The mission of the First Presbyterian Church of Le Claire is to continue to be a warm and welcoming church that actively shows the love of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
youtu.be/THeHdck7SaU
Feb. 21, 2021
GREETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Thy Word CCLI 1259100
Refrain:
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
and a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
and a light unto my path
1 When I feel afraid
Think I've lost my way
Still you're there right beside me
And nothing will I fear
As long as you are near
Please be near me to the end
(Refrain)
2 I will not forget
Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering
Jesus be my guide
And hold me to your side
I will love you to the end
(Refrain)
Words of Praise(Written by Rev. Karen Horst, permission granted by PCUSA)
Marty: Change is coming, for God’s plans are unfolding. Each day is filled with new possibilities. Pastor Melody: All creation is in God’s hands so we put our trust in God.
M: Change is a part of God’s plan; out of nothing, God created all & called it good.
PM: As our lives unfold, God is with us. We need not fear.
M: God has good plans for us. Plans to bring us wholeness and peace.
PM: God is with us in our journey of becoming, guiding our steps all the way.
M: Let us pray: Creator God, we begin our Lenten journey trusting that you are actively involved in our lives. Whatever circumstance comes our way, we can remain secure in your steadfast love; we can be courageous as we venture into the new life you have in store for us. Change is very much a part of life as you have created it. Help us to navigate each day, seeking your ways through the power of your Holy Spirit, honoring Christ in all that we do. In His name we pray, Amen.
All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name CCLI 1259100
1 All hail the power of Jesus’ Name!
Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown Him Lord of all!
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown Him Lord of all!
2 Ye chosen seed of Israel’s race,
Ye ransomed from the fall,
Hail Him who saves you by His grace,
And crown Him Lord of all!
Hail Him who saves you by His grace,
And crown Him Lord of all!
3 Let every kindred, every tribe,
On this terrestrial ball,
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown Him Lord of all!
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown Him Lord of all!
4 O that with yonder sacred throng
We at His feet may fall!
We'll join the everlasting song,
And crown Him Lord of all!
We'll join the everlasting song,
And crown Him Lord of all!
Call to Confession:
Prayer of Confession:
Holy God, lover of our souls, we often lack the courage and strength to resist the temptations in our path. It is so hard to live and love like Jesus did. Sometimes we fail to hear your call in our lives. We often prefer to do the wrong before us instead of re-turning to you. Forgive us when we are self-serving, petty and neglectful. Help us to do better, to be better. Have mercy on us as we confess our personal sins silently . . . (time for silent prayer). . . Help us love as you love, to sacrifice as Jesus sacrificed. Amen
Assurance of Pardon:
L: In and through his life, death and resurrection, Jesus Christ offers us repentance and new life. Rejoice, I say; rejoice, for we are forgiven. Thanks be to God.
Gloria Patri
Passing of The Peace
L: Since God has forgiven us in Jesus Christ, let us forgive one another. The peace of our
Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Let us pass the peace of Christ to one another.
Children’s Moment
Prayer of Illumination:
M: Let us pray. O Lord, may Your word be a lamp to our feet and a light for our path. Help us to hear and obey, so we will know which way to go. Amen.
Old Testament Reading Jeremiah 29:1, 3b-14 Jeremiah wrote a letter from Jerusalem to the elders, priests, prophets, and all the people who had been exiled to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. This is what Jeremiah’s letter said:
This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the captives he has exiled to Babylon from Jerusalem: “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle away! And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.”
This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let your prophets and fortune-tellers who are with you in the land of Babylon trick you. Do not listen to their dreams, because they are telling you lies in my name. I have not sent them,” says the Lord.
This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”
Response: L: This is the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God!
