Luke 21:25-36

Script:

Pastor: Good Morning Everyone! Let’s say good morning to our friend

Sammy and see if she is there. 1, 2, 3 GOOD MORNING SAMMY!

Sammy: (Tired) Good morning everyone. Yawns

Pastor: Why are you so tired?

Sammy: I’ve been up ALL day and night looking up at the sun, moon, and stars looking for something.

Pastor: Boys and girls what are some things we can find in the sky? Wait for answers.

Sammy: Those are all great answers. But I wasn’t looking for those things Pastor.

Pastor: What were you looking for then Sammy?

Sammy: Pastor, you haven’t been listening to Jesus have you? Jesus said he’d be coming in a cloud and we should look for signs in the sun, moon, and stars to see when he is coming back. So, I’ve been looking, but I haven’t seen him yet? I don’t even know what to look for.

Pastor: Well Sammy you might be waiting for a long time.  

Sammy: But Jesus says he’s coming back soon.

Pastor: Yes, he does Sammy. But all times are soon to Jesus. He is God. He lives forever. So, time does not really apply to him.

Sammy: I cannot look up at the sky forever pastor. I have important things to do.

Pastor: Yes, we all do. Jesus tells us to be alert and prepare for his coming. But he also tells us not be anxious about it. Remember he is doing the work of coming back not us. So we don’t have to worry about it.

Sammy: What do I do while I am waiting then?

Pastor: Jesus says, love the Lord your God, and love your neighbor as yourself. We can focus on that while we wait.

Sammy: Thank you, pastor. I will.

Pastor: Can we fold our hands and bow our heads in prayer? Dear Jesus, thank you coming to be with us. Thank for teaching us to love. Thank you for rescuing us. We love you. Amen.

Sammy: Bye everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

December 22, 2024: 4^th Sunday of Advent

 

Micah 5:2-5a: (From Bethlehem comes the mighty Shepherd who will feed his flock)

Psalm 80:1-7: (Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine!

Stir up your might! Restore us; let your face shine, that we may be saved.

Hebrews 10:5-10: (Christ comes to do God’s will and sanctify us by his offering)

Luke 1:39-56: (Magnificat!)

*******

Opening Hymn:  Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming (traditional words, harmonies): ELW #272, LSB #359

Lo, How a Rose is Growing: LBW #58

Hymn of the Day: My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord: LBW #180, LSB #934

OR All Earth is Hopeful (Very simple, gentle Hispanic carol): WOV 629, ELW #266

OR My version of the Magnificat (sung to “Cantad al Senor”)

My soul magnifies my God and my true Lord,

My Savior, my joy, by my spirit adored!

He looks upon me, though servant most lowly

With favor and grace. O, praise God most holy!

 

Now all generations shall call me blessed,

Great things God has done for me: I confess it!

Almighty and holy, to all who fear him,

His mercy he grants, to draw them near him.

 

But his mighty arm refuses and scatters

The haughty and vain, the proud and their matters.

The high and the mighty, God shall dethrone,

But lift up the poor and needy alone.

 

The hungry are fed from God’s hand, with his bread,

But he sends away the fortunate, unfed.

He helps Israel, his servant of old,

For his promised mercy now shall unfold.

 

To forefather Abraham, and to his seed,

God promises help and mercy in their need.

Give glory, therefore, to Father and Son,

And to Holy Spirit, while ages run!

Communion Hymn #1: Let Our Gladness Have No End: LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381

Communion Hymn #2: Of the Father’s Love Begotten:  LBW #42, ELW #295, LSB #384

Closing Hymn: O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361

 

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Father, our hearts yearn for your peace, justice, mercy, and righteousness. Let them shine on our broken world and heal our sad divisions. You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, come quickly to save and heal us! Let us gaze upon the face of Jesus, and see in Him your mercy, salvation, and blessing.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore your Church, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that she may be saved. Fill her with your Holy Spirit. Through Word and Sacrament, bring Jesus to many who do not know him. Grant that your persecuted people, who have been fed the bread of tears because they bless the name of Jesus, may be filled with good things. Humble their tormentors, and lead them to repent of their evil.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless our children, O God, and let your face shine, that they may be saved. Help us share with them a childlike wonder and delight in the gifts of peace, mercy and joy that you give us in your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore our congregation, O God. Let your face shine, that we may be saved. Grant that through words and deeds, we may cause many hearts to leap with joy at the close approach of their Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore your world, O God; let your face shine, that it may be saved. Cast down the haughty from their thrones. Raise up rulers who rejoice in doing your will. Shield from harm everyone who protects us from mayhem and terror. Fill all our hearts with humility and compassion, so that the poor and hungry may be filled with good things. Remember your promise of mercy, and establish your peace among all nations, kindred, families and tribes upon earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore all who are afflicted by pain, grief, fear or despair, O God. Let your face shine, that they might be saved.  We pray especially for {List}. Remove the cup of tears from their lips, and remember unto them your promise of mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

You have shone your face upon our beloved dead, O God, and have bestowed on them the fullness of your salvation. With gratitude and affection, we commend them into your care. Grant comfort to those who still eat the bread and drink the cup of tears. Feed us with the good things given by your beloved Son. As we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth, fill us with heavenly joy and peace. Bring us, with cherubim and seraphim, with the hosts of heaven, with the blessed Mother of our Lord, with the countless throngs of prophets, apostles, martyrs, saints, and with your whole new creation, before your heavenly throne. There let us rejoice in your light and love, shining upon us in the face of your Son Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.

 

December 15, 2024: 3^rd Sunday of Advent

 

Zephaniah 3:14-20: (Shout for joy, daughter of Zion! God comes as warrior and lover)

Psalm 85: (Show us your steadfast love, grant us your salvation; love and faithfulness meet;

righteousness and peace kiss)

                RCL/ELW: Isaiah 12:2-6: (God is my salvation. Give thanks, sing praise,

make his name known)

Philippians 4:4-7: (Rejoice in the Lord always; God’s peace, which passes understanding,

guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus)

Luke 7:18-28 (29-35): (Tell John you have seen the lame walk, the blind given sight, and

the poor given the Gospel)

                RCL/ELW: Luke 3:17-18: (Ministry of John, stopping short of being put in prison)

******

Opening Hymn: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus: LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB #338

OR Let the Earth Now Praise the Lord (tune for “Savior of the Nations Come”): LSB #352

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Glad Sound! LBW #35, ELW #239, LSB #349

OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: ELW #843, LSB #849 (both familiar tunes)

OR There’s a Voice in the Wilderness: ELW #255

Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537, LSB #554

OR Awake, Awake, and Greet the New Morn: WOV #633, ELW #242

Communion Hymn #2: Once He Came in Blessing: LBW #312, LSB # 333

OR Jesus, the Very Thought of you: LBW #316, ELW #754

Closing Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers: LBW #25, ELW #244, LSB #515

