In this conversation, Pastors Erik, Cody, and Gavin discuss the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 21 to 28 – from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem through all the events of his death and resurrection . Read the chapters, listen to the audio of the conversation (a little longer this week, but worth the listen), and chip in on the comments section below with your own thoughts on the Scripture and to these three questions:
What word, phrase, or story most resonated with you personally as you read this section of Scripture?
What does this swath of text invite us to as a community of disciples?
If you’re sitting down to read these chapters, what drink or snack would pair best with the reading?
Christ Appearing to His Disciples After the Resurrection – William Blake
For next week’s Bible Convo we will be discussing the book of Romans as we begin a new series called “Dear Church…” that looks at each of the New Testament epistles in turn. You’re invited to read that section of text and come up with your own thoughts on the the same three questions we used today.
If you are looking for the short liturgy for sunrise service, you can find it HERE. This is our Easter celebration service! Scroll through and take your time – enjoy this day of hope and thanksgiving for the good news of Jesus’ resurrection. Instructions are in italicized print as you scroll along.
Activities for Kids
Children are encouraged to participate in worship – sing along, help do readings or lead prayers, watch the videos, etc. But if the wee ones are getting antsy, here are a couple printable activities for kids this Sunday.
Glorious Look inside the mystery See the empty cross See the risen Savior Victorious and strong No one else above Him None as strong to save He alone has conquered The power of the grave
Glorious, my eyes have seen the glory of the Lord Glorious, he stands above the rulers of the earth
Look beyond the tombstone See the Living God See the resurrected Ruler of my heart No one else above Him None to match His worth The hope of His returning Fills the universe
Glorious, my eyes have seen the glory of the Lord Glorious, he stands above the rulers of the earth
Glorious Glorious Lord, You are glorious
Opening Prayer
Lord of such amazing surprises as put a catch in our breath and wings on our hearts; we praise you for this joy too great for words. For this world unleashed in us, and us in it, with no dead ends to growing; for this resurrection wonder, which is wiser than we are and in which we see how great you are, how full of grace. Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Amen!
Greeting One Another
Extend some resurrection joy to one another if you haven’t already!Send a text, make a call, have a quick video chat, or send an email. Greet one another with the declaration: Christ is risen!
Call to Worship and Reflection – Isaiah 25:6-8
Song of Worship – “Christ Whose Glory”
Christ Whose Glory Christ, whose glory fills the skies Christ, the true, the only Light Sun of Righteousness arise Triumph o’er the shades of night Triumph o’er the shades of night
Hallelujah! O praise Him whose glory fills the skies Hallelujah! O praise the true Light Hallelujah! O praise Him who triumphs over night Hallelujah! O praise Jesus Christ
Christ, O radiance divine Scatter all my unbelief Break into this soul of mine Pierce the gloom of sin and grief Pierce the gloom of sin and grief
Christ be ever on display Bring the dark unto its end More and more ’til glorious day And the Light himself descends And the Light himself descends
Scripture Reading – Romans 6:8-11
Giving and Giving Thanks
Take a minute to give thanks. Praise God in your own way for the gifts of life and hope.
Clicking the buttons below will show you some info on how you can financially give to your church now.
Jesus, we can’t say “thank you” enough! Thank you for the new life we have in you because of the resurrection. Thank you for eternal life we will have because of the resurrection. Would the greatest evidence of our thanks be us dying to sin and finding our life in you! Amen.
What Does the Resurrection of Jesus Mean to You?
Pay attention to the words of your brothers and sisters in the video below and how they responded to the question: What does the resurrection of Jesus mean to you? Look for a word / phrase or two that capture your imagination and hold on to them.
Now take that word or phrase and turn it into prayer. Respond to God with a thanksgiving, and expression of worship, a confession, a request, or simply by resting in his presence with that word in your heart
Amen.