The Gospel Reading Mark 1:9-15
In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”
L: This is the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Sermon: in the wilderness
In today’s scripture, Jesus is driven out into the desert by the Holy Spirit. He was there forty days, with nothing to eat and he was tempted by Satan. I’m not sure which of these is the worst. I think it is a personal choice. Some of us don’t mind being alone for extended periods. Others do not enjoy or even like the idea of being alone. Some people wouldn’t do well, going without food; others would be fine with little or nothing to eat for forty days. I’m sure all of us have been tempted by Satan – and we know that is perhaps the most difficult challenge! Part of the problem of these challenges, is that we don’t know when any of these things might happen. We work hard to make sure they don’t happen! Still, I imagine there are times when you might find yourself in some kind of wilderness. I know I have been in a wilderness a time or two. And, so has my friend, MJ. Recently she shared that she moved into a new arrangement. It is a three-tier retirement home; there is independent living, assisted living and nursing care. She is enjoying it for the most part. But she also feels like she is in a bit of a wilderness because of the Covid-19 virus. There is no one around; and no place to meet or greet others. Like most places, the independent living condos have new restrictions to protect the residents. No one can go into anyone else’s place. All dining areas and exercise areas are closed. My friend said she feels like she is living in a wilderness! Many of us might agree with her – because, since last March, we have been put in our place, separated from others by social distancing and masks. Not quite the wilderness that Jesus found Himself in, but a wilderness none the less.
Sometimes a wilderness can seem like a deserted island; with no one around; and few resources. Other times, we might be in a wilderness that feels more like a jungle, with too many distractions and too many choices. Regardless of the situation, it feels like a wilderness because the path ahead is unclear. We aren’t sure why we are here, where to go or how to get to the next place: we see no clear way or too many different ways. We just don’t know what to do.
Long, long ago, the Israelites found themselves in a new place; they were sent to live in a new country; in Babylon, where no one had heard of the Israelites or their God. It probably felt something like a wilderness. The Babylonians had different customs about marriage, families, gardening and nearly everything else. The Israelites didn’t know what to do. They wondered how they could be faithful to God in this strange new place and they wondered how they would manage with all these new and very different customs. The prophet Jeremiah, sent a letter to them, telling them to build homes and plan to stay for seventy years. Plant gardens, eat the foods there, marry and have children; encourage your children to have your grandchildren. Work for the peace and prosperity of the city where you now live. God said, “For I know the plans I have for you.” They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”
God is good and generous when we find ourselves in a wilderness. We may feel lost and abandoned, but God knows right where we are. God sent Jesus, who survived a long, challenging wilderness experience Jesus knows what we are suffering. The Holy Spirit is with us; we are not alone. God has a plan for us, to give us a future and hope, just like the plan for the Israelites. When Moses led the Hebrews out of Egypt, God led the way, as a pillar of fire each day, so they would know which way to go. When Elijah was on the run from Queen Jezebel and King Ahab, God sent angels to minister to him. Likewise, when Jesus was in the wilderness for 40 days, today’s Gospel lesson tells us that the wild beasts and the angels were with Him. Jesus used God’s word, the Scriptures, to turn Satan away. We can do the same.
In 1993, we moved to Oklahoma, which felt like a wilderness to me – so far from family and from our green, green home in Iowa. Like Jesus and like the Israelites, we counted on God to help us in this new place; a place where people were more likely to wear cowboy hats than baseball caps and where they said funny words like ya’ll and fixin’. We found a good Presbyterian church which helped keep us grounded and in God’s word.
A year or two later, I joined a Bible study, which was like a bright light in this “strange” new place! As the Bible study group worked our way through the Bible, we spent a considerable time on the Hebrews, first waiting for Moses to lead them out of Egypt; then traveling through the wilderness. In the next eleven years, as I continued to study the Bible with my new friends, I often said that I felt like I was walking through a wilderness; step after step, waiting for something significant to happen. Like time in a real wilderness, I wasn’t sure where I was going or why I was on a wilderness experience. Finally, it occurred to me, through a number of revelations, that God was calling me to Seminary! Before long, we moved to Austin and, with God’s and my family’s help, I completed that work. Then, joy! Pure joy, as I was called to parish ministry in a bit of heaven, called Le Claire Iowa. It has been a good match! And, whenever I think of wilderness, I think of my study time in Oklahoma and in Austin. God helped me and led me through that time of struggle, dryness and wonder.
