Lessons and Suggested Hymns, Advent – Transfiguration, Cycle B

(November 29, 2026 – February 7, 2027)

 

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)

 

 

Please note, I’ve done some updates to the format to make things as user friendly as I can – given that I’m using two lectionaries and four hymnals….

 

Some hymn translations/versions are superior in LSB. There are some great hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals (I try to include an alternative from ELW, 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. Additionally, in ELW, some familiar hymns have been significantly altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or sometimes has 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 the LSB/Missouri Synod rendition of RCL. I also include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in most Augsburg/Fortress inserts. It often overlaps the Sola/LSB calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them. I denote things as RCL/ELW and SOLA/LSB, indicating where they’re most commonly found.

 

Green Sundays are Proper 1,2,3, etc., in Sola/LSB. They’re designated “Lectionary 1, 2, 3” in RCL/ELW, and they’re a week off from the Propers because the Propers begin the Sunday after Baptism of Our Lord – 2^nd Sunday after Epiphany. However, the Lectionary numeration begins with the Baptism of Our Lord. I’ll try to indicate where we are so you can reference things from the Sola liturgical calendar, the lectionaries in the front of ELW or LSB, or elsewhere. A reminder that the lectionary in the front of LBW is an older, first “go” at a three year lectionary. It’s got significant enough differences that I don’t reference it, and to my knowledge Augsburg-Fortress doesn’t support it. Reminder, very soon they won’t be providing LBW-specific materials at all. LBW is nearly 50 years old, after all!

 

I have added some seasonal liturgies 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/ Prayer of Self-Dedication for Advent

 

Holy God, receive these tokens of our love for you. Make them, and us, holy. Use them, and us, as you desire. In everything, grant that we speak and act 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. And often we do not give the gift of forgiveness, mercy, and care to those who need them from us. Lead us into the light of your healing, forgiveness, and 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/Prayer of Self-Dedication 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.

 

OR

Heavenly Father, in giving us your beloved Son, you have given us your very heart. By your Holy Spirit, give us grace to offer you our own hearts in humble gratitude. Take, bless, heal, and use them, dear Lord, to your glory and for the good of all people. Amen.

 

Post-Communion Prayer for Christmastide

 

Heavenly Father, 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, although in Christ our light has come, at times 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.

 

 

November 29, 2026: Advent 1 (Blue or purple)

 

All: Isaiah 64:1-9 (tear open heavens and come; we are clay; do not be angry forever)

 

All: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 (stir up your might and come; do not be angry forever)

 

All: 1 Corinthians 1:3–9 (God strengths you; wait for Christ to be revealed)

 

All: Mark 13:24-37 (stay alert; lesson of fig tree; parable: master comes unexpectedly)

            OR Mark 11:1-10 (Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey)

 

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Opening hymn: The King Shall Come: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348

 

Or my “Advent hymn” (sung to the same tune)

With glory bright and heavenly peace, come quickly, Lord, again.

With judgment true the earth renew; the gates of life unpen.

 

God, Father, glory gilds your name; we worship and adore,

We bless and praise, our thanks we raise; your mercy we implore.

 

O glorious Sun of righteousness, bring healing on your wing.

By your dear grace, reveal your face, unbar our hearts to sing:

 

Sing, “Glory be to you, O Lord; to you, O Christ, be praise,

God’s Lamb of love from heav’n above, Redeemer of our race.”

 

Most glorious Spirit, Holy Lord, conform us to the Son,

To rightly praise through all our days what he for us has done.

 

O glory to the Father, Son, and Spirit ever be!

God, bring your life amidst our strife; Lord Jesus, come quickly.

