PRAYER IN PREPARATION: Gracious God, we turn to you, confident that you will answer our cries and prayers. We come before you, believing that you will not permit evil and despair to have the last word. We come in the name of Jesus Christ, in whom you have made known your great love for all the world. Grant us the power of your Holy Spirit. Illuminate our hearts and minds and souls that we might sing your praises and declare your needs among the peoples. Amen.
CALL TO WORSHIP
Let us praise God who is our strength in times of trouble.
Sing and speak of God's great deeds to all the people.
God will not let us be put to shame, nor will God let our enemies triumph over us.
The Lord listens to the cries of the people. God is swift to answer those who call.
God is strong and sure to save us.
Let us praise God who is our strength in times of trouble.
PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Merciful God, you are our stronghold in times of trouble and we rejoice in your deliverance, which we experience through Jesus. Yet we still shrink from the storms in our lives. We hide from the challenges of bold discipleship. When the winds of change begin to blow, we want to turn around and head back to the past's safe harbor. When sin's waves crash over the side, we try to wrap ourselves in the cloak of pride thinking we will not get wet. Forgive us, O God. Lift us out of sin into the arms of your mercy, help us to walk with you in faith, humility and love.
For the sermon "Do not be afraid", click here.
For the sermon "Do not be afraid", click here.
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