OR Light Dawns on a Weary World: ELW #726

*******

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gifts you lavish upon us in Jesus! Thank you for every blessing you grant in this sin-damaged and death-shadowed world. Thank you for your peace that passes human understanding and endures past human malice. Whatever our circumstances, give us hearts filled with joy and hope. Give us grace to thank you for Jesus, and to lead others to the joy of knowing him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church beautiful with faithfulness, holiness, and joy. May its love for Jesus gladden many hearts. Let your persecuted Church rejoice in knowing you are near. Let their gentleness be known to everyone, even their tormentors. Guard all our minds and hearts in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Turn your face toward those whom it is easy to ignore: prisoners, refugees, and people in mental institutions, nursing homes, or homeless shelters. Help us to shed the light of your love upon them through acts of simple human kindness. Help us to speak your word of peace, forgiveness, and salvation to them through our words of encouragement and mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people of this congregation. Let us be a people in whom your Word is fulfilled: “Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other. He will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make the leaders of every nation acknowledge your justice, and govern in obedience to it. Let faithfulness spring up from every human heart, and your righteousness look down from the sky. Strengthen, protect, and guide our military, first responders, and aid workers. Show them your steadfast love and direct their deeds in righteous pathways. Bring the blessing of peace to us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help all who suffer to turn to Jesus, who made the deaf hear, the blind see, and the lame walk. We especially pray for: {List}. Give them grace to not worry about anything, but lift their needs to you by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. Grant your peace to them and all who love them, and guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

Heavenly Father, as we await the coming of your Son in glory, we also anticipate reunion with our beloved dead. Help us comfort all who grieve. Make us gentle, joyful, and steadfast in love. And we pray: rejoice over your people with gladness. Renew us in love. Exult over us with loud singing. Remove from us all sin and evil, so that we will not bear their reproach.  Bring us, with all whom Jesus has redeemed, into your everlasting home, where we shall rejoice in your goodness forever.

Lord, in your mercy,

Hear our prayer.

 

For all these things; for all we lift before you in the silence of our hearts; and for everything that you know we need, we pray in the name and power of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commend into your mighty and merciful hands.

Amen.

 

December 8, 2024: 2^nd Sunday of Advent

Malachi 3:1-7b: (I will send my messenger; refiner’s fire; presents God’s people for judgment)

RCL/ELW: Malachi 3:1-4 (no presentation for judgment)

Psalm 66:1-12: (You refined and tested us, and brought us into spacious place)

                RCL/ELW: Luke 1:68-79 (the song of Zechariah)

Philippians 1:2-11: (Prayer that they may overflow with love, wisdom, and insight, and be

blameless at the day of Christ, having produced harvest of righteousness)

Luke 3:1-14(15-20): (The ministry of John the Baptist)

RCL/ELW: Luke 3:1-6 (the rest comes next week)

********

Opening Hymn: Come, You/Ye Thankful People, Come (Goes with Old Testament, Epistle): LBW #407,

ELW #693, LSB #892

Hymn of the Day: My version of the Benedictus, “Bless Israel’s God” (sung to “O Zion, Haste”)

 

1. Bless Israel’s God; he has redeemed his people:

Raised up a Savior born from David’s line;

Promised of old, through prophets’ proclamation,

To save from deadly foes with pow’r divine;

Promised to show our fathers mercy sure;

Promised his covenant forever shall endure.

 

2. Through Abraham, God swore an oath to save us

From hands of foes, to serve him fearlessly

In holiness and righteousness before him,

There to adore and bless him constantly.

You, child – God’s prophet, go before his face,

Give saving knowledge of forgiveness and God’s grace!

 

3. Tenderly, God bestows his love and mercy,

His heav’nly Dayspring shines upon our plight.

Darkness and death no longer can confound us:

In paths of peace, he guides us by his light.

Glory to Father, Son, and Spirit – Lord

God who through the ages ever is adored!

 

OR Blest Be the God of Israel (I don’t know the tune, but it looks harmless): ELW #552

OR Blessed Be the God of Israel (The jaunty English folk tune): WOV #725, ELW #250

OR Sing Praise to the God of Israel (A sturdy German tune): LSB #936

Communion Hymn #1: O Lord, How Shall I Meet You: LBW #23, ELW #241, LSB #334

Communion Hymn #2: On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry: LBW #36, ELW #249, LSB #344

Closing Hymn: Comfort, Comfort Now My People: LBW #29, ELW #256, LSB #347

*****

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for your refining fire. Purge away our sin. Purify us, body and soul, heart and mind, to worship you and care for one another in the name of your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church the herald of good tidings, fearless in proclaiming your Word. Through it, comfort those who are lost and afflicted by sin, sorrow, and suffering. Let your Church constantly and faithfully announce: “Behold: Here is your God!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Be merciful to our persecuted brothers and sisters who proclaim the name of Jesus even amidst their enemies. Make their witness shine as a light in the world’s darkest places. Pierce the hearts of their tormentors with the truth of the Gospel.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless and prosper the work of this congregation: its pastors and council members, its committee members and other volunteers, and all who worship with us. Keep us steadfast in faith, fervent in worship, radiant in holiness, patient in adversity, and beautiful in our love for you and for your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant wisdom to our earthly leaders. Burn away all self-seeking, lust for power and prestige, and unjust actions. We earnestly pray that nation will no longer raise sword against nation. Guide us all in the pathways of your righteousness and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

John spoke wise words to soldiers who came to him for baptism. Grant integrity, courage, and competence to our military and first responders. Use them to restore safety and justice in dangerous places. Spare them from death. Heal them in mind and body. Strengthen their families. Bring them home swiftly when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Remove the burden of pain and sorrow from all who suffer, especially {List}. Bring them into a broad and spacious place. Let them rejoice in your goodness and give thanks for their deliverance.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

Merciful Father, we entrust into your never-failing care our beloved dead. Comfort those whose grief runs deep. Revive our spirits, direct our days and our deeds in your peace, and make us abound in every good work. Strengthen our hearts with the gift of your Spirit, so that we may be blameless at the coming of Jesus. And gather us, with all the redeemed, into your eternal Kingdom, where we shall rejoice in your goodness and righteousness forever.

Lord, in your mercy,

Hear our prayer.

 

For all these things; for all we lift before you in the silence of our hearts; and for everything that you know we need, we pray in the name and power of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commend into your mighty and merciful hands.

Amen.