 

Hymn of the Day: Savior of the Nations, Come: LBW #28, ELW #263 LSB #332

OR O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: LBW #34, ELW #257, LSB #357

 

Communion Hymn #1: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus: LBW #30, ELW #254, LSB #338

 

Communion Hymn #2: My Lord, What a Morning: WOV #627, ELW #438, LSB #986

 

Closing Hymn: Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates: LBW #32, LSB #340, 341

OR Christ, Be Our Light: ELW #715

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December 6, 2026: Advent 2 (Blue or purple)

 

All: Isaiah 40:1-11 (Comfort my people; prepare way of the Lord; here is your God,

            who feeds his flock like a shepherd)

 

All: Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 (righteousness and peace kiss)

 

All: 2 Peter 3:8-15a (1000 years like a day; end comes suddenly; live in righteousness, peace until He comes)

 

All: Mark 1:1-8 (John the Baptist announces One who is greater than he)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry: LBW #26, ELW #249, LSB #344

(feel free to teach the choir my version: On Jordan’s banks, the Baptists cry; the Methodists are standing by; the Presbyterians all do sing, while Lutherans a hot dish bring….)

 

Hymn of the Day: Comfort, Comfort Now My People: LBW #29, ELW #256, LSB #347

 

Communion Hymn #1:, O God, Our Help in Ages Past: LBW #320, ELW #632, LSB #733

 

OR Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah: WOV #630, ELW #240

 

Communion Hymn #2: The Advent of Our God/King: LBW #22, LSB #331

 

OR Come Now, O Prince of Peace: ELW #247

 

Closing Hymn: Prepare the Royal Highway: LBW #26, ELW #264, LSB #343

 

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December 13, 2026: Advent 3 (Blue, purple – or rose, if you can)

 

All: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 (God anointed me with his Spirit; clothed me with joy of his salvation)

 

All: Psalm 126 (God restored fortunes of Jerusalem; those who go out weeping return rejoicing)

            OR ELW/RCL: Luke 1:46b-55 (The Magnificat)

 

All: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (Rejoice; don’t quench Spirit; be holy)

 

All: John 1:6-8, 19-28 (John says who he isn’t, there’s one greater than he)

 

*******

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

 

Hymn of the Day: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed: LBW #87, ELW #398, LSB #398

(Can also sing this hymn to tune of LBW #369, “The Church’s One Foundation. In fact, if you use it during communion, or have a congregation unfamiliar with the hymn, I’d recommend it.)

 

Communion Hymn #1: Soul, Adorn Yourself with Gladness: LBW #224, LSB #636

 

Communion Hymn #2: Hark, the Glad Sound!: LBW #35, LSB #349, ELW #239

 

Closing Hymn: People, Look East: WOV #626, ELW #248

 

OR Come, We That Love the Lord: WOV #742, ELW #625, LSB #669

 

 

 

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December 20, 2026: Advent 4 (Blue or purple)

 

All: 2 Samuel 7:1-11,16 (David won’t build God’s house; God vows David’s house will endure)

 

All: Luke 1:46b-55 (Magnificat)

OR ELW/RCL alternate: Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26

 

All: Romans 16:25-27 (Mysteries long hidden now revealed; final blessing)

 

All: Luke 1:26-38 (Annunciation of Gabriel to Mary)

*******

 

Opening hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: LBW #34, ELW #257, LSB #357

(if you didn’t use this the 1^st Sunday in Advent. Or, heck, even if you did!)

 

Hymn of the Day: My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord: LBW #180, ELW #573, LSB #934

 

OR I Will Greatly Rejoice in the Lord: LSB #929, Chanted Canticle

 

OR The Angel Gabriel From Heaven Came: WOV #632, ELW #265, LSB #356

 

Communion Hymn #1:, O Jesus So Sweet, O Jesus So Mild: LSB #546

 

OR O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, LSB #361, ELW #279

 

Communion Hymn #2:, Lo, How A Rose E’er Growing/Blooming: LBW #58, ELW #272, LSB #359 (ELW and LSB use the familiar words and harmonization)

 

Closing Hymn: Let Our Gladness Have No End: LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381

 

OR Cone, Thou Long-Expected Jesus: LBW #30, ELW #254, LSB #338

 

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December 24, 2026: Christmas Eve (white/gold)

 

All: Isaiah 9:2-11 (Those in darkness have seen a great light; unto us a child is born)

 

All: Psalm 96 (great is the Lord; bring offerings, all nations!)

