Scripture and Worship Prayers May 25

  

John 14:23-29

23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

28 “You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.

 

 

 

 

CENTERING PRAYER

 

Astonishing God, you give us a vision of the heavenly city, the new Jerusalem, your home among mortals on earth. All people and nations will stream to your city where they will find nourishment, healing, and peace. Even now your blessing shines upon all the earth to help us see a larger vision of your loving care for creation. You call us to move beyond our comfortable circles into unfamiliar places, as we seek to share your dream of a world made new in Christ. Amen.

 

 

CALL TO WORSHIP

 

Alleluia, Christ is risen.

The Lord is risen indeed, alleluia.

Let the peoples praise you, O God.

Let all the peoples praise you.

 

 

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

 

Loving God, we confess we are an anxious people who deny your blessings and fail to keep your word. Instead of sharing your fruits of the Spirit, we cut ourselves off from you and one another. Forgive us, we pray, for these and all our sins, that we might live in peace and reflect your love in the world. We continue to pray in Jesus’ name. (Silent Confession)

 

 

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH – The Apostles’ Creed

 

 

OFFERING

 

Invitation to the Offering

 

The earth has yielded its increase and God has richly blessed us. Therefore, bring your tithes and offerings and come into God’s courts with praise.

 

Prayer after Offering

 

Let us pray...Giving God, as spring bursts forth its blossoms in witness of your love, help us to both recognize and share the good spiritual fruit you provide. All we have and all we are come from you, O God, so we gladly share this offering that others too may be blessed in your name. Amen.