“My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and
skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.  Your eyes saw my substance, being yet
unformed.  And in Your book they all were
written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. (Psalm
139: 15-16)

The Lord knows you.  He knew you before you came into being.  You do not think and therefore exist.  You exist because you were wonderfully made
by the One who made all things.  Come
into the Lord’s presence and dwell with the One who has always known you.  Come and be comforted in the truth of His
eternal plan for you.  He knows all of
your days and they will come about according to His purpose.

Lord, I can only marvel at the truth of what You have declared.  Guide me in Your goodness to live into the
life to which You have called me.  Help
me to see through the obstacles of this life and know that I am now and always
in Your hands.  You are the One who
marvelously knits all things together. 
Join me to those who come into Your love and long for the day when we
meet You face to face.

Lord Jesus, all things came into
being through You and apart from You nothing came into being that has
being.  Guide me in the truth You have
spoken from the beginning.  Lead me in
the narrow way You have established. 
Lift me into the life You have made possible through grace.  In all things, guide me in the mercy and
goodness of the Father to do what is pleasing in His sight.  Amen.

Photo by Alex Harvey 🤙🏻 on Unsplash

“For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s
womb.  I will praise You, for I am
fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul
knows very well.”  (Psalm 139:13-14)

We are no accident, nor a freak
of evolutionary adjustment.  Before we
were in the womb, God knew us.  Yes, the
tentacles of the pollution of this age run deep, but hear the Word of the
Lord.  It is He who made you and He knows
the reasons.  Do not be deceived by this
world’s triviality, but be overwhelmed with the graciousness of God who gives you
life and calls you by name.

Lord, help me to see those places where I resist the truth of what You
are saying.  Guide me according to Your
goodness to know that You are the Creator of all things.  Lead me in the way of life that I would now
and always look to You, the source of my being, and be comforted.  Before I was born you had my name written in
Your book.  Teach me to marvel and
rejoice.

Lord Jesus, You know all those
who are Yours.  You knew each of us that
You would go to the cross for.  Lead me
in faith that I would now and always turn to You for all things, in all things,
and through all things.  You are the One
who has called me by name.  Lead me, Lord,
in the way You know I should go and remove from me anything that hinder my
always following You.  Amen.

Photo by Chiến Phạm on Unsplash

“If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall on me,” even the night shall
be light about me; indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night
shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You.”  (Psalm 139:11-12)

What is dark but the absence of
light.  What is light but the presence of
the Lord.  The Lord has promised His
presence always, for wherever one of His creations is present there is at least
a flicker of light.  Do not be
disheartened, but marvel at the ways in which the Lord comes to all of those
whom He calls that they may be with Him as He is with them.  Come into the Lord’s presence and live.

Lord, I spend so much time trying to figure things out.  Let me be guided by Your Spirit that I would
live as You have created me to live.  Guide
me now and always in the truth of Your presence that I would experience the
liberty You give to those who love You. 
Take the lead and teach me to follow that I would learn from You the way
of life lived eternally in Your presence.

Lord Jesus, You must be the
author and finisher of my faith.  How can
I know where to go unless You lead?  How
will I know the way unless You lead me to the place from whence You have
come.  Guide me in the way of faith that
I would learn to be like You.  Lift me up
with You to see more clearly each day. 
Guide me in the faith You have given me to live boldly in Your presence.  Amen.

Photo by Zoltan Tasi on Unsplash

“If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts
of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold
me.”  (Psalm 139:9-10)

Are you beginning to see the
breadth and depth of the Lord’s presence? 
Everything He has made He takes an interest in.  He did not just make everything and let it
go.  He cares about all that He has
made.  Jesus said that a sparrow does not
fall to the ground but that the Lord knows about it.  Take comfort that every moment of every day
the Lord is always with You and never leaves you.

Lord, in times I consider bad I am unable to reconcile these
thoughts.  Bad things do happen and You
are there.  Yet I know that You are also
working everything together according to Your purpose.  When I am in a place beyond my ability to
reason, grant that I would live in faith, trusting You above all things.  This is most especially true where my reason
gets in the way of faith.