December 1, 2024: 1^st Sunday of Advent

Jeremiah 33:14-16 (The righteous branch of David will spring up)

Psalm 25:1-10 (Be mindful of your mercy, instruct sinners in your way, do not let enemies exult)

1 Thessalonians 3:8-13 (The Lord make you abound in love, and strengthen hearts in holiness

that you may be blameless at the coming of Jesus)

Luke 21:25-36 (The Son of Man comes; heaven and earth will pass away, but not my words)

*******

Opening Hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: LBW #34, ELW #257, LSB #357

OR   When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853, LSB #807

Hymn of the Day: Jesus, Your/Thy Blood and Righteousness (Trust me on this, it works. Play it as a lively lilt, not a tiresome dirge!): LBW #302, LSB #563

OR Savior of the Nations, Come: LBW #28, ELW #263, LSB #332

Communion Hymn #1: LBW#22, The Advent of Our God (LSB #331, The Advent of Our King)

OR Where Charity and Love Prevail (goes with Epistle): LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

Communion Hymn #2: People, Look East: WOV #626, ELW #248

OR Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah: WOV #630, ELW #240

Closing Hymn: The Clouds of Judgment Gather: LBW #322, LSB #513 (a much more upbeat hymn than the first line indicates. If the tune is tough, sing it to “Aurelia,” aka “The Church’s One Foundation.” Or use what LSB uses- “Llangloffan,” a sturdy Welsh tune.)

OR The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348

*****

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

How precious is your love, dear Father, and how vast your mercy! You made promises to Israel, and through them, to the world. In Jesus, your promises find their Yes. Prepare our hearts for his threefold coming among us: As the Babe of Bethlehem, veiled in human flesh. As Head of the Church, veiled in word and sacrament. And as King of the universe, veiled only in robes of light and love, the glorious Yes who fulfills your ancient promises, and our heart’s desire.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill your Church with your Holy Spirit, so it may instruct sinners in your way. Strengthen it in holiness. Give it boldness to proclaim your eternal Word. Make it abound in love, especially when persecuted, so that its enemies do not exult, but instead repent and believe in the Good News.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the Jews, the flesh and blood kindred of Jesus and our elder brothers and sisters in faith. Banish hatred of them from every heart. Unite us with them in faith toward you and fervent love for one another, under the glorious and gentle rule of the Messiah.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Adorn this congregation with faith, love, mercy, generosity, and holiness. Turn our hearts and hands to adorn with these gifts all who are suffering.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach us to live at peace with each other. Help seek your will, not our own. Let us use whatever power and authority we have for the common good. Give wisdom, integrity, and common sense to our elected and appointed leaders, and to all who risk their lives in defense of liberty, justice, health, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of everyone who needs your merciful care and glorious deliverance – especially: {List}. Gladden their hearts, heal their bodies, and uphold their spirits with your own Holy Spirit. Surround them with the love and care of all who hold them dear.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

Merciful Father, we entrust into your care our beloved dead. Comfort those whose grief runs deep. Revive our spirits, direct our days and our deeds in your peace, and make us abound in love and in every good work. Strengthen our hearts with the gift of your Spirit, so that we may be blameless at the coming of Jesus. And gather us, with all the redeemed, into your eternal Kingdom, where we shall rejoice in your goodness and righteousness forever.

Lord, in your mercy,

Hear our prayer.

 

For all these things; for all we lift before you in the silence of our hearts; and for everything that you know we need, we pray in the name and power of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commend into your mighty and merciful hands.

Amen.

 

Scripture

John 18:33-37

Script

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Pastor! Pastor! I saw a king this morning!

 

Pastor: Sammy, how do you know he was a king?

 

Sammy: Well, he was wearing all of the king clothing. I don’t remember the names of all of his accessories.

 

Pastor: Boys and girls, can you name some things that a king would wear?

 

[Allow time for responses]

 

Pastor: Those are all great things that a king might wear. Did you know that Jesus is a king?

 

Sammy: Pastor, Jesus is the King of Kings. That’s who I saw this morning. I saw Jesus as I was coming into church.

 

Pastor: Where was he? I didn’t see him.

 

Sammy: He’s right there, Pastor. He’s on the stained glass and the banner and the bulletin. And he’s in our hearts. He’s everywhere!

 

Pastor: I guess you’re right, Sammy. I wasn’t looking close enough.

 

Sammy: Pastor, I know I told you that Jesus is the King of Kings, but what does that mean?

 

Pastor: That means that he is the king above all kings. And all people bow down to him. That includes kings, presidents, and other world leaders.

 

Sammy: Wow! Jesus must be a really great king.

 

Pastor: Yes he is. Boys and girls, can you please fold your hands and bow your heads in prayer with me? Dear Jesus, Thank you for being the King of Kings. Thank you for being kind and generous with your love. We love you. Amen.

Scripture

Mark 13:1-8

Script

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: [In a sad tone.] Good morning, everyone. Hey Pastor, I have some bad news to tell you.

Pastor: What’s that, Sammy?

Sammy: Well, this morning when I woke up, someone tore off the door to the barn. And all the baby animals got out. All the chicks, lambs, foals, calves, and kids were all outside the barn. I don’t know what happened to the door—it was in pieces in the pasture!

Pastor: Oh no, Sammy! That’s terrible. What did Farmer Mark say?

Sammy: Farmer Mark was sad. He had to gather up all of the baby animals. And he still doesn’t have a door on the barn. I saw him in his workshop. He was making a new door.

Pastor: That sounds like a bad thing that happened. Boys and girls, is there a time when sometime bad happened to you? Would you like to share?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: I remember when something bad happened to me…

Sammy: That sounds like a bad time, Pastor.

Pastor: It was a bad time, but you know what? I wasn’t scared.

Sammy: Why not, Pastor?

Pastor: I have Jesus in my heart. I used the light of Jesus to lead me out of my struggle.

Sammy: Can I buy the light of Jesus on Amazon?

Pastor: No, you can’t. It’s only given to those who have faith and are baptized.

Sammy: So I ALREADY have the light of Jesus?

Pastor: That’s right, Sammy, you do. All of us do. Remember, if you are having a hard time, you can always call on Jesus to help you. Let’s try that. At the count of three, can you say Jesus as loud as you can? Ready? 1, 2, 3: JESUS!

Sammy: 1, 2, 3: JESUS!

Pastor: Never forget you can always call on the name of Jesus. Let’s pray. Can everyone please fold their hands and bow their heads? Dear Jesus, Thank you for guiding us in times when we struggle. Thank you for being our light. We love you. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Lessons and Hymn Suggestions

Advent-Transfiguration of Our Lord, Cycle C

December 1, 2024 – March 2, 2025

 

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

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon 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 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.

 

Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance, I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.

 

 

 

 

 

A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for Advent

 

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

 

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

 

Silence may be kept.

 

Most merciful God, I confess to you with my whole heart my neglect and forgetfulness of your commandments: my wrong thinking, speaking, and acting; the hurts I have done to others; and the good I have left undone.  O God, forgive me, for I have sinned against you. Raise me to newness of life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Hear this promise of Almighty God: He prepares in our hearts a royal highway for his Son’s near approach, and cleanses us from all our sins. He drives away the darkness of sin and death, that we may behold the glory of his Son, the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Spoken Gospel Acclamation for Advent

 

Alleluia. Come and save us, LORD our God. Let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Alleluia.

