“Newness happens in the world when long silenced people get their voice enough to sing dangerous alternatives.”
–Walter Brueggemann
We begin and prepare for worship by centering ourselves, remembering the waters of baptism.
In baptism, we are joined to Christ and made members of one body— a people seeking to live faithfully into God’s purpose for us and for all creation.
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP From Psalm 77
I cry aloud to God, aloud that God may hear me.
In the day of my trouble I seek the Holy One;
in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying;
my soul refuses to be comforted.
I will call to mind the deeds of the Holy One;
I will remember your wonders of old.
I will meditate on all your work,
and muse on your mighty deeds.
Your way, O God, is holy.
What god is so great as our God?
You are the God who works wonders;
you have displayed your might among the peoples.
With your strong arm you redeemed your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
I cry aloud to God, aloud that God may hear me.
*HYMN 12 Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise [ST. DENIO]
*INVITATION TO CONFESSION
Now the righteousness of God
has become manifest in Christ Jesus—
for everyone, without distinction.
In full assurance of faith,
let us make our confession before God.
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION+
Beckoning God,
as you moved in the lives of Elijah and Elisha,
move in our lives,
inviting us to journey to unknown territory,
to listen for your voice,
and to speak your prophetic word
in a world that does not want to hear.
Empowered by your Spirit,
grant us the courage we need
to journey, trust, listen, speak,
and accept your commission
to be your faithful servant people. Amen.
Silent confession.
*CONGREGATIONAL RESPONSE
HYMN 345 In an Age of Twisted Values, vs. 3 [CHURCH]
When our families are broken,
when our homes are full of strive,
When our children are bewildered,
when they lose their way in life,
When we fail to give the aged
all the care we know they need,
Hear our cry and heal our nation,
help us show more love, we plead.
*ASSURANCE OF GRACE
Believe the Good News of the Gospel.
In Jesus Christ we are loved and befriended by God.
*PASSING OF THE PEACE
And since we have been reconciled to God, let us also be reconciled to one another.
The peace of Christ be with you.
And also with you.
The congregation is invited to exchange signs of peace.
*CONGREGATIONAL RESPONSE Once We Were No People
SCRIPTURE READING 1 Kings 19:15-16; 19-21
SCRIPTURE READING Luke 9:51-62
For the word of God in scripture, for the word of God among us, for the word of God within us — thanks be to God.
SERMON Dangerous Alternatives Greg Gardner
*HYMN 154 Jesus Entered Egypt [KING’S WESTON]
PRAYERS OF SUPPLICATION AND INTERCESSION
O God, in your lovingkindness,
Hear our prayer.
OFFERING
*DOXOLOGY LASST UNS ERFREUEN
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.
Praise God all creatures high and low.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Praise God in Jesus fully known:
Creator, Word, and Spirit one.
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them up to God.
Let us give thanks to God.
It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Silent meditation.
We give thanks to you in all things, O God, as we pray, saying:
Our Father-Mother, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our sins, as we forgive the sins of others; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.
*HYMN (printout on pew) Christ, You Offer Us Your Welcome
*DISMISSAL
POSTLUDE
We thank those who served in and prepared for worship today:
Greg Gardner, Preacher
Jeff Moles, Director of Music Ministries
Jenny Cook, Liturgist
Kim Smith and Melissa Vargas, Offering Takers