Lent 3:
Deep in the changing sky –
called to deep wisdom
ORDER OF SERVICE
Note: All hymns are from the new Voices Together hymnal
Centering chimes
Lighting of the solidarity lamp
-Symbolic of our Sister Church relationship with El Divino Redentor
Prelude – Give Thanks by Henry Smith
Call to Worship (adapted from Psalm 19)
One: The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims God’s handiwork.
Many: Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge.
One: There is no speech . . . yet the voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.
Many: In the heavens you set a tent for the sun. . . . Its rising is from the end of the heavens, its circuit to the end of them; nothing is hid from its heat.
One: The law of the Lord is perfect . . . sure . . . clear . . . true and righteous. The fear of the Lord is pure.
Many: God, clear us from hidden faults; teach us to trust you.
All: Let the words and meditations of our hearts be acceptable to you, O Lord, our rock and redeemer. We call out to you, as you call us to deeper wisdom.
Hymn #529 – God, who stretched the spangled Heavens
Welcome & prayer
Passing the peace (break-out zoom groups)
Hymn #573 – Strong, peaceful man of Galilee
Scripture Video: Exodus 20:1-17
Children’s story
– Song “Let the children come to me”
– The new children’s offering starting today will benefit Crisis Nursery in Champaign, IL. The organization’s mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect by providing 24-hour emergency care for children and support to families in crisis. It’s the only emergency-based child-care facility in Champaign County that is open 24/7 year round open to the entire community with no fees or income eligibility requirements. Donations may be sent to the FMC office at any time or can be made online (select children’s offering in “To” box)
Scripture: John 2:13-22
Sermon
Hymn #196 – Come and seek the ways of wisdom
Prayer of Confession and Assurance
Many: Deep calls to deep. We call to you from the depths of our hearts.
One: We confess when we have settled into sameness,
forgetting the rhythms of the heavens,
ignoring the rhythms of justice.
We confess when we have not looked up
into the eyes of a neighbor,
into your Word that still lives.
(Silence. Or name the forces that keep us from deep wisdom.)
Deep calls to deep. You call to us from the depth of your love.
Many: Calling us to deep wisdom. We come to you, God.
Congregational Sharing & prayer
Meditation music – The Prayer by Krastyo Petroff
– In the absence of a weekly offering collection, reflect on how you are practicing and receiving generosity. Consider giving to First Mennonite Church by mailing a check, giving through your bank, or giving online.
Work of the church
Benediction Hymn #844 – May the face of God shine on you
Worship Leader – Pastor Deb
Prelude & Meditation – Kathy Springer
Hymns – Matt Yoder
Children’s Story – Janet Liechty & Phil Martens
Scripture Video – Shawn Rodriguez
Scripture Reader – Natalya Rodriguez
Sermon & Sharing – Pastor Michael
Technician – Phil Martens