Payette United Methodist Church
June 26, 2022 Prelude “To God be the Glory” by William Diane Welcome and Announcements Interlude Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. * Call to Worship * Calling Song: "Glory Be to the Father" UM Hymnal #70 Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. Responsive Reading Psalm 100 Leader: Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. People: Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Leader: Know that the Lord is God. People: It is he who made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Leader: Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; People: give thanks to him and praise his name. All: For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Unison Invocation: Lord God, in this short time together, open our ears and our eyes to see your vision for this place and our part within it. Teach us, hear our prayers and enable us for service wherever you might take us. To your praise and glory. Amen. Hymn “When We All Get to Heaven” UM Hymnal #701 Sing the wondrous love of Jesus; sing his mercy and his grace. In the mansions bright and blessed he'll prepare for us a place. Refrain: When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, we'll sing and shout the victory! While we walk the pilgrim pathway, clouds will overspread the sky; but when traveling days are over, not a shadow, not a sigh. (Refrain) Let us then be true and faithful, trusting, serving every day; just one glimpse of him in glory will the toils of life repay. (Refrain) Onward to the prize before us! Soon his beauty we'll behold; soon the pearly gates will open; we shall tread the streets of gold. (Refrain) Old Testament Reading - Lamentations 3:22-26 (Page 1279) Gospel Reading - Philippians 1:3-11 (Page 1825) God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks be to God! Congregational Prayer and Lord’s Prayer Hymn “Sweet Hour of Prayer” UM Hymnal #496 (Verses 1,3) Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! that calls me from a world of care, and bids me at my Father's throne make all my wants and wishes known. In seasons of distress and grief, my soul has often found relief, and oft escaped the tempter's snare by thy return, sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! thy wings shall my petition bear to him whose truth and faithfulness engage the waiting soul to bless. And since he bids me seek his face, believe his word, and trust his grace, I'll cast on him my every care, and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer! We Offer Our Gifts Offering Prayer Offertory “Great is Thy Faithfulness” by William Runyan Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessing flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Young People's Moment Message: “Fixing Our Eyes Upon Jesus” Hebrews 12:1-3 A Time of Farewell Blessing Jim and Pam: We thank you, the members and friends of Fruitland United Methodist Church for the love and support you have shown us while we have ministered among you. We are grateful for the ways our leadership has been accepted. We ask forgiveness for the mistakes we have made. As we leave, we carry with us all that we have learned here. Congregation: We receive your thankfulness, offer forgiveness, and accept that you now leave to retire. We express our gratitude for your time among us. We ask your forgiveness for our mistakes. Your influence on our faith and faithfulness will not leave us with your departure. Jim and Pam: We accept your gratitude and forgiveness, and we forgive you, trusting that our time together and our parting are pleasing to God. We release your from turning to us and depending on us. We encourage your continuing ministry here and will pray for you and for your new pastor, Clynton Easley. All: Eternal God, whose steadfast love for us is from everlasting to everlasting, we give you thanks for cherished memories and commend one another into your care as we move in new directions. Keep us one in your love forever, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen *Hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness” UM Hymnal #140 Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father; there is no shadow of turning with thee; thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not; as thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. Refrain: Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed thy hand hath provided; great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me! Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above join with all nature in manifold witness to thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love. Refrain Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide; strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Refrain *Unison Benediction "God Be with You till We Meet Again" UM Hymnal #672 God be with you till we meet again; by his counsels guide, uphold you, with his sheep securely fold you; God be with you till we meet again. Till we meet, till we meet, till we meet a Jesus' feet; till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again. Postlude (Please be seated) “Marching to Zion” by Robert Lowry Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544)
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In case you missed it, we had a combined Worship Service in the Fruitland City Park on Sunday, June 19th. Payette United Methodist congregation joined Fruitland First United Methodist for the service and afterwards we enjoyed a shared meal and fun in the sun!
Listen now to the recording of the service: Payette United Methodist Church
June 12, 2022 (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude Welcome & Announcements Call to Worship *Calling Song “How Majestic is Your Name” TFWS #2023 O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. O Lord, we praise your name. O Lord, we magnify your name: Prince of Peace, mighty God; O Lord God Almighty. Responsive Reading from Psalm 8 Leader: Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens. People: When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and stars, which you have put in place, what are mere mortals that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? Leader: You have made them a little lower than yourself and crowned them with glory and honor. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; People: You put everything under their feet: flocks and herds, the animals of the wild, the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. All: Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Unison Invocation Heavenly Father please remind us this morning of your majesty, the creation, and your amazing grace. Forgive us for the times this week when we have been distracted and overwhelmed by reports of violence and injustice. Use this time to return us to people who see beauty and love in this scarred world. Help us sense the incredible scope of your concern and care that is so profoundly shown in Jesus, through whom we pray. Amen. Hymn of Petition “Shine, Jesus, Shine” TFWS #2173 Refrain: Shine Jesus shine, fill this land with the Father’s glory, blaze, Spirit, blaze, set our hearts on fire; flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy, send forth your word, Lord, and let there be light. Lord, the light of your love is shining in the midst of the darkness shining; Jesus, Light of the World, shine upon us, set us free by the truth you now bring us. Shine on me, shine on me. (Repeat Refrain) Old Testament Reading Proverbs 8:22-31 Gospel Reading John 16:12-15 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Offering and Singing "The Family of God" chorus I'm so glad I'm a part, of the family of God I've been washed in the fountain Cleansed by His blood Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod For I'm part of the family The family of God Prayers of the People Prayer Hymn "Prayer is the Soul’s Sincere Desire" UMH # 492 (Tune: O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing) Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, unuttered or expressed, the motion of a hidden fire that trembles in the breast. Prayer is the burden of a sigh, the falling of a tear, the upward glancing of an eye, when none but God is near. O Thou, by whom we come to God, the Life, the Truth, the Way: the path of prayer thyself hast trod; Lord, teach us how to pray! Message “Teach Us To Pray” Luke 11:1-4 Hymn “ The Lord’s Prayer” Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive them that sin against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen. Unison Benediction May the peace of the Lord Jesus go with you wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. *from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals Postlude Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Payette United Methodist Church June 5, 2022 – 11:00 AM Pentecost Sunday & Communion Welcome and Announcements Gathering Hymn: “Sweet, Sweet Spirit” UMH#334 There's a sweet, sweet Spirit in this place, And I know that it's the Spirit of the Lord; There are sweet expressions on each face, And I know they feel the presence of the Lord. Sweet Holy Spirit, Sweet heavenly Dove, Stay right here with us, filling us with Your love. And for these blessings we lift our hearts in praise; Without a doubt we'll know that we have been revived, When we shall leave this place. Responsive Reading from Psalm 104 Leader: Many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. People: May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works. Leader: I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. People: May my meditation be pleasing to him as I rejoice in the Lord. All: Praise the Lord, my soul. Praise the Lord! Unison Invocation God of Grace, you sent the promised gift of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the women, upon Mary the mother of Jesus and upon his brothers. Fill your church with power, kindle flaming hearts within us, and cause us to proclaim your mighty works in every tongue, that all may call on you and be saved; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen New Testament Reading: Romans 8:14-17 Gospel Reading: John 14:25-27 Hymn: “Spirit of the Living God” UMH#393 Spirit of the living God Fall afresh on me Spirit of the living God Fall afresh on me Melt me, Mold me Fill me, Use me