I tell you my story again, to remind you … and to remind me that God is with us. Whether we are having a grand time right now, or, we find ourselves walking through a wilderness, God is with us. When we are in any wilderness, God is with us, just as God was with Jesus, Elijah, Jeremiah, and the Israelites. The Israelites taught us to keep our eyes on God, who led their ancestors to the Promised Land, just as God will lead us to the Promised Land. Elijah reminds us to have faith; that God will not desert us, but will provide, according to our needs. Jeremiah reminds us that God has a plan for us. And, Jesus, the Son of God, reminds us that all of us will have times of trial; times in the wilderness, when we feel lost, lonely and overwhelmed. Yet, God will be there, both soothing our souls, as well as giving us courage and strength to survive, even to thrive.
Jesus, our Lord and Savior, knows trial and tribulation. Jesus is our comfort and our companion, in our times in the wilderness. We can follow His lead, remembering God’s word, using scripture to succeed against Satan. The Gospel of Mark is the only gospel to mention angels and wild beasts. While I don’t think Christ’s time in the wilderness was a Disney movie, like Bambi, complete with dancing and talking animals, I do think Jesus was ministered to by the wild beasts and the angels in ways we can’t imagine. And, I think this because I know how much pets can mean to us; dogs, cats and other pets can fill a void and give comfort to us. Likewise, our family and friends, our neighbors, and even strangers at time can seem like angels, who minister to us, with a kind word, a gentle smile or some other expression of kindness.
Wherever you are in your wilderness journey, know that you are not alone. Our Savior has been on a similar wilderness journey. He knows how to comfort, encourage and strengthen you. So, as you continue on, in the wilderness, or elsewhere, rest; rest in His love. Now and forevermore. Amen.
Spirit of the Living God (sing twice) CCLI 1259100
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me
Melt me, mold me,
Fill me, use me
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Affirmation of Faith: Apostles’ Creed – Traditional
I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ his only son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.
Offering: Gracious God, you call us to do more than worship, you call us into action as your disciples. Help us to take action, by sharing our gifts and treasure.
Doxology
PRAYER OF DEDICATION:
P: Awesome God, experiencing the dazzling light of your glory and the joy of your love, we want to stay on the mountaintop and worship you. Yet, we know we are to follow Jesus. Through these gifts, may we shine the transforming light of your love into all the world. Use our gifts and our lives, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Almighty God, gracious Father, in the presence of your blessings, keep us humble,
in the presence of all people’s needs make us compassionate and caring.
Give us faith in our praying and love in our serving, knowing that by your power,
all people may find a new balance in living and a new victory in adversity.
We pray for all unhappy lives, those who are bitter and resentful, feeling life has given them a raw deal, those who are sensitive to criticism and quick to take offense, those who desire their own way, whatever the inconvenience or cost to others. May your judgment and mercy be for their healing.
We pray for those who are lonely, who are shy and self-conscious, who find it hard to make friends; those who are nervous and timid, who ever feel themselves strangers in a world they can scarcely understand. May your presence inspire confidence and ensure companionship.
We pray for those who live with bitter regrets, for loving relationships brought to ruin, for opportunities freely given and woefully abused, for the bitterness of defeat or betrayal at another’s hand, or for failure in personal integrity. May your grace give new hope to find victory in the very scene of failure.
We pray for all in illness and pain, weary of the day and fearful of the night. Grant healing, if it be your will, and at all times through faith the gift of your indwelling peace. Bless these we pray:
Bless the church in every land. Make her eager in worship, fearless in proclamation of the gospel, and passionate for caring.
Bless our country. Bless our leaders. Bless our children and grant us peace within our borders. Grant us a nation to be found effective in establishing peace throughout the world.
Bless us, each one, in the communion of the saints, and keep us ever mindful of the great cloud of witnesses that, following in their steps, as they did in the steps of the Master, we may with them at the last receive the fulfillment promised to your people.
