April 16th Virtual Worship
| The Order of Worship |
|---|
| The Bells Call Us To Worship |
| Prelude |
| Call to Worship |
| Hymn of Adoration |
| Confession of Sin |
| Kyrie |
| Assurance of Pardon |
| Greeting of Peace |
| Gloria |
| Scripture Reading: Psalm 16 |
| A Message to Children |
| Worship in Music |
| Pastoral Prayer & The Lord's Prayer |
| Hymn of Reflection |
| Sermon: You Show Me the Path of Life |
| Hymn of Parting |
| Benediction |
| On Eagle's Wings |
| Postlude |
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
You Show Me the Path of Life!
Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.” As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight. Those who choose another god multiply their sorrows; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names upon my lips. The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage. I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. I keep the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure. For you do not give me up to Sheol, or let your faithful one see the Pit. You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
[Reading above - Psalm 16]
This ancient song of trust and security in God is believed to have been used in covenant renewal worship in the Temple. Eastertide is a perfect time to renew our relationship with our Risen Leader. The opening five verses of Psalm 16 are an affirmation of faith in God, resulting in the gathered congregation proclaiming: The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup. The remainder of the psalm celebrates the blessings of being in covenant with God: love, wisdom, security, joy, and life. At the conclusion the congregation once again joins their voices in praise, saying: You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Questions for Reflection:
A covenant is less a contract and more of a heart-to-heart promise. Some have compared our covenant with God to marriage. What maters in a faithful and loving marriage is a commitment to vows not the license. What are the vows you make to God? What are God’s vows to you?
What new life might the Risen One need to bring to you that would make for a fresh start in your covenant with the Divine?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
As suggested in the questions for reflection, write down your vows to God. As you start your day, read and pray these vows. Notice how a mindfulness of your commitment to God helps guide you through your days.
A Practice to Deepening Discipleship
Incorporate a faith journal in your spiritual practice. Use the journal as a way to:
jot down needs and blessings with words or drawings or pictures
respond to the questions for reflection in the sermon notes
make notes about the weekly scripture lessons and sermons
create a to-do list of discipleship actions
list questions you want to explore
write prayers, stories, poems, or letters
be creative!
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