Spirit of the Living God Fall afresh on me Honoring our Graduate Ty Waynetska Offering Prayer Doxology: “The Family of God” I'm so glad I'm a part, of the family of God I've been washed in the fountain Cleansed by His blood Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod For I'm part of the family The family of God Message: "Let Me Show You" John 13:1-17 Communion Hymn: “Jesu, Jesu” UMH#432 vs. 1,3,5 Jesu, Jesu fill us with your love, show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you. Kneels at the feet of his friends, silently washes their feet, Master who acts as a slave to them Jesu, Jesu fill us with your love, show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you. Neighbors are rich and poor, neighbors are black and white, neighbors are near and far away. Jesu, Jesu fill us with your love, show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you. These are the ones we should serve, these are the ones we should love; all these neighbors to us and you. The Communion Service The Apostles Creed I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy universal church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen. Prayer of Confession and Pardon Gracious God, our sins are too heavy to carry, too real to hide, and too deep to undo. Forgive what our lips tremble to name, and what our hearts can no longer bear. Through the cross, set us free from a past that we cannot change. Through the resurrection, open to us a future in which we can be changed. Grant us grace to grow more and more in your likeness and image, through Jesus Christ, the light of the world. Amen. Hear the good news; Christ died for us while we were yet sinners. That proves God’s love for us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Thanks be to God! Bread and Cup The Lord be with you And also with you. Let us give thanks using the words Jesus gave us: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be they name. Thy kingdom come, they will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. AMEN. Commitment Hymn: “Sent Forth by God’s Blessing” UMH #664 vs. 1 Sent forth by God’s blessing, our true faith confessing, the people of God from this dwelling take leave. The supper is ended. Oh, now be extended the fruits of this service in all who believe. The seed of Christ’s teaching, receptive souls reaching, shall blossom in action for God and for all. Your grace shall incite us, your love shall unite us to work for your kingdom and answer your call. Unison Benediction* May the peace of the Lord Jesus go with you wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. *from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals Postlude Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Join us on Sunday, June 19th at 10:00 a.m. in the Fruitland Park for a joint Worship Service with Fruitland United Methodist Church.
A potluck will follow the service. Bring your own chair! Some have asked about the four scriptures that will shape the worship services throughout the month of June.
Here they are: June 5 (Communion and Pentecost) Sermon Text: John 13:1-17 Sermon Title: “Let Me Show You” June 12 Sermon Text: Luke 11:1 Sermon Title: “Teach Us to Pray” June 19 (Worship in the Park – Fruitland City Park) Sermon Text: Ephesians 2:1-10 Sermon Title: “The Divine Conjunction” June 26 Sermon Text: Hebrews 12:1-3 “Fixing Our Eyes Upon Jesus” Payette United Methodist Church
May 29, 2022 (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude Call to Worship *Calling Song “Great is the Lord” TFWS #2022 Great is the Lord He is holy and just By His power we trust In His love Great is the Lord He is faithful and true By His mercy He proves He is love Great is the Lord And worthy of glory Great is the Lord And worthy of praise Great is the Lord Now lift up your voice Now lift up your voice Great is the Lord Great is the Lord Great is the Lord, He is holy and just By His power we trust In His love Great is the Lord He is faithful, and true By His mercy He proves He is love Great is the Lord And worthy of glory Great is the Lord And worthy of praise Great is the Lord Now lift up your voice Now lift up your voice Great is the Lord Great is the Lord Responsive Reading from Psalm 96 Leader: Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. People: Sing to the Lord; praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Leader: Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all people. All: For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. Unison Invocation Heavenly Father, these words may not seem to fit this day and time. But we acknowledge that in the midst of remembering our dead we need to remember You and Your glory. So please lift our souls as we lift our voices as we come to you in the name of Jesus. Amen. Hymn of Praise “My Life Flows On” (How Can I Keep From Singing) TFWS #2212 My life flows on in endless song, above earth’s lamentation. I hear the clear, though far-off hymn that hails a new creation. Refrain: No storm can shake my inmost calm while to that Rock I’m clinging. Since love is Lord of heaven and earth, how can I keep from singing? Through all the tumult and the strife, I hear that music ringing. It finds an echo in my soul. How can I keep from singing? [Refrain] What though my joys and comforts die? I know my Savior liveth. What though the darkness gather round? Songs in the night he giveth. [Refrain] The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart, a fountain ever springing! All things are mine since I am his! How can I keep from singing? [Refrain] Gospel Reading John 17: 20-26 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Hymn of Hope “Hymn of Promise” UMH #707 In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree; in cocoons, a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free! In the cold and snow of winter there's a spring that waits to be, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. There's a song in every silence, seeking word and melody; there's a dawn in every darkness bringing hope to you and me. From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity; in our doubt there is believing; in our life, eternity. In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. Offering & Doxology “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” UMH #95 Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Young People’s Moment Prayers of the People Message “Remember These Things” 2 Peter 1:12-15 Commitment Hymn “Because He Lives” UMH #364 God sent His son, they called Him Jesus He came to love, heal, and forgive. He lived and died to buy my pardon, An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives. Refrain: Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, All fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, And life is worth the living just because He lives. How sweet to hold a newborn baby, And feel the pride and joy he gives. But greater still the calm assurance, This child can face uncertain days because He lives. (refrain) And then one day I'll cross the river, I'll fight life's final war with pain. And then as death gives way to victory, I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives. (refrain) Unison Benediction “God Be with You till We Meet Again” UMH #672 God be with you till we meet again; by his counsels guide, uphold you, with his sheep securely fold you: God be with you till we meet again. Till we meet, till we meet, till we meet at Jesus feet; till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again. Postlude Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Payette United Methodist Church
May 22, 2022 (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude Call to Worship *Calling Song “We Are Singing” TFWS #2235-a We are singing for the Lord is our light, we are singing for the Lord is our light. We are singing for the Lord is our light, we are singing for the Lord is, is our light. We are singing, singing, we are singing, singing, we are singing for the Lord is our light. We are singing for the Lord is our light, we are singing for the Lord is our light. Responsive Reading from Psalm 67 Leader: May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, that your way may be known upon the earth, your saving power among all nations. People: Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you. Leader: Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for your judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon the earth. People: Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you. Leader: The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, has blessed us. All: May God continue to bless us; let all the ends of the earth revere him. Unison Invocation Heavenly Father, you taught the stars to sing yet the heavens cannot contain your glory. Nor can our words and music adequately carry our joy, our wonder, and our gratitude. Yet we come to this place at this time trying to find the words and the tunes to express and renew our gratitude. We pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen. Chorus of Praise “He Has Made Me Glad” TFWS #2270 I will enter his gates with thanksgiving in my heart, I will enter his courts with praise. I will say, “This is the day that the Lord has made.” I will rejoice, for he has made me glad. He has made me glad, he has made me glad. I will rejoice, for he has made me glad. He has made me glad, he has made me glad. I will rejoice, for he has made me glad. New Testament Readings Acts 16: 9-15 Revelation 22: 1-9 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Hymn “All Who Hunger” TFWS #2126 All who hunger, gather gladly; holy manna is our bread. Come from wilderness and wandering. Here, in truth, we will be fed. You that yearn for days of fullness, all around us is our food. Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good. Offering & Doxology “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” UMH #95 Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Young People’s Moment Prayers of the People Message “The Great Feast” Luke 14: 15-24 Commitment Hymn “Fill My Cup, Lord” UMH #641 Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up, Lord! Come and quench this thirsting of my soul; Bread of heaven, Feed me till I want no more Fill my cup, fill it up and make me whole! Unison Benediction “God Be with You” UMH #672 God be with you till we meet again; by his counsels guide, uphold you, with his sheep securely fold you: God be with you till we meet again. Till we meet, till we meet, till we meet at Jesus feet; till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again. Postlude Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Payette United Methodist Church
