Tag: Worship Helps

NL Worship Resources: March 12, 2017

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Lent 2 (NL Year 3)

Color: Purple
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Lent 2C
Readings: Psalm: Psalm 122 | Sermon Text: Luke 13:1-9, 31- 35 (Lament over Jerusalem)
OT Suggestion: Jeremiah 1:4-10
Prayer of the Day (WorkingPreacher): Holy One of mighty power, your word is powerfully dangerous. Your word casts out demons. Your word heals incurable diseases. Your word devours empires. Your word transforms the fabric of the universe. Help us to stand in awe and fear of what your word is capable of doing. Give us courage to speak your word and wisdom to hear it, for the sake of the one whose very whisper can demolish sin, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #340 A Lamb Goes Uncomplaining Forth
ELW #724 All who love and serve your city
ELW #779 Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound
ELW #468 Around You, O Lord Jesus
ELW #469 By Your Hand You Feed Your People
ELW #722 O Christ, Your Heart, Compassionate
ELW #618 Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer
ELW #592 Just As I Am, without One Plea
ELW #660 Lift High the Cross
ELW #727 Lord Christ, When First You Came to Earth
ELW #735 Mothering God, You Gave Me Birth
ELW #858/859 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
ELW #587/588 There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy
ELW #613 Thy Holy Wings
ELW #791 We Sing to You, O God
ELW #566 When Twilight Comes
ELW #719 Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life
LBW #493 Hope of the World
LBW #427 O Jesus Christ, May Grateful Hymns Be Rising
Various Hymnals Depth of mercy! can there be
Various Hymnals O for an heart to love my God
Various Hymnals Shelter Me, O God
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship)

Suggested hymns based on the Psalm:

ELW #641 All Are Welcome
ELW #711 O Day of Peace
ELW #753 Dona nobis pacem
ELW #532 Gather Us In
ELW #749 O God of Love, O King of Peace
ELW #311 Hail to the Lord’s Anointed
ELW #628 Jerusalem, My Happy Home
LBW #347 Jerusalem the Golden
LBW #337 Oh, What Their Joy
LBW #445 Unto the Hills
WOV #656 By the Babylonian Rivers
Various Hymnals Dear Shepherd of Your People, Hear
Various Hymnals Psalm 122: Let Us Go Rejoicing
Various Hymnals Unto Thy Temple, Lord, We Come

Other options based on both:

“Awesome God” By Rich Mullins.
“Jesus, Friend Of Sinners” By Mark Hall, Matthew West.
“Lord Have Mercy” By Steve Merkel.
“Love Has Come” By Brown Bannister, Mark Schultz, et al.
More contemporary suggestions here.

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

God of the covenant, you call us to be fruitful servants within creation, and to offer our lives as the foundation of your realm. We lay before you the desires of our hearts, that we may be transformed by their fulfillment.

A brief silence.

Grant us boldness, O Lord; that your church may proclaim your love, peace, and justice with courage, trusting that whatever the result, our lives are in your hands. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant us boldness, O Lord; that we may speak out against the misuse of your creation and the unjust ways in which those resources are shared and utilized. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant us boldness, O Lord; that we may hold our leaders accountable to the vision you have given us in Christ, a vision of peace, justice, and unity. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant us boldness, O Lord; that we may honestly and authentically repent of our brokenness and trust in your mercy. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant us boldness, O Lord; that we may work for healing and wholeness in the world and call for systems of care that benefit even the least and poorest amongst us. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

Grant us boldness, O Lord; that we live our lives as the saints and martyrs before us, without fear of death or concern for well-being, but rather focused on the proclamation of the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant, O God, that the prayers we offer may be your channel for new and abundant life not only hoped for, but worked for, through faithful word and deed. Amen.

NL Worship Resources: March 5, 2017

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Lent 1 (NL Year 3)

Color: Purple
Closest RCL Sunday(s): Proper 10C (15C)
Readings: Psalm: Psalm 15 | Sermon Text: Luke 10:25-42 (The Good Samaritan)
OT Suggestion: Deuteronomy 30:9-14
Prayer of the Day (WorkingPreacher): Compassionate God, how easily you love those who look unlovable to us! How readily you welcome undesirables into your home! How slow we are to follow your example. Turn our hearts toward all who are considered outcast, shunned, and unclean so that we may love our neighbor without pity or apathy, for the sake of the one who became flesh to cleanse the world of sin and death forever, Jesus Christ our redeemer. Amen.

