Worship November 30, 2014

Saturday Worship Lighting

PRAYER IN PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP:  God of new creation:  clothe us in the garments of righteousness that we may be prepared for your coming again.  Keep us alert, that we may sense your presence in our very midst.  Grant us an expectant hope that we may look with longing for the coming of your community; through Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the Spirit, one holy God, be honor and praise now and forever.  Amen

   Lighting the Advent Wreath of Hope                                          

L:      As the season of Advent begins we celebrate hope.

P:     We know that through the birth of a tiny and helpless child, God is coming to save the world.

L:      While we watch and wait for Jesus to arrive, we join in God’s mission by bringing grace and    mercy to those who need it most.

P:     We engage the poor and the poor in spirit, letting Christ’s light shine through us.

L:      We speak words of comfort and love to a world in need of healing as we share our stories of           God’s transforming Spirit.

P:     Together, we are a sign of God’s hope for the world.

Responsive Prayer

God of surprising grace, when we least expect it you bring fresh new life; and where we feel that all is lost, you bring redemption.  Give us courage as we share all you have done, all you are doing, and all you will accomplish through Jesus Christ.  Amen.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Powerful God, we confess our impatience with waiting.  We live in a society that measures goodness by immediate gratification, that equates quality of life with instant results.  Yet Jesus taught us that to wait, to persevere, and be alert are hallmarks of maturing faith.  Rather than rob this season of its power by rushing through to celebration, grant us grace to use this time to prepare our hearts for your holy Christmas gift.  Amen

For Pastor Susan's sermon, "Good News", click here.