Homily
Song of Worship – “Because He Lives”
Because He Lives I believe in the Son I believe in the risen One I believe I overcome By the power of His blood
Amen, Amen I’m alive, I’m alive because He lives Amen, Amen Let my song join the one that never ends Because He lives
I was dead in the grave I was covered in sin and shame I heard mercy call my name He rolled the stone away
Because He lives I can face tomorrow Because He lives every fear is gone I know He holds my life, my future in His hands
Closing Prayer
God of glory, by the raising of Your Son You have broken the chains of death and hell. Fill Your Church with faith and hope; for a new day has dawned and the way to life stands open in our Saviour, Jesus Christ! Amen!
Doxology
Sing it loud! Sing it with joy!
Praise God from whom all blessings flow Praise Him all creatures here below Praise Him above ye heavenly host Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost Amen
If you’re looking for our Easter celebration service, you can find it HERE.
This is a simple sunrise liturgy, in which you’re encouraged to get outside – front porch, back yard, balcony, whatever – and take in a first reading of the good news of Easter! If it is possible for you to print the liturgy so as to not be bound to a device (we’ve probably all had a lot of screen time in our lives over the last while…), you are encouraged to download / print the file below. If you are unable to print from home, the liturgy is posted further below.
Read the passage aloud – whether you are alone or with others.
After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”
So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
Reflection Question
Take some time to write down your answers to the following question, or, if you are meeting with others, to discuss them.
What word or phrase moves you this morning as you read / heard this?
Affirming Our Faith
Read the Apostle’s Creed aloud – whether you are alone or with others.
I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Easter Hymn – “Christ the Lord is Risen Today”
Sing or read aloud.
1. Christ the Lord is ris’n today, Alleluia! Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia! Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia! Sing, ye heav’ns, and earth, reply, Alleluia!
2. Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia! Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia! Once He died our souls to save, Alleluia! Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!
3. Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia! Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia! Death in vain forbids His rise, Alleluia! Christ hath opened paradise, Alleluia!
4. Soar we now where Christ hath led, Alleluia! Foll’wing our exalted Head, Alleluia! Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia! Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!
5. Hail the Lord of earth and heaven, Alleluia! Praise to Thee by both be given, Alleluia! Thee we greet triumphant now, Alleluia! Hail the Resurrection, thou, Alleluia!
6. King of glory, Soul of bliss, Alleluia! Everlasting life is this, Alleluia! Thee to know, Thy pow’r to prove, Alleluia! Thus to sing, and thus to love, Alleluia!
Closing Prayers
Pray for the Easter celebration services taking place all over the world. Though we can’t meet in person, pray that today especially the Spirit would bind us together with the bond of resurrection hope. Pray that joy might fill each heart today, casting out gloom and disbelief. Pray for those now who have not yet awaken for the day, that they might, upon waking, sense the joy and peace of Christ the risen One.
The next day, on the Sabbath, the leading priests and Pharisees went to see Pilate. They told him, “Sir, we remember what that deceiver once said while he was still alive: ‘After three days I will rise from the dead.’ So we request that you seal the tomb until the third day. This will prevent his disciples from coming and stealing his body and then telling everyone he was raised from the dead! If that happens, we’ll be worse off than we were at first.”
Pilate replied, “Take guards and secure it the best you can.” So they sealed the tomb and posted guards to protect it.
Reflection Exercise
Matthew tells this peculiar little story about the religious authorities petitioning Pilate for a garrison of soldiers to be stationed at the tomb where Jesus’ body had been put to rest. The posting of the guards and the sealing of the tomb was intended to secure the body and prevent any further trouble-making from the upstart Jesus or his disciples.
On this Holy Saturday, as we sit in the doorway between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, take some time to consider and name those “guards” that are stationed around your mind and heart. What is present in your life that seems intended on preventing hope from springing forth? What things are attempting to ensure death wins, rather than the emergence of true life?
If it helps you, draw out the scene on a piece of paper…. A simple tomb sealed tight with guards stationed around it (stick men will do if you’re artistically challenged). Label the “guards” with names that seem most prevalent or imposing in your own life. After you have mulled over and acknowledged them, go to God in prayer.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, You must have been unconcerned by the feeble efforts of men to keep your will for resurrection and life from coming to pass. But to me, these “guards” seem imposing; they seem intent on keeping me from experiencing new life and the hope of resurrection. I rely on you for an Easter victory. May Your Kingdom come, may Your will be done – on earth and in my life. Amen.