 

All: Titus 2:11-14 (God’s grace revealed in the flesh, gives strength to be upright, pious)

 

All: Luke 2:1-20 (The birth of Jesus and visitation of the shepherds)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: O Come, All Ye Faithful: LBW #45, ELW #283, LSB #379

 

Hymn of Praise:  Hark the Herald Angels Sing: LBW #60, LSB #380, ELW #270

 

Hymn of Day:, From Heaven Above to Earth I Come: LBW #51, ELW #268, LSB #358

 

OR Holy Child Within the Manger: WOV #638  (a nice Marty Haugen piece)

 

Communion Hymn #1: ‘Twas In the Moon of Wintertime: LBW #72, ELW #284

 

OR Once in Royal David’s City: WOV #643, ELW #269, LSB #376

 

Communion Hymn #2: I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve: LBW #69, ELW #271

 

Communion Hymn #3: Infant Holy, Infant Lowly: LBW #44, ELW #276, LSB #393

 

Hymn during candle lighting: Silent Night, Holy Night: LBW #65, ELW #281, LSB #363

 

Closing Hymn: Joy to the World: LBW #39, ELW #267, LSB #387

 

 

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December 25, 2026: Christmas Day: The Nativity of Our Lord (White or gold)

 

All: Isaiah 52:7-10 (Beautiful on mountain are feet of those announcing peace, salvation of God)

 

All: Psalm 98 (Sing a new song, all creation; God judges with equity, righteousness)

 

All: Hebrews 1:1-12 (God speaks to us through his Son, who is greater than angels)

 

All: John 1:1-14 (The Word is made flesh!)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: Angels, From the Realms of Glory: LBW #50, ELW #275, LSB #367

 

OR Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light: LSB #378

 

Hymn of Praise: Angels We Have Heard on High: LBW #71, ELW #289, LSB #368

 

Hymn of the Day: Of the Father’s Love Begotten: LBW #42, ELW #295, LSB #384

 

OR A Great and Mighty Wonder: LSB #383 (tune is “The Church’s One Foundation”)

 

Communion Hymn #1: The First Noel: LBW #56, ELW #300

 

Communion Hymn #2: In the Bleak Midwinter: ELW #294

 

OR Go Tell It on the Mountain: LBW #70, ELW #290, LSB #388

 

Closing Hymn: The Bells of Christmas Chime Once More: LBW #62, ELW #298

 

 

*******

 

 

 

December 27, 2026: 1^st Sunday after Christmas (White or gold)

OR St. John, Apostle and Evangelist

 

1 Christmas:

 

All: Isaiah 61:10—62:3 (I will exult in God, who has clothed me with salvation;

Zion will shine with the vindication of God, and all nations will see it!)

 

Sola/LSB: Psalm 111 (God has sent redemption; the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 148

 

All: Galatians 4:4-7 (God sent his Son under the law, adopts us as children so we may say Abba)

 

All: Luke 2:22-40 (The Holy Family in the temple)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice: LBW #55, ELW #288

 

OR LSB #386, Now Sing We, Now Rejoice: (same tune as above, different lyrics)

 

OR O Sing of Christ: LSB #362 (easy English folk tune)

 

OR Cold December Flies Away: LBW #53, ELW #299

 

Hymn of Praise: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, ELW #287, LSB #389

 

Hymn of the Day: In His Temple Now Behold Him: LBW #184, ELW #417, LSB #519 (if LBW tune is unfamiliar sing this to Regent Square, #50, Angels from the Realms of Glory, which is the tune ELW uses. The LSB tune, “Westminster,” is a wonderful English melody used in WOV for “Christ is Made the Sure Foundation.” 3 nice choices.)  

