Lessons and Hymn Suggestions
Advent-Transfiguration of Our Lord, Cycle C
December 1, 2024 – March 2, 2025
NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)
WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)
LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.
Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.
Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance, I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.
A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for Advent
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.
Most merciful God, I confess to you with my whole heart my neglect and forgetfulness of your commandments: my wrong thinking, speaking, and acting; the hurts I have done to others; and the good I have left undone. O God, forgive me, for I have sinned against you. Raise me to newness of life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Hear this promise of Almighty God: He prepares in our hearts a royal highway for his Son’s near approach, and cleanses us from all our sins. He drives away the darkness of sin and death, that we may behold the glory of his Son, the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Spoken Gospel Acclamation for Advent
Alleluia. Come and save us, LORD our God. Let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Alleluia.
Offertory Prayer for Advent
Holy God, receive these tokens of our love for you. Make them holy, and use them as you desire, for the glory of your coming Kingdom, and for the well-being of the people you long to redeem. This we ask in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Post-Communion Prayer for Advent
Almighty and ever-living God, we give you thanks for these heavenly gifts. Kindle in us the fire of your Spirit. When your Christ comes again, make us shine as lights before his face; who is alive and reigns now and forever. Amen.
Sending Words for Advent
Go in peace. Prepare the way of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for Christmastide
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.
Most merciful Father, we confess that we walk in the darkness of sin and not in your light. Sometimes we treat the priceless gift of your Son as an afterthought. We do not share the gifts of forgiveness, mercy, and care with those who need them from us. Lead us into the light of your love. Restore to us the joy proclaimed by angels and shepherds at your Son’s birth among us. Amen.
Behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy: For unto you is born a Savior who is Christ the Lord. His name is Jesus, for he saves us from our sins. He is called Emmanuel, for he is God with us. For his sake, his Father forgives and blesses you, calls you his children, and bestows his Holy Spirit to guide, strengthen, and sanctify you in all your words and deeds. Amen.
Spoken Gospel Acclamation for Christmastide
Alleluia. The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him he gave power to become the children of God. Alleluia.
Offertory Prayer for Christmastide
Heavenly Father, receive, bless, and use these gifts, given for love Jesus Christ, your gift to us, your Son, our Savior, and our Lord. Amen.
Post-Communion Prayer for Christmastide
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your great gift of love, your Son Jesus Christ. May we who have received his body and blood bear the light of his love into the world, to your glory and for the healing of the nations. Amen.
Sending Words for Christmastide
Go in peace. Christ is born. Thanks be to God.
A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for the Epiphany Season
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.
Most merciful Father, in Christ our light has come. But sometimes we prefer the darkness of sin. We do not let your light shine in our lives so others may see our good works and glorify you. We are deeply sorry and humbly repent. Forgive us and fill us with your Spirit. Give us the joy of your salvation. Send us out to proclaim your salvation, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Arise, shine, for your Light has come; and the glorious mercy of the Lord shines round about you. In the name of and by the authority of our Savior Jesus Christ, I announce the forgiveness of your sin. May the Holy Spirit strengthen your faith, heal your spirit, and equip you to proclaim the greatness of the Lord until he comes in glory. Amen.
Spoken Gospel Acclamation for the Epiphany Season
Alleluia. Glory to you, O Christ, proclaimed to the Gentiles. Glory to you, O Christ, believed in throughout the world. Alleluia.
Offertory Prayer for the Epiphany Season
Merciful Father, the magi brought gifts to your Son, the Babe of Bethlehem. Graciously accept our gifts, given to glorify and worship Christ our Savior, and to bring healing and hope to the people he came to redeem. Amen.
Post-Communion Prayer for the Epiphany Season
Gracious heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of your dear Son, given to us in this holy Sacrament. Strengthen us, through this gift, in faith toward you, and in fervent love toward one another. This we ask in the name of your Son Jesus Christ, our Light and our Life. Amen.