May 15, 2022 (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude “ See, What a Morning!” By Keith Getty and Stewart Townsend Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude “ My Tribute” By Andre Crouch Call to Worship *Calling Song “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” UMH #89 (Verse 1) Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love; Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, opening to the sun above. Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away; Giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day! *Responsive Reading from Psalm 148 Leader: Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise him from the heights above. People: Praise him, all his angels; praise him all his heavenly hosts. Leader: Praise him, sun and moon; praise him all you shining stars. All: Praise him, you highest heaven and you waters above the skies. Unison Invocation Lord, we know that you will come again in glory to raise the living and the dead. Resurrect us now by your powerful word from the death of comfort and shallowness that we might share your love with others. Amen. Gospel Reading John 13: 31-35 New Testament Reading Revelation 21: 1-6 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Song of Joy “Joy in the Morning” TFWS #2284 There’ll be joy in the morning on that day. There’ll be joy in the morning on that day. For the day light will dawn when the darkness is gone, There’ll be joy in the morning on that day. There’ll be peace and contentment evermore. There’ll be peace and contentment evermore. Every heart, every voice on that day will rejoice, There’ll be peace and contentment evermore. There’ll be love and forgiveness everywhere. There’ll be love and forgiveness everywhere. And the day of the Lord will that day be restored, There’ll be love and forgiveness everywhere. Offering & Doxology “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” UMH #95 Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Young People’s Moment Prayer Song and Prayers of the People “Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying” TFWS #2193 Lord, listen to your children praying, Lord, send your Spirit in this place; Lord, listen to your children praying, send us love, send us power, send us grace. Baptism (Insert) Baptism of Jeffrey Scott Ward The Christian church is of God, and will be preserved to the end of time, for the conduct of worship and the administration of God’s Word and the Sacraments,
Do you believe in God, Jesus as His Son, and the Holy Spirit as His presence within and among us? Do you wish to announce that Jesus is your Lord and Savior? Do you wish to be baptized into Christ? To the Congregation: Sisters and Brothers, I commend Jeff to your love and care. Do all in your power to increase his faith, confirm his hope, and shower him with your love. Jeff, we rejoice in your baptism. With you we renew our commitment to our Lord and His church. With God’s help we will strive to live as followers of Jesus to help you grow in your faith, being strengthened and encouraged as you follow Him. Sermon “Eat This Book” Revelation 10:1-11 Unison Benediction “God Be with You” UMH #672 God be with you till we meet again; by his counsels guide, uphold you, with his sheep securely fold you: God be with you till we meet again. Till we meet, till we meet, till we meet at Jesus feet; till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again. Postlude “He's Got the Whole World in His Hands” An African-American spiritual, arranged by Lani Smith Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Payette United Methodist Church
May 8, 2022 (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude *Calling Song “I Will Call upon the Lord” TFWS #2002 I will call upon the Lord, (I will call upon the Lord,) Who is worthy to be praised, (Who is worthy to be praised) So shall I be saved from mine enemies (So shall I be saved from mine enemies). The Lord liveth, and blessed be the rock! And may the God of my salvation be exalted! The Lord liveth, and blessed be the rock! And may the God of my salvation be exalted! *Responsive Reading Leader: The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want. People: The Lord make me lie down in green pastures, leaders me beside still waters, restores my soul, and leads me in right paths for the sake of his name. Leader: Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me. People: You prepare me a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows. All: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the day of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. *Unison Invocation Now, Heavenly Father, calm us into a quietness that heals and listens. Mold our longings, passions, wounds, and wonderings into something joyfully holy through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. *Congregational Chorus “There’s a Song” TFWS #2141 There's a song of love in my heart; love is a gift from Jesus. There's a song of love in my heart; Love is a gift from God. Alleluia! Love in my heart is singing praises. Alleluia! Love is a gift from God. New Testament Readings John 10:22-30 and Revelation 7:9 and 10 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Young People’s Moment Baptism Baptism of Ellie Maria Garcia The Christian church is of God, and will be preserved to the end of time, for the conduct of worship and the administration of God’s Word and the Sacraments, the provision of Christian fellowship, the encouragement of believers, and calling all people to follow Jesus. Every one of all ages and situations stand in need of the means of grace that the church alone can provide. To Ellie:
To the Congregation: Sisters and Brothers, I commend Ellie to your love and care. Do all in your power to increase her faith, confirm her hope, and shower her with your love. Ellie, we rejoice in your baptism. With you we renew our commitment to our Lord and His church. With God’s help we will strive to live as followers of Jesus to help you grow in your faith, being strengthened and encouraged as you follow Him. Congregational Commitment Hymn “I Was There” TFWS #2051 I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old. I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold. I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well; In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell. When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on; You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong. If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one, I'll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk 'till rising sun. In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young, I'll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I've begun. When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes, I'll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise. I was there to hear your borning cry, I'll be there when you are old. I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold. Offering & Doxology “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” UMH #95 Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Message “Come and Have Breakfast” John 21 Commitment Hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” UMH #526 What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer. Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge; take it to the Lord in prayer. Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In his arms he'll take and shield thee; thou wilt find a solace there. Unison Benediction “God Be with You” UMH #672 God be with you till we meet again; by his counsels guide, uphold you, with his sheep securely fold you: God be with you till we meet again. Till we meet, till we meet, till we meet at Jesus feet; till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again. Postlude Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Payette United Methodist Church
May 1, 2022 Communion Sunday (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude *Call to Worship He is risen! He is risen indeed! Calling Song “I've Got Peace Like a River” TFWS #2145 I've got peace like a river, I've got peace like a river, I've got peace like a river in my soul. I've got peace like a river, I've got peace like a river, I've got peace like a river in my soul. I've got joy like a fountain, I've got joy like a fountain, I've got joy like a fountain in my soul. I've got joy like a fountain, I've got joy like a fountain, I've got joy like a fountain in my soul. I've got love like an ocean, I've got love like an ocean, I've got love like an ocean in my soul. I've got love like an ocean, I've got love like an ocean, I've got love like an ocean in my soul Responsive Reading from Psalm 30 Leader: Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people: praise his holy name! People: His anger lasts only for a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime: weeping may remain for a night but rejoicing comes in the morning. Leader: You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. All: Lord my God, I will praise you forever. Unison Invocation Heavenly Father, as Jesus burst forth from the tomb, may new life burst forth from us showing itself in acts of love and healing to this hurting world. And may that same Jesus, who is the source of our new life, bring us joy and peace as we gather in His name. Amen. Hymn “Gather Us In” TFWS #2236 Here in this place new light is streaming, now is the darkness vanished away, see in this space our fears and our dreamings, brought here to you in the light of this day. Gather us in ―the lost and forsaken, gather us in the blind and the lame; call to us now, and we shall awaken, we shall arise at the sound of our name. Here we will take the wine and the water, here we will take the bread of new birth, here you shall call your sons and your daughters, call us anew to be salt for the earth. Give us to drink the wine of compassion, Give us to eat the bread that is you; nourish us well, and tech us to fashion lives that