Lord Jesus, You have said that
You are with us always, even unto the end of the age.  Guide me, Lord, in the way of faith that I
would focus more upon where You are leading me than upon my ability to reason
everything out.  Lead me to learn to
trust in every circumstance that I may walk by faith, being led by Your Spirit
in the way You know I need to go.  Help
me to always trust in You.  Amen.

Photo by Adam Muise on Unsplash

“Where can I go from Your Spirit? 
Or where can I flee from Your presence? 
If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell,
behold, You are there.”  (Psalm 139:7-8)

Where is it far enough that the
Lord is not there?  This universe and
everything outside of it belongs to the Lord. 
We think we are in our own little world and we may be, but the Lord is
there too.  Let your mind be amazed at
the thought.  Where is the Lord?  Where is He not?  His Spirit sustains all that exists and He
has invited You to know that He is with You always.

 How can this be, Lord?  I have so many questions and I ponder so many things.  Help me, I pray, to come fully into the reality of faith that I would live the life You have given me in Your presence joyfully.  Guide me according to Your mercy to walk humbly knowing that I am always with You and You with me.  Open my mind to see more fully the truth of all things which You have revealed.

Holy Spirit, You are always
here.  You are always around and moving
through all things.  Lead me in Your
presence to abide in faith, joy and peace. 
Guide me according to Your goodness to become willingly whom You are
leading me to be.  Help me now and always
to realize that You are always with me, even unto the end of this age and
beyond. Thank You, Lord, for being with me. 
Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

Saint Michael and All Angels (September 29, 2019)

 

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, we praise and thank you for having ordained and constituted the ministries of angels and men in a wonderful order. Mercifully grant that, as your holy angels always serve and worship you in heaven, so by your appointment they may help and defend us on earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heaven and earth are filled with your glory; and angels and archangels, cherubim and seraphim adore you in unceasing chorus. Give your Church the voice and the faith to join their song. Make its worship a foretaste of heaven. Make its proclamation a strong witness to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Make its deeds of charity a countersign to the deathly powers that seek to enslave all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless this congregation and make it rich in faith toward you and in fervent love in for one another. Remind us that your little ones – everyone for whom Christ died – have their angels pleading for them before your throne. Help us therefore not to put a stumbling-block before them, but instead to be merciful and gracious, giving and forgiving, as you have been toward us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

May your holy angels bless, strengthen and defend your little ones who endure great suffering on account of Jesus. Grant that their time of persecution may speedily end; and convict the hearts of all who torment them, so they may repent and believe in the Gospel.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

As Michael is the defender of Israel and head of the angel host, so we pray that your holy angels would bring wise counsel to the leaders of every nation, and defend your people from the malice of the Evil One. Keep us safe in your care; teach us those things which make for peace; and preserve us in harmony and righteousness until that day when you make all things new.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We lift before you all whom it would be easy to forget, but whose angels continually remember them before the Throne of Grace: the homeless, neglected and needy; the destitute, sick and aged; the mentally ill and physically or mentally challenged; those who are abused, and their abusers; unborn children, and mothers who are tempted or pressured to abort them. Shelter them with your tender care; and help us to bring them healing, hope, forgiveness and friendship, for the love of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray on behalf of everyone who cries out to you for help in time of trouble, suffering, distress or grief; especially: {List}. Speedily rescue them from affliction; stir up compassion in all who care for them; and let your holy angels have charge of them, that the Wicked One have no power over them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy and gracious Father, we praise you for the victory your Son has won over sin and death. We entrust into care our departed loved ones. Grant to us, who still walk as yet by faith and not by sight, the protection of your holy angels. Grant that, encouraged by their presence and by the witness of all your saints, we may give you thanks for all things; fear nothing except losing you; and lay all our cares on you, knowing that you care for us. Bring us into the blessedness of eternal life; where the hosts of heaven and the whole company of the redeemed, we shall see you face to face, and adore you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist (September 22, 2019)

 