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #729 The Church of Christ, in Every Age
ELW #520 Dearest Jesus, at Your Word
ELW #402 Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ
ELW #679 For the Fruit of All Creation
ELW #714 O God of Mercy, God of Light
ELW #708 Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love
ELW #696 Jesus Calls Us; o’er the Tumult
ELW #599 Lord Jesus, Think on Me
ELW #295 Of the Father’s Love Begotten
ELW #789 Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us
ELW #800 Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart
ELW #742 What a Friend We Have in Jesus
ELW #725 When the Poor Ones
ELW #359 Where Charity and Love Prevail
ELW #719 Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life
LBW #435 O God, Whose Will Is Life and Good
LBW #502 Thee Will I Love, My Strength
WOV #783 Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God
Various Hymnals The Good Samaritan
Various Hymnals Help Somebody Today
Various Hymnals They Asked, “Who’s My Neighbor?”
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)

Suggested hymns based on the Psalm:

Various Hymnals Blest are the Pure in Heart
Various Hymnals Who, O Lord, When Life is O’er
Various Hymnals Who Shall Inhabit in Thy Hill?

Other options based on both:

“Compassion Hymn” By Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, et al.
“Love the Lord” By Lincoln Brewster.
“Unashamed” By Doug McKelvey, Jon Neufeld, et al.
More contemporary suggestions here.

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

Faithful God of love, you blessed us with your servant Son so that we might know how to serve your people with justice and with mercy. We gather the needs of ourselves and others, and offer them to you in faith and love, seeking to be strengthened to meet them.

A brief silence.

God of love, open the eyes and hearts of your church; that we may see our neighbors around us and serve their needs. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord of the cosmos, sustain your creation and bless its winter rest; may we work towards the renewal of lands and seas. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

God of justice, provide wisdom to all leaders of the world; that those overlooked and avoided may experience healing and care. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

God of the lost, extend the knowledge of your grace to all people; that the peace you provide may settle into the hearts and minds of all. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

God of the suffering, be with all in pain (especially,…); strengthen us to be good neighbors to all in need of healing and comfort. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

God of Mary and Martha, you have provided us with examples of service and hospitality as well as examples of quiet and listening; draw us to your feet that we may experience the better part that can never be taken from us. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shape us and transform us by your grace, that we may grow in wisdom and in confidence,
never faltering until we have done all that you desire to bring your realm of shalom to fulfillment. Amen.

Lent 2017

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

So, we are using Lent as an opportunity to focus on the Small Catechism as a part of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. To that end we are using “With Awe and Love: A Midweek Service Based on Luther’s Small Catechism” from Sundays and Seasons for our Lenten midweek services. I will be handing out to my parish the Lenten Devotional “Free Indeed” from Augsburg Fortress which is also on the Small Catechism. And lastly, our communion liturgy takes it’s cue from Luther’s German Mass using setting three of This Far By Faith.

Given that Lent is traditionally a time of catechesis, I would encourage you to consider using a Thanksgiving for Baptism in your worship during Lent. Perhaps design something using Luther’s explanation regarding the Sacrament of Holy Baptism and his 1526 Baptismal Rite. I have written one such below:

The assembly stands and makes the sign of the holy cross saying:
God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit watch over us. Amen.

The Word of God, which is in and with the water of baptism,
brings about forgiveness of sins, redeems us from death and the devil,
and gives eternal salvation to all who believe in the words and promises of God.
Let us, therefore, give thanks to God for this grace-filled water of life.

Water may be poured into the font as the presiding minister gives thanks.

We give you thanks, O God, for the roaring seas and the mighty waters;
the rivers clap their hands, and the hills ring out with joy before you.
We give you thanks for oceans and lakes, rivers and streams;
for cloud and rain, for dew and snow, for aquifers and watersheds.
We give you thanks for all the waters, above and below, that sustain creation;
but most of all we give you thanks for the waters of resurrection.
In the waters of baptism the sinner in us is drowned,
along with all sorrows and evil desires.
In those same waters, through the work of the Holy Spirit,
we are brought forth to new life with you, O God,
an eternal life of righteousness and purity.
If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation:
everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!
We pray that through your groundless mercy you would claim us as your children,
and bless us with true faith in the Spirit,
that we may serve you at all times, fervent in spirit, and joyful in hope.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, to whom we have been joined forever. Amen.