are holy and hearts that are true. Not in the dark of building confining, not in some heaven, light years away, but here in this place the new light is shining, now is the Kingdom, now is the day. Gather us in and hold us forever, gather us in and make us your own; gather us in all peoples together, fire of love in our flesh and our bone. New Testament Readings Acts 9:1-6 Revelation - Chapter 5 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God! Children’s Moment Congregational Response “Thou Art Worthy” TFWS #2041 Thou art worthy, Thou art worthy, Thou art worthy, O Lord, To receive glory, Glory and honor, Glory and honor and pow'r For Thou hast created, hast all things created, Thou hast created all things; And for Thy pleasure they are created - Thou art worthy, O Lord. Offering Doxology “Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow” UMH #95 Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Message “Let's Eat” Luke 24:35-49 The Communion Service The Apostles Creed I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy universal church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Communion Hymn “Let Us Break Bread Together” UMH #618 Let us break bread together on our knees, let us break bread together on our knees. When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, let us drink wine together on our knees. When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, let us praise God together on our knees. When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, let us praise God together on our knees, When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy if you please. Our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Let us confess our sin before God and one another. Prayer of Confession and Pardon Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart Our faith has been tested and we have stumbled. Forgive us, we pray. Our feet have strayed from the path of Christ and we have wandered from you. Forgive us, we pray. We have put our faith in the loud voices of this world, ignoring your whispers. Forgive us, we pray. We do want to follow Jesus, the Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen. Hear the good news; Christ died for us while we were yet sinners. That proves God’s love for us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Thanks be to God! Bread and Cup Please pray: Eternal God, we give you thanks for this holy mystery in which “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Strengthen us in mind, body and soul for the days ahead. May your Spirit fill us as we live and pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. Closing Hymn “Freely, Freely” UMH #389 God forgave my sin in Jesus’ name, I’ve been born again in Jesus’ name; And in Jesus’ name I come to you To share His love as He told me to. Chorus He said: ‘Freely, freely, you have received, Freely, freely give; Go in My name, and because you believe Others will know that I live.’ All power is given in Jesus’ name, In earth and heaven in Jesus’ name; And in Jesus’ name I come to you To share His power as He told me to. Unison Benediction* May the peace of the Lord Jesus go with you wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. *from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals Postlude Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Payette United Methodist Church
April 24, 2022 (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude “Fairest Lord Jesus” A Silesian melody Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude “I Love to Tell the Story” By William Fischer *Call to Worship Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Calling Song “How Majestic is Your Name” TFWS #2023 O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. O Lord, we praise your name. O Lord, we magnify your name: Prince of Peace, mighty God; O Lord God Almighty. Responsive Reading Romans 11:33-36 Leader: Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgements, and his paths beyond tracing out. People: Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Leader: Who has ever given to God that God should repay him? People: For from him and through him and to him are all things. All: To Him be the glory forever! Amen. Unison Invocation Living and loving God, long ago faithful women proclaimed the good news that Jesus was alive and the world was forever changed. Teach us to keep faith with them, that our witness may be as bold, our love as deep, and our faith as true. We pray in the name of Jesus, our resurrected Lord. Amen Hymns of Praise “Blessed Be the Name” UMH #63 Blessed be the name! Blessed be the name! Blessed be the name of the Lord! Blessed be the name! Blessed be the name! Blessed be the name of the Lord! “Oh For a Thousand Tongues to Sing” UMH #57 1. O for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer's praise, the glories of my God and King, the triumphs of his grace! 2. My gracious Master and my God, assist me to proclaim, to spread through all the earth abroad the honors of thy name. 3. Jesus! the name that charms our fears, that bids our sorrows cease; 'tis music in the sinner's ears, 'tis life, and health, and peace. New Testament Readings Acts 5: 17-32 Revelation 1: 4-8 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Young People’s Moment Hymn “Walk With Me” TFWS #2242 Refrain: Walk with me, I will walk with you and build the land that God has planned where love shines through. Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer Message “What Are You Talking About?” Luke 24:13-35 Offering Doxology “Glory Be to the Father” UMH #70 Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. Commitment Hymn “Break Thou the Bread of Life” UMH #599 Break thou the bread of life, dear Lord, to me, as thou didst break the loaves beside the sea; beyond the sacred page I seek thee, Lord; my spirit pants for thee, O Living Word! Bless thou the truth, dear Lord, to me, to me, as thou didst bless the bread by Galilee; then shall all bondage cease, all fetters fall; and I shall find my peace, my all in all. Unison Benediction* May the peace of the Lord Jesus go with you wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. *from the Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals Postlude “It Is Well With My Soul” By Philip Bliss Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Payette United Methodist Church
April 17, 2022 Easter Sunday (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude “Easter Fantasy” Arranged by Clarence Kuhlmann Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude “Low in the Grave He lay” By Robert Lowery *Call to Worship He Is Risen! He is risen indeed! Calling Song: “Easter People, Raise Your Voices” UMH #304 Easter people, raise your voices Sounds of heaven in earth should ring. Christ has brought us heaven’s choices; Heavenly music, let it ring. Al-le-lu-ia Al-le-lu-ia Easter people, let us sing. Fear of death can no more stop us from our pressing here below. For our Lord empowered us to triumph over every foe. Alleluia! Alleluia! On to victory now we go. Every day to us is Easter, with its resurrection song. When in trouble move the faster to our God who rights the wrong. Alleluia! Alleluia! See the power of heavenly throngs. Responsive Reading from Psalm 118 Leader: Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. People: The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; Leader: The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. All: The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice and be glad! Unison Invocation UMH #320 Almighty God, through Jesus Christ you overcame death and opened to us the gate of eternal life. Grant that we, who celebrate the day of our Lord’s resurrection, may, by the renewing of your Spirit arise from the death of sin to the life of righteousness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Hymn “Christ Has Risen” TFWS #2115 Christ has risen while earth slumbers, Christ has risen where hope died, as he said and as he promised, as we doubted and denied. Let the moon embrace the blessing; let the sun sustain the cheer; let the world confirm the rumour. Christ is risen, God is here! Christ has risen for the people whom he loved and died to save; Christ has risen for the women bringing flowers to grace his grave Christ has risen for disciples huddled in an upstairs room. He whose word inspired creation is not silenced by the tomb. Choir “The Easter Song” New Testament Reading Acts 10: 34-43 Gospel Reading Luke 24: 1-12 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Young People’s Moment Hymn “Christ Is Risen” UMH #307 Christ is risen! Shout Hosanna! Celebrate this day of days. Christ is risen! Hush in wonder; all creation is amazed. In the desert all-surrounding, see, a spreading tree has grown. Healing leaves of grace abounding bring a taste of love unknown. Christ is risen! Raise your spirits from the caverns of despair. Walk with gladness in the morning. See what love can do and dare. Drink the wine of resurrection, not a servant, but a friend; Jesus is our strong companion. Joy and peace shall never end. Christ is risen! Earth and heaven nevermore shall be the same. Break the bread of new creation where the world is still in pain. Tell its grim, demonic chorus: "Christ is risen! Get you gone!" God the First and Last is with us. Sing Hosanna everyone! Message “Tell Peter” Mark 14: 27-31 and 14: 66-72 Offering Doxology “Glory Be to the Father” UMH #70 Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. Resurrection Hymn “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” UMH #302 Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia! Earth and heaven in chorus say, Alleluia! Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia! Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia! Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia! Where, O death is now thy sting? Alleluia! Once he died our souls to save, Alleluia! Where’s thy victory, boasting grave? Alleluia! Unison Benediction And now, may the God of peace, who brought back again from the dead our Lord Jesus, equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, all this is pleasing to him. To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. Postlude “Thine is the Glory” Judas Maccabeus tune Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Jesus is Alive – Life Wins!