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us, though like Matthew we are numbered among the tax collectors and sinners. Thank you for lifting us up when we fall away from your commands, and for restoring us to positions of trust and the task of proclaiming the Gospel when we have repented.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, bless your holy Church throughout the world. Fill it with faithful teachers and preachers of your Word; kindle its worship to be a living flame of praise to you; make it wise as serpents and innocent as doves as it bears witness to Jesus in this broken and fallen world; and grant it grace to lavish the treasures of your Kingdom upon all who are in need of them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give the people of this congregation ears to hear Jesus’ gracious call to discipleship. Give us joy and generosity to invite fellow sinners to join us as we feast on Jesus in Word and Sacrament. And give us strength and clarity, so that like Matthew, we proclaim the Gospel in ways that our neighbors can understand and respond to with repentance, faith, and commitment.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give such lovingkindness and generosity to missionaries throughout the world, that in them, the poor of body, mind, or spirit may see and gladly receive your love and forgiveness. And help us to remember, pray for, defend, and assist your persecuted servants however we can. Give them grace to speak truth in love before their enemies, so that you may be glorified, and many may repent and turn to you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give wisdom, integrity, and common sense to our earthly leaders. Make them honest stewards of the power and authority granted to them; and remind them that they must give an account of their stewardship to you, their Master and King. Be the shield and defender of first responders and those in the military. Fill them with courage, integrity, and competence; and use their labors to accomplish your will in places of chaos and violence. Help us all to have a heart for the poor, and the will to assist them effectively and graciously.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless volunteers and workers, not only in this church, but throughout the world, who seek to serve you and neighbor. Multiply their gifts and talents, so that through their labors, many people receive mercy, comfort, and a clear sign of your providential care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

You raise the poor from the dust and care for all who cry out to you. Therefore with confidence and hope, we remember before you all who are afflicted in body, mind, or spirit, including: {List}. Bring them out of darkness into your glorious light; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious and holy Father, receive into your Kingdom all the faithful departed, especially those dearest to us, including: {List}. Keep us steadfast in faith; diligent in service; truthful in word and honest in deed; and bind us together in cords of love and compassion for one another. Bring us, with all whom you have redeemed, into the fullness of your presence; and give us hearts, minds, and voices, forever to adore and glorify you, in the blessed communion you share with your Son and the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

15^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20, Cycle C (September 22, 2019)

 

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for your holy Word, even when it convicts us or makes us squirm. Thank you for being patient with us. Thank you for lifting us up when we fall away from your commands, and for restoring us to positions of trust and the task of proclaiming the Gospel when we have repented.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your holy Church throughout the world. Fill it with faithful teachers and preachers of your Word; kindle its worship to be a living flame of praise to you; make it wise as serpents and innocent as doves as it bears witness to Jesus in this broken and fallen world; and grant it grace to lavish the treasures of your Kingdom upon all who are in need of them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Lord, it may make us smile or shudder to hear the parable of the dishonest servant at a time of year when stewardship is often lifted up. Bless this congregation in its stewardship of time, talents, treasures, and testimony. Help us to be honest, eager, and ingenious as we use whatever has been entrusted to us, for the sake of your Kingdom, and for the benefit of our neighbor.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give such lovingkindness and generosity to missionaries throughout the world, that in them, the poor of body, mind, or spirit may see and gladly receive your love and forgiveness. And help us to remember, pray for, defend, and assist your persecuted servants however we can. Give them grace to speak truth in love before their enemies, so that you may be glorified, and many may repent and turn to you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give wisdom, integrity, and common sense to our earthly leaders. Make them honest stewards of the power and authority granted to them; and remind them that they must give an account of their stewardship to you, their Master and King. Be the shield and defender of first responders and those in the military. Fill them with courage, integrity, and competence; and use their labors to accomplish your will in places of chaos and violence. Help us all to have a heart for the poor, and the will to assist them effectively and graciously.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless volunteers and workers, not only in this church, but throughout the world, who seek to serve you and neighbor. Multiply their gifts and talents, so that through their labors, many people receive mercy, comfort, and a clear sign of your providential care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

You raise the poor from the dust and care for all who cry out to you. Therefore with confidence and hope, we remember before you all who are afflicted in body, mind, or spirit, including: {List}. Bring them out of darkness into your glorious light; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious and holy Father, receive into your Kingdom all the faithful departed, especially those dearest to us, including: {List}. Keep us steadfast in faith; diligent in service; truthful in word and honest in deed; and bind us together in cords of love and compassion for one another. Bring us, with all whom you have redeemed, into the fullness of your presence; and give us hearts, minds, and voices, forever to adore and glorify you, in the blessed communion you share with your Son and the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