Look, Lord, an empty vessel that needs to be filled. My Lord, fill it.
I am weak in the faith; strengthen me.
I am cold in love; warm me and make me fervent,
that my love may go out to my neighbor.
I do not have a strong and firm faith.
At times I doubt and am unable to trust you completely.
O Lord, help me. Strengthen my faith and trust in you.

I have insured all my treasure in your name.
I am poor; you are rich and you did come to be merciful to the poor.
I am a sinner; you are upright.
With me there is an abundance of sin; with you a fullness of righteousness.
Therefore I will remain with you, from whom I can receive but to whom I may not give. Amen.

 

NL Worship Resources: February 5, 2016

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Epiphany 5 (NL Year 3)

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

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #610 O Christ, the Healer, We Have Come
ELW #612 Healer of Our Every Ill
ELW #860 I’m So Glad Jesus Lifted Me
ELW #769 If You But Trust in God to Guide You
ELW #592 Just As I Am, without One Plea
ELW #712 Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service
ELW #631 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling
ELW #379 Now the Green Blade Rises
ELW #886 Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to Sing
ELW #583 Take My Life, That I May Be
ELW #685 Take My Life, That I May Be
ELW #719 Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life
LBW #431 Your Hand, O Lord, in Days of Old
Various Hymnals O Christ, Who Shared Our Mortal Life
Various Hymnals My Spirit Longs for Thee
Various Hymnals We Cannot Measure How You Heal
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship)

Suggested hymns based on the Psalm:

ELW #474 Bread of Life from Heaven
ELW #804 Come Down, O Love Divine
ELW #507 O God of Light
ELW #509 God’s Word Is Our Great Heritage
ELW #786 O Holy Spirit, Enter In
ELW #517 Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word
ELW #767 Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me
ELW #772 Oh, that the Lord Would Guide My Ways
ELW #514 O Word of God Incarnate
LBW #521 Let Us with a Gladsome Mind
LBW #324 O Love That Will Not Let Me Go
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship)

Other options based on both:

“Awesome God” By Rich Mullins.
“God of Wonders” By Marc Byrd, Steve Hindalong
More contemporary suggestions here.

Prayers of Intercession:

We pray in the light of our Lord, Jesus Christ; for the needs of the earth and all people.

A brief silence.

We pray for the leaders of our church: for bishops, pastors, teachers, lay leaders and councils; may the faithful be encouraged that the good news be boldly proclaimed. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for creation: for birds and beasts, streams and seas, tundras and deserts; may all that lives find its deepest source in the Creator of all. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the nations: for countries at war and at peace; for peoples that seems similar and those that seem so different; may we recognize each other as bearing the image of God. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who do not know the good news: for non-Christians and atheists, for those who feel alone and unloved, for those battling oppression and affliction; may they come to know the peace and comfort found in Jesus Christ. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who suffer in any way (especially,…) and for those who minister to them: for doctors and nurses, therapists and counselors; may they experience the love of our compassionate God. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

We pray for the saints who have gone before us: for pastors and Sunday school teachers, for theologians and healers; may we continue to follow their faithful examples. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

NL Worship Resources: January 29, 2016

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Epiphany 4 (NL Year 3)

Color: Green
Closest RCL Sunday(s): N/A
Readings: Psalm: Psalm 92 | Sermon Text: Luke 6:1-16 (Healing on the
Sabbath)
OT Suggestion: Exodus 16:9-12; 22-30
Prayer of the Day (WorkingPreacher): Lord of the Sabbath, Your followers were told not to work on the Sabbath, and yet they boldly plucked grain to show that you are Lord of all. The world tells us not to rest on the Sabbath. Show us how to rest boldly, rejecting conventions that go against your will, and instead praying and resting as you did up on the mountain, for the glory of your word and work, Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #883 All People That on Earth Do Dwell
ELW #465 As the Grains of Wheat
ELW #729 The Church of Christ in Every Age
ELW #625 Come, We That love the Lord (We’re Marching to Zion)
ELW #521 O Day of Rest and Gladness
ELW #413 Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty!
ELW #335 Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross
ELW #631 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling
ELW #596/597 My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less
ELW #437 On Jordan’s Stormy Bank I Stand
ELW #423 Shall We Gather at the River
ELW #608 Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling
ELW #655 Son of God, Eternal Savior
ELW #824 This Is My Father’s World
ELW #774 What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine
ELW #853 When Morning Gilds the Skies
LBW #506 Dear Lord and Father of Mankind
WOV #746 Day by Day
LS #73 Come! Come! Everybody Worship
Various Hymnals Alone with God
Various Hymnals Lord of the Dance
Various Hymnals Praise with Joy the World’s Creator
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice; LS=LifeSongs)

