Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three…Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning boys and girls! 

Pastor: Happy Reformation Day, Sammy!

Sammy: That’s today?!

Pastor: Yes. Today is Reformation Day. 

Sammy: Happy Reformation Day, Pastor! Boys and girls, will you say Happy Reformation Day with me? Ready? Happy Reformation Day!

Pastor: Wow we are awake this morning!

Sammy: You bet we are. Let’s tell the boys and girls all about Martin Luther, Pastor.

Pastor: I think that’s a great idea, Sammy. Martin Luther–

Sammy: Wait a second.

Pastor: Yes, Sammy?

Sammy: Let’s talk about Martin Luther’s children. I mean, this is a children’s sermon after all.

Pastor: Sure we can do that. Martin Luther had six children.

Sammy: Raise your hand if you have six kids in your family. Anyone?

Pastor: Each of Martin Luther’s children had special jobs around the house. They had chores to do and they had reading, writing, and math lessons.

Sammy: Raise your hand if you have to do chores. Me too. I have lots of chores around the farm.

Pastor: So far, so good. But here’s where it gets interesting. Before each meal, Martin Luther’s children had to recite the Creeds, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord’s Prayer.

Sammy: Raise your hand if you have to recite the Creeds, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord’s Prayer before each meal? Anyone?

Pastor: So the interesting part here, is if Martin Luther’s children did not recite the Creeds, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord’s Prayer before a meal, then they didn’t get to eat.

Sammy: You’re kidding?

Pastor: No, that’s the truth. Martin Luther and his wife, Katie Luther, were very good parents. They loved each other and they loved their children. Because they loved them, they wanted to give them the greatest gift.

Sammy: Bicycles?

Pastor: No.

Sammy: New toys!

Pastor: No.

Sammy: Sidewalk chalk.

Pastor: Wrong again.

Sammy: Bubbles?

Pastor: Sammy, the greatest gift parents can give to their children is faith. Parents can instill faith in their children by teaching them the Creeds, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord’s Prayer. Parents can also read the Bible to their children and can talk about Jesus and his love for them.

Sammy: Faith is the greatest gift. Faith lasts a long time. Much longer than sidewalk chalk and bubbles.

Pastor: Jesus loved Martin Luther. He loved each of Martin Luther’s children. And Jesus loves each of you. Boys and girls, will you please pray with me? Let’s fold our hands and bow our heads. Dear Jesus, thank you for faith. Thank you for helping Martin Luther create the Lutheran church. Help us to grow in our faith. Amen.

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three…Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning boys and girls! Pastor, I have a question for you.

Pastor: I am ready for your question, Sammy.

Sammy: What are taxes?

Pastor: Well, paying taxes means that adults give part of the money we earn to the government.

Sammy: You give money to the government?

Pastor: Yes. When adults go to work, they earn money, and part of the money they earn goes to the government. Most of us don’t even see the money that goes to the government. They take it from our paychecks.

Sammy: They steal your money?!

Pastor: No, it’s not stealing our money. We are required to give some of our money in taxes.

Sammy: But what does the government do with the money?

Pastor: Well, some of the money is used for building roads, improving schools, and helping people in need.

Sammy: We help people in need at church.

Pastor: Yes we do. One of the things we do as a church is we give money as an offering to the church and to God. 

Sammy: Hang on. Adults give money to taxes and to the church? Do they have any money left?

Pastor: Yes they do. The church uses the money from gifts to serve and love God and the people in our community of faith. Boys and girls, what are some of the things we do as a church to help people?

[Allow time for responses]

Sammy: These are all great ministries and events in our church.

Pastor: Yes they are. We have to remember that even our time is a gift. When Jesus talks about giving to God what belongs to him, he doesn’t just mean our money. He wants us to give him our time. When we help with ministries at church, or we sing in the children’s choir, or we read our Bibles, we are giving God our time.

Sammy: I like that we can give God our time–I don’t have much money at all.

Pastor: That’s okay, Sammy. You know what? Let’s all give God our time right now. Boys and girls, will you please pray with me? Dear Jesus, thank you for our country. Thank you for our church. Help us to give our time and our gifts. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

November 22: Christ the King Sunday

ALL: Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 (God himself will be King and Shepherd to his people)

ALL: Psalm 95:1-7a (The Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods)

ALL: Ephesians 1:15-23 (Glorious inheritance given those who believe in Christ,

whom the Father has exalted high above all rulers and authorities)

ALL: Matthew 25:31-46 (Parable of the Last Judgment and the sheep/goat divide)

*******************

NOTE: The prayers echo phrases from “Beautiful Savior.” I strongly suggest you include that as one of your hymns today!