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER Pastor Melody and Marty
Pastor Melody: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name …
Marty: We draw near to you with all holy reverence and confidence,
coming as children to a father able and ready to help us
as we pray together and for others.
Enable us and others to glorify you in all that we do
as we live and work in the creation that displays your power and mercy,
and be pleased to dispose all things to your own glory.
PM: Your kingdom come.
M: We pray that Satan’s kingdom may be destroyed
and that the kingdom of grace may be advanced,
ourselves and others brought into it, and kept in it,
and that the kingdom of glory may be hastened.
Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
We pray that you, by your grace, would make us able and willing
to know, obey, and submit to your will in all things,
as the angels do in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
We pray that of your free gift we may receive a sufficient portion
of the good things of this life, and enjoy your blessing with them.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
We pray that you, for Christ’s sake, would freely pardon all our sins--
and we are encouraged to ask this because by your grace
we are able from the heart to forgive others.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
We pray that you would either keep us from being tempted to sin,
or support and deliver us when we are tempted.
For yours is the kingdom, and the power,
and the glory, forever.
We take our encouragement in prayer from you only,
and in our prayers we praise you,
ascribing kingdom, power, and glory to you.
And to testify of our desire and assurance to be heard, we say, Amen.
Open My Eves that I Might See CCLI 1259100
1 Open my eyes, that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Refrain:
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see;
Open my eyes (ears, heart), illumine me,
Spirit divine!
2 Open my ears, that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;
And while the wave notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear. (Refrain)
3 Open my mouth, and let me bear,
Gladly the warm truth everywhere;
Open my heart and let me prepare
Love with Thy children thus to share. (Refrain)
CHARGE
L: no matter where you are, whether you are in a wilderness or elsewhere, know that God is with you, ministering to you through prayer, scripture and perhaps, via angels and animals.
AND BENEDICTION
Know that, The God of steadfast love blesses you.
Jesus, the living bread, feeds you.
The Spirit of wisdom guides you.
Now, encouraged, go forth with delight to walk in God’s ways,
rejoicing in God’s faithfulness.
youtu.be/THeHdck7SaU
Feb. 21, 2021
GREETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Thy Word CCLI 1259100
Refrain:
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
and a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
and a light unto my path
1 When I feel afraid
Think I've lost my way
Still you're there right beside me
And nothing will I fear
As long as you are near
Please be near me to the end
(Refrain)
2 I will not forget
Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering
Jesus be my guide
And hold me to your side
I will love you to the end
(Refrain)
Words of Praise(Written by Rev. Karen Horst, permission granted by PCUSA)
Marty: Change is coming, for God’s plans are unfolding. Each day is filled with new possibilities. Pastor Melody: All creation is in God’s hands so we put our trust in God.
M: Change is a part of God’s plan; out of nothing, God created all & called it good.
PM: As our lives unfold, God is with us. We need not fear.
M: God has good plans for us. Plans to bring us wholeness and peace.
PM: God is with us in our journey of becoming, guiding our steps all the way.
M: Let us pray: Creator God, we begin our Lenten journey trusting that you are actively involved in our lives. Whatever circumstance comes our way, we can remain secure in your steadfast love; we can be courageous as we venture into the new life you have in store for us. Change is very much a part of life as you have created it. Help us to navigate each day, seeking your ways through the power of your Holy Spirit, honoring Christ in all that we do. In His name we pray, Amen.
All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name CCLI 1259100
1 All hail the power of Jesus’ Name!
Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown Him Lord of all!
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown Him Lord of all!
2 Ye chosen seed of Israel’s race,
Ye ransomed from the fall,
Hail Him who saves you by His grace,
And crown Him Lord of all!
Hail Him who saves you by His grace,
And crown Him Lord of all!
3 Let every kindred, every tribe,
On this terrestrial ball,
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown Him Lord of all!
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown Him Lord of all!
4 O that with yonder sacred throng
We at His feet may fall!
We'll join the everlasting song,
And crown Him Lord of all!
We'll join the everlasting song,
And crown Him Lord of all!