14^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19, Cycle C (September 15, 2019)

(May be used for Holy Cross, Transferred)

 

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, thank you for Jesus! Thank you for making him our good Shepherd. Thank you for loving us so much that we are granted forgiveness, life, fellowship with you – and love beyond all telling – in your Son, crucified, raised, and ascended to your right hand for our salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, give your Church the grace and desire to faithfully follow the Good Shepherd, your Son Jesus. Give it leaders who rightly proclaim your Word of Law and Gospel. And, as Jesus ate with sinners and tax collectors so they might feast on his grace and forgiveness, make the Church into a place of welcome, forgiveness, and transformation for every sinner who enters it.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant forgiveness and grace to this congregation. We do not like being compared to sheep, especially ones who head-butt and distress your flock. And yet we confess that sometimes we do those things. Teach us humility; and help us to acknowledge and repent of thoughtless words, self-centered actions, and anything else that may prevent one of your dear children from loving and trusting you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless and direct the work of our national church body, and prosper its proclamation of the Gospel and works of Christlike charity. Save the lives of all who are persecuted because of their faith in Jesus. Convict with your strong word of Law all evildoers and enemies of the Gospel. Soften their hearts and turn them towards you in repentance, humility, and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Our nation continues to struggle with enemies within and beyond its borders; with discord, suspicion and violence; and with a raucous political campaign that sometimes threatens to bring out the worst rather than the best in us. Shepherd us through these troubled times. Bring healing to our hearts, homes, and communities. Anoint our eyes to see one another as fellow citizens and as beloved children of the same heavenly Father. And bring a measure of your peace to this weary world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

This weekend, we reflect upon the Holy Cross of Jesus our Savior. Fulfill his promise that, as he is lifted up, he will draw all people to himself. Give us grace, in words and deeds, to “lift high the Cross, the love of Christ proclaim ‘til all the world adore his sacred name.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Be merciful to all who are hurting, weak, abused, hungry, or grieving; or who in any way need the abundance of your grace. Especially we lift before you: {List}. Be their Good Shepherd, and bring them healing and hope. Help us all to be gentle, gracious, compassionate and kind to them, so that together, we may praise your goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, we entrust into the care of Jesus our Good Shepherd, all our beloved dead. Comfort all who mourn; and fill us with your Holy Spirit’s wisdom and grace. Teach us to love each other tenderly and care for one another diligently; and keep us ever in Christ’s care. Of your goodness, grant that he should heal us from every sin and infirmity, and lead us into your Kingdom; so that as one flock we may praise, adore, and glorify our Good Shepherd forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

Lessons and Suggested Hymns, Cycle C,

Holy Cross/14^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19) – Christ the King Sunday,

 September 15 – November 24, 2019

 

 

NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

 

There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.

 

Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the standard Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.

 

 

September 15, 14^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19

            OR Holy Cross Day, Transferred (from Sept. 14)

 

 

14 Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

 

Ezekiel 34:11-24: God, the true shepherd of his people

            RCL: Exodus 32:7-14: Moses pleads for God to not destroy Israel after it worships golden calf

Psalm 119:169-176: Plea for guidance in keeping God’s commandments

            RCL: Psalm 51:1-10: I know my sin; purge me; create in me a clean heart.

1 Timothy 1: (5-11), 12-17: (Law is laid down not for the innocent but for the sinful. Though chief of sinners, Paul is a living example of Jesus’  patience. To him be glory!

Luke 15:1-10: Parable of lost sheep and lost coin

 

Opening Hymn:   ELW #789, Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us (LSB #711) (NOTE: much more familiar tune than LBW version)

      OR LBW #451, The Lord’s My Shepherd; I’ll Not Want (ELW #778, LSB #710)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #291, Jesus Sinners Will Receive (LSB #609, Jesus Sinners Doth Receive) NOTE: Although the LSB tune is more singable and familiar than is the LBW tune, if you don’t want to try either, I suggest setting this to LBW #535, Holy God, We Praise Your Name. The words to this hymn are good with the epistle and Gospel texts.