Opening Hymn: O God Beyond All Praising: WOV #797, ELW #880

OR Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor: LBW #172, LSB #534, ELW #475

Hymn of the Day: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us: LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB #851

OR O Christ, What Can It Mean for Us (familiar tune) (ELW #431)

OR Jesus Shall Reign: LBW #530, ELW #434, LSB #832

Communion 1: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537, LSB #554

            OR Rejoice, The Lord/ For Christ is King: LBW #171, ELW #430

Communion 2:  Beautiful Savior: LBW #518, ELW #838, LSB #537

Closing Hymn: Crown Him with Many Crowns: LBW #170, ELW #855, LSB #525

*******

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Holy Father, thank you for your Son, Christ Jesus, our Beautiful Savior, the King of Creation. Thank you for his holy life, his innocent suffering and death in our place, and his glorious resurrection that grants us life, forgiveness, health, and salvation. Though we are your unworthy servants, you have made us sisters and brothers of Jesus, and heirs of your Kingdom. Blessing and honor, praise and adoration be yours, Holy Father, for the sake of your Son, in the power of your Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made your Son King of creation and head of your Church. Bind the Church to Christ with cords of love. Make it unswerving in faith and bold in witness to him. Use it to draw all people to his Cross, there to acclaim him as Lord, King, and Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made your persecuted Church a visible sign of Jesus’ own passion and death. Grant that all who are afflicted for his sake may also, like the sun, moon, and stars, shine with the beauty of his holiness and the glory of his love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made your Son our Savior and Lord. Fill the people of this congregation with your Holy Spirit, so that in all we say and do, we proclaim Jesus Christ as Son of God and Son of man.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made this land rich with resources, and resplendent with the virtues of freedom, justice, and opportunity. Grant that all who live here may be responsible stewards of those resources; tireless examples of those virtues; and thankful sharers of every blessing with which you have graced us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made your Son Lord of the nations. By your Holy Spirit, conform the hearts of rulers and people to the heart of Christ. Let his peace reign undisturbed in every land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made your Son our light, joy, and crown. Grant that his strong saving love might accompany those who serve our country, here and abroad. Fill them with honor, courage, and wisdom; and bring them home in safety.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made your Son fairer than sunlight, stars, meadows, or woodlands. Let his beauty, healing, and compassion cause all sorrowing hearts to sing, including: {List}. Deliver them from their afflictions, and restore them to the fellowship of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, you have made your Son to shine more brightly than all of heaven’s angels. We thank you for the lives of the faithful departed, who already see his glory face to face. Fill us with such faith and love that, in your good time, we shall join them in singing, “Glory and honor, praise, adoration, now and forever more be thine.”

.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

November 15: 25^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28, Lectionary 33)

ALL: Zephaniah 1:7-16 (The Day of the Lord: darkness and judgment for the complacent)

ALL: Psalm 90:1-12 (O God, our help in ages past! Teach us to number our days

and apply our hearts to wisdom)

ALL: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 (Be sober, watchful – the Lord will come like a thief in the night;

therefore act as children of the day)

ALL: Matthew 25:14-30 (The parable of the servants given talents)

***************

Opening Hymn: O Worship the King, All-Glorious Above: LBW #548, ELW #842, LSB #804

OR Christ is Surely Coming: LSB #509

Hymn of the Day:  The Night Will Soon Be Ending (great words and tune!): LSB #337

OR (if preaching on Epistle): Rise, My Soul, to Watch and Pray: LBW #443, LSB #663

OR Take My Life, That I / and Let it Be: LBW #406, ELW #583(interesting Hispanic melody), 685; LSB #783/784 (another interesting tune!)

Communion 1: O God, Our Help in Ages Past: LBW #320, ELW #733 LSB #733

Communion 2: I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light: WOV #649, ELW #815 LSB #411

Closing Hymn: Through the Night of Doubt and Sorrow: LBW #355, ELW #327

OR One Thing’s Needful; Lord, This Treasure: LSB #536, v. 1, 3-5

OR Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending: LBW #27, ELW #435, LSB #336

*******

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Father, thank you for entrusting to us the treasures of your Kingdom and the gifts of your Holy Spirit.