Call to Confession:
Prayer of Confession:
Holy God, lover of our souls, we often lack the courage and strength to resist the temptations in our path. It is so hard to live and love like Jesus did. Sometimes we fail to hear your call in our lives. We often prefer to do the wrong before us instead of re-turning to you. Forgive us when we are self-serving, petty and neglectful. Help us to do better, to be better. Have mercy on us as we confess our personal sins silently . . . (time for silent prayer). . . Help us love as you love, to sacrifice as Jesus sacrificed. Amen
Assurance of Pardon:
L: In and through his life, death and resurrection, Jesus Christ offers us repentance and new life. Rejoice, I say; rejoice, for we are forgiven. Thanks be to God.
Gloria Patri
Passing of The Peace
L: Since God has forgiven us in Jesus Christ, let us forgive one another. The peace of our
Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Let us pass the peace of Christ to one another.
Children’s Moment
Prayer of Illumination:
M: Let us pray. O Lord, may Your word be a lamp to our feet and a light for our path. Help us to hear and obey, so we will know which way to go. Amen.
Old Testament Reading Jeremiah 29:1, 3b-14 Jeremiah wrote a letter from Jerusalem to the elders, priests, prophets, and all the people who had been exiled to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. This is what Jeremiah’s letter said:
This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the captives he has exiled to Babylon from Jerusalem: “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle away! And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.”
This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let your prophets and fortune-tellers who are with you in the land of Babylon trick you. Do not listen to their dreams, because they are telling you lies in my name. I have not sent them,” says the Lord.
This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”
Response: L: This is the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God!
The Gospel Reading Mark 1:9-15
In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”
L: This is the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Sermon: in the wilderness
In today’s scripture, Jesus is driven out into the desert by the Holy Spirit. He was there forty days, with nothing to eat and he was tempted by Satan. I’m not sure which of these is the worst. I think it is a personal choice. Some of us don’t mind being alone for extended periods. Others do not enjoy or even like the idea of being alone. Some people wouldn’t do well, going without food; others would be fine with little or nothing to eat for forty days. I’m sure all of us have been tempted by Satan – and we know that is perhaps the most difficult challenge! Part of the problem of these challenges, is that we don’t know when any of these things might happen. We work hard to make sure they don’t happen! Still, I imagine there are times when you might find yourself in some kind of wilderness. I know I have been in a wilderness a time or two. And, so has my friend, MJ. Recently she shared that she moved into a new arrangement. It is a three-tier retirement home; there is independent living, assisted living and nursing care. She is enjoying it for the most part. But she also feels like she is in a bit of a wilderness because of the Covid-19 virus. There is no one around; and no place to meet or greet others. Like most places, the independent living condos have new restrictions to protect the residents. No one can go into anyone else’s place. All dining areas and exercise areas are closed. My friend said she feels like she is living in a wilderness! Many of us might agree with her – because, since last March, we have been put in our place, separated from others by social distancing and masks. Not quite the wilderness that Jesus found Himself in, but a wilderness none the less.
Sometimes a wilderness can seem like a deserted island; with no one around; and few resources. Other times, we might be in a wilderness that feels more like a jungle, with too many distractions and too many choices. Regardless of the situation, it feels like a wilderness because the path ahead is unclear. We aren’t sure why we are here, where to go or how to get to the next place: we see no clear way or too many different ways. We just don’t know what to do.