 

Offertory Prayer for Advent

 

Holy God, receive these tokens of our love for you. Make them holy, and use them as you desire, for the glory of your coming Kingdom, and for the well-being of the people you long to redeem. This we ask in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 

Post-Communion Prayer for Advent

 

Almighty and ever-living God, we give you thanks for these heavenly gifts.  Kindle in us the fire of your Spirit. When your Christ comes again, make us shine as lights before his face; who is alive and reigns now and forever. Amen.

 

Sending Words for Advent

 

Go in peace. Prepare the way of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

 

 

 

A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for Christmastide

 

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

 

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

 

Silence may be kept.

 

Most merciful Father, we confess that we walk in the darkness of sin and not in your light. Sometimes we treat the priceless gift of your Son as an afterthought. We do not share the gifts of forgiveness, mercy, and care with those who need them from us. Lead us into the light of your love. Restore to us the joy proclaimed by angels and shepherds at your Son’s birth among us. Amen.

 

Behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy: For unto you is born a Savior who is Christ the Lord.  His name is Jesus, for he saves us from our sins. He is called Emmanuel, for he is God with us. For his sake, his Father forgives and blesses you, calls you his children, and bestows his Holy Spirit to guide, strengthen, and sanctify you in all your words and deeds. Amen.

 

Spoken Gospel Acclamation for Christmastide

 

Alleluia. The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him he gave power to become the children of God. Alleluia.

 

Offertory Prayer for Christmastide

 

Heavenly Father, receive, bless, and use these gifts, given for love Jesus Christ, your gift to us, your Son, our Savior, and our Lord. Amen.

 

Post-Communion Prayer for Christmastide

 

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your great gift of love, your Son Jesus Christ. May we who have received his body and blood bear the light of his love into the world, to your glory and for the healing of the nations. Amen.

 

Sending Words for Christmastide

 

Go in peace. Christ is born. Thanks be to God. 

 

 

 

 

A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for the Epiphany Season

 

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

 

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

 

Silence may be kept.

 

Most merciful Father, in Christ our light has come. But sometimes we prefer the darkness of sin. We do not let your light shine in our lives so others may see our good works and glorify you. We are deeply sorry and humbly repent. Forgive us and fill us with your Spirit. Give us the joy of your salvation. Send us out to proclaim your salvation, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Arise, shine, for your Light has come; and the glorious mercy of the Lord shines round about you. In the name of and by the authority of our Savior Jesus Christ, I announce the forgiveness of your sin. May the Holy Spirit strengthen your faith, heal your spirit, and equip you to proclaim the greatness of the Lord until he comes in glory. Amen.

 

Spoken Gospel Acclamation for the Epiphany Season

 

Alleluia. Glory to you, O Christ, proclaimed to the Gentiles. Glory to you, O Christ, believed in throughout the world. Alleluia.

 

Offertory Prayer for the Epiphany Season

 

Merciful Father, the magi brought gifts to your Son, the Babe of Bethlehem. Graciously accept our gifts, given to glorify and worship Christ our Savior, and to bring healing and hope to the people he came to redeem. Amen.

 

Post-Communion Prayer for the Epiphany Season

 

Gracious heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of your dear Son, given to us in this holy Sacrament. Strengthen us, through this gift, in faith toward you, and in fervent love toward one another.  This we ask in the name of your Son Jesus Christ, our Light and our Life. Amen.

 

Sending Words for the Epiphany Season

 

Go in peace. Share the light of Christ. Thanks be to God.

 

December 1, 2024: 1^st Sunday of Advent

Jeremiah 33:14-16 (The righteous branch of David will spring up)

 

Psalm 25:1-10 (Be mindful of your mercy, instruct sinners in your way, do not let enemies exult)

 

1 Thessalonians 3:8-13 (The Lord make you abound in love, and strengthen hearts in holiness

that you may be blameless at the coming of Jesus)

 

Luke 21:25-36 (The Son of Man comes; heaven and earth will pass away, but not my words)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: LBW #34, ELW #257, LSB #357

OR   When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853, LSB #807

 

Hymn of the Day: Jesus, Your/Thy Blood and Righteousness (Trust me on this, it works. Play it as a lively lilt, not a tiresome dirge!): LBW #302, LSB #563

OR Savior of the Nations, Come: LBW #28, ELW #263, LSB #332

Communion Hymn #1: LBW#22, The Advent of Our God (LSB #331, The Advent of Our King)

OR Where Charity and Love Prevail (goes with Epistle): LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

 

Communion Hymn #2: People, Look East: WOV #626, ELW #248

OR Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah: WOV #630, ELW #240

 

Closing Hymn: The Clouds of Judgment Gather: LBW #322, LSB #513 (a much more upbeat hymn than the first line indicates. If the tune is tough, sing it to “Aurelia,” aka “The Church’s One Foundation.” Or use what LSB uses- “Llangloffan,” a sturdy Welsh tune.)

OR The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348

 

 

 

December 8, 2024: 2^nd Sunday of Advent

Malachi 3:1-7b: (I will send my messenger; refiner’s fire; presents God’s people for judgment)

 

RCL/ELW: Malachi 3:1-4 (no presentation for judgment)

 

Psalm 66:1-12: (You refined and tested us, and brought us into spacious place)

 

            RCL/ELW: Luke 1:68-79 (the song of Zechariah)

 

Philippians 1:2-11: (Prayer that they may overflow with love, wisdom, and insight, and be

blameless at the day of Christ, having produced harvest of righteousness)

 

Luke 3:1-14(15-20): (The ministry of John the Baptist)

 

RCL/ELW: Luke 3:1-6 (the rest comes next week)

********

 

Opening Hymn: Come, You/Ye Thankful People, Come (Goes with Old Testament, Epistle): LBW #407, ELW #693, LSB #892

Hymn of the Day: My version of the Benedictus, “Bless Israel’s God” (sung to “O Zion, Haste”)

1. Bless Israel’s God; he has redeemed his people:

Raised up a Savior born from David’s line;

Promised of old, through prophets’ proclamation,

To save from deadly foes with pow’r divine;

Promised to show our fathers mercy sure;

Promised his covenant forever shall endure.

2. Through Abraham, God swore an oath to save us

From hands of foes, to serve him fearlessly

In holiness and righteousness before him,

There to adore and bless him constantly.

You, child – God’s prophet, go before his face,

Give saving knowledge of forgiveness and God’s grace!

3. Tenderly, God bestows his love and mercy,

His heav’nly Dayspring shines upon our plight.

Darkness and death no longer can confound us:

In paths of peace, he guides us by his light.

Glory to Father, Son, and Spirit – Lord

God who through the ages ever is adored!