 

Communion Hymn #1: What Child is This: LBW #40, LSB #370, ELW #296

 

Communion Hymn #2: Infant Holy, Infant Lowly: LBW #44, ELW #276, LSB #393

 

Closing Hymn: O Lord, Now Let Your Servant: LBW #339, ELW #313

 

OR Lord, Bid Your Servant Go In Peace: LSB #937

 

OR my hymn paraphrase of the Nunc Dimitis

(sung to “The Bells of Christmas Chime Once More” or to “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”)

 

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 giv’n to Israel,

The light for 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!

 

*******

 

St. John:

 

Revelation 1:1-6: The beginning of the end!

 

Psalm 11: (David’s trust in God in midst of danger, persecution)

 

1 John 1:1-2:2: What we have seen, heard, touched concerning Jesus, we declare to you

 

John 21:20-25: I suppose all the books in the world couldn’t say it all!

 

*******

Opening hymn: Of the Father’ Love Begotten: LBW #42, ELW #295, LSB #384

 

OR Thy Strong Word: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

 

Hymn of Praise: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, ELW #287, LSB #389

 

Hymn of the Day: O Word of God Incarnate: LBW #231, ELW #514, LSB #523

OR Hark, the Herald Angels Sing:  LBW #60, ELW #270, LSB #380

 

Communion Hymn #1: Ler All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence: LBW #198, ELW #490, LSB #621

 

Communion Hymn #2: Infant Holy, Infant Lowly: LBW #44, ELW #276, LSB #393

 

Closing Hymn: What Child is This: LBW #40, LSB #370, ELW #296

 

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January 3, 2027: Second Sunday After Christmas

 

Sola/LSB: 1 Kings 3:4-15: (God grants King Solomon wisdom)

            ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 31:7-14: (Sing for joy; God will deliver his people from captivity)

 

Sola/LSB: Psalm 119:97-104: (Meditating on your Law makes me wiser than my teachers)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 147:12-20: (Praise God, who strengthens your gates, blesses you with peace and plenty)

 

All: Ephesians 1:3-14: (Praise God, who has blessed us in Christ with adoption, forgiveness, inheritance, wisdom!)

 

Sola/LSB: Luke 2:40-52: (Jesus in Temple with elders who raise his wisdom)

            ELW/RCL: John 1:1-18: (In the beginning was the Word…)

 

*******

Opening hymn: (If not used for St. John): O Word of God Incarnate: LBW #231, ELW #514, LSB #523

 

OR God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850

 

Hymn of Praise: Let Our Gladness Have No End: LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381

 

Hymn of the Day: Your Little Ones, O Lord, Are We (Simple tune, goes with Epistle and, really, both Gospel choices): LBW #52, ELW #286

OR Within the Father’s House (Excellent hymn for Sola/LSB Gospel, familiar tune!): LSB #410

 

Communion Hymn #1: Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725

 

Communion Hymn #2: Gloria (Taize chant; repeat as desired): WOV #640

OR Come, Thou Fount of Ever’y Blessing: LBW #499, ELW #807, LSB #686

 

Closing Hymn: Let All Together Praise Our Lord: LBW #47, v.1-4, 7; ELW #287, v. 1, 2, 5, 6;

LSB  #389, v. 1-4, 7

 

 

 

 

*******

Wednesday, January 6, 2027: The Epiphany of Our Lord (White)

 

ALL: Isaiah 60:1-6 (Arise, shine, for your light has come! Israel gathered in; nations come and worship)

 

Sola/LSB: Psalm 72: 1-15 (Give the King your justice, O God; may he rule with righteousness)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

 

All: Ephesians 3:1-12 (Gentiles are now fellow heirs, sharers of the promise of salvation in Christ; Paul’s ministry is to disclose this mystery to all people)

 

All: Matthew 2:1-12 (Magi worship infant Jesus)

*******

 

Opening hymn: Bright and Glorious is the Sky: LBW #75, ELW #301

 

Hymn of Praise: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, ELW #287LSB #389

 

Hymn of the Day: O Chief of Cities, Bethlehem: LBW #81 (can sing to “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”)

 

OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here (LSB #399) (same theme as “O Chief of Cities,” same meter, so if THIS tune is unfamiliar, you can also sing it to “From Heaven Above”!)