Give yourself a couple moments to still your body, your mind, and your heart. Sit comfortably and quietly, and take deep breaths.
Opening Prayer
Lord Jesus, on this day you carried our sins in your own body on the tree so that we might have life. May we and all who remember this day find new life in you, both now and in the world to come. Meet with us as we keep this vigil together, and speak to our hearts as our ears hear the record of your conquering love. Amen
Scripture Reading – Isaiah 53:4-6
If you are with another, have two people take turns reading this passage, alternating each line.
It was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all.
Hymn – “Old Rugged Cross”
Old Rugged Cross On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross The emblem of suffering and shame But I love that old cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross ‘Til my trophies at last I lay day I will cling to the old rugged cross And exchange it some day for a crown
Oh, that old rugged cross so despised by the world Has a wondrous attraction for me For the dear Lamb of God left his glory above To bear it to dark Calvary
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true Its shame and reproach gladly bear Then he’ll call me some day to my home far away Where his glory forever I’ll share
Scripture Reading – Matthew 27:1-2 and 11-26
Very early in the morning the leading priests and the elders of the people met again to lay plans for putting Jesus to death. Then they bound him, led him away, and took him to Pilate, the Roman governor.
Now Jesus was standing before Pilate, the Roman governor. “Are you the king of the Jews?” the governor asked him.
Jesus replied, “You have said it.”
But when the leading priests and the elders made their accusations against him, Jesus remained silent. “Don’t you hear all these charges they are bringing against you?” Pilate demanded. But Jesus made no response to any of the charges, much to the governor’s surprise.
Now it was the governor’s custom each year during the Passover celebration to release one prisoner to the crowd—anyone they wanted. This year there was a notorious prisoner, a man named Barabbas. As the crowds gathered before Pilate’s house that morning, he asked them, “Which one do you want me to release to you—Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?” (He knew very well that the religious leaders had arrested Jesus out of envy.)
Just then, as Pilate was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him this message: “Leave that innocent man alone. I suffered through a terrible nightmare about him last night.”
Meanwhile, the leading priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas to be released and for Jesus to be put to death. So the governor asked again, “Which of these two do you want me to release to you?”
The crowd shouted back, “Barabbas!”
Pilate responded, “Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?”
They shouted back, “Crucify him!”
“Why?” Pilate demanded. “What crime has he committed?”
But the mob roared even louder, “Crucify him!”
Pilate saw that he wasn’t getting anywhere and that a riot was developing. So he sent for a bowl of water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood. The responsibility is yours!”
And all the people yelled back, “We will take responsibility for his death—we and our children!” So Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.
Prayer of Confession
Take some time to silently come to God in a spirit of confession, remembering how Jesus – who was completely innocent – was willing to suffer and bear death for the sake of our forgiveness and salvation. After you’ve given some time to quiet confession simply pray aloud:
Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy. Amen.
A Letter to Jesus Based on Psalm 22
Make some time today to write a letter of your own to Jesus on this Good Friday. What do you want to say to him today?
Musical Interlude – “Orual”
Homily – Matthew 27:27-50
Scripture Reading – Matthew 27:51-61
At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, rocks split apart, and tombs opened. The bodies of many godly men and women who had died were raised from the dead. They left the cemetery after Jesus’ resurrection, went into the holy city of Jerusalem, and appeared to many people.
The Roman officer and the other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that had happened. They said, “This man truly was the Son of God!”
And many women who had come from Galilee with Jesus to care for him were watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James and Joseph), and the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee.
As evening approached, Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea who had become a follower of Jesus, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a long sheet of clean linen cloth. He placed it in his own new tomb, which had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance and left. Both Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting across from the tomb and watching.
Jesus Christ’s Body Carried to the Tomb – Rembrandt
Responding in Prayer
From the echoeing voices of old Hebrew promises speaking about a suffering servant, to shouting mobs and jeering officials, to the agonized cries of Jesus from the cross… From the tearing of the temple curtain, to the rumbling earth and cracking of rock, to the chaotic rabble of the dead coming to life…. From the mournful tears of the women who watched their friend die, to the grinding roll of the stone, to the deafening silence of a cold body laying in a borrowed tomb…. What sound most grabbed your attention this Good Friday? Take a couple moments to reflect on that sound and then respond to God in prayer.