Written by Jim Hardenbrook "For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living." Psalm 116:8-9 This week, the one we call Holy, is filled with death, tears, and stumbling. Just read any gospel account of Jesus’s last week on earth and you will see what I mean. Jesus becomes indignant about the misuse of the temple. He cries when considering the future of Jerusalem. He agonizes over his betrayal and crucifixion. He stumbles while carrying his cross to Golgotha. He dies. But this is only part of the story. It is only the story until Sunday morning. Sunday morning is when Jesus walked again – in the land of the living! The land of the living isn’t necessarily a place of peace but it is a place where life wins over death. As Eugene Peterson wrote: That’s where we Christians are stationed to affirm the primacy of life over death, to give a witness to the connectedness and preciousness of all life, to engage in the practice of resurrection. We do this by gathering in congregations and regular worship before our life-giving God and our death-defeating Christ and our life-abounding Holy Spirit. We do it by reading, pondering, teaching, and preaching the Word of Life as it is revealed in our Scriptures. We do it by baptizing men, women, and children in the name of the Trinity, nurturing them into a resurrection life. We do it by eating the life of Jesus in the bread and wine of the Eucharist. We do it by visiting prisoners, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, welcoming the stranger, healing the sick, working for justice, loving our enemies, raising our children, doing our everyday work to the glory of God. This Sunday, Resurrection Sunday, will be such a time: a time to challenge the forces of death and destruction with the incredibly powerful news that Jesus is alive. Life wins! You, Lord Jesus, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from stumbling. May I may walk before you in the land of the living to your eternal praise and glory. Amen. Be Courageous!
by Jean Hershey "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 I’ve always loved the word courageous. It means, “not deterred by danger or pain; brave.” When you hear someone say, Be Courageous! It sounds simple, yes. But its not so easy really, is it. By definition, courageous people believe in themselves. They know who they are and what they stand for. They have strong values, recognize their personal capabilities, and are confident in meeting the challenges that lie before them. Courageous people are passionate and purposeful. The Bible teaches that we are to take courage from the fact that He never leaves us or forsakes us. ... Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” With God, you can face your fear. You are not alone. I will say here that being courageous doesn’t mean that you won’t be afraid. That is not always realistic. Instead, being courageous means to press through the fear when you feel afraid. In fact, sometimes your knees will shake or your anxiety will rise. Your mind may even start racing away with all kinds of “what if” thoughts. About the time this happens, that’s when you have to kick into overdrive and let the Word of God take over. That’s when you have to plunge through your fear and trust in Him. You have to trust God beyond your fears. God laid out a plan if you read a little bit before verse 9 in Joshua, "Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it." I know it is not an easy thing to be brave and courageous as we face all kinds of fears in life. I have been there too many times and know that this can be tough. Personally, when things have looked dark, scary, or intimidating in my life, I’ve had to trust God beyond my fears. And it hasn’t been easy. However, that’s when the Lord would remind me, “Be strong and courageous, I am with you.” And I would have to repeat those words over and over again, and then walk in His strength and courage. We, as Christians, know the plan, we have the tools! We are armed with the Word and God’s promise that he is with us, always. He even sent Jesus to seal the deal. We know the ending too, we win! So Be Courageous! Always! Lord, help me to always remember that you walk with me every step of the way. I never have to face any fear alone, you are always there. Your Word strengthens me. With that faith help me to be courageous and live without fear. Amen, Payette United Methodist Church
April 10, 2022 Palm Sunday (as recorded at Fruitland United Methodist Church) Prelude “Ride on, Ride on in Majesty" Arranged by Lani Smith Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude “Dona Nobis Pacem” Arranged by Ellen Foncannon *Call to Worship The story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, tells us that after his celebrated arrival. He went into the Temple and looked around at everything. As we gather here for worship today may it be with a sense that Jesus has walked in too, and is looking around. May our eyes be open to see Him, may our hearts be ready to be seen by Him, may our worship be worthy of His presence, and may we be transformed so that we see the world through his eyes. Amen. Children’s Processional with Congregational Singing “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” UMH #278 1 Hosanna, loud hosanna the little children sang; through pillared court and temple the lovely anthem rang. To Jesus, who had blessed them, close folded to his breast, the children sang their praises, the simplest and the best. 2 From Olivet they followed mid an exultant crowd, the victory palm branch waving, and chanting clear and loud. The Lord of earth and heaven rode on in lowly state, nor scorned that little children should on his bidding wait. 3 "Hosanna in the highest!" That ancient song we sing, for Christ is our Redeemer, the Lord of heaven, our King. O may we ever praise him with heart and life and voice, and in his blissful presence eternally rejoice. Responsive Reading based on Isaiah 6: 3 One: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory. All: The Lord of hosts is with us. One: Let us lift up our hearts! All: We lift them up to the Lord! One: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God! All: It is a good and joyful thing to give God thanks