      OR LBW #372, In Adam We Have All Been One (LSB #569)

      OR ELW #768, Lead Me, Guide Me

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #448, Amazing Grace (ELW #779, LSB #744)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #298, One There is, Above All Others

            OR ELW #774, What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine (WOV #780)

Closing Hymn: LBW #263, Abide With Us, Our Savior (ELW #539, LSB #919, Abide, O Dearest Jesus)

 

Holy Cross (Transferred) Lessons and Hymns

 

Numbers 21:4-9: The bronze serpent heals the sinful Israelites who were bitten by poisonous snakes

Psalm 40:1-11: Thanksgiving for deliverance. God desires not burnt offerings but a willing heart.

1 Corinthians 1:18-25: Message of the Cross is folly to those who are perishing, but for those who are being saved, Christ the power and wisdom of God.

John 12:27-33: “I, when I am lifted up, will draw all people to myself.”

 

Opening hymn: LBW #124, The Royal Banners Forward Go (LSB #455) (NOTE: The words are perfect for today. If the tune has your folks coughing up hairballs, this works very well to the Doxology, “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow”, or Erhalt uns, Herr, “Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word”.

      OR ELW# #342, There in God’s Garden (WOV #668)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #377, Lift High the Cross (ELW #660, LSB #837)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #104, In the Cross of Christ I Glory (ELW #324, LSB #427)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #107, Beneath the Cross of Jesus (ELW #338)

Closing Hymn: LBW #482, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (ELW #803, LSB #425/426)

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September 22, 15^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20

(OR St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, Transferred (from September 21)

 

 

Pentecost 15 Lessons and Hymns:

 

Amos 8:4-7: God condemns the rich and haughty who defraud the poor.

Psalm 113: God raises the poor from the dust; gives children to the barren woman.

1 Timothy 2:1-15: Pray for all, including leaders. We have one mediator: Christ. Comportment of men and women. Yeah, submission and silence of women.

            RCL: 1 Timothy 2:1-7: Omits section on comportment, submission, and silence

Luke 16:1-15: Parable of dishonest steward; condemnation of pharisees who ridiculed Jesus.

            RCL: Luke 16:1-13: Omits condemnation of Pharisees.

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #419, Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace (ELW #716, LSB #844)

            OR WOV #790, Praise to You, O God of Mercy

Hymn of the Day: LSB #857, Lord, Help Us Walk the Servant Way

OR ELW #722, O Christ, Your Heart, Compassionate (NOTE: familiar tune!)

            OR LBW #423, Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service (ELW #712, LSB #848)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #410, We Give Thee But Thine Own (ELW #686, LSB #781)

            OR ELW #498, United at the Table

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #409, Praise and Thanksgiving, Father We Offer (ELW #689, LSB #789)

Closing Hymn: ELW #546, To Be Your Presence

            OR LBW #408, God, Whose Giving Knows No Ending (ELW #678)  (NOTE: I concur with ELW’s suggestion: Sing to the tune, “Ode to Joy” – Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee!)

 

St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, Transferred, Lessons and Hymns:

 

Ezekiel 2:8-3:11: Ezekiel commanded to eat scroll of God’s word; God fortifies him to speak to a rebellious people.

Psalm 119:33-40: “Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain.”

Ephesians 4:7-16: The varieties of God’s gifts are given to build up body of Christ.

Matthew 9:9-13: Jesus calls Matthew, eats with sinners, comes to call sinners.

 

Opening hymn: LBW #178, v. 1, 18, 3: By All Your Saints in Warfare (ELW #421, v. 1, 20, “last;” LSB #518, v. 1, 25, 3)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #291, Jesus Sinners Will Receive (LSB #609… doth receive)

      OR ELW #513, Listen, God is Calling (WOV #712, LSB #833)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #353, May We Your Precepts, Lord, Fulfill (LSB #698…Thy Precepts)

      OR ELW #595, Jesus Loves Me

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #492, O Master, Let Me Walk With You (ELW #818)

Closing Hymn: LBW #239, God’s Word is Our Great Heritage (ELW #509, LSB #582)

 

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September 29: St. Michael and All Angels

 

Daniel 10:10-14, 12:1-3: Michael is the great prince of his people; will protect them. At his coming, the dead shall rise for judgment.

Psalm 91: Assurance of God’s protection; his angels will bear you up lest you dash foot against a stone

Revelation 12:7-12: War in heaven: Michael defeats dragon, who falls to the earth in great wrath.

