Order of Worship for Sunday, October 6th 2024

Leader: Remember: God is making all things new.
All: Right now, God is bringing us into new life.

Leader: Remember: God is setting us free to serve a new kingdom.
All: Right now, in this in-between time, God is moving.

Leader: Remember: God is still writing this story.
All: Right now, we are a part of what God is doing.

Holy One, you call us to be ready, to prepare to experience your power. We confess that we rarely expect you to act, and so we have grown complacent, building up traditions that make us feel good without requiring anything of us. You instruct us not to keep extra for ourselves, to share with our neighbors, and to let nothing go to waste. Yet, we confess that we have hoarded beyond what we could ever use, wasted more than many people ever have, and have known so little about our neighbors that we can’t begin to imagine how to share. You remind us that the empires of this world will fall, and your kingdom is coming, but we confess that we have forgotten this truth, losing the ability to discern the difference. Forgive us, Holy God, and draw us once again into your truth, which may appear strange and foolish to those caught up in the ways of the world, but will lead us into new life. Amen.

Leader: God’s grace is abundant, and God's love is unending. No matter how many times we fall short, God’s mercy lifts us up. Believe the good news: you are forgiven and made new.

People: Glory to God, Amen!

Gracious God, you call us to be ready, preparing our hearts to experience your power in the world. As we bring these gifts, we remember your call to share with our neighbors and let nothing go to waste. We offer these gifts as an act of faith, trusting that your kingdom is coming and that, through your Spirit, you will use what we bring to create new life and bring hope to a world longing for your truth. Bless these offerings and lead us to live with open hands and hearts, ready to serve in your name. Amen.