           

OR As With Gladness Men of Old: LBW #82, ELW #302, LSB #397

 

Communion Hymn #1: Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning: LBW #84, ELW #303,

LSB #400

 

Communion Hymn #2: We Three Kings of Orient Are: WOV #646

 

OR When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853, LSB #807

 

Closing Hymn: O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright: LBW #76, ELW #308, LSB #395

 

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January 10, 2027: Baptism of Our Lord  (Lectionary 1) (white)

 

All: Genesis 1:1-5 (God creates light)

 

All: Psalm 29 (the voice of the Lord upon the waters)

 

All: Acts 19:1-7 (baptism in name of Jesus)

 

All: Mark 1:4-11 (the Baptism of Jesus)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: Thy Strong Word Didst Cleave the Darkness: LBW #233, LSB #578

 

OR Opening hymn/Hymn of Praise/prior to baptism or renewal of baptismal promises:

I Bind Unto Myself Today: LBW #188, ELW #450, LSB #604

 

Hymn of Praise: How Great Thou Art: LBW #532, ELW #856, LSB #801

 

Hymn of the Day: From God the Father, Virgin-Born: LBW #83, LSB #401

(Why, yes, I can suggest a familiar tune. Thanks for asking! The Doxology; From Heaven Above To Earth I Come; or Lord Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word will all work. Depending on whether you have already used the first two elsewhere in the season, the latter might be a good choice.)

 

OR When Jesus Came to Jordan: WOV #647, ELW #305

 

OR Remember and Rejoice: ELW #454 (very familiar tune)

 

OR Christ, When for Us You Were Baptized: ELW #304 (ditto!)

 

Communion Hymn #1: Eternal Father, Strong to Save: LBW #467, ELW #756, LSB #717

 

OR We Were/Are Baptized in Christ Jesus: WOV #698, ELW #452 (A piece of trivia: Ouilmette, the tune name, is the old French/Indian name for Wilmette, the town on the north shore of the Chicago area where my brother and sister-in-law live. Just thought you’d like to know.)

 

OR Wash, O God, Our Sons and Daughters: WOV #697

 

Communion Hymn #2: O Worship the King: LBW #548, ELW #842. LSB #804

 

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

 

OR (if not used as hymn of praise): How Great Thou Art: LBW #532, ELW #856, LSB #801

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January 17, 2027: 2^nd Sunday after Epiphany (Proper 1, Lectionary 2)

 

All: 1 Samuel 3:1-20 (the call of Samuel to be a prophet)

 

All: Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 (I am fearfully and wonderfully made; you knew me in the womb)

 

All: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 (the body made for the Lord; you are a temple for the Holy Spirit)

 

All: John 1:43-51 (Jesus calls Philip and Nathaniel)

 

*******

 

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

 

OR Wondrous Are Your Ways, O God: LBW #311 (paraphrase of psalm, but tune wanders a bit.)

 

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

 

OR “Come, Follow Me” the Savior Spake: LBW #455, ELW #799, LSB #688

 

OR Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589 (Ties Old Testament and Gospel together!)