Luke 10:17-20: Return of 70: Rejoice not that you cast out demons but that your names are written in book of life.

 

Opening hymn: LBW #544, v. 1, 9-11, The God of Abraham Praise (LSB #1, 8, 9) (Note: not worth doing in ELW, as the verse about the angels is missing)

      OR ELW #787, You Who Dwell in the Shelter of the Lord (WOV #779, LSB #727)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #249, God Himself is Present (LSB #907)

      OR LBW #175, Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones (ELW #424, LSB #670)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #549, Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven (ELW #865, LSB #793)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #526, Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise  (ELW #834, LSB #802)

Closing Hymn: LBW #535, Holy God, We Praise Your Name (ELW #414, LSB #940)

 

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October 6, 17^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 22

 

Habakkuk 1:1-4, 2:1-4: Prophet complains: God help! God says: write the vision while there is time before the end. The proud have wrong spirit; the righteous shall live by faith.

Psalm 62: My soul waits in silence for God to deliver me from evildoers.

            RCL: Psalm 37:1-9: Be still before the Lord, wait patiently.

2 Timothy 1:1-14: Exhortation for Timothy to emulate Paul as herald of Gospel.

Luke 17:1-10: Woe to those who cause little ones to stumble! Rebuke and forgive fellow sinners. Faith like mustard seed. Be like the slave who tirelessly serves master.

            RCL: Luke 17:5-10: Omits woes, bit on rebuke.

 

Opening Hymn:   LSB #337, The Night Will Soon be Ending

      OR LBW #31, Wake, Awake, For Night is Flying (LSB #516) (ELW #436 [Note: for some reason in v.2, “For her Lord comes down victorious” is replaced by “her dear friend…” no clue.])

Hymn of the Day: LBW #382, Awake, O Spirit of the Watchmen (Note: not real familiar, but not a tough tune, and the words bridge the 3 lessons well)

            OR LBW #503, O Jesus, I Have Promised (ELW #810)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #307, Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive (ELW #605, LSB #843)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #534, Now Thank We All Our God (ELW #840, LSB #895)

Closing Hymn: LBW #293/4, My Hope is Built on Nothing Less (ELW #596/597, LSB #576/6)

 

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October 13, 18^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 23

 

Ruth 1:1-19a: Ruth insists on accompanying Naomi: Your God shall be my God!

            RCL: 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15: The healing of Naaman the leper

Psalm 111: Praise for God’s works. “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever.

2 Timothy 2:1-13: Share in Christ’s suffering as soldier, farmer, or athlete. If we die with him, we will live with him. If we are faithless, he is faithful; he can’t deny himself.

            RCL: 2 Timothy 2:8-15: Omits first section; adds warning to not wrangle over words, and exhortation for Timothy to present himself as one approved by God.

Luke 17:11-19: Jesus heals 10 lepers; only Samaritan returns to give thanks.

 

Opening Hymn:  LBW #336, Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me (LSB #683)

            OR LBW #316, Jesus, the Very Thought of You (ELW #754)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #431, Your Hand, O Lord, in Days of Old (Note: This can very nicely be sung to tune for “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear.”) (LSB #846, Note: also a good tune)

      OR LBW #360, O Christ the Healer, We Have Come (ELW #610)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #370, Blest be the Tie that Binds (ELW #656, LSB #649)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #532, How Great Thou Art (ELW #856, LSB #801)

Closing Hymn: WOV #797, O God Beyond All Praising (ELW #880)

      OR LBW #552, In Thee Is Gladness (ELW #867, LSB #818)(Note: remember it’s a dance not a dirge!)

 

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October 20, 19^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 24

 

Genesis 32:22-30: Jacob wrestles with God at Peniel

Psalm 121: “I lift up my eyes unto the hills… my help comes from the Lord!”

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5: Exhortation to preach the Word faithfully: exhort, instruct, reprove, encourage with sound doctrine, despite the “itchy ears” of many.

Luke 18:1-8: Parable of woman and unjust judge: Be persistent in prayer!