OR Blest Be the God of Israel (I don’t know the tune, but it looks harmless): ELW #552

OR Blessed Be the God of Israel (The jaunty English folk tune): WOV #725, ELW #250

OR Sing Praise to the God of Israel (A sturdy German tune): LSB #936

Communion Hymn #1: O Lord, How Shall I Meet You: LBW #23, ELW #241, LSB #334

Communion Hymn #2: On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry: LBW #36, ELW #249, LSB #344

Closing Hymn: Comfort, Comfort Now My People: LBW #29, ELW #256, LSB #347

 

 

 

 

 

December 15, 2024: 3^rd Sunday of Advent

 

Zephaniah 3:14-20: (Shout for joy, daughter of Zion! God comes as warrior and lover)

 

Psalm 85: (Show us your steadfast love, grant us your salvation; love and faithfulness meet;

righteousness and peace kiss)

 

            RCL/ELW: Isaiah 12:2-6: (God is my salvation. Give thanks, sing praise,

make his name known)

 

Philippians 4:4-7: (Rejoice in the Lord always; God’s peace, which passes understanding,

guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus)

 

Luke 7:18-28 (29-35): (Tell John you have seen the lame walk, the blind given sight, and

the poor given the Gospel)

 

            RCL/ELW: Luke 3:17-18: (Ministry of John, stopping short of being put in prison)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus: LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB #338

OR Let the Earth Now Praise the Lord (tune for “Savior of the Nations Come”): LSB #352

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Glad Sound! LBW #35, ELW #239, LSB #349

OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: ELW #843, LSB #849 (both familiar tunes)

 

OR There’s a Voice in the Wilderness: ELW #255

Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537, LSB #554

OR Awake, Awake, and Greet the New Morn: WOV #633, ELW #242

Communion Hymn #2: Once He Came in Blessing: LBW #312, LSB # 333

OR Jesus, the Very Thought of you: LBW #316, ELW #754

Closing Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers: LBW #25, ELW #244, LSB #515

OR Light Dawns on a Weary World: ELW #726

 

 

December 22, 2024: 4^th Sunday of Advent

 

 

Micah 5:2-5a: (From Bethlehem comes the mighty Shepherd who will feed his flock)

 

Psalm 80:1-7: (Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine!

Stir up your might! Restore us; let your face shine, that we may be saved.

 

Hebrews 10:5-10: (Christ comes to do God’s will and sanctify us by his offering)

 

Luke 1:39-56: (Magnificat!)

 

 

*******

Opening Hymn:  Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming (traditional words, harmonies): ELW #272, LSB #359

Lo, How a Rose is Growing: LBW #58

Hymn of the Day: My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord: LBW #180, LSB #934

OR All Earth is Hopeful (Very simple, gentle Hispanic carol): WOV 629, ELW #266

OR My version of the Magnificat (sung to “Cantad al Senor”)

My soul magnifies my God and my true Lord,

My Savior, my joy, by my spirit adored!

He looks upon me, though servant most lowly

With favor and grace. O, praise God most holy!

 

Now all generations shall call me blessed,

Great things God has done for me: I confess it!

Almighty and holy, to all who fear him,

His mercy he grants, to draw them near him.

 

But his mighty arm refuses and scatters

The haughty and vain, the proud and their matters.

The high and the mighty, God shall dethrone,

But lift up the poor and needy alone.

 

The hungry are fed from God’s hand, with his bread,

But he sends away the fortunate, unfed.

He helps Israel, his servant of old,

For his promised mercy now shall unfold.

 

To forefather Abraham, and to his seed,

God promises help and mercy in their need.

Give glory, therefore, to Father and Son,

And to Holy Spirit, while ages run!

Communion Hymn #1: Let Our Gladness Have No End: LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381

Communion Hymn #2: Of the Father’s Love Begotten:  LBW #42, ELW #295, LSB #384

Closing Hymn: O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361

December 24, 2024: Christmas Eve, the Nativity of Our Lord

 

Isaiah 9:2-7: (The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; for to us a child is born; his name is Wonderful Counsellor…)

 

Psalm 96:(The Lord is king; he will judge world with righteousness and the people with his truth)

 

Titus 2:11-14: (We wait for the blessed hope, glorious manifestation of our God and Savior: Jesus. He gave himself for us, redeems us, purifies for himself a people zealous for good deeds)

 

 Luke 2:1-20: (The Nativity of Jesus Christ)

 

*******

Opening Hymn: O Come, All Ye Faithful: LBW #45, ELW #283, LSB #379

Hymn of Praise: Angels We Have Heard on High: LBW #71, ELW #289, LSB #368

Gradual Hymn: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice: LBW #55, ELW #288

OR The People That in Darkness Sat (familiar tune, great paraphrase of Isaiah!): LSB #412

Hymn of the Day: It Came Upon the Midnight Clear: LBW #54, ELW #282, LSB #366

OR (for something different but easy, beautiful, classic): See Amid the Winter’s Snow: LSB #373

Offertory Hymn: What Child is This: LBW #40, ELW #296, LSB #370

Communion Hymns: Use as many as needed for your circumstance!

 

I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve: LBW #69, ELW #271

Away in a Manger: LBW #67, ELW #277, 278; LSB #364, 365

Infant Holy, Infant Lowly: LBW #44, ELW #276, LSB #393

O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361

Candle-Lighting Hymn: Silent Night: LBW #65, ELW #281, LSB #363

Closing Hymn: Joy to the World: LBW #39, ELW #267, LSB #387

 

December 25, 2024: Christmas Day, the Nativity of Our Lord

 

Isaiah 52:7-10: (How beautiful are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, brings good news, announces salvation, and who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”)

 

Psalm 2: (“You are my son; today I have begotten you. Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession.)

 

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 98 (Sing praise to the Lord, who comes to judge with righteousness!)

 

Hebrews 1:1-12: (In many and various ways, God spoke to his people of old by the prophets; but

now in these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son.)

 

John 1:1-18: (In the beginning was the Word; the Word became flesh and dwelt among us; we

have beheld his glory, full of grace and truth…)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #50, Angels, From the Realms of Glory (LSB #367, ELW #275)

Hymn of Praise: LBW #60, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing (LSB #380, ELW #270)

Gradual Hymn: From Heaven Above to Earth I Come: LBW #51, v. 1-4, 12-14, LSB #358, v. 1-4, 13-15; ELW #268, v. 1-4, 12-14

Hymn of the Day: Once in Royal David’s City: WOV #643, ELW #269, LSB #376

OR All Hail to You, O Blessed Morn: LBW #73

OR Rejoice, Rejoice This Happy Morn (the 1-verse wonder of the same tune): LSB #43,

OR Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light. (I can’t believe this isn’t in LBW): LSB #378

Offertory Hymn: In the Bleak Midwinter (I can’t believe THIS isn’t, either!): ELW #294

OR What Child is This: LBW #40, ELW #296, LSB #370

Communion Hymn #1: The Bells of Christmas: LBW#62, ELW #298

Communion Hymn #2: Lo How a Rose: LBW #58, ELW #272, LSB #359

Closing Hymn: Go Tell it on the Mountain:  LBW #70, ELW #290, LSB #388

December 29, 2024: First Sunday of Christmas

Exodus 13:1-3a, 11-15:(Consecrate your firstborn males: I freed you from slavery by killing Egyptian firstborn)

RCL/ELW: 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 (The child Samuel ministers at Shiloh)

 

Psalm 111: (Great are God’s works; the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom)

