August 2nd Virtual Worship
The Order of Worship
| Order | Notes |
|---|---|
| Prelude | Little Prelude in B-flat Major Bach |
| The Bells Call Us to Worship | |
| Welcome and Call to Worship | |
| A Word About Today's Music Selections | |
| Hymn of Adoration | Come, Thou Font of Every Blessing |
| A Message to Children and Families | |
| Response: Jesus Loves Me | |
| Pastoral Prayer & The Lord's Prayer | |
| Response: Hear Our Prayer O Lord | |
| Mission Moment | Returning to Church Marcia Felker |
| Worship in Music | |
| Doxology | |
| Scripture Reading Matthew 17: 24-27 | |
| Hymn of Reflection | Love Divine, All Loves Excelling |
| Sermon | Matthew Adds to the Story: Are You Free? |
| Communion Hymn | Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ |
| Sacrament of the Lord's Supper | |
| Hymn of Parting | The Church's One Foundation |
| Commissioning and Benediction | |
| On Eagles' Wings | |
| Postlude | Little Fugue in B-flat Major Bach |
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Matthew Leone, Rene Vazquez
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, “Does your teacher not pay the temple tax?” He said, “Yes, he does.” And when he came home, Jesus spoke of it first, asking, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?” When Peter said, “From others,” Jesus said to him, “Then the children are free. However, so that we do not give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.”
This story explores a relevant theme—a disciple’s responsibility to governing authorities. Despite his affirmative response to the tax collectors, Peter is wondering if Jesus will pay the tax. Jesus responds by shifting the focus to an issue of greater import. “What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?” Jesus invites Peter (and through Peter to us) to consider the just and equitable basis of governmental requirements. Are the few in power benefitting from an unjust burden levied against the many? Are the governing authorities aligned with the values of the kingdom of heaven on earth?
Questions for Reflection:
What governmental policies are in line with kingdom values? What governmental polices need to be brought in line with kingdom values?
In our pledge to the flag we refer to “one nation under God”. What does that mean to you as a disciple of Jesus?
The theme of Jesus trusting God to provide is a thread that runs throughout the gospels. How do you experience God’s providence in the daily needs of your life?
Both Audio as well as Video Recordings are available below.
Audio Recordings
Video Recordings
