GATHERING TO PRAISE GOD Sunday, January 23, 2022

Prelude

Praise Song

Welcome

The People Gather
L: We gather as God’s beloved children
P: However glad we are, however out of sorts we are.
L: We come together as a people whom Jesus calls into community.
P: So this becomes a place where all are welcome.
L: We have come to give thanks, to pray and sing, to be with one another.
P: Let us worship God together.

*Hymn *

The People Pray
Tender God, we thank you for this world filled with children
Whose smiles can disarm the angry world,
Whose hugs break through the grip of worry,
Whose persistence causes us to reconsider,
Whose presence can reveal any pretentious act and
Whose antics can elicit laughts from our weary bodies and hugs from our tired limbs.
Loving God, surround the world’s children with your care, for some are living on the streets, others are gnawed by hunger, some cower in fear of another beating, others work
hard for little pay. Weave our thanks and compassion together so justice will flow like a mighty stream and wholesome laughter will echo wherever children gather. In the name of
Jesus, who loves children. Amen

Special Music

The People Confess Their Sin
Gracious God, tender and strong as a mother, warm and embracing as a father, you have
given us great gifts; an inquisitive mind, a thirst for justice, a generous hand, a
compassionate heart. Yet, in our church and in our families, we fail to cherish the
gifts of each and to encourage the growth of all. Forgive us for limiting choices,
hiding emotion, hurrying the slow one, holding back the eager one. Restore a holy
balance and an honest appreciation in our life together. Amen.

God’s Words of Assurance

The God of our Lord Jesus Christ blesses us and calls us “kingdom people.” In the
name of the reigning Christ, we are forgiven. Glory to God! Amen

The Word of God for the People of God

Scripture 1 Samuel 17 will be referenced in the message.

Message Intergenerational message: A Lion, a Bear, and a Youth - Oh My!

Pastoral Prayer

The People Bring Their Gifts
There are baskets in the back or use your online app

The People Go into The World

Praise Song

Benediction

Organ Postlude