February 19th 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: Matthew 17:1-9 |
| A Message to Children |
| Worship in Music |
| Pastoral Prayer & The Lord's Prayer |
| Hymn of Reflection |
| Sermon: Dazzling Reign |
| 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:
Dazzling Reign
Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
[Reading above - Matthew 17:1-9]
Traditionally, the gospel lection for the Sunday before the Season of Lent is the story of Jesus’ transfiguration, in fact it is called Transfiguration Sunday. This mysterious event defies explanation, though it does point to some ideas that may assist us on the Lenten journey that leads to the cross. The event happens right after Peter’s declaration that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the Living God (16:16). This revelation is followed by Jesus’ proclamation that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering and be killed and on the third day rise (16:21). These thoughts feel dissonant. How could the anointed leader of God be received in the Holy City with suffering and death? Among other things, the transfiguraon of Jesus is a foretaste of the promise of resurrecon. God’s glory is revealed both in the downward path of self-giving love and the ascending way of new life. The epiphany of the heavenly presence of Jesus in the presence of the ancestors who represent the Law and the Prophets of God, shines a hopeful light when the call to take up our own crosses feels overwhelming.
Questions for Reflection
We all need mountaintop experiences, sacred moments when God’s presence comes near to assure or challenge us. Identify and describe a mountaintop experience you’ve had and tell why it was so important in that particular moment of life.
For Peter, James, and John the transfiguration of Jesus may have pointed back to the revelation that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, the Son of the Living God, and it may have pointed forward to Jesus’ resurrection. What does this mystery point toward in your life and understanding?
Light is an important symbol of the transfiguration in particular, and more generally as a way to understand the identity and ministry of Jesus (for example, John 1:1-18). What does light reveal about Jesus? What does light symbolize for you as a disciple of Jesus?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
The lighting of candles is an ancient practice that heightens our awareness of the Divine Presence. For instance, in my own practice I sometimes use light as a focal point for quiet prayer and reflection. The illumination and warmth of candlelight in the midst of a soothing darkness opens my spirit to mindfulness. Consider a way you might incorporate light and darkness to assist your spiritual growth as you move into the Lenten journey to the cross, and beyond to the empty tomb.
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