Long, long ago, the Israelites found themselves in a new place; they were sent to live in a new country; in Babylon, where no one had heard of the Israelites or their God. It probably felt something like a wilderness. The Babylonians had different customs about marriage, families, gardening and nearly everything else. The Israelites didn’t know what to do. They wondered how they could be faithful to God in this strange new place and they wondered how they would manage with all these new and very different customs. The prophet Jeremiah, sent a letter to them, telling them to build homes and plan to stay for seventy years. Plant gardens, eat the foods there, marry and have children; encourage your children to have your grandchildren. Work for the peace and prosperity of the city where you now live. God said, “For I know the plans I have for you.” They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”
God is good and generous when we find ourselves in a wilderness. We may feel lost and abandoned, but God knows right where we are. God sent Jesus, who survived a long, challenging wilderness experience Jesus knows what we are suffering. The Holy Spirit is with us; we are not alone. God has a plan for us, to give us a future and hope, just like the plan for the Israelites. When Moses led the Hebrews out of Egypt, God led the way, as a pillar of fire each day, so they would know which way to go. When Elijah was on the run from Queen Jezebel and King Ahab, God sent angels to minister to him. Likewise, when Jesus was in the wilderness for 40 days, today’s Gospel lesson tells us that the wild beasts and the angels were with Him. Jesus used God’s word, the Scriptures, to turn Satan away. We can do the same.
In 1993, we moved to Oklahoma, which felt like a wilderness to me – so far from family and from our green, green home in Iowa. Like Jesus and like the Israelites, we counted on God to help us in this new place; a place where people were more likely to wear cowboy hats than baseball caps and where they said funny words like ya’ll and fixin’. We found a good Presbyterian church which helped keep us grounded and in God’s word.
A year or two later, I joined a Bible study, which was like a bright light in this “strange” new place! As the Bible study group worked our way through the Bible, we spent a considerable time on the Hebrews, first waiting for Moses to lead them out of Egypt; then traveling through the wilderness. In the next eleven years, as I continued to study the Bible with my new friends, I often said that I felt like I was walking through a wilderness; step after step, waiting for something significant to happen. Like time in a real wilderness, I wasn’t sure where I was going or why I was on a wilderness experience. Finally, it occurred to me, through a number of revelations, that God was calling me to Seminary! Before long, we moved to Austin and, with God’s and my family’s help, I completed that work. Then, joy! Pure joy, as I was called to parish ministry in a bit of heaven, called Le Claire Iowa. It has been a good match! And, whenever I think of wilderness, I think of my study time in Oklahoma and in Austin. God helped me and led me through that time of struggle, dryness and wonder.
I tell you my story again, to remind you … and to remind me that God is with us. Whether we are having a grand time right now, or, we find ourselves walking through a wilderness, God is with us. When we are in any wilderness, God is with us, just as God was with Jesus, Elijah, Jeremiah, and the Israelites. The Israelites taught us to keep our eyes on God, who led their ancestors to the Promised Land, just as God will lead us to the Promised Land. Elijah reminds us to have faith; that God will not desert us, but will provide, according to our needs. Jeremiah reminds us that God has a plan for us. And, Jesus, the Son of God, reminds us that all of us will have times of trial; times in the wilderness, when we feel lost, lonely and overwhelmed. Yet, God will be there, both soothing our souls, as well as giving us courage and strength to survive, even to thrive.
Jesus, our Lord and Savior, knows trial and tribulation. Jesus is our comfort and our companion, in our times in the wilderness. We can follow His lead, remembering God’s word, using scripture to succeed against Satan. The Gospel of Mark is the only gospel to mention angels and wild beasts. While I don’t think Christ’s time in the wilderness was a Disney movie, like Bambi, complete with dancing and talking animals, I do think Jesus was ministered to by the wild beasts and the angels in ways we can’t imagine. And, I think this because I know how much pets can mean to us; dogs, cats and other pets can fill a void and give comfort to us. Likewise, our family and friends, our neighbors, and even strangers at time can seem like angels, who minister to us, with a kind word, a gentle smile or some other expression of kindness.
Wherever you are in your wilderness journey, know that you are not alone. Our Savior has been on a similar wilderness journey. He knows how to comfort, encourage and strengthen you. So, as you continue on, in the wilderness, or elsewhere, rest; rest in His love. Now and forevermore. Amen.
Spirit of the Living God (sing twice) CCLI 1259100
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me
Melt me, mold me,
Fill me, use me
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Affirmation of Faith: Apostles’ Creed – Traditional
I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ his only son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.