and praise! Unison Invocation On this day, your Son Jesus Christ entered the holy city of Jerusalem and was proclaimed King by those who spread their garments and palm branches along his way. Let those branches be for us signs of his victory, and grant that we who bear them in his name may ever hail him as our Lord, and follow him in the way that leads to eternal life. In his name we pray. Amen Choir “Ride On, King Jesus” Old Testament Reading Psalm 118: 1-2, 19-29 Gospel Reading Luke 19 28-40 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God! Hymn “All Glory, Laud, and Honor” UMH #280 All glory, laud and honor, To Thee, Redeemer, King, To Whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring. Thou art the King of Israel, Thou David’s royal Son, Who in the Lord’s Name comes, The King and Blessèd One. All glory, laud and honor, To Thee, Redeemer, King, To Whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring. The company of angels Are praising Thee on High, And we with all creation in chorus make reply. All glory, laud and honor, To Thee, Redeemer, King, To Whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring. The people of the Hebrews With palms before Thee went; Our prayer and praise and anthems Before Thee we present. All glory, laud and honor, To Thee, Redeemer, King, To Whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring. To thee, before thy passion, they sang their hymns of praise; to thee, now high exalted, our melody we raise. Children’s Moment Prayers of the People and The Lord’s Prayer Offering Doxology “Glory Be to the Father” UMH #70 Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. Message Commitment Song “Are Ye Able” UMH #530 1 "Are ye able," said the Master, "To be crucified with me?" "Yea," the sturdy dreamers answered, "To the death we follow Thee." Refrain: Lord, we are able. Our spirits are Thine. Remold them, make us, Like Thee, divine. Thy guiding radiance Above us shall be A beacon to God, To love, and loyalty. 2 Are ye able to remember, When a thief lifts up his eyes, That his pardoned soul is worthy Of a place in paradise? [Refrain] 3 Are ye able when the shadows Close around you with the sod, To believe that spirit triumphs, To commend your soul to God? [Refrain] 4 "Are ye able?" Still the Master Whispers down eternity, And heroic spirits answer Now, as then, in Galilee. [Refrain] Unison Benediction* May you know hope in the midst of doubts, Assurance in times of questioning And peace in the presence of conflict. May your journey through Lent Lead you ever closer to the heart of God, And may God walk with you all your days. Closing Hymn “God Be with You, Till We Meet Again” UMH #672 Postlude “All Glory, Laud and Honor” St. Theodulph tune Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord – I Want to See You
by Jessica Adams and Lucy Adams-Hardenbrook "Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls." 1 Peter 1:8-9 Our daughter-in-law, Jess, shared this conversation she had with our five-year-old granddaughter, Lucy. Feeling like I have a little saint in the making on my hands tonight. Lucy at bedtime, weeping: I know Jesus is in my heart. Jess: Yes, he is! Does that make you sad? What’s the matter? Lucy: It’s just that I’ve never seen him. Jess: Well, most people don’t, but you could pray for that. Lucy: You mean I could make up a “pray” and ask Jesus to let me be a person who sees him? Jess: Yes! You can definitely make up that prayer. Lucy: Now? Jess: Absolutely. Lucy, still weeping: Oh, Jesus, I pray that you could please, PLEASE make me a person who sees you because I love you so much and I never want to lose you. Jess: That was wonderful. Did anyone out there pray like that when you were five years old? Open the eyes of my heart, Lord; open the eyes of my heart – I want to see you; I want to see you. Amen. Quick to Listen
by Deanna Carr "Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry." James 1:19 NLT I went to the bank, but the man I wanted to speak to was busy. I went to Walgreens to pick a up prescription at the drive-thru window. There was a sign there that said "no pharmacist available". That was different from their normal sign they put up when the staff is having a lunch break from 1:30-2:00. Many times I have gone there when they were closed for lunch. But remember this sign was different, NO PHARMACIST AVALABLE. It even said where the closest Walgreens is from Ontario. I decided to physically go into the store and the shades were down. Then, I went to the front counter and asked the clerk. He said they w²ere probably just at lunch. I decided to run another errand to the Phones Plus store. The gal messed around with my iPad and she was making progress. She then said that I needed to come back in thirty minutes. So, I went to a coffee place and purchased an expensive coffee. After thirty minutes had elapsed, I went back. Within five minutes it was ready to go and I headed back to Walgreens. I checked to see if cars were in line and there was one, so I got in line behind it. The driver seemed to be waiting a long time and I could hear her angry words. So, I got out of my car and went to talk to her to see if they were really in there. She said they were but they were just messing around and they didn't know what they were doing. After waiting a little more, I decided, I would come back later. I tried to get the lady behind me to back up. There was no response. I got back in the car and waited a little bit more. I discovered she had been sleeping. I signaled for her to back up. She did, but I hardly had enough room to back out. I went home and called the pharmacy. The robot lady can't answer your questions unless she is programmed for the right ones. I finally was referred to someone who could help me. I told the pharmacy tech, Orion, what had happened. I know him. He said he was really sorry, but they had a problem with their Covid shots and were about to lose them. My heart went out to him and the other workers. I said I would come back later. I went home to discover that the young man who is redoing my bathroom had made minimal progress. He has been working on it since November. He is starting a full time job on Monday. I learned a little about anger, today.