Hymn – “Near the Cross”
Near the Cross Jesus, keep me near the cross, There a precious fountain Free to all, a healing stream Flows from Calv’ry’s mountain
In the cross, in the cross, Be my glory ever ‘Til my raptured soul shall find Rest beyond the river
Near the cross, a trembling soul, Love and mercy found me There the bright and morning star Sheds its beams around me
Near the cross, O Lamb of God Bring its scenes before me Help me walk from day to day With its shadows o’er me
Near the cross! I’ll watch and wait, Hoping, trusting ever ‘Til I reach the golden strand Just beyond the river
Closing Prayer
God of all the world, whose only Son was offered up for us all, have mercy on those who know you not, and upon us who know you but often deny the faith of Christ crucified. Fetch home to your fold all who have gone astray, so that we become one flock, under one shepherd, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
This simple liturgy of reading scripture, reflecting and praying together is intended to go along with your supper on Maundy Thursday. If you’d like to keep tech away from the dinner table you can download a printable version of this liturgy below.
A simple service of Communion is part of this liturgy, and we encourage you to prepare some bread and some grape juice or wine in a small pitcher. You can pick up supplies in your weekly grocery trip or do some baking! Have the elements in the center of the table for the meal.
Before the Meal
Read: Matthew 25:1-13
Reflect/Discuss: What does it look like to be awake, aware, ready and prepared?
Prayers of Thanksgiving: Each person around the table offer a simple prayer of thanks. “God I thank you for…”
Pray Over the Meal: “Lord Jesus, Blessed are you – King of the Universe! We thank you for this food which comes from the earth to sustain us. May your Holy Spirit bring life to our heads, hearts, hands and souls that we would be found alert and awake to your nearness. Amen.”
Eat : Have supper in gratitude. Put the devices away! Savour the meal. Live in the moment. If you are alone or just need more company (hello extroverts!) call up another person, couple or family and be together.
Mid-Meal
(Maybe before seconds or before dessert)
Read:Matthew 26:26-29
Communion:
Take the elements (bread and wine/juice) as they come up in the reading, breaking the bread, and pouring out the wine or juice.
Words of Institution: “The apostle Paul tells us that on the night on which Jesus was betrayed, he took bread, and when he had given thanks he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ Paul goes on to tell us that he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ Paul then reminds us that whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim the death of Jesus until he comes again.
Invitation: “Sisters and brothers, this is food for the journey to which God has called us. Let our lives be nourished by the Lord himself as we celebrate together at this table.”
Serve the elements as seems fitting and safe in your setting and then continue to enjoy your meal.
After the Meal
(Before leaving the table)
Read: Matthew 26:30
Sing: Sing a favourite hymn or close with the Doxology. Scratch out a tune even if it is painful.
Benediction:“Go now in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit: not tentatively, but boldly; not cynically, but hopefully; not sadly, but joyfully – because tonight we have met again with the One who creates, forgives, and redeems. Amen”
Be Blessed as you do dishes on your way to Mount Olives!
In this conversation, Pastors Erik, Cody, and Gavin discuss the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 14-20 – from the death of John the Baptist right up to Jesus journey to Jerusalem. Read the chapters, listen to the audio of the conversation, and chip in on the comments section below with your own thoughts on the Scripture and to these three questions:
What word, phrase, or story most resonated with you personally as you read this section of Scripture?
What does this swath of text invite us to as a community of disciples?
If you’re sitting down to read these chapters, what drink or snack would pair best with the reading?
Breton Bread, Two Fish, Spoon – Louis Marcoussis
For next week’s Bible Convo we will be discussing Matthew 21-28 – that’s Jesus’ whole Jerusalem experience including the death and resurrection texts; you’re invited to read that section of text and come up with your own thoughts on the the same three questions we used today.
As you make your way through today’s worship service, instructions and suggestions will be included in italics. Get a cup of coffee and settle in for this time of worship with your community.