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #475, Come, Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove (ELW #404)

Hymn of the Day: (if preaching on Epistle) LBW #230, Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word (ELW #517, LSB #655)

            OR (if preaching on Gospel): ELW #748, O God in Heaven (Note: simple, catchy folk tune)

            OR LBW #445, Unto the Hills

           OR LBW #317, To God the Holy Spirit Let Us Pray (ELW #743, LSB #768)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #477, O God of Jacob, By Whose Hand

            OR ELW #744, Lord, Be Glorified

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #479, My Faith Looks Up to Thee (ELW #759, LSB #702)

Closing Hymn: WOV #771, Great is Thy Faithfulness (ELW #733, LSB #809)

      OR LBW #262, Savior, Again to Your Dear Name (ELW #534, LSB #517)

 

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October 27, Reformation Sunday

 

Revelation 14:6-7: Fear, worship, and give God glory; his judgment is near!

Psalm 46: God is our refuge and strength; the Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Romans 3:19-28: Righteousness comes by faith in God’s grace, apart from works of Law.

John 8:31-36: If the Son makes you free, you are free indeed.

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #229, A Mighty Fortress is Our God (ELW #504, LSB #657)

    (NOTE: The syncopated version is one number previous in all 3 hymnals)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #233, Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness (ELW #511, LSB #578)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #369, The Church’s One Foundation (ELW #654, LSB #644)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #293/4, My Hope is Built on Nothing Less (ELW #596/597, LSB #575/576)

Closing Hymn: WOV 716, Word of God, Come Down on Earth (ELW #510, LSB #545)

 

 

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November 3: All Saints’ Sunday

 

Revelation 7: (2-8), 9-17: The tribes of Israel are sealed. The numberless host sings “Blessing and honor and glory and might.” Behold the host, arrayed in white, singing around the throne of the Lamb!

Psalm 149: Let everyone praise the Lord for his righteousness and judgment!

1 John 3:1-3: We do not know what we shall be, but when we see Jesus, we shall be like him, for we will see him as he is.

Matthew 5:1-12: The Beatitudes.

 

Opening Hymn:  LBW #525, Blessing and Honor (ELW #854)

         OR   WOV #791, Alabare (LSB #799)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #174, For All the Saints   (ELW #422 [Note: eliminates “O may thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold], LSB #677)

         OR WOV #764, Blest Are They (ELW #728)

Communion Hymn #1: LSB #676, Behold a Host, Arrayed in White (Note: superior translation!) (LBW #314, Behold a Host, Like Mountains Bright; ELW #425, Behold the Host Arrayed in White)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #315, Love Divine, All Loves Excelling (ELW #631, LSB #700)

Closing Hymn: LBW #328/9, All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (ELW #634, LSB #549)

         OR WOV 801, Thine the Amen, Thine the Praise (ELW #826, LSB #680)

 

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 November 10, Pentecost 22, Proper 27

 

Exodus 3:1-15: Moses at burning bush; God reveals the divine name YHWH

            RCL: Job 19:23-27a: “I know that my Redeemer lives…. after my skin has been thus destroyed, then in my flesh I shall see God.”

Psalm 148: Let all creation praise God for his glory and might!

            RCL: Psalm 17:1-9: Prayer for deliverance; “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.”

2 Thessalonians 2:1-8, 13-17: The Day of the Lord will not come until the restraints on the “man of lawlessness” are removed; but he will be annihilated by Christ. Stand fast in the Gospel; you’re chosen to be God’s first fruits of salvation!

            RCL: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17: Omits annihilation by Christ’s coming

Luke 20:27-40: Seven brothers for one bride: question about resurrection; Jesus uses Torah passage to refute Sadducees.

            RCL: Luke 20:27-38: Omits brief approbation at end.

 

Opening hymn: LBW #352, v. 1-4, I Know That My Redeemer Lives (ELW #619, LSB #461)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #147, Hallelujah! Jesus Lives (ELW #380)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #222, O Bread of Life From Heaven (ELW #480)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #214, Come, Let Us Eat (ELW #491, LSB #626)

Closing Hymn: LBW # 352, v. 5-8, I Know That My Redeemer Lives (ELW #619, LSB #461)

 

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November 17, 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 28

 

Malachi 4:1-6: The day of the Lord; he comes with healing in his wings for the righteous, but evildoers are trampled down, Remember the statutes of Moses. Elijah will come on “The great and terrible day” to turn hearts of parents, children to one another and not be cursed.