 

Communion Hymn #1:, Take My Life, That I May Be/and Let It Be: LBW #406, ELW #583/685;

LSB #783/784

 

Communion Hymn #2: Blessed Assurance: WOV #699, ELW #638

 

OR Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling/Crying: LBW #381, LSB #826

 

Closing Hymn: The Spirit Sends Us Forth to Serve: WOV #723

 

OR God’s Word is Our Great Heritage: LBW #239, ELW #509, LSB #582

 

 

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

 

 

 

January 24, 2027: 3^rd Sunday after Epiphany (Proper 2, Lectionary 3)

 

All: Jonah 3:1-5, 10 (Jonah preaches, Nineveh repents, God has mercy)

 

All: Psalm 62:5-12 (God judges all justly; trust in him)

 

All: 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 (the time as short; live accordingly)

 

All: Mark 1:14-20 (time fulfilled, Kingdom near, repent; I will make you fishers of men)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: Christ Be My Leader: LSB #861 (tune is Lord of All Hopefulness)

 

OR O Christ Our Light, Our Radiance True: LBW #380, ELW #675

O Christ, Our True and Only Light : LSB #839

 

OR Christ, Be Our Light: ELW #715

 

Hymn of the Day: “As Surely As I Live,” God Said: LSB #614

 

OR You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore: WOV #784, ELW #817

 

OR Spread, O Spread, Almighty Word: LBW #379, ELW #663

Spread the Reign of God the Lord: LSB #830

 

Communion Hymn #1: I Love to Tell the Story: LBW #390, ELW #661

 

Communion Hymn #2: Rise Up, O Saints of God!: LBW #383, ELW #669

 

Closing Hymn: Listen, God is Calling: WOV #712, ELW #513, LSB #833

 

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

 

 

 

*******

 

 

 

 

January 31, 2027: 4^th Sunday after Epiphany (Proper 3, Lectionary 4)

 

 

All: Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (I will raise up a prophet, put my words in his mouth; listen to him alone)

 

All: Psalm 111 (God is faithful and just; praise him for his righteous deeds)

 

All: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 (Caring for brethren with weak consciences; eating food offered to idols)

 

All: Mark 1:21-28 (Jesus drives out a demon in Capernaum on Sabbath)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: Rise, Shine, You People!: LBW #393, ELW #665, LSB #825

 

Hymn of the Day: “Away From Us!” The Demon Cried: LSB #541 (Don’t panic; it’s same tune as “In Christ There Is No East or West”)

 

OR Hope of the World, Thou Christ of Great Compassion: LBW #493 (Do NOT panic if you think the congregation will struggle. You can sing this to hymn #84, “Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning,” a perfectly fine Epiphany hymn tune to boot!)

 

OR You are Mine: ELW #581 (It’s easier than it looks, honest!)

 

Communion Hymn #1: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842

 

Communion Hymn #2: O Savior, Precious Savior: LBW #514, ELW #820, LSB #527

 

Closing Hymn: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537, LSB #554

 

OR Praise, Praise! You Are My Rock: ELW #862 (a sprightly Herb Brokering hymn)

 

 

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

 

 

 

February 7, 2027: Transfiguration of Our Lord

 

 

All: 2 Kings 2:1-12 (Elisha sees Elijah being taken up into heaven in fiery chariot)

 

All: Psalm 50:1-6 (Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God shines forth)

 

All: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 (God shines in our hearts, gives light of knowledge of his glory seen in Jesus’ face)

 

All: Mark 9:2-9 (The transfiguration of Christ)

 

*******

 

Opening hymn: How/Tis Good, Lord, To Be Here!: LBW #89, ELW #315, LSB #414

 

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

 

Hymn of the Day: Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory: LSB #416

 

OR In Thee is Gladness: LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818

 

OR Jesus On the Mountain Peak: ELW #317

 

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

 

Communion Hymn #1: Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, LSB #802

 

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

 

Closing Hymn:  Alleluia, Song of Gladness: WOV #654, LSB #417 ELW #318

 

OR Alleluia! Sing to Jesus: LBW #158, LSB #821, ELW #392

 

OR O Wondrous Type/Image! O Vision Fair: LBW #80, ELW #316, LSB #413

 

 

 

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

*******

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)

*******

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

*******

 

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.