Foyer Conversation
Gathering Song FOR KIDS!
Don’t be a spoil sport! Do the actions!
More Kids’ Activities
Here are a few other activities for kids that you can download or access for this morning, including a couple printable coloring and activity pages:
Take a couple minutes to reach out to those in your faith community with a call, a text, a video chat, an email, etc. Remember those who might be feeling alone and extend the peace of Christ to them.
Invocation Prayer and Call to Worship
Jesus, when you rode into Jerusalem the people waved palms with shouts of acclamation. Grant that when the shouting dies we may still walk beside you, even to a cross. Amen.
Pause for a moment of silence. Be still – as still as you are able. Take a few deep breaths… and then click to play the audio of the call to worship, reading along and joining together in one voice as God’s people.
Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!
Songs of Worship – “Let it Rise,” “Your Grace is Enough,” and “All Hail the Power of Jesus Name”
Let It Rise Let the glory of the Lord rise among us Let the glory of the Lord rise among us Let the praises of our King rise among us Let it rise, Oh let it rise
Oh let it rise!
Let the songs of our Lord rise among us Let the songs of our Lord rise among us Let the joy of our King rise among us Let it rise
Oh let it rise
Your Grace is Enough Great is your faithfulness oh God You wrestle with the sinners heart You lead us by still waters and to mercy And nothing can keep us apart
So remember your people Remember your children Remember your promise, oh God
Your grace is enough Your grace is enough Your grace is enough for me
Great is your love and justice God You use the weak to lead the strong You lead us in the song of your salvation And all your people sing along
All Hail the Pow’r of Jesus’ Name All hail the pow’r of Jesus’ name let angels prostrate fall Bring forth the royal diadem and crown him Lord of all Bring forth the royal diadem and crown him Lord of all
Let every kindred, every tribe, on this terrestrial ball To him all majesty ascribe and crown him Lord of all To him all majesty ascribe and crown him Lord of all
O that with yonder sacred throng we at his feet may fall We’ll join the everlasting song and crown him Lord of all We’ll join the everlasting song and crown him Lord of all
Giving and Giving Thanks
Take a minute to give thanks. If you are with others, have one person pray a simple prayer of thanksgiving. Clicking the buttons below will show you some info on how you can give to your church now.
We bring what we have, God—our good intentions, our mixed motives, our small gifts. We offer them and we dare to affirm that they are received. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture Readings – Psalm 77:1-2 and 7-9, Isaiah 50:4-5, and Philippians 2:5-8
Play the video, read the scriptures, and allow the questions to prompt some contemplation. Bring those thoughts to God as prayer.
Scripture Reading – Matthew 21:1-11
When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, just say this, ‘The Lord needs them.’ And he will send them immediately.” This took place to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet, saying,
“Tell the daughter of Zion, Look, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting,
“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?” The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”
The Entry into Jerusalem – Giotto
Song of Worship – “Hosanna”
Praise is rising, eyes are turning to you We turn to you Hope is stirring, hearts are yearning for you We long for you
‘Cause when we see you we find strength to face the day In your presence all our fears are washed away Washed away
Hosanna! Hosanna! You are the God who saves us Worthy of all our praises Hosanna! Hosanna! Come have your way among us We welcome you here Lord Jesus
Hear the sound of hearts returning to you We turn to you In your kingdom broken lives are made new You make us new
Sermon
Song of Response – “Hosanna to the King”
Hosanna to the King How deep, how wide, is the love of Christ How tender be his mercies His faithfulness with the morning rise In patience He does wait for me How high above is your wisdom Lord How great are thoughts of eternity Wisdom and scorn bore the cross of Christ And on that cross you thought of me On that cross you thought of me
Hosanna, Hosanna Hosanna to the King Hosanna, Hosanna Hosanna to the King
What gracious heart has embraced the earth What splendour robed in majesty The Sacred One ever wrapped in light Whose beacon ever shines on me Whose beacon ever shines on me
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LordAlmighty Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LordAlmighty Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord
What vision calls out as deep to deep What sight does the eye ever long to see? What end lays hope for the weary plight A God who will come and will set us free!
