Worship Resources for
the Center for Faith and Giving
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
Micah 6:1-8
Psalm 15
1 Corinthians 1:18-31
Call to Worship (inspired by Psalm 15)
One: Gathered to worship the Lord our God, let’s celebrate
Many: those who walk blamelessly and do what is right.
One: United in our desire to love one another, let’s claim
Many: we do not slander with our tongues, but honor those who fear God.
One: We rejoice with those who stand by their oath, even to their hurt.
Many: Those who do these things shall never be moved!
Consider using “I Shall Not Be Moved” as an opening chorus, a song from a small ensemble or choir, or as a music video – such as https://www.google.com/search?q=i+shall+not+be+moved+lyrics&rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS849US849&source=lnms&tbm=vid&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiA9-qZq778AhWImIkEHaLYCBIQ_AUoAXoECAEQAw&cshid=1673399598272275&biw=1366&bih=609&dpr=1#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:b244c7ac,vid:klazB4j4tL0
Opening Prayer
Holy God, we’re steadfast in our desire to root ourselves in honoring you. Thank you for this opportunity to be joined as one part of the Body of Christ, gathered to praise and worship you. Help us grow in wisdom, and in favor with you and with this congregation. Strengthen us to plant our feet, walk blamelessly and do what is right not only in this hour, but in every hour of our lives. AMEN
Moment for Stewardship
Paul, writing to the church in Corinth, clearly identifies the believers’ call as a call directed to those who were not powerful, wise or strong. Rather, the people in that congregation might be a lot like we are!
We have no basis on which to boast except to boast in the Lord.
When we face ourselves in a mirror, we recognize God is the source of all we have and all we know. We are God’s beloved creatures, and have been given the honor of serving as stewards (managers) of this world and all that is within it.
Once we recognize ourselves as stewards, then we instinctively know we’re responsible for the best use of all the resources we’ve been given. We have this moment in worship to offer back a portion of what we’ve been given.
What will you offer?
Because it all belongs to God, perhaps you’re ready to offer your time. Because God has endowed you with particular talents, perhaps this is the day to offer some of your talent.
Because God makes financial resources a symbol of your life, surely this is your moment to offer financial support for the use of this congregation.
As you prepare your offering, may you find joy in boasting in the God who has given you time, talent and treasure. What a mighty God we serve!
Prayer of Thanksgiving
God, you are mighty! We pray you will accept our boasting in you, and receive these gifts, freely offered. Help us cheerfully give, and fill us with clarity about how we can best use these gifts to expand your Kin-dom on earth, as it is in heaven. AMEN
Invitation to Communion
Paul declares “We proclaim Christ crucified”.
Each week, we come to this table, recognizing the upside-down reality of life coming out of death.
“Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.”
In no other way would it make sense for us to gather,
take bread,
bless it,
break it
and share tiny bites,
as a remembrance of Jesus.
For nearly 2000 years, believers have claimed the wisdom of God shines as we tell the story and join the multitudes who have gone before us.
You are welcome at this meal.
With thimbles of juice and cracker morsels, we are nourished for LIFE.
Come, for we are followers of the One who died, that we might live.