Sending Words for the Epiphany Season
Go in peace. Share the light of Christ. Thanks be to God.
December 1, 2024: 1st Sunday of Advent
Jeremiah 33:14-16 (The righteous branch of David will spring up)
Psalm 25:1-10 (Be mindful of your mercy, instruct sinners in your way, do not let enemies exult)
1 Thessalonians 3:8-13 (The Lord make you abound in love, and strengthen hearts in holiness
that you may be blameless at the coming of Jesus)
Luke 21:25-36 (The Son of Man comes; heaven and earth will pass away, but not my words)
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Opening Hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: LBW #34, ELW #257, LSB #357
OR When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853, LSB #807
Hymn of the Day: Jesus, Your/Thy Blood and Righteousness (Trust me on this, it works. Play it as a lively lilt, not a tiresome dirge!): LBW #302, LSB #563
OR Savior of the Nations, Come: LBW #28, ELW #263, LSB #332
Communion Hymn #1: LBW#22, The Advent of Our God (LSB #331, The Advent of Our King)
OR Where Charity and Love Prevail (goes with Epistle): LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845
Communion Hymn #2: People, Look East: WOV #626, ELW #248
OR Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah: WOV #630, ELW #240
Closing Hymn: The Clouds of Judgment Gather: LBW #322, LSB #513 (a much more upbeat hymn than the first line indicates. If the tune is tough, sing it to “Aurelia,” aka “The Church’s One Foundation.” Or use what LSB uses- “Llangloffan,” a sturdy Welsh tune.)
OR The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348
December 8, 2024: 2nd Sunday of Advent
Malachi 3:1-7b: (I will send my messenger; refiner’s fire; presents God’s people for judgment)
RCL/ELW: Malachi 3:1-4 (no presentation for judgment)
Psalm 66:1-12: (You refined and tested us, and brought us into spacious place)
RCL/ELW: Luke 1:68-79 (the song of Zechariah)
Philippians 1:2-11: (Prayer that they may overflow with love, wisdom, and insight, and be
blameless at the day of Christ, having produced harvest of righteousness)
Luke 3:1-14(15-20): (The ministry of John the Baptist)
RCL/ELW: Luke 3:1-6 (the rest comes next week)
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Opening Hymn: Come, You/Ye Thankful People, Come (Goes with Old Testament, Epistle): LBW #407, ELW #693, LSB #892
Hymn of the Day: My version of the Benedictus, “Bless Israel’s God” (sung to “O Zion, Haste”)
- Bless Israel’s God; he has redeemed his people:
Raised up a Savior born from David’s line;
Promised of old, through prophets’ proclamation,
To save from deadly foes with pow’r divine;
Promised to show our fathers mercy sure;
Promised his covenant forever shall endure.
- Through Abraham, God swore an oath to save us
From hands of foes, to serve him fearlessly
In holiness and righteousness before him,
There to adore and bless him constantly.
You, child – God’s prophet, go before his face,
Give saving knowledge of forgiveness and God’s grace!
- Tenderly, God bestows his love and mercy,
His heav’nly Dayspring shines upon our plight.
Darkness and death no longer can confound us:
In paths of peace, he guides us by his light.
Glory to Father, Son, and Spirit – Lord
God who through the ages ever is adored!