Announcements
To stay up to date, please, subscribe to your church’s email list by contacting the office.
If you missed the Bible Convo from this past Wednesday, check it out on this site. Read, Matthew 8-13, listen in to the conversation, and then contribute with your own thoughts in the comments or by engaging a friend. Next Bible Convo is next Wednesday (April 8) on Matthew 14-20.
Zoom Youth on Tuesday, April 7, at 7:00pm. The link will be the same as last week. Contact Erik if you’re having technical difficulties.
This Thursday is Maundy Thursday; there will be a family prayer for dinner and some suggestions for doing communion at home posted to this site. If you’re out to buy grocery supplies, pick up a bottle of wine or some grape juice and bread (or bake some at home – let’s be honest, most of you have the time…) to have communion from home.
There will also be a Good Friday liturgy posted on this site to help walk you through that day of remembering Jesus’ passion.
And Sunday is Easter! There will be a joyful Easter worship experience hosted here, and some downloadable resources for a sunrise service as well. And stay tuned to your church’s email and social media communication for other ways to engage during Holy Week.
Benediction
Doxology
Whether you are alone or with a few others, sing the doxology aloud to conclude your time of worship.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow Praise Him all creatures here below Praise him above ye heavenly host Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost Amen
In this conversation, Pastors Erik, Cody, and Gavin discuss the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 8-13 – from a collection of healing miracles through a lengthy section of Jesus teaching through parables. Read the chapters, listen to the audio of the conversation, and chip in on the comments section below with your own thoughts on the Scripture and to these three questions:
What word, phrase, or story most resonated with you personally as you read this section of Scripture?
What does this swath of text invite us to as a community of disciples?
If you’re sitting down to read these chapters, what drink or snack would pair best with the reading?
The Sower – Jean-Francois Millet
For next week’s Bible Convo we will be discussing Matthew 14-20; you’re invited to read that section of text and come up with your own thoughts on the the same three questions we used today.
As you make your way through today’s worship service, instructions and suggestions will be included in italics. Get a cup of coffee and settle in for this time of worship with your community.
Foyer Conversation
Gathering Song – “Inheritance”
Inheritance You are my inheritance You are my highest end Lord what could ever take the place of you? Though the world that moves around me It will choose a different path I walk along this narrow way of truth
May it be as you have said May this trust bring forth peace May it be as you have said May your guiding hand not cease
Oh the many times I struggle The many times I fail To love with all my heart, with all my soul Oh forgive my wayward hunger Forgive the lack of space How can I take you in when I am full?
When you find yourself in plenty Do not forget the poor The Lord he gives enough for both of you When you find that you are lacking Do not forget the Lord When the need is met you’ll know that your God knew
Lead us to the promised land As we faithful follow near You are the promised land Our inheritance is here You are the promised land Our inheritance is here You are the promised land Our inheritance is here
You are my inheritance You are my highest end I walk along the narrow way of truth
Opening Prayer
Greet One Another
Take a couple minutes to reach out to those in your faith community with a call, a text, a video chat, an email, etc. Remember those who might be feeling alone and extend the peace of Christ to them.
Responsive Reading – Adapted from Psalm 118
If you are meeting with others, have one person lead by reading the plain print while the others respond with the words in bold print.
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; His love endures forever Open for us the gates of righteousness; We will enter and give thanks to the LORD. This is the gate of the LORD through which the righteous may enter. We will give you thanks, for you answered us; You have become our salvation. The stone the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. The LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Songs of Worship – “Your Name,” “God of Wonders,” and “Great Are You Lord”
Your Name As morning dawns and evening fades You inspire songs of praise That rise from earth to touch Your heart And glorify Your name
Your name is a strong and mighty tower Your name is a shelter like no other Your name – let the nations sing it louder ‘Cause nothing has the power to save But Your name
Jesus, in Your Name we pray Come and fill our hearts today Lord, give us strength to live for You and glorify Your Name
God of Wonders Lord of all creation Of the water, earth and sky The Heavens are Your Tabernacle Glory to the Lord on high
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy
Lord of Heaven and Earth Lord of Heaven and Earth
Early in the morning I will celebrate the light And when I stumble into darkness I will call Your name by night
Hallelujah to the Lord of Heaven and earth Hallelujah to the Lord of Heaven and earth Hallelujah to the Lord of Heaven and earth
Great Are You Lord You give life, You are love You bring light to the darkness You give hope, You restore Every heart that is broken Great are You, Lord
It’s Your breath in our lungs So we pour out our praise We pour out our praise It’s Your breath in our lungs So we pour out our praise to You only
And all the earth will shout Your praise Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing Great are You, Lord
Scripture Reading – Isaiah 35:3-10
Giving and Giving Thanks
Take some time to name some of the things you are grateful for today – write them down and make a list, or, if you are with others, share them aloud.