Thank you for your confidence in us – for commending wise risk taking and condemning fearful inaction. Give us grace to be faithful stewards of your bounty, to your glory and for the good of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your Church pastors, bishops, and theologians who faithfully proclaim your Word of Law and Gospel. Make the Church shine with the holiness and humility of Jesus, guiding many to seek his promised forgiveness and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let the faithful witness of your suffering Church be a beacon of hope for all who love Christ, and into an urgent warning to all who hate him. We can scarcely comprehend the suffering of our persecuted sisters and brothers. Give us the willingness to defend and provide for them as we can, and to adorn their sacrifices with our smaller acts of faith and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make this congregation into a “Discipleship Boot Camp!” Teach us to practice taking risks in your service. Make us bold in granting forgiveness – or asking for it. Make us brave in talking about the hope that is in us. Make us fearless in shining the light of Jesus’ love into sin-darkened lives. Make us ingenious in easing the burdens of others for whom he gave his life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who have been richly blessed with skills of mind and hand, and gifts of imagination and wise judgment. Guide them in using their gifts to your glory and for the benefit of others. We also pray for those whose talents seem meager, who are afraid to use them, or are convinced they are worthless. Give them the grace to value what you have given them, and to use their resources to their utmost. Help all of us to risk much as we seek to please you, help our neighbor, and heal our world. Remind us that you have prepared for us joys that are infinitely greater than any treasure we lay at your feet.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give teachable minds and willing hearts to the leaders of the nations. Remind them that they must give you an account of their stewardship of power, authority, and talents. Do not let them squander these gifts through hard hearts, rivalries, misuse, or disuse. Give all of us the gifts of humility and generosity, so that many lives may be touched by happiness and brightened by hope.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Great gifts are needed by those who risk their lives to protect the lives and liberty of others. Abundantly grant them all they need, dear Lord. Use their skills to bring calm in chaos, and justice in troubled places. Shield their loved ones from fear; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We beseech you to come speedily to the rescue of all who cry out for healing of body, mind, heart or spirit – including: {List}.  Deliver them from their afflictions, and restore them to the fellowship of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep in your sheltering arms all those who have died trusting in your promises. And as you have called us to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown, we pray: Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us, until you bring us home, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

November 8: 24^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 27, Lectionary 32)

ALL: Amos 5:18-24 (Woe to those who desire the Day of the Lord! He despises your feasts

 and sacrifices; let justice, righteousness roll down like streams of water)

ALL: Psalm 70 (Let those who seek you find deliverance)

ALL: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 (Do not grieve as those without hope; Christ comes with trumpet)

ALL: Matthew 25:1-13Matt (Parable of the wise and foolish virgins)

***************

Opening Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers: LBW #25, ELW #244, LSB #515

Hymn of the Day: Wake, Awake, For Night is Flying: LBW #31, ELW #436 (funky translation warning!), LSB #516

Communion 1: Let Justice Roll Like Streams: WOV #763, ELW #717

OR Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802

Communion 2: My Lord, What a Morning: WOV #627, ELW #438, LSB #968

Closing Hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less: LBW #293/4, ELW #596/597, LSB #575/6

OR Let Streams of Living Justice (great tune!): ELW #710

OR The Bridegroom Soon Will Call Us: LSB #514

*******

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, we are sometimes foolish, not wise; scatterbrained, not prudent; reactive, not responsive. Forgive us! Remind us of the privilege of being invited to your Son’s wedding feast! Fill us with your Holy Spirit’s wisdom. Let us always rejoice; believe; and show the light of faith, hope, and love in this dark world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church wise, faithful, pure, and watchful, rejoicing in the near approach of her Bridegroom and Savior. Make her worship joyful and pleasing in your sight. Make her labors glorify you and help those in distress. Make her feasts a foretaste of your heavenly wedding banquet, feeding all with truth, righteousness, and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give patience, kindness, comfort, and hope to your persecuted Church. Help us provide for their needs and bear witness to their suffering. Turn the hearts of their enemies to seek your forgiveness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make everyone in this congregation into lamps shining with your light and love. Keep us constantly worshipping you and serving others. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, and help us share your grace and favor with those whose lights are flickering out.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let your justice roll down like waters upon this parched and broken world. Let your righteousness fill the hearts and minds of all who are entrusted with authority. Especially we pray for our elected and appointed leaders. Give them your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, so that they may bring peace, prosperity, justice, and healing to our land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