OR Blest Be the God of Israel (I don’t know the tune, but it looks harmless): ELW #552
OR Blessed Be the God of Israel (The jaunty English folk tune): WOV #725, ELW #250
OR Sing Praise to the God of Israel (A sturdy German tune): LSB #936
Communion Hymn #1: O Lord, How Shall I Meet You: LBW #23, ELW #241, LSB #334
Communion Hymn #2: On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry: LBW #36, ELW #249, LSB #344
Closing Hymn: Comfort, Comfort Now My People: LBW #29, ELW #256, LSB #347
December 15, 2024: 3rd Sunday of Advent
Zephaniah 3:14-20: (Shout for joy, daughter of Zion! God comes as warrior and lover)
Psalm 85: (Show us your steadfast love, grant us your salvation; love and faithfulness meet;
righteousness and peace kiss)
RCL/ELW: Isaiah 12:2-6: (God is my salvation. Give thanks, sing praise,
make his name known)
Philippians 4:4-7: (Rejoice in the Lord always; God’s peace, which passes understanding,
guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus)
Luke 7:18-28 (29-35): (Tell John you have seen the lame walk, the blind given sight, and
the poor given the Gospel)
RCL/ELW: Luke 3:17-18: (Ministry of John, stopping short of being put in prison)
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Opening Hymn: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus: LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB #338
OR Let the Earth Now Praise the Lord (tune for “Savior of the Nations Come”): LSB #352
Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Glad Sound! LBW #35, ELW #239, LSB #349
OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: ELW #843, LSB #849 (both familiar tunes)
OR There’s a Voice in the Wilderness: ELW #255
Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537, LSB #554
OR Awake, Awake, and Greet the New Morn: WOV #633, ELW #242
Communion Hymn #2: Once He Came in Blessing: LBW #312, LSB # 333
OR Jesus, the Very Thought of you: LBW #316, ELW #754
Closing Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers: LBW #25, ELW #244, LSB #515
OR Light Dawns on a Weary World: ELW #726
December 22, 2024: 4th Sunday of Advent
Micah 5:2-5a: (From Bethlehem comes the mighty Shepherd who will feed his flock)
Psalm 80:1-7: (Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine!
Stir up your might! Restore us; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Hebrews 10:5-10: (Christ comes to do God’s will and sanctify us by his offering)
Luke 1:39-56: (Magnificat!)
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Opening Hymn: Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming (traditional words, harmonies): ELW #272, LSB #359
Lo, How a Rose is Growing: LBW #58
Hymn of the Day: My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord: LBW #180, LSB #934
OR All Earth is Hopeful (Very simple, gentle Hispanic carol): WOV 629, ELW #266
OR My version of the Magnificat (sung to “Cantad al Senor”)
My soul magnifies my God and my true Lord,
My Savior, my joy, by my spirit adored!
He looks upon me, though servant most lowly
With favor and grace. O, praise God most holy!
Now all generations shall call me blessed,
Great things God has done for me: I confess it!
Almighty and holy, to all who fear him,
His mercy he grants, to draw them near him.
But his mighty arm refuses and scatters
The haughty and vain, the proud and their matters.
The high and the mighty, God shall dethrone,
But lift up the poor and needy alone.
The hungry are fed from God’s hand, with his bread,
But he sends away the fortunate, unfed.
He helps Israel, his servant of old,
For his promised mercy now shall unfold.
To forefather Abraham, and to his seed,
God promises help and mercy in their need.
Give glory, therefore, to Father and Son,
And to Holy Spirit, while ages run!
Communion Hymn #1: Let Our Gladness Have No End: LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381
Communion Hymn #2: Of the Father’s Love Begotten: LBW #42, ELW #295, LSB #384
Closing Hymn: O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361
December 24, 2024: Christmas Eve, the Nativity of Our Lord
Isaiah 9:2-7: (The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; for to us a child is born; his name is Wonderful Counsellor…)
Psalm 96:(The Lord is king; he will judge world with righteousness and the people with his truth)
Titus 2:11-14: (We wait for the blessed hope, glorious manifestation of our God and Savior: Jesus. He gave himself for us, redeems us, purifies for himself a people zealous for good deeds)
Luke 2:1-20: (The Nativity of Jesus Christ)
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Opening Hymn: O Come, All Ye Faithful: LBW #45, ELW #283, LSB #379
Hymn of Praise: Angels We Have Heard on High: LBW #71, ELW #289, LSB #368
Gradual Hymn: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice: LBW #55, ELW #288
OR The People That in Darkness Sat (familiar tune, great paraphrase of Isaiah!): LSB #412
Hymn of the Day: It Came Upon the Midnight Clear: LBW #54, ELW #282, LSB #366
OR (for something different but easy, beautiful, classic): See Amid the Winter’s Snow: LSB #373
Offertory Hymn: What Child is This: LBW #40, ELW #296, LSB #370
Communion Hymns: Use as many as needed for your circumstance!
