Heartfelt Faith

The texts for this Sunday deal with two issues that were hotly debated during Jesus’ time, and which remain issues of debate today. The first is this: “To whom does God reveal himself as a loving Father? Does he seek all people to walk with him in a bond of love, or, are some predestined and others left out?” The second and more divisive issue is this: “What effect does coming to faith in God as a loving Father have on us?”

Some Christian groups emphasize a moral transformation that faith effects in us. These groups tend to focus on what Christians are called to do in order to make the world a better place. Others focus more on personal spirituality and the creation of faith, hope, and love in our hearts. The task of the church is to formulate its message in a way that includes both aspects of the gospel message – just as Jesus did in his life and teachings.

WE GATHER FOR WORSHIP

Prelude: “Three Etudes”, Frederick Delius

Welcome and Announcements

Gathering Hymn: “Seek Ye the Kingdom of God”

Apostolic Greeting

Hymn of Praise

Prayer of the Day

First Reading: Isaiah 56:1, 6-8

Second Reading: Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32

Anthem: “Panis Angelicus”, Cesar Franck

Children’s Time

Gospel Acclamation and Gospel: Matthew 15:10-28

Sermon: “Heartfelt Faith”, Pastor Dan Severson

Sermon Hymn: “Shine, Jesus, Shine”

Apostles Creed

Prayers of Intercession

Offering and Offertory Music: “Country Gardens”, arranged by Percy Grainger

Offering Response and Prayer

The Great Thanksgiving

The Words of Institution

The Lord’s Prayer

Angus Dei

Communion Distribution

Post Communion Prayer

Benediction

Sending Hymn: “What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine”

Dismissal

Postlude: “Shine, Jesus, Shine”, Christopher Tambling