On this Veteran’s Day weekend, we pray for all who have honorably served their country. Grant wisdom, courage, integrity, and sound judgment to everyone currently serving in the military, and to all who risk their lives on behalf of community and country. Use their skills to bring freedom, safety, and justice wherever they serve. Keep them safe; shield their loved ones from grief and fear; and grant them a swift and joyful homecoming.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let all who seek your help in their times of trial find deliverance from all that troubles them. We remember before you: {List}. Grant them health and salvation; justice and comfort; hope and guidance. When their lamp of faith seems ready to flicker and fade, rekindle them with the grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit. And give a double portion of that same Spirit to all who minister to their needs.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we grieve for our dead, but not without hope. Thank you for receiving them into your merciful care. Renew our confidence in your goodness in this time of our earthly pilgrimage. Help us to encourage and help one another along the way. Lead us, by the Cross of Jesus, into the Kingdom which you have prepared for all who have been redeemed by his suffering, death, and resurrection.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

November 1: All Saints’ Sunday

ALL: Revelation 7:9-17 (Behold a host, arrayed in white! Blessing and honor and glory and power be unto God and the Lamb!)

ALL: Psalm 34:1-10, 22 (O taste and see how gracious the Lord is; look upon him and be radiant;

the Lord ransoms the lives of his servants)

ALL: 1 John 3:1-3 (We are God’s children now; we shall be like Jesus, see him as he is)

ALL: Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)

********************

Opening Hymn: For All the Saints: LBW #174, ELW #422 (note: it’s edited to be less martial), LSB #677

OR Blessing, Honor, Glory to the Lamb: ELW #433

Hymn of Praise: Blessing and Honor and Glory and Power: LBW #525, ELW #854

OR Alabare: WOV #791, LSB #799/800

OR Cantad Al Senor: WOV #795, ELW #822

Hymn of the Day: Behold the/a Host, Arrayed in White: ELW #425, LSB #676

Who Is this Host, Arrayed in White: LBW #314

OR Blest are They: WOV #764, ELW #728

Communion 1: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

Communion 2: Thee We Adore, O Hidden Savior, Thee: LBW #199, LSB #640

Thee We Adore, O Savior, God Most True: ELW #476

Closing Hymn: Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng: LBW #553, LSB #813

Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart: ELW #873/4

*******

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Thank you, dear Father, for all your saints. Thank you for the ones who shaped our faith and molded our lives. Thank you for Spirit-filled heroes, martyrs, scholars, and pastors who have kept your Church “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.” Thank you for the nameless and forgotten faithful, known only to you, whose humble lives perfume the airs of heaven. Thank you for joining us to Jesus, and so to all your saints: past, present, and future.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that the Church may always proclaim your living and holy Word to the world. Use it to forgive and transform many sinners into your saints, your Church, and your beloved children.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless, as you have promised, those who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Crown their faithful endurance with his triumphant victory over sin and death; and adorn them with the robes of his righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Touch with goodness the hearts of everyone in this congregation. Make our words and deeds gracious and truthful . Let the light of Jesus shine in in all we say and do, so that through us, our neighbors encounter their Savior’s love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

With reverence and affection, we remember before you those who have shaped our faith and influenced our lives in godly ways. We entrust to your tender care our beloved dead who are now at rest in you. {Here the names of the faithful departed may be read, with tolling of the bell}. Thank you for their witness, love, and encouragement. Grant that we may likewise help others – especially the young and those who do not know you – to seek your face and rejoice in your goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep our nation safe, strong, and honorable. Grant that our elections are honest and accurate. Give wisdom and prudence to all who seek or who hold public office  in our land. Give each of us the desire and the ability to love justice, do mercy, and walk humbly with you and with each other.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Ransom the lives of your servants who are bound by cords of suffering, including: {List}. Let them look upon you and be radiant. Let them taste and see your gracious favor. Let them be healed and purified in body, mind, heart, and faith, to praise your saving deeds and rejoice in your great goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy and gracious Father, receive into your Kingdom our beloved dead. Keep us faithful, true, holy, and steadfast, as we walk the narrow Way established by Jesus. Give us a foretaste of heaven’s joy  in our Spirit-led fellowship with one another and with Christ. Bring us safely your Kingdom which you prepare for all whom you redeem by his death and resurrection. There let us abide in your dear presence, and love and serve you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three…Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning boys and girls! Pastor, I have a question for you.

