In Union with Christ

The Fourth Sunday in Lent

In today’s second lesson from the book of Ephesians, Paul reveals that while we were dead in our sinfulness, God acted to make us alive as a gift of grace in Christ Jesus.  We are saved not by what we do, but by grace through faith. Our good words are really a reflection of God’s grace at work in our lives. Today’s gospel lesson reminds us “For God so love the world that he gave is only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish, but may have eternal life.” John 3:16.

WE GATHER FOR WORSHIP

Prelude: “Adagio”, Tomaso Albinoni

Welcome and Announcements

Gathering Hymn: “God of Grace and God of Glory”

Apostolic Greeting

Prayer of the Day

First Reading: Numbers 21:4-9

Second Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10

The Bells of Hope: “To a Wild Rose”, Edward MacDowell, arranged by Frances Callahan

Children’s Time

Gospel Acclamation and Gospel: John 3:14-21

Sermon: “Union with Christ”

Sermon Hymn: “What Wonderous Love is This”

Apostles Creed

Offertory Music: “Solemn Prelude”, Handel

Offering Response: “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow”

The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction

Sending Hymn: “Amazing Grace How Sweet the Sound”

Dismissal

Postlude: “Lift High the Cross”, Charles Callahan