 

Colossians 3:12-17: (Clothe selves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,

forgiveness, love. Let peace of Christ rule in your hearts, and his word dwell in you richly)

 

Luke 2:22-40: (In Temple, Simeon and Anna glorify God for Jesus, the fulfillment of his promises)

            RCL/ELW: Luke 2:41-52: (the boy Jesus with the elders in the Temple)

 

******

 

Opening Hymn: Let Our Gladness Have No End: LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381

OR Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 1-4; ELW #287, v. 1-4; LSB #389, v. 1-4

Hymn of Praise: Hark, the Herald Angels Sing: LBW #60, ELW #270, LSB #380

Hymn of the Day: Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589 (Outstanding words. Fits Samuel, either Gospel text)

           

OR Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (Good for Simeon/ Anna): LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB#338

 

Communion Hymn #1: O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361

Communion Hymn #2: The First Noel: LBW #56, ELW #300

Closing Hymn: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 5-7; ELW #287, v. 5-6; LSB #389, v. 5-7

OR O Lord, Now Let Your Servant: LBW #339, ELW #313

OR my paraphrase of the Nunc Dimittus, “Lord, Let Your Servant Go in Peace.”

Use tune for “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” or “The Bells of Christmas.”

 

Lord, let your servant go in peace; your faithful Word you have fulfilled.

This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed.

 

With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory given to Israel,

The Light to nations lost, the peace that makes your wounded people well.

 

Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son!

Your light no darkness overtakes while endless ages ever run.

January 5, 2025: 2^nd Sunday of Christmas 2 OR Epiphany, Transferred

Christmas 2 Lessons and Hymns:

 

1 Kings 3:4-15: (God grants Solomon’s request for wisdom)

 

            RCL/ELW: Jeremiah 31:7-14: (God will ransom his people, lead them like a shepherd)

 

Psalm 119:97-104: (You have made me wiser than my enemies because I meditate on your law)

 

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 147: 12-20: Praise for God feeding, protecting, blessing his people)

 

Ephesians 1: 3-14: (God makes us holy, blameless in Christ, adopts us as children)

 

Luke 2:40-52: (the boy Jesus with the elders in the Temple)

 

            RCL/ELW: John 1:1-18: In the beginning was the Word, full of grace and truth!

 

*******

Opening Hymn: Come Rejoicing, Praises Voicing (A lovely, simple Bohemian carol): LBW #66

OR Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty: LBW #250, ELW #533, LSB #901

Hymn of Praise: Joy to the World: LBW #39, ELW #267, LSB #387

Hymn of the Day: All Hail To You, O Blessed Morn: LBW #73

OR Of the Father’s Love Begotten: LBW #42, ELW #295, LSB #384

Communion Hymn #1: Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725

Communion Hymn #2: Go Tell It On the Mountain: LBW #70, ELW #290, ELW #388

 

Closing Hymn: The Bells of Christmas: LBW #62, ELW #298

 

 

 

 

The Epiphany of Our Lord lessons and texts (transferred or on the day!)

Isaiah 60:1-6: (Arise, shine, your Light has come; kings shall bring riches)

 

Psalm 72:1-11(12-15): (Give the king justice, O God, let kings from far away bring tribute)

 

Ephesians 3:1-12 (Paul is an apostle to the Gentiles, who are granted fullness of salvation

through Christ)

 

Matthew 2:1-12: (The wise men come to worship Jesus, return home by another way)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: As With Gladness Men of Old: LBW #82, ELW #302, LSB #397

Hymn of the Day: O Chief of Cities, Bethlehem (a nice English folk tune. And the words really shouldn’t be missed. Still you can use tune for “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”): LBW #81

 

OR Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies: LBW #265, ELW #553, LSB #873

OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here, LSB #399, v. 1, 2, 5

Communion Hymn #1: We Three Kings of Orient Are: WOV #646

OR Light Shone in Darkness: ELW #307

Communion Hymn #2: Bright and Glorious is the Sky:  LBW #75, ELW #301

Closing Hymn: Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning: LBW #84, ELW #303, LSB #400

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 12, 2025: The Baptism of Our Lord

 

Isaiah 43:1-7: (I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior)

 

Psalm 29: (Ascribe glory to the Lord; his mighty voice resounds over the waters)

 

Romans 6:1-11: (We are baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ)

 

            RCL/ELW: Acts 8:14-17 (Peter and John lay hands on those baptized in Jesus’ name, they

receive Spirit)

 

Luke 3:15-17, 21-22: (John speaks of the One who will baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit; the

baptism of Jesus)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853

Hymn of the Day: Praise and Thanksgiving Be to God Our Maker

(tune is same as for “Father Most Holy”): LBW #191, ELW #458

 

OR To Jordan’s River Came Our Lord: LSB #405

OR When Jesus Came to Jordan: WOV #647, ELW #305

OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here: LSB #399, v. 1, 3, 5

Communion Hymn #1: How Firm a Foundation: LBW 507, ELW #796, LSB #728

OR Remember and Rejoice: ELW #454

Communion Hymn #2: O Worship the King: LBW #548, ELW #842, LSB #804

Closing Hymn: I Bind Unto Myself Today: LBW #188, ELW #450, LSB #604

(ELW and LSB conveniently have this laid out on 2 facing pages. LSB also has a verse that has been omitted from LBW and ELW. If you dare, add it: “Against the demon snares of sin, the vice that gives temptation force, the natural lusts that war within, the hostile foes that mar my course; Or few or many, far or nigh, in ev’ry place, and in all hours, against their fierce hostility, I bind to me those holy pow’rs!):

 

 

 

January 19, 2025: 2^nd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 1

 

Isaiah 62:1-5: (Zion shall be the beautiful and beloved bride of God)

 

Psalm 128: (The blessedness of family life for those who love God)

 

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 36:5-10: (God’s steadfast love, righteousness, judgments, salvation are for all. “In your light we see light.”)

 

1 Corinthians 12:1-11: (no one speaking by the Spirit of God says “Let Jesus be cursed;” no one says “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit)

 

John 2:1-11: (Wedding at Cana)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, v. 1-3: LBW #76, ELW #308 (Heaven forfend we should call Jesus our heavenly Bridegroom in verse 2; instead he’s our precious diamond. Sigh.), LSB #395

OR Jesus, Come! For We Invite You: ELW #312

OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here: LSB #399, v. 1, 4, 5

Hymn of the Day: All Praise to You, O Lord: LBW #78

OR Songs of Thankfulness and Praise: LBW #90, ELW #310, LSB #394

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/458, ELW #775, LSB #743

OR What Feast of Love: WOV #701, ELW #487

Communion Hymn #2: Now the Silence: LBW #205, ELW #460, LSB #910

Closing Hymn: O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, v. 4-6: LBW #76, ELW #308, LSB #395

OR Come, Join in Cana’s Feast: LSB #408

 

 

 

January 26, 2025: 3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 2

 