Suggested hymns based on the Psalm:

ELW #629 Abide with Me
ELW #557 Awake, My Soul, and with the Sun
ELW #781 Children of the Heavenly Father
ELW #807 Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
ELW #856 How Great Thou Art
ELW #765 Lord of All Hopefulness
ELW #763 My Life Flows On in Endless Song
ELW #839/840 Now Thank We All Our God
ELW #623 Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me
ELW #821 Shout to the Lord
ELW #850/851 When in Our Music God Is Glorified
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship)

Other options based on both:

“We Will Glorify” By Twila Paris. As performed by Twila Paris, Insyders.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Prayers of Intercession:

We pray in the light of our Lord, Jesus Christ; for the needs of the earth and all people.

A brief silence.

You, O Lord, have given us the gift of Sabbath; may your church protect and proclaim this day of rest, renewal, and relationship. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

You, O Lord, have given us plants and animals, fields and forests; may we be good stewards of creation and work towards its replenishment. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

You, O Lord, have given us leaders; may we hold them accountable to the justice, mercy, and peace that you call all nations and peoples to work towards. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

You, O Lord, have given us communities; may we work to strengthen and expand them that your vision of inclusion and unity may be realized. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

You, O Lord, have given us medicines and science, doctors and researchers; may your healing and comfort be brought to all who suffer (especially,…). God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

You, O Lord, have given us spiritual fore-bearers; may we look to their faithful examples for strength and the knowledge of your grace and loving loyalty. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

NL Worship Resources: January 22, 2016

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Epiphany 3 (NL Year 3)

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

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #779 Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound
ELW #520 Dearest Jesus, at Your Word
ELW #540 Go, Make Disciples
ELW #574 Here I Am, Lord
ELW #413 Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty!
ELW #580 How Clear Is Our Vocation, Lord
ELW #796 How Firm a Foundation
ELW #696 Jesus Calls Us; o’er the Tumult
ELW #658 O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts
ELW #624 Jesus, Still Lead On
ELW #490 Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence
ELW #858/859 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
ELW #551 The Spirit Sends Us Forth to Serve
ELW #677 This Little Light of Mine
ELW #817 You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore (Tú Has Venido a La Orilla)
LBW #506 Dear Lord and Father of Mankind
LBW #505 Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go
WOV #671 Alleluia, Alleluia, Give Thanks
Various Hymnals Lord, When You Came
Various Hymnals Two Fishermen
Various Hymnals You Walk Along Our Shoreline
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)

Suggested hymns based on the Psalm:

ELW #610 O Christ, the Healer, We Have Come
ELW #632 O God, Our Help in Ages Past
ELW #151-158 Kyrie
ELW #837 Many and Great, O God (Wakantanka taku nitawa)
ELW #460 Now the Silence
ELW #583 Take My Life, That I May Be
ELW #685 Take My Life, That I May Be
LBW #181 Greet Now the Swiftly Changing Year
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship)

Other options based on both:

“I Worship You” As performed by Mary Mary.
“Micah 6:8” By Charlie Hall.
“Thy Word” By Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Prayers of Intercession:

We pray in the light of our Lord, Jesus Christ; for the needs of the earth and all people.

A brief silence.