When is it good to be angry? Jesus got angry. James writes about righteous and unrighteous anger. The late James Lewis talked about good trouble. The January 6th attack on the capital was not good anger or good trouble. Righteous anger cares about others. Righteous anger doesn't hurt. It doesn't retaliate. Sinful anger opposes love, kindness, and respect. Righteous anger doesn't demean or denigrate. Righteous anger is improving and building relationships. Our Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace that we don't deserve. Thank you for giving us second chances. Thank you for your magnificent love. Help us to be like Jesus in all we do and all we say. Amen. Don’t Give Up Hope
by Anne DeBord "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His love endures forever." Psalm118:1 When my oldest son was about ten years old, he took on the summer job of caring for the neighbors’ yard while they were on vacation. With extra effort and for a little surprise for them, he was arranging medium sized rocks around the outside edge of the pond. All was going well when he accidently dropped a rock on his right index finger and thumb causing blood to flow, pain to start and a short run home to Mom for a look. It looked bad enough for a trip to the doctor, and it was close enough to quitting time for Dad to come home and help out with the crisis trip. Dad could drive and Mom could soothe a scared child. Causing more problems was the fact that my son was planning a trip with his grandparents to Spokane for the World’s Fair in just a few days. The doctor analyzed the situation, found the thumbnail broken as well as the finger and thumb and it required splinting. We were sure the trip would have to be cancelled, but to our surprise, the doctor said, “You can heal traveling as well as sitting around being depressed.” “Thank God,” I said. Our son’s accident didn’t ruin a blessed chance to go have fun with his grandparents. Praying in the crisis, along with us parents adding our layer of soothing, led to a very positive result. In simple daily life, we pray for a clear view in moving forward in hope for a good future. Amen. Playing by God’s Rules
by Chase Van Weerdhuizen Pharaoh’s officials said to him, “how long shall this fellow be a snare to us? Let the people go, so that they may worship the LORD their God; do you not yet understand that Egypt is ruined?” Exodus 10:7 It’s hard to lose at the game. Pharaoh was part of a tradition of winners. The kings and queens of Egypt never lost at anything. They were a global superpower at the time and had stayed that way for thousands of years by being the best at what they did. They had a highly skilled army. They were the best representational artists on the planet. And don’t get me started on how good they were at stacking rocks on top of each other! They had to be good at everything. They were surviving on a temperamental river system at the east of the Sahara. There was no room for losers. Of course in order to be a winner, someone has to be a loser. In the case of Egypt, it was the slaves needed to maintain their infrastructure. At this point in the story, God had started letting Egypt know that he wasn’t happy about the whole slavery thing. But Pharaoh continued to hold out, causing his own team to suffer. Pharaoh’s officials were reminding him of his duty to his entire kingdom. Why wasn’t he worried about how their livestock had keeled over? Or how the Deben was going down in value? Or that everyone was still trying to sweep frogs out of their houses? Oh let’s not forget how the sky had been streaked with fire and ice just the day before. Or that beyond their borders they had to deal with enemy states like the Mitanni and the Libyans who were ready to pounce at any moment. Because it wasn’t just God who wasn’t happy with them, it was all their neighbors too. Maybe if they’d been just a bit nicer before… Pharaoh was willing to give up everything to win in a contest of spite against his adopted brother and his brother’s God. Often we are tempted to do the same, whether it is for our pride, hate, or even grief. God calls on us to be better sportspersons. Not only do we follow Christ’s example so that we might truly enjoy the game being played, but I’m pretty sure he’s willing to pay for an ice cream cone at the drive-in on the way home. Dear God, help me to play by your rules when it’s so easy to follow my own. As we approach the darkest days of Lent, let Christ be our example of how to win the game against death. Amen. Sally
by Pam Hardenbrook "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2 Sally was making a trip from Idaho to Georgia to see her son receive an honor for his Marine Corps service. It was in the mid-1960s and she had never traveled in the southeast—and she had never met a black person. It was the second or third day of the trip when a young, very pregnant black woman and two small boys boarded, and it was all the young mother could do to manage the children and their belongings. Having been in similar circumstances when her own brood was young, Sally jumped in to help and got them settled near herself. Sally chatted with the woman, helped entertain the children, and shared her snacks. Near lunchtime, the train stopped for awhile for some passengers to transfer to another train. Sally helped her new friends disembark and fetched their food from the depot lunch counter. The young family was taking another train from there, so Sally hugged them, and said good-bye. She never saw them again. When Sally re-boarded, the atmosphere was changed. Other passengers, all of them white, were aloof, if not rude to her. But the train employees, who were black, treated her with extra kindness. Later, Sally went to the dining car. Careful not to overspend, she ordered a sandwich and coffee. When her meal arrived, it included much more than she ordered, plus a piece of pie. “Compliments,” said the dark-skinned waiter. When Sally arrived at her destination, a porter gathered her bags and escorted her off the train to her waiting son. He simply said, “All of us thanks you for your kindness to that family. God bless you, Ma’am.” Jesus’s parents took at least two long trips—once while expecting and once with the young Child. I wonder if there was someone like Sally to help them. I wonder if that person had any idea who the family was. Heavenly Father, at this Lenten Season, open my eyes to those whom I can touch with kindness, grace, and love. Amen.
Jesus Seeds
by Letha Essinger "Then [Jesus] told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear.” Matthew 13:3-9 Growing up in Kansas on a dry-land farm I looked forward each year to the coming of spring, with all the newness of life that it brought. Baby chicks arrived in the back seat of the rural mail carrier's car, and baby piglets and new calves were born. Weeds and perennial flowers sprung up and bushes promised delicious berries in summer. My father prepared the soil in our gardens and our fields for planting. I loved planting the seeds, imagining the good food that would be harvested in summer and the beautiful flowers to enjoy. I remember one summer I took a few dried peas and beans from Mom's pantry and made a secret little garden in the draw behind our house. I was delighted to see them actually grow. I'm told that “you can take the girl out of Kansas, but you can't take Kansas out of the girl.” I still delight in playing in the dirt. The winter chores had better be finished before mid-March, or they will have to wait until fall. You will find me all spring, summer, and into fall in my garden. Our youngest daughter inherited the “dirt-under-the-fingernails” gene. She plans her spring breaks from the university (where she works) to come play in the dirt with her mom. I'm wondering – who planted the Jesus seeds in your life? Who was it that loved Jesus and wanted you to love him too? We had Sunday school in our little one-room schoolhouse. One of my seed planter/saints was Sadie Intermill. She was the organizer that made sure Sunday school happened. The main thing I remember is singing with Mrs. Intermill playing every key on the piano, with exuberance, for us to sing “Jesus Loves Me,” “Brighten The Corner Where You Are,” or “Heavenly Sunshine.” We memorized Bible verses and little poems to recite. When I grew up, I wanted to be just like Sadie Intermill. As a layperson, and later as a pastor, I pray that I planted some Jesus seeds in many lives. No matter that I could never play the piano. I still love to sing! Hymn of Promise, composed by Natalie Sleeth, captures the idea of how “Jesus seeds” grow and produce fruit. In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree; in cocoons, a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free! In the cold and snow of winter there's a spring that waits to be, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. Our loving heavenly Father, thank you for those who planted “Jesus seeds” in my life. Grant me grace to share seeds of love, hope, and faith in the lives of others. Amen. Prayer Vigil
by Larry Haley "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Matthew 18:20 KJV Several years ago our pastor announced his intention to retire. We were a small church congregation and our pastor served us part-time which was just what we needed. We were concerned about who could provide this limited but important role for us. Part-time pastors are hard to find. Would a new pastor be serving multiple churches? Would our worship time need to change? Our retiring pastor suggested we start a prayer vigil focused on a new pastor and what we needed. We decided that for the months of February and March, the time before new pastors are assigned, that we would have Prayer Tuesdays. The plan was to have one hour prayer times in the church sanctuary that individuals could reserve and come and pray. The times were from 6am to 9pm. Immediately folks signed up and we filled most of the slots. And so on the first Tuesday in February the prayer vigil began and continued for the two months. Sometime in April we were contacted that our new pastor had been selected and he was brought to our church by our DS and introduced. He was a retired pastor/DS who lived 15 minutes away. He wanted part-time at one church. And then he said “I decided I wanted to return to preaching and on the first Tuesday in February I called the DS to see if there was a possibility.” The day we started our prayer vigil! We prayed for two months not knowing that God had already answered our prayers. In reflection, I’ve thought of the verse of being gathered in God’s name and I now believe it not only refers to physical gathering but also to spiritual gathering. Prayer: Lord, you know what we need before we do. Help us to listen to you and to accept what you provide. Amen We Have Been Set Free