I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve: LBW #69, ELW #271
Away in a Manger: LBW #67, ELW #277, 278; LSB #364, 365
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly: LBW #44, ELW #276, LSB #393
O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361
Candle-Lighting Hymn: Silent Night: LBW #65, ELW #281, LSB #363
Closing Hymn: Joy to the World: LBW #39, ELW #267, LSB #387
December 25, 2024: Christmas Day, the Nativity of Our Lord
Isaiah 52:7-10: (How beautiful are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, brings good news, announces salvation, and who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”)
Psalm 2: (“You are my son; today I have begotten you. Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession.)
RCL/ELW: Psalm 98 (Sing praise to the Lord, who comes to judge with righteousness!)
Hebrews 1:1-12: (In many and various ways, God spoke to his people of old by the prophets; but
now in these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son.)
John 1:1-18: (In the beginning was the Word; the Word became flesh and dwelt among us; we
have beheld his glory, full of grace and truth…)
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Opening Hymn: LBW #50, Angels, From the Realms of Glory (LSB #367, ELW #275)
Hymn of Praise: LBW #60, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing (LSB #380, ELW #270)
Gradual Hymn: From Heaven Above to Earth I Come: LBW #51, v. 1-4, 12-14, LSB #358, v. 1-4, 13-15; ELW #268, v. 1-4, 12-14
Hymn of the Day: Once in Royal David’s City: WOV #643, ELW #269, LSB #376
OR All Hail to You, O Blessed Morn: LBW #73
OR Rejoice, Rejoice This Happy Morn (the 1-verse wonder of the same tune): LSB #43,
OR Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light. (I can’t believe this isn’t in LBW): LSB #378
Offertory Hymn: In the Bleak Midwinter (I can’t believe THIS isn’t, either!): ELW #294
OR What Child is This: LBW #40, ELW #296, LSB #370
Communion Hymn #1: The Bells of Christmas: LBW#62, ELW #298
Communion Hymn #2: Lo How a Rose: LBW #58, ELW #272, LSB #359
Closing Hymn: Go Tell it on the Mountain: LBW #70, ELW #290, LSB #388
December 29, 2024: First Sunday of Christmas
Exodus 13:1-3a, 11-15:(Consecrate your firstborn males: I freed you from slavery by killing Egyptian firstborn)
RCL/ELW: 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 (The child Samuel ministers at Shiloh)
Psalm 111: (Great are God’s works; the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom)
Colossians 3:12-17: (Clothe selves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
forgiveness, love. Let peace of Christ rule in your hearts, and his word dwell in you richly)
Luke 2:22-40: (In Temple, Simeon and Anna glorify God for Jesus, the fulfillment of his promises)
RCL/ELW: Luke 2:41-52: (the boy Jesus with the elders in the Temple)
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Opening Hymn: Let Our Gladness Have No End: LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381
OR Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 1-4; ELW #287, v. 1-4; LSB #389, v. 1-4
Hymn of Praise: Hark, the Herald Angels Sing: LBW #60, ELW #270, LSB #380
Hymn of the Day: Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589 (Outstanding words. Fits Samuel, either Gospel text)
OR Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (Good for Simeon/ Anna): LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB#338
Communion Hymn #1: O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361
Communion Hymn #2: The First Noel: LBW #56, ELW #300
Closing Hymn: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 5-7; ELW #287, v. 5-6; LSB #389, v. 5-7
OR O Lord, Now Let Your Servant: LBW #339, ELW #313
OR my paraphrase of the Nunc Dimittus, “Lord, Let Your Servant Go in Peace.”
Use tune for “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” or “The Bells of Christmas.”
