Prelude
Welcome
Call to Worship
Leader: As we face trials and difficulties,
People: We come together to find comfort and strength.
Leader: God, the Father of compassion, is with us,
People: Ready to comfort and guide us through every challenge.
Opening Hymn
Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise UMH 103
Prayer of Confession
Heavenly Father, we confess that we have sometimes blamed you for the hardships we face. In our frustration and confusion, we have questioned your goodness and your presence in our lives. Help us to remember that you are not the author of pain and suffering. You are the God who comforts and guides us through every trial. Teach us to trust in your unfailing love and to seek your wisdom as we navigate the complexities of life. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Words of Assurance
Leader: Rejoice, for God's presence remains steadfast! Your sins are forgiven.
People: In our hardships, His love will always last.
Passing of the Peace
First Reading:
2 Corinthians 1:3-7
Second Reading:
Ecclesiastes 3:1-15, John 5:2-9a
Sermon:
Everything Happens for a Reason by Rev. Jim McNair
Hymn of Response
God Will Take Care of You UMH 130
Tithes and Offerings
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 94
Offertory Prayer
Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer
Announcements
Closing Hymn
Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah UMH 127
Benediction
Said Each Week as A Communal Prayer:
Send to us all the people who feel unwanted and unloved in other places, and if they can't come to us, send us to them.
Postlude
This Week's Reading Plan
| Day: |
Reading: |
|
Monday
|
Acknowledging Our Need: Psalm 121:1-8
|
|
Tuesday
|
Trusting in Direction: Proverbs 3:5-6
|
|
Wednesday
|
Faith without Works: James 2:14-26
|
|
Thursday
|
God's Care: Matthew 6:25-34
|
|
Friday
|
Our Strength: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
|
|
Saturday
|
Saved by Grace: Ephesians 2:8-10
|
|
Sunday
|
The Call to Serve: Mark 10:35-45
|
Reflections and Caring Conversations
Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.
Morning Prayer: Loving Creator, as the sun rises, we come before you with gratitude for the gift of life. May we remember that you are not the author of our hardships, but the One who offers solace and strength. Teach us to trust in your unfailing love and to find wisdom and purpose in all situations. Guide our steps and help us to live each day with faith and hope. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Evening Prayer: O God, as this day comes to a close, we reflect on the experiences we've had. We confess that at times we have struggled to find meaning and reason in the challenges we faced. Help us to trust in your divine plan and to lean on your comforting presence. Grant us restful sleep, knowing that you are always with us, guiding us through the joys and sorrows of life. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Reflection Question 1: How does the phrase "Everything happens for a reason" impact your understanding of God's role in your life?
Reflection Question 2: How do you differentiate between God causing everything and God guiding and comforting us through all things?
Reflection Question 3: How can we encourage one another to trust in God's loving presence and find purpose in the midst of life's challenges?