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10: (Ezra reads the book of Moses, instructs the people; Nehemiah

declares a day of feasting)

 

Psalm 19:1-14: (The heavens proclaim God’s glory; my heart rejoices in his precepts. Let the

words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in his sight)

 

1 Corinthians 12:12-31a: (The unity of the Body of Christ)

 

Luke 4:16-30: (Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah concerning the healing of the poor, lame,

blind and imprisoned, declaring that today that Word has been fulfilled)

            RCL/ELW: Luke 4:14-21: (Rest heard next week)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed: LBW #87, ELW #311, LSB #398

 

Hymn of the Day: O Christ Our Light, Our Radiance True: LBW #380, ELW #675

O Christ, Our True and Only Light: LSB #839

OR Rise, Shine, You People: LBW #393, ELW #665, LSB #825

 

OR The People That in Darkness Sat: LSB #412

 

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

OR Arise, Your Light Has Come: WOV #652, ELW #314

Communion Hymn #2: O God of Mercy, God of Light/Might: LBW #425, ELW #714; LSB #852

Closing Hymn: O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing: LBW #559, ELW #886, LSB #528

 

 

February 2, 2025: 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 3

OR Presentation of Our Lord

 

 

Epiphany 4 Lessons and Hymns

 

Jeremiah 1:4-10, 17-19: (God calls Jeremiah to speak his Word)

 

            RCL/ELW: Jeremiah 1:4-10: (Omits “Gird up your loins, tell them everything I speak against them; I make you like a fortified city”)

 

Psalm 71:1-11: (God, be my rock of refuge; deliver me from enemies, from the cruel and wicked)

 

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 71:1-6: (Eliminates obeisance of the King’s enemies)

 

1 Corinthians 12:31b-13:13: (In praise of charity; faith, hope and love abide, the greatest is love)

 

Luke 4:31-44: (Jesus casts out demon in temple; heals Peter’s mother-in-law; tells assorted

demons to take a hike and shut up about him)

 

RCL/ELW: Luke 4:21-30: (The worshippers take offense at Jesus, try to run him off cliff)

 

*******

Opening Hymn: God, Whose Almighty Word: LBW #400, ELW #673

OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: ELW #843, LSB #849

Hymn of the Day: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524

OR (If preaching on 1 Cor.) Although I Speak With Angel’s Tongue: ELW #644

Communion Hymn #1: Where Charity and Love Prevail: LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

OR Ubi Caritas et Amor: ELW #642

Communion Hymn #2: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842

Closing Hymn: Not for Tongues of Heaven’ Angels: LSB #695

OR Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

Presentation of Our Lord Lessons and Hymns

1 Samuel 1: 21-28: (Boy Samuel promised, dedicated to God in temple)

 

Psalm 84: (How lovely is your dwelling, how precious to serve in your Temple!)

 

Hebrews 2:14-18: (Jesus shares our humanity; frees us from slavery to sin, fear of death; is our merciful high priest, tempted yet sinless)

 

Luke 2:22-40: (Revisit Simeon and Anna in the Temple!)

 

*****

Note: Yes, you did this Gospel a few weeks ago. I’ve added some other hymns, but yes, you might want to sing some of the “Presentation-y” hymns again!!

Opening Hymn: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524

 

OR Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 1-4; ELW #287, v. 1-4; LSB #389, v. 1-4

Hymn of the Day: Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589

           

OR Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus: LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB#338

 

Communion Hymn #1: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842

Communion Hymn #2: Go, My Children, With My Blessing: WOV #721, ELW #543, LSB #922

Closing Hymn: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 5-7; ELW #287, v. 5-6; LSB #389, v. 5-7

OR O Lord, Now Let Your Servant: LBW #339, ELW #313

OR my paraphrase of the Nunc Dimittus, “Lord, Let Your Servant Go in Peace.”

Use tune for the Doxology

 

Lord, let your servant go in peace; your faithful Word you have fulfilled.

This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed.

 

With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory given to Israel,

The Light to nations lost, the peace that makes your wounded people well.

 

Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son!

Your light no darkness overtakes while endless ages ever run.

 

 

 

February 9, 2025: Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 4

 

Isaiah 6: 1-13: (Isaiah’s vision of God and commissioning as a prophet of judgment)

 

Psalm 138: (All shall praise God; he is high, yet regards the lowly. Preserve and save me from my

foes, and fulfil your purpose for me!)

 

1 Corinthians 14:12b-20: (Spiritual gifts; interpretation is greater than tongues)

 

            RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11: (Proof and witnesses of the Resurrection)

 

Luke 5:1-11: (Jesus calls his first disciples; “Depart from me for I am a sinful man!”)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty: LBW #165, ELW #413, LSB #507

Hymn of the Day: How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord: ELW #580, LSB #853

OR Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling/Crying: LBW #381, LSB #826/827

 

OR We Know That Christ is Raised (if using 1 Cor. 15 text): LBW #189, ELW #449, LSB #603

OR If Christ Had Not Been Raised From Death (ditto; great paraphrase!): LSB #486

Communion Hymn #1: God Himself is Present: LBW #249, LSB #907

OR Holy, Holy Holy (sing through 3x): ELW #473

Communion Hymn #2: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence: LBW #198, ELW #490, LSB #621

Closing Hymn: God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850

 

 

 

 

February 16, 2025: Sixth Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 5

 

Jeremiah 17:5-8: (Cursed are those who trust mortals; they are like shrub in desert. Blessed are 

those who trust God; they are like tree planted by water)

 

Psalm 1: (Ditto! The wicked shall not withstand judgment. God preserves the righteous.)

 

1 Corinthians 15:1-20: (The proofs and witnesses to the Resurrection. Consequences of believing

or disbelieving that Christ is raised.)

 

RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:12-20: (Did first half last week!)

 

Luke 6:17-26: (Jesus heals; blessings and woes from Sermon on the Plain)

 

*******

Opening Hymn: The Man is Ever Blessed (nice paraphrase of Psalm 1 and 1^st lesson!): LSB #705

 

OR How Blest are They Who Hear God’s Word (I know, you don’t know the tune and there’s no substitute possible. Try it anyway. It is very easy, from the Danish Psalter.): LBW #227

 

OR Dearest/ Blessed Jesus, At Your Word: LBW #248, ELW #520, LSB #904

Hymn of the Day: Blest Are They: WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982

OR O Christ, Our Hope: LBW #300, ELW #604, LSB #553

OR We Know That Christ is Raised (if you did NOT read the 1 Cor. 15 text last Sunday):

LBW #189, ELW #449, LSB #603

OR If Christ Had Not Been Raised From Death (ditto; great paraphrase!): LSB #486

Communion Hymn #1: I Know That My Redeemer Lives: LBW #352, ELW #619, LSB #461

Communion Hymn #2: you may not need one… 😉

Closing Hymn: O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, LSB #696

OR Christ, Be Our Light: ELW #715

 

 

February 23, 2025: Seventh Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 6

 

Genesis 45:3-15: (Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and forgives them)