by Jean Hershey “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 I found this story several years ago, and it brings tears to my eyes every time I read it. Let me share it with you today. As a man was passing the elephants at a circus, he suddenly stopped, confused by the fact that these huge creatures were being held by only a small rope tied to their front leg. No chains, no cages. It was obvious that the elephants could, at any time, break away from their bonds but for some reason, they did not. He saw a trainer nearby and asked why these animals just stood there and made no attempt to get away. “Well,” trainer said, “when they are very young and much smaller, we used the same size rope to tie them and, at that age, it’s enough to hold them. As they grow up, they are conditioned to believe they cannot break away. They believe the rope can still hold them, so they never try to break free.” Like the elephants, how many of us go through life hanging onto a belief that we cannot do something, simply because we failed at it once before? It seems a common human response to failure. We are bound by the belief that we just can’t, and we don’t try. Failure is part of learning though; we should never give up the struggle in life. Especially when we have the strongest advocate ever, Jesus Christ, who lifts us up and strengthens us! Our bindings have been broken by the blood and sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross! We have been set free! Jesus, help me remember that I can do all things through you. You strengthen me and are with me with every step I take. Through you I am released from the bonds that hold me, the fears of failure, and I can make it through any conflict or trial if I but lean on your strength and keep my eyes on You! Amen. Payette United Methodist Church
April 3, 2022 Prelude “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” By Ludwig Van Beethoven, arranged by John Innes Welcome The lighting of the candles and welcoming the neighborhood to worship. Interlude “How Majestic is Your Name” By Michael W Smith, arranged by Lani Smith *Call to Worship Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Calling Song “Great Is the Lord” TFWS #2022 Great is the Lord He is holy and just By His power we trust In His love Great is the Lord He is faithful and true By His mercy He proves He is love Great is the Lord And worthy of glory Great is the Lord And worthy of praise Great is the Lord Now lift up your voice Now lift up your voice Great is the Lord Great is the Lord Great is the Lord, He is holy and just By His power we trust In His love Great is the Lord He is faithful, and true By His mercy He proves He is love Great is the Lord And worthy of glory Great is the Lord And worthy of praise Great is the Lord Now lift up your voice Now lift up your voice Great is the Lord Great is the Lord Great are you Lord And worthy of glory Great are you Lord And worthy of praise Great are you Lord I lift up my voice I lift up my voice Great are you Lord Great are you Lord Responsive Reading One: Lent is a coming home, All: Home from weary years, One: Home to calm our fears, All: Home to dry our tears. One: Lent is a coming home, All: Home to remember our name, One: Home to a warm embrace, All: Home to a hopeful place, One: Home to God's own heart, All: Home to a renewal of joy and a song of love. Unison Invocation Loving God, patient Friend, walk with us this Lent and help us see our desire to be known, praised, admired for what it is. Help us see how we have bought into believing that our worth comes from what we do and how we are noticed. Remind us that faithfulness is often hidden, humble and simple. Give us a generous dose of self-confidence mixed with humility. And when we get confused and out of balance, bring us home to our true selves and set our eyes upon Jesus, our companion and guide. Amen. Choir “Give Me Jesus” Old Testament Reading Isaiah 43:18-21 Gospel Reading John 12:1-8 God’s Word for God’s People. Thanks Be To God Hymn “More Like You” TFWS #2167 More like You Jesus More like You Fill my heart with Your desire To make me more like You More like You Jesus More like You Touch my lips with holy fire And make me more like You Lord You are my mercy Lord You are my grace All my deepest sins Have forever been erased Draw me in Your presence Lead me in Your ways I long to bring You glory In righteousness and praise Children’s Moment Offering Doxology “The Gift of Love” UMH #408 Though I may speak with bravest fire, and have the gift to all inspire, and have not love, my words are vain, as sounding brass, and hopeless gain. Though I may give all I possess, and striving so my love profess, but not be given by love within, the profit soon turns strangely thin. Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control, our spirits long to be made whole. Let inward love guide every deed; by this we worship, and are freed. Message “Love In the Name of Christ” The Communion Service The Apostles Creed I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy universal church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Communion Hymn “In Remembrance of Me” TFWS #2254 Our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Let us confess our sin before God and one another. Prayer of Confession and Pardon Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart Our faith has been tested and we have stumbled. Forgive us, we pray. Our feet have strayed from the path of Christ and we have wandered from you. Forgive us, we pray. We have put our faith in the loud voices of this world, ignoring your whispers. Forgive us, we pray. We do want to follow Jesus, the Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen. Hear the good news; Christ died for us while we were yet sinners. That proves God’s love for us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Thanks be to God! Bread and Cup Please pray: Eternal God, we give you thanks for this holy mystery in which “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Strengthen us in mind, body and soul for the days ahead. May your Spirit fill us as we live and pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. Unison Benediction* May you know hope in the midst of doubts, assurance in times of questioning and peace in the presence of conflict. May your journey through Lent lead you ever closer to the heart of God, and may God walk with you all your days. Closing Hymn “The Trees of the Fields” TFWS #2279 You shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace, And the mountains and the hills will break forth before you. There'll be shouts of joy and the trees of the fields Will clap, will clap their hands. And the trees of the fields will clap their hands, And the trees of the fields will clap their hands, And the trees of the fields will clap their hands, While you go out with joy. Postlude “Fanfare” By Jean Joseph Mouret, arranged by Lani Smith Thank you for Worshiping with us today! (CCLI License #1552544) Facing the Hard Truth
by Chase Van Weerdhuizen "So the priest Hilkiah, Ahikam, Achbor, Shapan, and Asiah went to the prophetess Huldah…. She declared to them, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: Tell the man who sent you to me, Thus says the Lord, I will indeed bring disaster on this place and on its inhabitants — all the words of the book that the king of Judah has read.”" 2 Kings 22:14-15 The prophetess Huldah gets nine verses in the Bible, but boy does she use them! According to Rabbinic thought, King Josiah likely sent his men to Huldah expecting that since she was a woman she would have kinder words for him about his kingdom than the doom and gloom of the prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah wasn’t known for being a happy camper at the time. Unfortunately what Josiah got still wasn’t the best news. If you read the entire story, God lets King Josiah off the hook for his piety, but speaking on behalf of God, Huldah had a lot to say about his chosen people. Often in our lives we know the hard truths. We have to actually go out and pull those weeds or they’ll keep coming back. We should put our phones down before bed so that we can actually fall asleep. We even do a quick internet search that says, “Yes, you do need to pull them out” and “Yes, you do need to put your phone down before bed.” We ask our coworker and they concur. We ask our family and they say the same thing. But there has to be a way to not face the hard truth, right? We take a weed whacker to those pesky goat heads! We buy special glasses that cut down on certain light frequencies so that we can still sit on our phones past bedtime! But unfortunately we still end up with weeds and we wake up tired. There are certain messages we can expect from God over and over again. When there is injustice in his kingdom, he will bring peace. Where people are cast aside, he will lift them up! Where there is death, he will bring resurrection! And he wants us to be a part of the process. It may be uncomfortable for us to face facts and join in the work. We may not want to listen to the answer we know we’ll hear, but God’s truth won’t change no matter which source we go to. Dear God, Today please open my ears to your messengers. Help me to tackle the hard challenges instead of the easy solutions. Amen. |
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