            RCL: Malachi 4:1-2a: Omits everything after “healing in his wings.”

Psalm 98: Let the whole earth praise God, the righteous Judge of all!

2 Thessalonians 3: (1-5), 6-13: (Prayer for Gospel to spread and faithful to be rescued from evil and firmly obedient to God). Warning against idleness, and to not be weary in doing what is right.

Luke 21:5-28, (29-36): Prediction of destruction of Temple; persecutions, fall of Jerusalem; coming of Son of Man; parable of fig tree; be watchful!

            RCL: Luke 21:5-19: Omits everything after fall of Jerusalem.

 

Opening Hymn:   LSB #671, Sing With All the Saints in Glory

      OR LBW #516, Arise, My Soul, Arise (ELW #827)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #355, Through the Night of Dark and Sorrow (ELW #327)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #351, O Happy Day When We Shall Stand (ELW #441)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #343, Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer (ELW #618, LSB #918)

Closing Hymn:  WOV #778, O Christ the Same (Note: gotta love singing O Danny Boy!)(ELW #760)

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November 24, Christ the King Sunday

 

Malachi 3:13-18: Those who revere the Lord are written in book of remembrance, will be spared on Day of the Lord.

            RCL: Jeremiah 23:1-6: God will gather, shepherd scattered flock, and raise up a righteous Branch of David to rule and righteously judge his people.

Psalm 46: There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God; he is our refuge.

Colossians 1:13-20: Christ, the image and likeness of God, has rescued us from darkness, made us his body, and granted peace through blood of the Cross.

            RCL: Colossians 1:11-20: Adds prayer for strength to endure everything through his glorious power.

Luke 23:27-43: Jesus addresses weeping women along path to Calvary; forgives his enemies; promises Paradise to repentant criminal.

            RCL: Luke 23:33-43: Omits address to women.

 

Opening Hymn:   LBW #172, Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (ELW #475, LSB #534)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #129, Awake, My Heart, With Gladness (ELW #378, LSB #467)  (Note: this is just the perfect hymn for today. It should be played and sung with a dancelike lilt!)

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #740, Jesus, Remember Me (ELW #616)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #171, Rejoice, the Lord is King (ELW #430, Rejoice, for Christ is King)

Closing Hymn: LBW #170, Crown Him With Many Crowns (ELW #855, LSB #525)

 

            NOTE: I’ve attached a hymn I was asked to write for a congregation to sing on Christ the King Sunday, using “O Love, How Deep, How Broad, How High” as the tune and recapping the whole life of Jesus. You can split up the verses to use throughout the service, or as one big honking long Communion hymn.

 

 

 

Lord Jesus Christ, Our God and King

Tune: Deo Gracias (O Wondrous Type), LM

Copyright @Rev. Cathy Ammlung, STS

 

1. Lord Jesus Christ, Our God and King,

Your Father’s well-beloved Son!

His Word, through whom all worlds do spring;

His love, through whom our life is won!

 

2. O God-with-us, Emmanuel,

How strangely meek your kingliness!

A manger for your throne; you dwell

With mortals in their sinfulness!

 

3. As babe, as boy, as youth, as man,

No pampered prince, you toiled and grew

In knowledge of your Father’s plan:

To spend yourself for our rescue.

 

4. As Good Physician, Bread, and Light;

As Teacher, Shepherd, Friend, and Guide,

Though King, you saw our dreadful plight

And lovingly came to our side.

 

5. You spurned the devil’s evil sway,

Your Father’s will, your royal path.

You took our place that dreadful day

To bear destruction, death, and wrath.

 

6. Your crown was thorns; your throne, a Cross.

Yet, “Father, forgive” was on your breath.

We counted that as foolish loss;

Abandoned you to final death.

 

7. But you destroyed the gates of Hell;

Crushed ancient Serpent, sin, and shame;

Destroyed death’s pow’r; arose to tell

The pow’r of your triumphant Name.

 

8. Your kingly life you gladly give

Through Water and Spirit: baptismal grace.

Your lovely power in us shall live

As holy love in ev’ry place.

9. O Christ our King, Redeemer, Lord!

Grant that from you, we ne’er depart.

O fairest Savior, blest, adored,

Rule undisturbed in ev’ry heart!