’ve completed the NL cycle I’m working on. I would welcome suggestions from you all as to what kind of resources you would like to get from me (I have written several VBS curricula for instance). Feel free to leave a comment or email me any thoughts/suggestions!

Worship Resources for February 7, 2021

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5th Sunday after Epiphany NL325: Raising the Widow’s Son

Color: Green
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Epiphany 9C, Proper 4(9)C, Proper 5(10)C
Psalm Text: Psalm 119:105-107
Sermon Text: Luke 7:1-17
Other Text Suggestions: 1 Kings 17:17-24, Galatians 1:11-24
Prayer of the Day (WP): Healing Lord, by your goodness you healed many who were ill, even raising the dead to life. Restore us to new life, healing our hearts, minds, and spirits, so that we may proclaim praise and gratitude for your compassion to all who will hear. In the name of the one who is himself new life, Jesus Christ our savior. Amen.

Helpful Resources: SermonWriter, Sermon Writer, TextWeek, RevGalPals, re:Worship, Word&World, BibleHub

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #610. O Christ, the Healer, We Have Come
ELW #705. God of Grace and God of Glory
ELW #618. Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer
ELW #612. Healer of Our Every Ill
ELW #620. How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds
ELW #769. If You But Trust in God to Guide You
ELW #332. I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say
ELW #611. I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say
ELW #860. I’m So Glad Jesus Lifted Me
ELW #696. Jesus Calls Us; o’er the Tumult
ELW #335. Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross
ELW #592. Just As I Am, without One Plea
ELW #712. Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service
ELW #631. Love Divine, All Loves Excelling
ELW #220. May the God of All Healing
ELW #343. My Song Is Love Unknown
ELW #379. Now the Green Blade Rises
ELW #864/5. Praise, My Soul, the God of Heaven
ELW #843. Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness
ELW #773. Precious Lord, Take My Hand
ELW #623. Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me
ELW #886. Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to Sing
ELW #787. On Eagle’s Wings
ELW #583. Take My Life, That I May Be
ELW #685. Take My Life, That I May Be
ELW #614. There Is a Balm in Gilead
ELW #587/8. There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy
ELW #617. We Come to You for Healing, Lord
ELW #785. When Peace like a River (It Is Well with My Soul)
ELW #719. Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life
LBW #493. Hope of the World
LBW #431. Your Hand, O Lord, in Days of Old
Various Hymnals O Christ, Who Shared Our Mortal Life (2003) by Herman Stuempfle
Various Hymnals Easter Alleluia (1986) by Marty Haugen
Various Hymnals I Stand in Awe (1987) by Mark Altrogge
Various Hymnals We Cannot Measure How You Heal (1989) by John Bell
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship;  LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
* Epiphany/Time After Epiphany Hymns

Other (mostly contemporary) options based on both:

“Breath Of God” By Vicky Beeching.
“Glorious Unfolding” By Steven Curtis Chapman.
“More Than Conquerors” As performed by Rend collective.
“My Lighthouse” As performed by Rend collective
More contemporary suggestions here.

Dakota Road options:
“BUILD UP – Isaiah 57, 58”
“DREAM GOD’S DREAM”
“FROM NOW ON”
“HEALER”
“I WILL SING TO YOU”
“OPEN MY HEART TO YOUR LOVE”

Prayers of Intercession:

(Introduction and Conclusion from Revised Common Lectionary Prayers, copyright © 2002)

Sisters and brothers, our baptismal vows call us to compassion and mercy on behalf of those in need. We offer our prayers for the church and the world.

A brief silence.

Heal the church, O Lord, and protect it from hypocrisy, oppression, and injustice. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the world, O Lord, and use us bring about your abundant providence for all people. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the nations, O Lord, and turn us from selfishness and violence towards cooperation and peace. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal those suffering in mind or spirit, O Lord, grant them the knowledge of your great love and care for them. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal those suffering in body, O Lord, and restore them to wholeness in you. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal this assembly, O Lord, and deepen our faith in your eternal promises. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

We give you thanks for the healing you worked through the saints before us, please use us to bring your wholeness to the world. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, you revealed your Son in the waters of the Jordan and anointed him with the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim good news to all people. Sanctify us by the same Spirit, that we may proclaim the healing power of the gospel by acts of love in your name. Amen.

