Focus

 

God knows our intentions and our hopes, reshaping us when we do what is wrong, and responding to our repentance with mercy. We count the cost of our actions, but Jesus calls us to let go of our attachments and follow him in a life of love and care for others. This mystery is beyond our understanding.

 

Call to Worship (Jeremiah 18, Psalm 139)

 

We come with praise for the wonderful works of God.

Even before we speak, God knows us completely.

The Holy One knows us and sustains us, even in our moments of confusion and doubt.

Who can count the thoughts of God?

They are more than all the sands of the desert.

Like clay in the hand of the potter, we are shaped into vessels of divine will.

We come with praise for the wonderful works of God.

 

Invocation (Jeremiah 18, Psalm 139)

 

Boundless Shaper of people and nations, you are beyond our knowing, yet closer to us than our every breath.

You are before us and behind us, surrounding us with your love, and fashioning all of creation in the secret depths of your heart.

With every thought, with every song, and with every prayer, turn these fragile, earthen vessels of our lives, into the Spirit-filled body of Christ. Amen.

 

Confession

 

Prayer for the Bread (Psalm 139, Philemon, Luke 14)

 

God of our lives, you search us and know us.

We have refused to take up your cross, to bear the burdens that are ours to carry.

We have not given up our attachments to possessions or to self.

We have not counted the cost of walking into an unknown future with you.

Help us turn away from evil that we may walk with you once more.

Break sin’s hold upon us as we break the body of your Son.  Amen.

 

Sharing the Word

 

 

 

Prayer for the Cup (Psalm 139, Luke 14)

 

The bread is ready, the cup is filled, and the table is set.

Let all who are hungry for the love of God, come and be fed.

Let all who are thirsty for new life, come and share the cup.

Let all who want to follow Jesus, come and join the feast. Amen.

 

Benediction (Luke 14)

 

Holy One of life and grace, you have shown us the cost of being your people.

We give you thanks, for the crosses that are ours to bear, and for the strength to carry them.

Help us follow the path of Jesus, who shows us the way. Amen.

Blessing (Psalm 139)

 

The Holy One rejoices in our repentance, reshaping us into vessels of love and service.

In the grace-filled love of Christ, we are forgiven.