Lord, let your servant go in peace; your faithful Word you have fulfilled.
This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed.
With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory given to Israel,
The Light to nations lost, the peace that makes your wounded people well.
Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son!
Your light no darkness overtakes while endless ages ever run.
January 5, 2025: 2nd Sunday of Christmas 2 OR Epiphany, Transferred
Christmas 2 Lessons and Hymns:
1 Kings 3:4-15: (God grants Solomon’s request for wisdom)
RCL/ELW: Jeremiah 31:7-14: (God will ransom his people, lead them like a shepherd)
Psalm 119:97-104: (You have made me wiser than my enemies because I meditate on your law)
RCL/ELW: Psalm 147: 12-20: Praise for God feeding, protecting, blessing his people)
Ephesians 1: 3-14: (God makes us holy, blameless in Christ, adopts us as children)
Luke 2:40-52: (the boy Jesus with the elders in the Temple)
RCL/ELW: John 1:1-18: In the beginning was the Word, full of grace and truth!
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Opening Hymn: Come Rejoicing, Praises Voicing (A lovely, simple Bohemian carol): LBW #66
OR Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty: LBW #250, ELW #533, LSB #901
Hymn of Praise: Joy to the World: LBW #39, ELW #267, LSB #387
Hymn of the Day: All Hail To You, O Blessed Morn: LBW #73
OR Of the Father’s Love Begotten: LBW #42, ELW #295, LSB #384
Communion Hymn #1: Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725
Communion Hymn #2: Go Tell It On the Mountain: LBW #70, ELW #290, ELW #388
Closing Hymn: The Bells of Christmas: LBW #62, ELW #298
The Epiphany of Our Lord lessons and texts (transferred or on the day!)
Isaiah 60:1-6: (Arise, shine, your Light has come; kings shall bring riches)
Psalm 72:1-11(12-15): (Give the king justice, O God, let kings from far away bring tribute)
Ephesians 3:1-12 (Paul is an apostle to the Gentiles, who are granted fullness of salvation
through Christ)
Matthew 2:1-12: (The wise men come to worship Jesus, return home by another way)
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Opening Hymn: As With Gladness Men of Old: LBW #82, ELW #302, LSB #397
Hymn of the Day: O Chief of Cities, Bethlehem (a nice English folk tune. And the words really shouldn’t be missed. Still you can use tune for “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”): LBW #81
OR Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies: LBW #265, ELW #553, LSB #873
OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here, LSB #399, v. 1, 2, 5
Communion Hymn #1: We Three Kings of Orient Are: WOV #646
OR Light Shone in Darkness: ELW #307
Communion Hymn #2: Bright and Glorious is the Sky: LBW #75, ELW #301
Closing Hymn: Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning: LBW #84, ELW #303, LSB #400
January 12, 2025: The Baptism of Our Lord
Isaiah 43:1-7: (I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior)
Psalm 29: (Ascribe glory to the Lord; his mighty voice resounds over the waters)
Romans 6:1-11: (We are baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ)
RCL/ELW: Acts 8:14-17 (Peter and John lay hands on those baptized in Jesus’ name, they
receive Spirit)
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22: (John speaks of the One who will baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit; the
baptism of Jesus)
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Opening Hymn: When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853
Hymn of the Day: Praise and Thanksgiving Be to God Our Maker
(tune is same as for “Father Most Holy”): LBW #191, ELW #458
OR To Jordan’s River Came Our Lord: LSB #405
OR When Jesus Came to Jordan: WOV #647, ELW #305
OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here: LSB #399, v. 1, 3, 5
Communion Hymn #1: How Firm a Foundation: LBW 507, ELW #796, LSB #728
OR Remember and Rejoice: ELW #454
Communion Hymn #2: O Worship the King: LBW #548, ELW #842, LSB #804
Closing Hymn: I Bind Unto Myself Today: LBW #188, ELW #450, LSB #604
(ELW and LSB conveniently have this laid out on 2 facing pages. LSB also has a verse that has been omitted from LBW and ELW. If you dare, add it: “Against the demon snares of sin, the vice that gives temptation force, the natural lusts that war within, the hostile foes that mar my course; Or few or many, far or nigh, in ev’ry place, and in all hours, against their fierce hostility, I bind to me those holy pow’rs!):
January 19, 2025: 2nd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 1
Isaiah 62:1-5: (Zion shall be the beautiful and beloved bride of God)
Psalm 128: (The blessedness of family life for those who love God)
RCL/ELW: Psalm 36:5-10: (God’s steadfast love, righteousness, judgments, salvation are for all. “In your light we see light.”)
