Worship - February 6, 2005

We begin with a hymn, one we have not yet sung in this congregation. As the organ lifts up the music like an offering to God, we will read (not sing) the words aloud. First, I will read verse one as an invitation to worship. Then, you may respond by praying out loud the second verse, inviting the Lord to "come" and "abide within" you, to "transfigure" this moment with His presence.

Please stand, and let us worship.

"God is here among us"

Opening our hearts to God's grace

Holy God, the lofty words of scripture and the soaring melody of song speak to us of your "wonderful grace." How can our tongues describe it? Where, indeed, shall our praise and thanksgiving for it begin? Your love for us is not dependant upon our faithfulness. On our end of this relationship, we too quickly slip up and fall short. Sometimes we are blind to this sin which separates us from you. At other times pride keeps us from simply letting go of our wrong. Even then, though. your grace carries us. However, when we recognize and name our sin for what it is; when we dare in Christ Jesus to release it and walk free of its chains, watch out!

Help us to flow with your Holy Spirit. May this service of worship resound with your grace, as we open our hearts to the melody and harmony which you sing through us - not just this hour, but every moment of every day. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

For Children

developed by our resident children's storyteller - Ed Lewis

Pastoral Prayer

written closer to the time (if not at the moment)

Unison Prayer

Almighty God,
      to those chosen to see,
      you revealed your beloved Son,
            transfigured in glory on the holy mount.
In your great mercy, help us to see;
      deliver us from this world's darkness,
      change us from glory to glory into his likeness,
            through Jesus Christ, our Lord,
                  who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
                  one God, now and forever. AMEN

Returning our Tithes and Offerings

What would you have said about what happened on that mountain when Jesus was "transfigured," had you been there? Listen to the following reflection upon that event, taken from the second letter of Peter.

2 Peter 1:16-21

Pray with me.

         Lord, we are not eyewitnesses to what happened long ago in the Bible. We can only say what we have received - the word that has been passed on to us. Even so, we are eyewitnesses to what you are still doing in this world. We don�t always know what to say to describe what we see. How do we talk about lives which we have seen transformed, powerful strength we have sensed in those who are facing difficult situations, persons we know who live with a hope that doesn�t give up, a peace that passes understanding, and a grace we know that is greater than all our sin? How do we find the words to speak of this? After all, we are not just wishing upon a star. You, Lord God, master of the universe, are very real and very present.
         As we respond to this morning�s message with our offerings, prod us to leave this place with a message of our own, and a willingness to share it. Nothing fancy. Just an honest word from the heart to be spoken when appropriate moments arise. As we place our gift in the offering plate, place your hand upon us that our lives this week night be an offering.
         In your name we pray. Amen.

By the way, filling out and passing the attendance registers found at the center of each pew helps your deacons know if you are here. Those who are absent are remembered and are sent the joys and concerns and today�s message. Please write so we can read. Now, Ushers - it�s your turn.

Benediction