Pastor: Sure, Sammy. I am ready for your question.

Sammy: Are you patient?

Pastor: I like to think that I am.

Sammy: What about as a parent? Are you a patient parent?

Pastor: I try to be. 

Sammy: Even when it’s hard?

Pastor: Yes, even when it’s hard. We all make mistakes, Sammy. Children make mistakes just like adults.

Sammy: That’s true. It’s just, well, I make a lot of mistakes, Pastor. And sometimes I feel really bad and I hope that my maa-maa won’t be angry with me.

Pastor: I think that’s a perfectly normal feeling, Sammy. Boys and girls, when have you made a mistake? What happened?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: Thank you all for sharing. Parents sometimes have a hard time being patient with their children. It’s hard to be patient, but it’s important to remember that Jesus gives us a great example of just how patient he is with us in scripture. 

Sammy: He does?

Pastor: Yes–Jesus talks about how God sends one prophet after another and his people reject them. Then, when Jesus comes to talk about God’s kingdom, people reject him, too. God is very patient with us, with all of us, from our littlest believers up though our biggest believers. One of the best things we can do is to be patient and loving with each other in return.

Sammy: I like that plan. I am going to tell my maa-maa that Jesus wants her to be patient with me.

Pastor: Sammy, she already knows. Boys and girls, will you please pray with me? Let’s fold our hands and bow our heads. Dear Jesus, thank you for being patient with us. Thank you for loving us. Help us to be patient with each other. We love you. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

October 25: Reformation Sunday

SOLA/LSB: Revelation 14:6-7 (Angel with eternal Gospel: fear God, give glory, hour of judgment)

            ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 31:31-34 (A new heart, engraved with God’s Word)

ALL: Psalm 46 (A mighty fortress is our God!)

ALL: Romans 3:19-28 (All have sinned, fallen short of God’s glory; but his righteousness is grasped by faith, not works)

ALL: John 8:31-36 (If the Son makes you free, you are free indeed)

******************

Opening Hymn: Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty: LBW #250, ELW #533, LSB #901

Hymn of Praise: All Glory Be to God on High: LBW #166, ELW #410, LSB #947

Hymn of the Day: Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

Communion 1: Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

Communion 2:  Now Thank We All Our God: LBW #534, ELW #839/840, LSB #895

Closing Hymn: A Mighty Fortress is Our God:

LBW #228/9, ELW #504 (note, #505 is a gender-neutral version), LSB #656/7

*******

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the precious pearl of great price, the Gospel of salvation. Thank you for the reformers who sought to find, keep, and share it. Thank you for faithful people throughout history who have preferred nothing whatsoever to Christ Jesus, and him crucified. Keep us in their company. Keep our faith warm and pure through the life-giving fire of your most Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Pour out your Holy Spirit upon your Church. Make it your holy habitation. Keep it steadfast in your Word. Strengthen it in the face of temptation. Defend it from evil. Reform and purify it from sin and error. And bestow on it your saving peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Be the refuge and strength of Christians who are persecuted for confessing Jesus as Lord. Cause the enemies of the Gospel to repent of their sinfulness, that they may turn to you and live.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Graciously protect and guide the people of this congregation, O Lord, our Strength and our Redeemer. Gladden our hearts with the joy of your saving love. Let our lives overflow with the gifts of your Holy Spirit. Use us to refresh, nourish, instruct, and invite our neighbors into your presence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the work of faithful theologians and teachers who establish dialog, clarify doctrine, correct errors, and strive to heal your Church. Direct their labors with your Spirit. Give them holy charity as they proclaim the truth of your holy Word. Keep their hearts and their work centered in your Son, crucified and raised to forgive sin and to grant life and salvation to all who will receive him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We long for you to break the bow, shatter the spear, and make war to cease throughout the world. Until that day, please strengthen, protect, and guide all who risk their life on our behalf. Be their very present help in times of trouble. Let all they do be in service to your will. Bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Exalt yourself among the nations, and speak your word to the leaders of the world. Establish among us that peace which the world cannot give. Teach us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you all are shaken by suffering of body or soul, including:  {List}. Be in their midst, let them not be overthrown, and bring them your saving help. Say to them, ‘be still, and know that I am God.’ Restore them to health and hope. Let them proclaim the awesome things you have done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy Father, thank you for the lives of all your faithful people: prophets, apostles, and martyrs; theologians and confessors; teachers and pastors; and all the ordinary saints whom you have redeemed through the precious blood of your dear Son. Grant that we may humbly follow in their footsteps, boldly trust in your promises, faithfully live in your Word, and cheerfully serve in your Name. Bring us, through the merits of our Savior, into your eternal home. There with all the redeemed, we shall glorify you in the power of your most holy Spirit forever and ever and unto the ages of ages.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.