1 Corinthians 12:1-11: (no one speaking by the Spirit of God says “Let Jesus be cursed;” no one says “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit)
John 2:1-11: (Wedding at Cana)
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Opening Hymn: O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, v. 1-3: LBW #76, ELW #308 (Heaven forfend we should call Jesus our heavenly Bridegroom in verse 2; instead he’s our precious diamond. Sigh.), LSB #395
OR Jesus, Come! For We Invite You: ELW #312
OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here: LSB #399, v. 1, 4, 5
Hymn of the Day: All Praise to You, O Lord: LBW #78
OR Songs of Thankfulness and Praise: LBW #90, ELW #310, LSB #394
Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/458, ELW #775, LSB #743
OR What Feast of Love: WOV #701, ELW #487
Communion Hymn #2: Now the Silence: LBW #205, ELW #460, LSB #910
Closing Hymn: O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, v. 4-6: LBW #76, ELW #308, LSB #395
OR Come, Join in Cana’s Feast: LSB #408
January 26, 2025: 3rd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 2
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10: (Ezra reads the book of Moses, instructs the people; Nehemiah
declares a day of feasting)
Psalm 19:1-14: (The heavens proclaim God’s glory; my heart rejoices in his precepts. Let the
words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in his sight)
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a: (The unity of the Body of Christ)
Luke 4:16-30: (Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah concerning the healing of the poor, lame,
blind and imprisoned, declaring that today that Word has been fulfilled)
RCL/ELW: Luke 4:14-21: (Rest heard next week)
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Opening Hymn: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed: LBW #87, ELW #311, LSB #398
Hymn of the Day: O Christ Our Light, Our Radiance True: LBW #380, ELW #675
O Christ, Our True and Only Light: LSB #839
OR Rise, Shine, You People: LBW #393, ELW #665, LSB #825
OR The People That in Darkness Sat: LSB #412
Communion Hymn #1: We Give Thee But Thine Own: LBW #410, ELW #686, LSB #781
OR Arise, Your Light Has Come: WOV #652, ELW #314
Communion Hymn #2: O God of Mercy, God of Light/Might: LBW #425, ELW #714; LSB #852
Closing Hymn: O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing: LBW #559, ELW #886, LSB #528
February 2, 2025: 4th Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 3
OR Presentation of Our Lord
Epiphany 4 Lessons and Hymns
Jeremiah 1:4-10, 17-19: (God calls Jeremiah to speak his Word)
RCL/ELW: Jeremiah 1:4-10: (Omits “Gird up your loins, tell them everything I speak against them; I make you like a fortified city”)
Psalm 71:1-11: (God, be my rock of refuge; deliver me from enemies, from the cruel and wicked)
RCL/ELW: Psalm 71:1-6: (Eliminates obeisance of the King’s enemies)
1 Corinthians 12:31b-13:13: (In praise of charity; faith, hope and love abide, the greatest is love)
Luke 4:31-44: (Jesus casts out demon in temple; heals Peter’s mother-in-law; tells assorted
demons to take a hike and shut up about him)
RCL/ELW: Luke 4:21-30: (The worshippers take offense at Jesus, try to run him off cliff)
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Opening Hymn: God, Whose Almighty Word: LBW #400, ELW #673
OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: ELW #843, LSB #849
Hymn of the Day: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524
OR (If preaching on 1 Cor.) Although I Speak With Angel’s Tongue: ELW #644
Communion Hymn #1: Where Charity and Love Prevail: LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845
OR Ubi Caritas et Amor: ELW #642
Communion Hymn #2: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842
Closing Hymn: Not for Tongues of Heaven’ Angels: LSB #695
OR Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700
Presentation of Our Lord Lessons and Hymns
1 Samuel 1: 21-28: (Boy Samuel promised, dedicated to God in temple)
Psalm 84: (How lovely is your dwelling, how precious to serve in your Temple!)