 

Psalm 103:1-13: (Bless the Lord, O my soul! As far as the east is from the west, so far does God

remove our sins from us)

 

1 Corinthians 15:21-26, 30-42: (The consequences of the Resurrection; more than hoping in

human power; the resurrection of the faithful, and glorified bodies)

 

RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50: (The resurrection body)

 

Luke 6:27-38: (Love enemies; be merciful, as Father is. Forgive and give, and you will be forgiven

and will be given much!)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: God of Our Life, All-Glorious Lord (tune: “Holy God, We Praise Your Name”): LBW #270

 

OR Awake, My Soul, and With The Sun: LBW #269, ELW #557, LSB #868

Hymn of the Day: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us: LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB # 851

OR Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

OR God, When Human Bonds Are Broken (It’s a familiar tune!): WOV #735, ELW #603

Communion Hymn #1: Lord Jesus Christ, We Humbly Pray: LBW #225, LSB #623

OR Draw Us In the Spirit’s Tether: WOV #703, ELW #470

Communion Hymn #2: May We Your Precepts, Lord, Fulfil: LBW #353, LSB #698

OR The Peace of the Lord: ELW #646

Closing Hymn: Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go (Can be sung to the Doxology): LBW #505, LSB #854

 

OR Beloved, God’s Chosen:  ELW #648

OR Christ is Risen, Christ is Living (Nice reflection on 1 Corinthians texts; can also be sung to “Come,

Thou Fount of Ev’ry Blessing”): LSB #479

 

 

March 2: The Transfiguration of Our Lord

 

Deuteronomy 34:1-12: (The death of Moses after God shows him the Promised Land; no one has arisen like Moses, whom God spoke to as a friend, face to face)

 

RCL/ELW: Exodus 34:29-35: (The shining face of Moses)

 

Psalm 99: (Extol the Lord, who spoke to his servants Moses and Aaron in a pillar of cloud. You,

Lord, love justice and establish equity; you forgive sin and avenge wrongdoing)

 

Hebrews 3:1-6: (Moses was faithful as a servant in God’s house. Jesus is faithful as the Son)

 

RCL/ELW: 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2: (We look upon the Lord with unveiled faces. Being transfigured from glory unto glory, we put aside shameful practices, commend selves to everyone in the sight of God)

 

Luke 9:28-36: (The Transfiguration of our Lord)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn:  O God Beyond All Praising (Tune is almost the “English national hymn.” It’s stately, majestic, and – hint, hint, the intercessory prayers for today just might echo phrases of it. Highly recommended!):

WOV #797, ELW #880

OR Blessing and Honor: LBW #525, ELW #854

Hymn of the Day:  O Wondrous Type/! O Vision Fair!: LBW #80, LSB #413

O Wondrous Image, Vision Fair: ELW #316

OR Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory (can sing to “Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service”): LSB #416

 

Communion Hymn #1: How/Tis Good, Lord, to be Here: LBW #89, ELW #315, LSB #414

Communion Hymn #2: Beautiful Savior: LBW #518, ELW #838, LSB #537

Closing Hymn: In Thee is Gladness: LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818

OR Alleluia, Song of Gladness: WOV #654, #318, LSB #417

 

Scripture

Mark 12:38-44

Script

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone!

 

Pastor: Does anyone here have jobs to do at home? Are you ever able to earn money for doing a job for your family?

 

[Allow time for responses]

 

Pastor: When I was growing up, I was able to earn some money if I…

 

Sammy: We have lots of helpers at the farm. They earn money for cleaning stalls and feeding my family and I.

 

Pastor: What we do with our money shows where our hearts are.

 

Sammy: What do you mean, Pastor?

 

Pastor: Well, for example, sometimes people spend a lot of money on really expensive clothes or cars.

 

Sammy: Farmer Mark has a red pickup truck and lots of flannel. Is that what you mean?

 

Pastor: No, Sammy. Sometimes people buy really expensive cars and clothes because their goal is to impress others. Or sometimes people spend a lot of money on traveling. There’s nothing wrong with these things, but we have to remember to also give to others.

 

Sammy: I like sharing!

 

Pastor: Me too, Sammy. Jesus asks us to give to others and share what we have. These gifts we give to others might be money, food, a nice card, or our time. Many people are poor, sick, sad, or lonely, and they rely on others to help them.

 

Sammy: Hey Pastor, isn’t our church doing something right now to feed people?

 

Pastor: Yes we are! We are collecting food for our Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets. There’s information about what we need in the bulletin. Whether you can contribute one item or many items, we are grateful for your gift.

 

Sammy: Let’s pray. Can everyone please fold your hands and bow your heads? Dear Jesus, thank you for reminding us to give to others. Thank you for helping us see the needs of others. Help us to give our gifts to serve you. Amen. Bye, everyone!

 

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Scripture

John 11:32-44

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone! Pastor, this story from the Gospel reading today is a spooky one.

 

Pastor: Is it?

 

Sammy: Yes! A mummy came out from a tomb!

 

Pastor: Sammy, that’s not what happened!

 

Sammy: Yes it is! I was listening. This guy named Lazarus died and Jesus told some men to roll the stone away from the cave. And then a mummy came out!

 

Pastor: Sammy, we are going to talk about what really happened. I think you still have Halloween on your mind. That’s different from the Gospel reading.

 

Sammy: I did eat a lot of candy. Boys and girls, did you get a lot of treats for Halloween?

 

[Allow time for responses]

 

Pastor: Back to our Gospel for today. Jesus was really good friends with a man named Lazarus. He wasn’t old. He was a young man, like Jesus. Do you have a best friend?

 

[Allow time for responses]

 

Sammy: My best friend is you, Pastor.

 

Pastor: You’re my best friend, too, Sammy. Jesus’s friend Lazarus got sick and he died before Jesus could get to him to heal him.

 

Sammy: Oh no!

 

Pastor: It’s okay, Sammy. Death is not the end. Jesus is the end. He’s the beginning and the end.

 

Sammy: Amen, Pastor!

 

Pastor: When Jesus arrived at Lazarus’s house, he saw Mary and Martha there. They are Lazarus’s sisters. And they were crying. Jesus cried, too.

 

Sammy: Jesus cries? Why did he cry?

 

Pastor: Jesus is fully God and fully man. He is just like us. Boys and girls, can you think of a time when you cried?

 

[Allow time for responses]

 

Pastor: Jesus went to the tomb and asked the people to roll the stone away. He said a prayer and then told Lazarus to come out—

 

Sammy: And that’s when the mummy came out!

 

Pastor: No, Sammy. That’s when a living, breathing, fully alive Lazarus walked out.

 

Sammy: Wow!

 

Pastor: I want each of us to remember that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. We get to live forever because of Jesus. We do not have to be afraid because Jesus loves us. He cries with us and is with us everywhere we go. Let’s pray: Dear Jesus, Thank you for the gift of eternal life. Thank you for your love. Thank you for helping us when we are sad. Amen.

 

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

 

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!