October 18: 21^st Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24, Lectionary 29)

OR St. Luke, Evangelist

21 Pentecost/Proper 24:

ALL: Isaiah 45:1-7 (God anoints Cyrus on behalf of his Chosen People)

ALL: Psalm 96: 1-13 (Declare God’s glory among the nations, whose gods are worthless idols)

ALL: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (Paul commends Thessalonians for turning from idols to Christ)

ALL: Matthew 22:15-22 (Render to Caesar, and to God, what is due each)

*******

Opening Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/9, ELW #634, LSB #549

OR Come, All You People: ELW #819

Hymn of the Day: Holy God, We Praise Your Name: LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940

OR We Give Thee But Thine Own: LBW #410, ELW #686, LSB #781

Communion 1: On My Heart Imprint Your Image: LBW #102, ELW #811, LSB #422

Communion 2: Take My Life, That I May Be: LBW #406, ELW #583, 685, LSB #783/4

Closing Hymn: Gracious God, You Send Great Blessings: LSB #782 (really nice hymn!)

OR God, Whose Giving Knows No Ending: LBW #408, ELW #678

                        Note: if tune is unfamiliar, sing it to “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”

                OR God, Whose Almighty Word: LBW #400, ELW #673, LSB #979

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St. Luke:

Isaiah 35:5-8 (Eyes opened, deaf hear, lame run, ransomed return)

Psalm 147:1-11 (Sing praise to the Lord who heals, forgives, ransoms, redeems)

2 Timothy 4:5-11 (Paul’s final instructions to Timothy; before his death, only Luke is with him)

Luke 10:1-9 (the 72 are appointed to preach, teach, heal, announce Kingdom)

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Opening Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/9, ELW #634, LSB #549

OR Hail to the Lord’s Anointed: LBW #87, ELW #311, LSB #398

Hymn of the Day: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus: LBW #389, LSB #660

OR Word of God, Come Down on Earth: WOV #716, ELW #510, LSB #545

Communion 1: Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us With Your Love: WOV #765, ELW #708, LSB #980

Communion 2: Take My Life, That I May Be: LBW #406, ELW #583, 685, LSB #783/4

Closing Hymn: By All Your Saints in Warfare/Still Striving:

LBW #178, v. 1, 19, 3; ELW #421, v. 1, 21, 3; LSB #518, v.1, 26, 3)

OR Oh, For a Thousand Tongues to Sing: LBW #559, ELW #886, LSB #528

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In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Thank you, dear Lord, for creating us in the image and likeness of your beloved Son. Thank you for making us his image-bearers to a world seduced by idols and fakes. Let us, like St. Luke, whose feast this is, constantly honor and serve Jesus, and show him to everyone we meet.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Imprint Jesus’ image upon the Church. Conform its worship, teaching, fellowship, and outreach to his likeness. By faithful preaching of your Word, and through right administration your Sacraments, use your Church to lead many people from vain idols to life-giving trust in you, the true and only God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our fellow Christians who suffer persecution because they refuse to render to anyone or anything the true worship that is due to you alone. By their faithful witness, lead their enemies to repentance and amendment of life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help this congregation to give you all honor, glory, worship, and praise. Help us to give one another forgiveness and faithful enouragement. And help us to give our neighbors love, respect, and justice.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Sometimes we who bear Christ’s name display such a blurred and distorted image of him that others are scandalized and dismayed. Forgive and sanctify us. Make Jesus’ love and mercy shine clear and bright in our lives, to his glory and for the sake of those he came to save.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help us to act in accordance with the Gospel. Thank you for all the Gospel writers, especially St. Luke, and for all pastors and teachers who proclaim the Gospel faithfully. Continue to raise up and inspire leaders in your Church who will diligently preach, teach, and guide your flock in truth and righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As you anointed Cyrus to accomplish your will for captive Israel, we ask that you anoint the leaders of this and every nation upon earth. Equip them to do whatever accomplishes your will for all who are captives to injustice, poverty, or violence. Teach us to put our trust in you, to seek your will for the nation, and to live honorably, peaceably, and kindly with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of all who are afflicted by pain, turmoil, or any other assault of the Evil One. Today we also pray for: {List}. Come to their aid. Restore them to wholeness of body, mind, and spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy Father, we entrust into your never-failing care our beloved dead. Continue in us the work, begun at our Baptism, which fashions us into the blessed likeness of your dear Son. By your Holy Spirit, give us faith to commend ourselves, one another, and our whole lives to Christ our Lord. Bring us into your Kingdom where we shall see him face to face. There let us see his image, perfectly restored, in the faces of everyone whom you have redeemed by his blood.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.