We pray for the church; that we may cast the nets of your Gospel, O Lord. May the good news of your grace and mercy catch the hearts or all people. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for lakes and stream, oceans and seas; that the water you have provided may continue to sustain life. May we be advocates for clean water for the refreshment of all creation. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our leaders; that your Spirit guide their thoughts, words, and actions. May we speak out against injustice and work for equality and equity among the nations. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for fishers and farmers, and all who provide food for the world; that their bounty may be abundant and no one go hungry. May we strive for better distribution and greater generosity. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who suffer in any fashion; that they may receive your healing, wholeness, and peace. May we be agents of comfort and support. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

We pray for all who have gone before us on the journey of faith; that their witness strengthen our own. May we sing your praises to all the world. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

NL Worship Resources: December 18, 2016

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Advent 4 (NL Year 3)

Color: Blue
Closest RCL Sunday: Advent 4B
Readings: Psalm: Psalm 113 | Sermon Text: Luke 1:26-49 (Jesus’ Birth
Announced)
OT Suggestion: Isaiah 35:1-10
Prayer of the Day (WorkingPreacher): Father God, There is no miracle as grand as birth. As we prepare for the coming of your son, Jesus, create in us new life. Transform us so that we may reflect the light of your son, and become beacons of goodness, kindness, compassion, generosity, honesty, patience, and peace, for the sake of the one whose name brings deliverance and life to all the world, Jesus Christ, infant king. Amen.

You can find words of Confession and Absolution along with a Call to Worship here. I also have an Advent Wreath Lighting Litany here.

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #265 The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came*
ELW #416 At the Name of Jesus
ELW #723 Canticle of the Turning
ELW #283 O Come, All Ye Faithful*
ELW #254 Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus*
ELW #419 For All the Faithful Women
ELW #288 Good Christian Friends, Rejoice*
ELW #270 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing*
ELW #434 Jesus Shall Reign
ELW #297 Jesus, What a Wonderful Child*
ELW #267 Joy to the World*
ELW #272 Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming*
ELW #236 Magnificat
ELW #573 My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord
ELW #251 My Soul Proclaims Your Greatness*
ELW #234/235 My Soul Proclaims the Greatness of the Lord
ELW #295 Of the Father’s Love Begotten*
ELW #269 Once in Royal David’s City*
ELW #430 Rejoice, for Christ is King!
ELW #263 Savior of the Nations, Come*
ELW #672 Signs and Wonders
ELW #281 Silent Night, Holy Night!*
ELW #293 That Boy-Child of Mary*
ELW #424 Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones
LBW #64 From East to West*
WOV #634 Sing of Mary, Pure and Lowly*
WOV #646 We Three Kings of Orient Are*
Various Hymnals Song of Mary
Various Hymnals Tell Out, My Soul
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
*Indicates Advent/Christmas Hymns

Suggested hymns based on the Psalm:

ELW #846 Amen, We Praise Your Name
ELW #569 The Day You Gave Us, Lord, Has Ended
ELW #434 Jesus Shall Reign
ELW #620 How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds
ELW #563 O Light Whose Splendor Thrills
ELW #460 Now the Silence
ELW #844 Praise to the Lord (Louez l’Eterne)
ELW #858/859 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
ELW #824 This Is My Father’s World
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship)
*Indicates Advent/Christmas Hymns

Other options based on both:

“Blessed Be Your Name” By Matt Redman, Beth Redman.
“Born That We May Have Life” By Chris Tomlin, Ed Cash, et al.
“Immanuel” By Michael Card.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Prayers of Intercession:

In expectation of the coming of our Lord, who is Emmanuel, God-with-us; we pray for the needs of the world, the church, and each other.

A brief silence.

We pray for the church, O Lord; that we might boldly proclaim your presence in the world. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for creation, Mighty One; that your amazing, abundant, and sometimes surprising life bring wholeness to the world. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the nations, God; that all might know you as above all kings and presidents and that your justice and peace may prevail wherever there is oppression or violence. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the lowly, O Savior; that your favor may be showered upon them and that unfair and unjust systems may be dismantled. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all in need of healing, Emmanuel; that they may know the peace and comfort found in your presence with them. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

We pray for all the faithful women who have gone before us, O Lord; that the example of Elizabeth, Mary, and countless others may strengthen and deepen our faith in you. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

NL Worship Resources: December 11, 2016

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Advent 3 (NL Year 3)

Color: Blue
Closest RCL Sunday: Advent 3B
Readings: Gospel Text: Luke 4:16-21 | Sermon Text: Isaiah 61:1-11 (Spirit of the Lord Upon Me)
Psalm Suggestion: Psalm 126
Prayer of the Day (WorkingPreacher): Spirit of the Lord God, You bring good news to the oppressed, bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives, and release the prisoners. You comfort all who mourn, and shower your people with the oil of gladness instead of mourning; a mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. We will greatly rejoice in the Lord, our whole being shall exult in God, for the sake of the one who brought righteousness to life, Jesus Christ our salvation. Amen.