Hebrews 2:14-18: (Jesus shares our humanity; frees us from slavery to sin, fear of death; is our merciful high priest, tempted yet sinless)
Luke 2:22-40: (Revisit Simeon and Anna in the Temple!)
*****
Note: Yes, you did this Gospel a few weeks ago. I’ve added some other hymns, but yes, you might want to sing some of the “Presentation-y” hymns again!!
Opening Hymn: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524
OR Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 1-4; ELW #287, v. 1-4; LSB #389, v. 1-4
Hymn of the Day: Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589
OR Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus: LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB#338
Communion Hymn #1: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842
Communion Hymn #2: Go, My Children, With My Blessing: WOV #721, ELW #543, LSB #922
Closing Hymn: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 5-7; ELW #287, v. 5-6; LSB #389, v. 5-7
OR O Lord, Now Let Your Servant: LBW #339, ELW #313
OR my paraphrase of the Nunc Dimittus, “Lord, Let Your Servant Go in Peace.”
Use tune for the Doxology
Lord, let your servant go in peace; your faithful Word you have fulfilled.
This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed.
With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory given to Israel,
The Light to nations lost, the peace that makes your wounded people well.
Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son!
Your light no darkness overtakes while endless ages ever run.
February 9, 2025: Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 4
Isaiah 6: 1-13: (Isaiah’s vision of God and commissioning as a prophet of judgment)
Psalm 138: (All shall praise God; he is high, yet regards the lowly. Preserve and save me from my
foes, and fulfil your purpose for me!)
1 Corinthians 14:12b-20: (Spiritual gifts; interpretation is greater than tongues)
RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11: (Proof and witnesses of the Resurrection)
Luke 5:1-11: (Jesus calls his first disciples; “Depart from me for I am a sinful man!”)
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Opening Hymn: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty: LBW #165, ELW #413, LSB #507
Hymn of the Day: How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord: ELW #580, LSB #853
OR Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling/Crying: LBW #381, LSB #826/827
OR We Know That Christ is Raised (if using 1 Cor. 15 text): LBW #189, ELW #449, LSB #603
OR If Christ Had Not Been Raised From Death (ditto; great paraphrase!): LSB #486
Communion Hymn #1: God Himself is Present: LBW #249, LSB #907
OR Holy, Holy Holy (sing through 3x): ELW #473
Communion Hymn #2: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence: LBW #198, ELW #490, LSB #621
Closing Hymn: God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850
February 16, 2025: Sixth Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 5
Jeremiah 17:5-8: (Cursed are those who trust mortals; they are like shrub in desert. Blessed are
those who trust God; they are like tree planted by water)
Psalm 1: (Ditto! The wicked shall not withstand judgment. God preserves the righteous.)
1 Corinthians 15:1-20: (The proofs and witnesses to the Resurrection. Consequences of believing
or disbelieving that Christ is raised.)
RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:12-20: (Did first half last week!)