Episode 53 – Fish for People

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3rd Sunday after Epiphany NL323: Fish for People

Color: Green
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Epiphany 5C
Psalm Text: Psalm 90:14-17
Sermon Text: Luke 5:1-11
Other Text Suggestions: Isaiah 6:1-8, (9-13); 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Prayer of the Day (WP): Lord Jesus of fisher folk, you taught your disciples to cast a wide net — not for fish, but for people. Teach us the fishing craft. Make our fingers nimble so we may handle hearts and hands gently; make our minds quiet and patient while we wait for those who are not yet ready to receive you; and make our hearts hungry for your word, for the sake of the one who has captured our hearts already, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Helpful Resources: RevGalPals, re:Worship, SermonWriter, TextWeek, BibleHub, Word&World

Worship Resources for January 31, 2021

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4th Sunday after Epiphany NL324: Healing on the Sabbath

Color: Green
Closest RCL Sunday(s): N/A
Psalm Text: Psalm 92
Sermon Text: Luke 6:1-16
Other Text Suggestions: Exodus 20:9-11; Colossians 2:13-17
Prayer of the Day (WP): Lord of the Sabbath, your followers were told not to work on the Sabbath, and yet they boldly plucked grain to show that you are Lord of all. The world tells us not to rest on the Sabbath. Show us how to rest boldly, rejecting conventions that go against your will, and instead praying and resting as you did up on the mountain, for the glory of your word and work, Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Helpful Resources: RevGalPals, TextWeek, BibleHub

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #634. All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name!
ELW #465. As the Grains of Wheat
ELW #302. As with Gladness Men of Old*
ELW #338. Beneath the Cross of Jesus
ELW #625. Come, We That love the Lord (We’re Marching to Zion)
ELW #521. O Day of Rest and Gladness
ELW #311. Hail to the Lord’s Anointed*
ELW #413. Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty!
ELW #796. How Firm a Foundation
ELW #324. In the Cross of Christ I Glory
ELW #658. O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts
ELW #754. Jesus, the Very Thought of You
ELW #545. Lord, Dismiss Us with Your Blessing
ELW #766. Lord of Our Life
ELW #676. Lord, Speak to Us, That We May Speak
ELW #772. Oh, that the Lord Would Guide My Ways
ELW #823. Praise the Lord! O Heavens
ELW #773. Precious Lord, Take My Hand
ELW #430. Rejoice, for Christ is King!
ELW #623. Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me
ELW #655. Son of God, Eternal Savior
ELW #729. The Church of Christ, in Every Age
ELW #569. The Day You Gave Us, Lord, Has Ended
ELW #831. The God of Abraham Praise
ELW #778. The Lord’s My Shepherd
ELW #825. You Servants of God
LBW #506. Dear Lord and Father of Mankind
LBW #337. Oh, What Their Joy
Various Hymnals O Christ, who holds the open gate (1911) by John Masefield
Various Hymnals Give to the Lord (1996) by Ron Kenoly
Various Hymnals Jesus Christ Is Waiting (1988) by John Bell
Various Hymnals Lord of the Dance (1963) by Sydney Carter
Various Hymnals Praise with Joy the World’s Creator (1996) by John Bell
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship;  LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
* Epiphany/Time After Epiphany Hymns

Other (mostly contemporary) options based on both:

“We Will Glorify” By Twila Paris.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Dakota Road options:
“ALL OF MY LIFE” 
“BRING YOUR MERCY” 
“GO IN PEACE” 
“I BELIEVE, I DO BELIEVE” 
“WHAT SHALL I GIVE” 
“WE JOIN WITH THE EARTH”

Prayers of Intercession:

(Introduction and Conclusion from Revised Common Lectionary Prayers, copyright © 2002)

Sisters and brothers, our baptismal vows call us to compassion and mercy on behalf of those in need. We offer our prayers for the church and the world.

A brief silence.

For the church and its leaders; that we may be more concerned with proclaiming your grace and love than judgement and rule-keeping. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For creatures of all shapes and sizes; that we may better protect and care for the good creation that you have made. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For the nations and the leaders of nations; that peace and justice may be the motivation of our actions instead of greed and power. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For the lonely and depressed; that we may reach out in love to those who are experiencing pain that we cannot see. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For the sick and dying; that your healing will and comforting peace may be active in their lives. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For this assembly; that we may go out into our daily lives proclaiming your reign and rule. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

For the saints who went before; that we may follow in their footsteps and proclaim your faithfulness through the generations. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, you revealed your Son in the waters of the Jordan and anointed him with the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim good news to all people. Sanctify us by the same Spirit, that we may proclaim the healing power of the gospel by acts of love in your name. Amen.