You can find words of Confession and Absolution along with a Call to Worship here.

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #314 Arise, Your Light Has Come!
ELW #242 Awake! Awake, and Greet the New Morn*
ELW #257 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel*
ELW #254 Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus*
ELW #607 Come, Ye Disconsolate
ELW #256 Comfort, Comfort Now My People*
ELW #711 O Day of Peace
ELW #239 Hark, the Glad Sound!*
ELW #664 Heaven Is Singing for Joy
ELW #282 It Came upon the Midnight Clear*
ELW #434 Jesus Shall Reign
ELW #709 Let Streams of Living Justice
ELW #712 Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service
ELW #843 Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness
ELW #665 Rise, Shine, You People!
ELW #488/489 Soul, Adorn Yourself with Gladness
ELW #842 Oh, Worship the King
LBW #302 Jesus, Your Blood and Righteousness
WOV #638 Holy Child Within the Manger*
Various Hymnals Beauty for Brokenness
Various Hymnals The Voice of God Goes Out to All the World
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
*Indicates Advent/Christmas Hymns

Suggested hymns based on the Gospel text:

ELW #268 From Heaven Above*
ELW #532 Gather Us In
ELW #311 Hail to the Lord’s Anointed
ELW #267 Joy to the World*
ELW #805 Lead On, O King Eternal!
ELW #712 Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service
ELW #269 Once in Royal David’s City*
ELW #665 Rise, Shine, You People!
ELW #798 Will You Come and Follow Me (The Summons)
ELW #668 O Zion, Haste
LBW #83 From God the Father, Virgin-Born
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
*Indicates Advent/Christmas Hymns

Other options based on both:

“Born That We May Have Life” By Chris Tomlin, Ed Cash, et al.
“King Of Heaven (Isaiah 61)” By Brian Bergman, Charlie Hall, et al.
“Spirit Of The Sovereign Lord” By Andy Park.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Prayers of Intercession:

In expectation of the coming of our Lord, who is Emmanuel, God-with-us; we pray for the needs of the world, the church, and each other.

A brief silence.

Lord God, open the eyes of your church to see how scripture is being fulfilled in the world and challenge the faithful to join in your redemptive and healing work. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, bring healing to the places in creation where we have brought ruin and guide our actions that we might be better stewards of what you have given us. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, provide for all the nations rulers who are concerned for the poor and the oppressed, that your favor may be upon all peoples. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, bring your justice to the oppressed, to captives, and to prisoners and work in us the will to proclaim your good news to all. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, comfort all who mourn, especially this time of year, and work through all ministers of that comfort so ashes may be turned to garlands. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord God, cast your mantle upon all who suffer in any way (especially,…), and bring your peace to all in need. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

Lord God, you shower us with blessings and favor; we give you thanks for the blessing of the saints who now rest in you and pray you favor us all with a heavenly home. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

NL Worship Resources: December 4, 2016

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Advent 2 (NL Year 3)

Color: Blue
Closest RCL Sunday: Proper 25C (30C)
Readings: Gospel Text: Luke 11:13 | Sermon Text: Joel 2:12-13, 28- 29 (Joel: God’s
Promised Spirit)
Psalm Suggestion: Psalm 65
Prayer of the Day (WorkingPreacher): Loving Lord, When we have strayed, you have called us to come home to you. “Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; rend your hearts and not your clothing.” With all our hearts we return to you, and gratefully accept your gentle love, for the sake of the one whose spirit lives in us, Jesus Christ our loving savior. Amen.

You can find words of Confession and Absolution along with a Call to Worship here.