October 11: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23, Lectionary 28)

Note: even if your practice isn’t to have weekly communion, you might want to make an exception today! 😉

ALL: Isaiah 25:6-9 (On God’s holy mountain, a feast of fat things; death shall be destroyed)

ALL: Psalm 23 (You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies)

SOLA/LSB: Philippians 4:4-13 (Rejoice in the Lord always; think on things excellent, honorable;

thanks for Philippians’ gift)

            ELW/RCL: Philippians 4:1-9, Stand fast in the Lord, rejoice, think on these things

ALL: Matthew 22:1-14 (The wedding feast…and its, er, substitute guest list)

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Opening Hymn: Arise, My Soul, Arise: LBW #516, ELW #827

OR Behold a/the Host, Like Mountains Bright/Arrayed in White:

LBW #314, ELW#425, LSB # 676

OR Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee: LBW #551, ELW #836, LSB #803

Hymn of the Day:  O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts: LBW #356, ELW #658

OR At the Lamb’s High Feast: LBW #210, ELW #362, LSB #633

OR O Living Bread From Heaven: LBW #197, ELW #542, LSB #642

OR The Feast is Ready: ELW #531

Communion 1: Come, Let Us Eat, For Now the Feast is Spread: LBW #214, ELW #491, LSB #626

Communion 2: Soul Adorn Yourself with Gladness: LBW #224, ELW #488/9, LSB #636

Closing Hymn: Thine the Amen, Thine the Praise: WOV #801, ELW #826, LSB #680

OR Sent Forth By God’s Blessing: LBW #221, ELW #547, LSB #643

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In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Father, you promise to throw a wedding feast for all whom you redeem through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Sometimes we act like it’s no big deal. Or we look forward to the entertainment, so to speak, more than being joined to our heavenly Bridegroom. Thank you for your patience. Open our hearts to the joy you have set before us. Keep us always centered in Jesus, our Savior and our true love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made the Church the bride of your beloved Son. Make it radiant with faithfulness and lovely with holiness. Adorn its words and deeds with grace so that many people hear your invitation and gladly come to the banquet of salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Prepare a table for your persecuted people in the presence of their enemies. Feed them with patience, perseverance, and trust in you. Anoint them with the oil of mercy, and heal their hearts, minds, and bodies. By their faithful witness, soften the hearts of those who hate them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people and ministries of this congregation. Help us to rejoice in your strong saving love, to speak wisely, and to act justly. Focus our minds and hearts on those things which are good, honorable, and pleasing to you. Help us encourage our family, friends, and neighbors to do the same.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for couples who are preparing for marriage, for newlyweds, and for all husbands and wives. Ground their love for each other in Christ, the true and faithful Bridegroom. Lavish upon them those gifts of your Holy Spirit that will sustain their marriage in difficult times. May their union bear rich fruit for their family, their community, and your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Direct the thoughts, words and actions of our military personnel, police, first responders, and all who risk their lives to bring safety and justice to others. Prosper all they do that serves your will. Bring healing to the wounded, hope to their families, and honor to all who have honorably served.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Save our world and its people from natural disasters and from human malice. Take away the reproach of our sins. Remove the death-shroud of the evils that ensnare us. Give us leaders who are wise, honorable, just, and excellent; and give to each of us the blessing of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you all who walk through the valley death’s dark shadows, and all who are troubled by sorrow, anxiety, or despair. Today we also pray for: {List}. Teach them the truth of Paul’s words, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Revive their souls, restore their bodies, and refresh the hearts of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the faithful who have entered your banquet-hall of eternal life. Keep us steadfast in faith until we arrive there! Make our lives good, true, lovely, pure, honorable, and praiseworthy. Grant us the joy of sitting with all your wedding-guests at the table you have prepared for them as members of the Body and Bride of Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.