Episode 52 – Sermon at Nazareth

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Sermon at Nazareth (NL322)

Color: Green
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Epiphany 3C, Epiphany 4C
Psalm Text: Psalm 146
Sermon Text: Luke 4:14-30
Other Text Suggestions: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
Prayer of the Day (WP): God of the nations, show us how to love all the people of the earth, of all colors and kinds: those with technology and without; those who make due with very little and who use many resources; those with formal education and without; those who call upon your name and who do not; so that all your children may be glorified in the name of the One who brought glory and liberty, Jesus Christ our salvation. Amen.
Helpful Resources: re:Worship, SermonWriter, Word&World, RevGalPals, TextWeek, BibleHub

Worship Resources for January 24, 2021

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3rd Sunday after Epiphany NL323: Fish for People

Color: Green
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Epiphany 5C
Psalm Text: Psalm 90:14-17
Sermon Text: Luke 5:1-11
Other Text Suggestions: Isaiah 6:1-8, (9-13); 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Prayer of the Day (WP): Lord Jesus of fisher folk, you taught your disciples to cast a wide net — not for fish, but for people. Teach us the fishing craft. Make our fingers nimble so we may handle hearts and hands gently; make our minds quiet and patient while we wait for those who are not yet ready to receive you; and make our hearts hungry for your word, for the sake of the one who has captured our hearts already, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Helpful Resources: RevGalPals, re:Worship, SermonWriter, TextWeek, BibleHub, Word&World

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #757. All My Hope on God Is Founded
ELW #779. Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound
ELW #553. Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies
ELW #807. Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
ELW #520. Dearest Jesus, at Your Word
ELW #494. For the Bread Which You Have Broken
ELW #540. Go, Make Disciples
ELW #574. Here I Am, Lord
ELW #473. Holy, Holy, Holy (Santo, santo, santo)
ELW #413. Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty!
ELW #580. How Clear Is Our Vocation, Lord
ELW #796. How Firm a Foundation
ELW #834. Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
ELW #658. O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts
ELW #624. Jesus, Still Lead On
ELW #490. Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence
ELW #863. My God, How Wonderful Thou Art
ELW #322. Oh, Love How Deep
ELW #858/9. Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
ELW #663. Spread, Oh, Spread, Almighty Word
ELW #497. Strengthen for Service, Lord
ELW #831. The God of Abraham Praise
ELW #551. The Spirit Sends Us Forth to Serve
ELW #677. This Little Light of Mine
ELW #798. Will You Come and Follow Me (The Summons)
ELW #424. Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones
ELW #817. You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore (Tú Has Venido a La Orilla)
ELW #825. You Servants of God
LBW #505. Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go
LBW #494. Jesus Calls Us; O’er the Tumult
Various Hymnals Isaiah in a vision did of old (1978) by Martin Luther
Various Hymnals Lord of the Dance (1963) by Sydney Carter
Various Hymnals Lord, When You Came (1979) by Cesáreo Gabarain
Various Hymnals Sing Hey for the Carpenter (1987) by John Bell
Various Hymnals Two Fishermen (1986) by Suzanne Toolan
Various Hymnals You Walk Along Our Shoreline (1991) by Sylvia Dunstan
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship;  LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
* Epiphany/Time After Epiphany Hymns

Other (mostly contemporary) options based on both:

“Ancient Words” By Lynn DeShazo.
“Broken” By Michael Himes.
“The King of Love My Shepherd Is” By Henry Williams Baker, John Bacchus Dykes.
“Thy Word” By Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Dakota Road options:
“ALL OF MY LIFE” 
“BLESSINGS ON THE ROAD” 
“BUILD UP – Isaiah 57, 58” 
“DO JUSTICE” 
“EVERYBODY’S GOT SOMETHING TO OFFER” 
“GO NOW” 
“MESSIAH” 
“PEOPLE OF HOPE” 
“PEOPLES CHURCH” 
“TO LIVE ON” 

Prayers of Intercession:

(Introduction and Conclusion from Revised Common Lectionary Prayers, copyright © 2002)

Sisters and brothers, our baptismal vows call us to compassion and mercy on behalf of those in need. We offer our prayers for the church and the world.

A brief silence.

You call your church to fish for people by proclaiming your love and grace in word and in deed; strengthen us for service and deepen our faith and trust in you. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You call humanity to steward the earth and all that you have made; instill in us a desire to protect and care for all that you have made. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You call upon the leaders of nations to work for justice and peace; make your justice roll down upon all people like rolling waters. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You call upon us to reach out in love to all of our neighbors; open our eyes to see your face in the lonely, the anxious, the mentally ill, and all who suffer in mind or spirit. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You call upon us to serve our neighbor’s need; work through us to provide comfort and healing to all who are in pain or are suffering physical maladies. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You call upon your church to unite in service to the world; grant that this assembly may go forth to work on behalf of your blessed kingdom. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

You call all people to yourself; draw us, with the saints, to our home in you. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, you revealed your Son in the waters of the Jordan and anointed him with the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim good news to all people. Sanctify us by the same Spirit, that we may proclaim the healing power of the gospel by acts of love in your name. Amen.