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #641 All Are Welcome
ELW #793 Be Thou My Vision
ELW #283 O Come, All Ye Faithful*
ELW #256 Comfort, Comfort Now My People*
ELW #658 O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts
ELW #876 Let the Whole Creation Cry
ELW #243 Lost in the Night*
ELW #396 Spirit of Gentleness
LBW #488 Breathe on Me, Breath of God
LBW #162 Lord God, the Holy Ghost
MSB1 #S404 Canticle of Joel
MSB1 #S424 Return to God
Various Hymnals Fear Not, Rejoice and Be Glad
Various Hymnals Spirit of Mercy, Truth, and Love
Various Hymnals Spirit of the Living God
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; LBW=Lutheran Book of Worship; MSB1=Music Sourcebook 1)
*Indicates Advent/Christmas Hymns

Suggested hymns based on the Gospel text:

ELW #402 Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ
ELW #267 Joy to the World*
ELW #752 Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying
ELW #745 Lord, Teach Us How to Pray Aright
ELW #397 Loving Spirit
ELW #742 What a Friend We Have in Jesus
WOV #783 Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; WOV=With One Voice)
*Indicates Advent/Christmas Hymns

Other options based on both:

“Come Let Us Return” By Matt Redman.
“You Are My King (Amazing Love)” By Billy Foote.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Prayers of Intercession:

In expectation of the coming of our Lord, who is Emmanuel, God-with-us; we pray for the needs of the world, the church, and each other.

A brief silence.

Pour out your spirit on the church, O Lord; may we be bold in our proclamation and prophesying. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your spirit on all creation, O Lord; may the rest and hibernation of plants and animals provide renewal and rejuvenation to the earth. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your spirit on our leaders, O Lord; may their vision inspire the nations to pursue peace and justice. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your spirit on the broken places of the world, O Lord; may violence end that weeping and mourning may cease. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your spirit on the sick, O Lord, (especially,…); may your healing work be done and our dreams of wholeness be made true. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

You have poured out your spirit on the saints, O Lord, (especially,…); may we seek to follow in their faithful example. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

NL Worship Resources: November 27, 2016

Posted on by freedfromfreedfor

Advent 1 (NL Year 3)

Color: Blue
Closest RCL Sunday: N/A
Readings: Gospel Text: Luke 23:1-5 | Sermon Text: Daniel 6:6-27 (Daniel’s Hope in God)
Psalm Suggestion: Psalm 25
Prayer of the Day (WorkingPreacher): God of deliverance, You rescued Daniel from the mouths of the lions when he was punished for worshiping you. Liberate all who are endangered for the sake of their faith, and rescue us from anything that separates us from worshiping only you, for the sake of the one who made your name known to all people, across land and seas, Jesus Christ, our redeemer. Amen.

You can find words of Confession and Absolution along with a Call to Worship here.

Suggested hymns based on the Sermon text:

ELW #250 Blessed be the God of Israel
ELW #245 Creator of the Stars of Night
ELW #569 The Day You Gave Us, Lord, Has Ended
ELW #320 The Glory of these Forty Days
ELW #311 Hail to the Lord’s Anointed
ELW #418 Rejoice in God’s Saints
ELW #825 You Servants of God
WOV #671 Alleluia, Alleluia, Give Thanks
Various Hymnals Dare to Be a Daniel
Various Hymnals He Is Able to Deliver Thee
Various Hymnals Who would true valor see
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; WOV=With One Voice)

Suggested hymns based on the Gospel text:

ELW #337 Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed
ELW #416 At the Name of Jesus
ELW #662 Christ is the King!
ELW #749 O God of Love, O King of Peace
ELW #502 The King of Love My Shepherd Is
ELW #260 The King Shall come
ELW #430 Rejoice, for Christ is King!
W&P #136 The King of Glory Comes
W&P #80 King of Kings and Lord of Lords
(ELW=Evangelical Lutheran Worship; W&P=Worship & Praise Songbook)

Other options based on both:

“Blessed Be Your Name” By Matt Redman, Beth Redman.
“May the Lord” As performed by The Brilliance.
More contemporary suggestions here.

Prayers of Intercession:

In expectation of the coming of our Lord, who is Emmanuel, God-with-us; we pray for the needs of the world, the church, and each other.

A brief silence.

Living God, work signs and wonders through your church that the good news of your deliverance may be proclaimed to all the world. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

God of creatures great and small, heal broken ecosystems and protect the abundance and diversity of life on earth. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

God above, work in our leaders and provide them with wise and faithful counselors. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

God of deliverance, bring all who are trapped in despair or loneliness out of the darkness of their lion’s dens. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

God of abundance, heal all who suffer and restore people and relationships to wholeness. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

Enduring God, your eternal dominion is evident in the lives of all the saints, we thank you for their witness and example. God of mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.