Luke 6:17-26: (Jesus heals; blessings and woes from Sermon on the Plain)
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Opening Hymn: The Man is Ever Blessed (nice paraphrase of Psalm 1 and 1st lesson!): LSB #705
OR How Blest are They Who Hear God’s Word (I know, you don’t know the tune and there’s no substitute possible. Try it anyway. It is very easy, from the Danish Psalter.): LBW #227
OR Dearest/ Blessed Jesus, At Your Word: LBW #248, ELW #520, LSB #904
Hymn of the Day: Blest Are They: WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982
OR O Christ, Our Hope: LBW #300, ELW #604, LSB #553
OR We Know That Christ is Raised (if you did NOT read the 1 Cor. 15 text last Sunday):
LBW #189, ELW #449, LSB #603
OR If Christ Had Not Been Raised From Death (ditto; great paraphrase!): LSB #486
Communion Hymn #1: I Know That My Redeemer Lives: LBW #352, ELW #619, LSB #461
Communion Hymn #2: you may not need one… 😉
Closing Hymn: O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, LSB #696
OR Christ, Be Our Light: ELW #715
February 23, 2025: Seventh Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 6
Genesis 45:3-15: (Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and forgives them)
Psalm 103:1-13: (Bless the Lord, O my soul! As far as the east is from the west, so far does God
remove our sins from us)
1 Corinthians 15:21-26, 30-42: (The consequences of the Resurrection; more than hoping in
human power; the resurrection of the faithful, and glorified bodies)
RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50: (The resurrection body)
Luke 6:27-38: (Love enemies; be merciful, as Father is. Forgive and give, and you will be forgiven
and will be given much!)
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Opening Hymn: God of Our Life, All-Glorious Lord (tune: “Holy God, We Praise Your Name”): LBW #270
OR Awake, My Soul, and With The Sun: LBW #269, ELW #557, LSB #868
Hymn of the Day: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us: LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB # 851
OR Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843
OR God, When Human Bonds Are Broken (It’s a familiar tune!): WOV #735, ELW #603
Communion Hymn #1: Lord Jesus Christ, We Humbly Pray: LBW #225, LSB #623
OR Draw Us In the Spirit’s Tether: WOV #703, ELW #470
Communion Hymn #2: May We Your Precepts, Lord, Fulfil: LBW #353, LSB #698
OR The Peace of the Lord: ELW #646
Closing Hymn: Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go (Can be sung to the Doxology): LBW #505, LSB #854
OR Beloved, God’s Chosen: ELW #648
OR Christ is Risen, Christ is Living (Nice reflection on 1 Corinthians texts; can also be sung to “Come,
Thou Fount of Ev’ry Blessing”): LSB #479
March 2: The Transfiguration of Our Lord
Deuteronomy 34:1-12: (The death of Moses after God shows him the Promised Land; no one has arisen like Moses, whom God spoke to as a friend, face to face)
RCL/ELW: Exodus 34:29-35: (The shining face of Moses)
Psalm 99: (Extol the Lord, who spoke to his servants Moses and Aaron in a pillar of cloud. You,
Lord, love justice and establish equity; you forgive sin and avenge wrongdoing)
Hebrews 3:1-6: (Moses was faithful as a servant in God’s house. Jesus is faithful as the Son)
RCL/ELW: 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2: (We look upon the Lord with unveiled faces. Being transfigured from glory unto glory, we put aside shameful practices, commend selves to everyone in the sight of God)
Luke 9:28-36: (The Transfiguration of our Lord)
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Opening Hymn: O God Beyond All Praising (Tune is almost the “English national hymn.” It’s stately, majestic, and – hint, hint, the intercessory prayers for today just might echo phrases of it. Highly recommended!):
WOV #797, ELW #880
OR Blessing and Honor: LBW #525, ELW #854
Hymn of the Day: O Wondrous Type/! O Vision Fair!: LBW #80, LSB #413
O Wondrous Image, Vision Fair: ELW #316
OR Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory (can sing to “Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service”): LSB #416
Communion Hymn #1: How/Tis Good, Lord, to be Here: LBW #89, ELW #315, LSB #414
Communion Hymn #2: Beautiful Savior: LBW #518, ELW #838, LSB #537
Closing Hymn: In Thee is Gladness: LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818
OR Alleluia, Song of Gladness: WOV #654, #318, LSB #417