Offering: Gracious God, you call us to do more than worship, you call us into action as your disciples. Help us to take action, by sharing our gifts and treasure.
Doxology
PRAYER OF DEDICATION:
P: Awesome God, experiencing the dazzling light of your glory and the joy of your love, we want to stay on the mountaintop and worship you. Yet, we know we are to follow Jesus. Through these gifts, may we shine the transforming light of your love into all the world. Use our gifts and our lives, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Almighty God, gracious Father, in the presence of your blessings, keep us humble,
in the presence of all people’s needs make us compassionate and caring.
Give us faith in our praying and love in our serving, knowing that by your power,
all people may find a new balance in living and a new victory in adversity.
We pray for all unhappy lives, those who are bitter and resentful, feeling life has given them a raw deal, those who are sensitive to criticism and quick to take offense, those who desire their own way, whatever the inconvenience or cost to others. May your judgment and mercy be for their healing.
We pray for those who are lonely, who are shy and self-conscious, who find it hard to make friends; those who are nervous and timid, who ever feel themselves strangers in a world they can scarcely understand. May your presence inspire confidence and ensure companionship.
We pray for those who live with bitter regrets, for loving relationships brought to ruin, for opportunities freely given and woefully abused, for the bitterness of defeat or betrayal at another’s hand, or for failure in personal integrity. May your grace give new hope to find victory in the very scene of failure.
We pray for all in illness and pain, weary of the day and fearful of the night. Grant healing, if it be your will, and at all times through faith the gift of your indwelling peace. Bless these we pray:
Bless the church in every land. Make her eager in worship, fearless in proclamation of the gospel, and passionate for caring.
Bless our country. Bless our leaders. Bless our children and grant us peace within our borders. Grant us a nation to be found effective in establishing peace throughout the world.
Bless us, each one, in the communion of the saints, and keep us ever mindful of the great cloud of witnesses that, following in their steps, as they did in the steps of the Master, we may with them at the last receive the fulfillment promised to your people.
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER Pastor Melody and Marty
Pastor Melody: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name …
Marty: We draw near to you with all holy reverence and confidence,
coming as children to a father able and ready to help us
as we pray together and for others.
Enable us and others to glorify you in all that we do
as we live and work in the creation that displays your power and mercy,
and be pleased to dispose all things to your own glory.
PM: Your kingdom come.
M: We pray that Satan’s kingdom may be destroyed
and that the kingdom of grace may be advanced,
ourselves and others brought into it, and kept in it,
and that the kingdom of glory may be hastened.
Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
We pray that you, by your grace, would make us able and willing
to know, obey, and submit to your will in all things,
as the angels do in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
We pray that of your free gift we may receive a sufficient portion
of the good things of this life, and enjoy your blessing with them.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
We pray that you, for Christ’s sake, would freely pardon all our sins--
and we are encouraged to ask this because by your grace
we are able from the heart to forgive others.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
We pray that you would either keep us from being tempted to sin,
or support and deliver us when we are tempted.
For yours is the kingdom, and the power,
and the glory, forever.
We take our encouragement in prayer from you only,
and in our prayers we praise you,
ascribing kingdom, power, and glory to you.
And to testify of our desire and assurance to be heard, we say, Amen.
Open My Eves that I Might See CCLI 1259100
1 Open my eyes, that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Refrain:
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see;
Open my eyes (ears, heart), illumine me,
Spirit divine!
2 Open my ears, that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;
And while the wave notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear. (Refrain)
3 Open my mouth, and let me bear,
Gladly the warm truth everywhere;
Open my heart and let me prepare
Love with Thy children thus to share. (Refrain)
CHARGE
L: no matter where you are, whether you are in a wilderness or elsewhere, know that God is with you, ministering to you through prayer, scripture and perhaps, via angels and animals.
AND BENEDICTION
Know that, The God of steadfast love blesses you.
Jesus, the living bread, feeds you.
The Spirit of wisdom guides you.
Now, encouraged, go forth with delight to walk in God’s ways,
rejoicing in God’s faithfulness.
RSS Feed