Generosity and giving are part of worship and part of our lives as disciples. Clicking the buttons below will show you some info on how you can give to your church now.
Loving God, may our sense of belonging within a community of faith nurture the longing to be your faithful servants. Teach us to build a partnership with your Spirit that advances the ways of generosity and grace. Accept our giving and receive our gifts. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture Reading – Matthew 20:29-34
Jesus Heals Two Blind Men
As Jesus and the disciples left the town of Jericho, a large crowd followed behind. Two blind men were sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”
“Be quiet!” the crowd yelled at them. But they only shouted louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”
When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, “What do you want me to do for you?”
“Lord,” they said, “we want to see!” Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him.
Kids’ Activity
Have kids use this activity during the sermon video (below). For this activity you will need a blindfold, a blank sheet of paper, and markers or pencil crayons. Examples of what could be used for a blindfold:
Sleep mask (do people still use these?)
T-shirt tied loosely around eyes
A strip of paper tapped around the head.
Eyes closed tightly with the promise not to peek
First, set out the paper and markers/pencil crayons in front of each child so they are able to reach without seeing. Have the children put on their blindfold of choice and have them start drawing a crowd of people. Once they start becoming restless, they can take the blindfold off. Have them look at what they have drawn. Turn the paper over and have the children a crowd of people again with the blindfold off.
Possible reflection/discussion questions: – Have the children compare the pictures. – Was it easier with our without the blindfold? What difference did it make? – How did it feel trying to draw with the blindfold? Was it frustrating? – Can you image the joy of the men Jesus healed? What do you think they said when they could see?
Sermon
Contemplative Prayer
Take some time to prayerfully respond to Jesus question as though he is directly asking you: “What do you want me to do for you?” If you like, you can play the audio below for some instrumental music to accompany your contemplation and prayer.
Benediction
May the LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you: the LORD lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. Amen.
Announcements
To stay up to date, please, subscribe to your church’s email list by contacting the office.
Wednesday, April 1st: Another Bible Convo on Matthew 8-13 will be posted on this site. Read the chapters, listen in, and participate in the comments or by calling up a friend.
Tuesday, March 31st: Youth Zoom Call at 7:00pm. Link for the call and instructions will be emailed out. Holy Community:
Wednesday, April 1st: Lectio Divina via Zoom at 7:30pm. Link for the call and instructions will be emailed out.
Donations to the community cupboard are being encouraged in this time of need! Drop non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and maybe even toilet paper (!) off in the cupboard any time.
Our benevolence fund can be given to anytime by designating gifts to that fund. If you are in need of a little financial help in this time, contact Gavin and we would love to offer help as we are able. Faith Covenant:
Pastor Erik will be hosting a ZOOM meeting for this on Thursday at 10am. The link to join the meeting will be on our weekly email, simply follow the link to the meeting. This is an interactive bible study on 1 Peter along with prayer for the church. All are welcome to join in.
Prayer night has been moved to Thursday instead of Tuesday as youth will be meeting on ZOOM the last Tuesday of March (when prayer night normally happens). There is so much to pray about. Feel free to join in. We will pray through scripture together and we will pray for our church and world. The link to join the meeting will be on our weekly email, simply follow that link to join the meeting. All are welcome to join in.
Doxology
Whether you are alone or with a few others, sing the doxology aloud to conclude your time of worship.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow Praise Him all creatures here below Praise him above ye heavenly host Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost Amen
Winnipeg Covenant 