August 30: 14^th Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 17, Lectionary 22

All: Jeremiah 15:15-21(Jeremiah laments; God promises strength, deliverance if he speaks what is precious)

All: Psalm 26 (I have lived with integrity; do not sweep me away with sinners)

All: Romans 12:9-21 (Live in harmony, respect, and mutual forbearance; vengeance is God’s)

All: Matthew 16:21-28 (Get behind me, Satan! Take up cross and follow me; what does it profit to gain world, lose soul?

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

Hymn of the Day: Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus: LBW #487, ELW #802, LSB #685

OR When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425/426

Communion 1: Blest Be the Tie That Binds: LBW #370, ELW #649/975, ELW #656

Communion 2: In the Cross of Christ I Glory: LBW #104, ELW #324, LSB #427

Closing Hymn: Jesus, Still Lead On: LBW #341, ELW #624

Jesus, Lead Thou On: LSB #718

OR Onward, Christian Soldiers: LBW #509, LSB #662

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Let us pray for the church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for Peter! Last week we thanked you for his witness. Today we thank you, not because he stumbled, but because Jesus rebuked, loved, and forgave him. Lord, we know you will rebuke us when we are a stumbling block and unwitting agent of Satan. Give us grace to repent and humbly take up our cross again, following Jesus alone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that your Church never be a hindrance to your Son nor a stumbling-block to those whom he came to save. Center its life and proclamation in the Cross of Jesus. Make it follow wherever Jesus leads, even unto death. Use the Church to draw many hearts to repentant faith in Christ. Through it, overcome the world’s evil with your great good.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our sisters and brothers in Christ whose cross-bearing is shaped by persecution. Let them not be overcome by evil. Keep them steadfast in their faith. Help us to speak in their defense, pray on their behalf, and provide for their needs.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help this congregation to live out the words of Saint Paul: Let our love be genuine. Make us abhor evil but hold fast to the good. Teach us to love and honor each other. Let us serve you fervently. Make us joyous in hope, patient in tribulation, and constant in prayer. Give us grace to be generous and hospitable, and to bless even our persecutors. Help us to rejoice with the joyful and to weep with the mourners. Teach us to live in harmony, and to not be wise in our own sight. Give us grace to repay no one evil for evil. Let us do what is honorable; and, so far as it depends on us, to live peaceably with all. And grant that we are not overcome by evil, but that in Christ, we overcome evil with good.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep in your care victims of violence and injustice, especially when evil has been done to them in the name of religion. Stir us up to give them aid and comfort, for you are glorified by deeds of mercy, hospitality, and peace, not acts of violence or hatred. Deliver them from the hands of the wicked.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give integrity, wisdom, and humility to those who have power and authority over communities, corporations, and nations. Help them to do what is honorable, just, and generous.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Deal mercifully with all whose lives are shadowed by suffering, sorrow, or any kind of adversity. This day we pray for: {List}. Have pity on them and redeem them. Turn their sorrow into gladness and their pain into shouts of thanksgiving. Give them wise and compassionate caregivers, and reunite them with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, receive our beloved dead into your house with many rooms. Help us to love each other with true affection; to live peaceably and honorably; and above all, to cling to Jesus and his Cross. Lead us into your promised Kingdom, which you have prepared for all whom you deliver from sin and death. And there let us bless you and live together in your peace forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer, O Father, and grant all that glorifies you and builds up your people. This we ask for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

July 26: 9^th Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 12, Lectionary 17

Sola/LSB: Deuteronomy 7:6-9 (Israel chosen because of God’s love, not their deserving)

                ELW/RCL: 1 Kings 3:5-12 (Solomon asks for wisdom)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 125 (God stands round his people like the hills surrounding Jerusalem)

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 119:129-136 (Your words enlighten the simple; keep my steps steady

 in your precepts)

All: Romans 8:28-39 (Nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus)

Sola/LSB: Matthew 13:44-52 (Parable of the pearl of great price)

                ELW/RCL:  Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 (Mustard seed, yeast, pearl)

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Opening Hymn: I Love Your Kingdom, Lord: LBW #368, LSB #651

OR Praise, Praise! You are the Rock: ELW #862

OR Alleluia! Sing to Jesus, v. 1-3: LBW #158, ELW #392, LSB #821

Hymn of the Day: Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/8, ELW #775, LSB #743

OR One Thing’s Needful; Lord, This Treasure: LSB #536

Communion 1: Jesus, the Very Thought of You: LBW #316, ELW #754

Communion 2: How Great Thou Art: LBW #532, ELW #856, LSB #801

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

                OR Praise to the Father: LBW #517 (simple tune)

OR Alleluia! Sing to Jesus, v. 4, 5: LBW #158, ELW #392, LSB #821

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

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices in prayer to God on behalf of all people.

A brief silence is kept.

Dear Father, thank you for giving to your Chosen People the pearl of your holy Word in the Hebrew Scriptures. Thank you for perfectly enfleshing your Word in the Pearl of great price, your dear son Jesus. Thank you for making us, through him, into your pearl, your hidden treasure, and your beloved people!

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make the Church lovely with Jesus’ goodness. May it always treat your Word and Sacraments as precious, living treasures. By the gracious power of your Spirit, draw many to faith in Jesus, so they may never be separated from your love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for our persecuted sisters and brothers, who face “tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword.” Make them more than conquerors through the Cross of Christ; and soften the hearts of those who torment them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep this congregation in your care, knowing that nothing can separate us from your love for us in Christ Jesus. Use our words and deeds to share that love with those around us who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless your people the Jews. You chose them not because they were great but because you loved them. From them you brought forth the pearl of great price, your dear Son Jesus. Keep them in your protective and loving embrace. Bring them and us into the fulness of joy you have prepared for all who love you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Establish your justice among the nations, O Lord; and do not let the scepter of evil hold sway over us. Establish your justice among rulers of countries and captains of industry; among leaders in every field of inquiry and endeavor; and among your people everywhere. Turn our hearts from evildoing and crooked ways; and fix them firmly upon faith toward you and fervent love toward one another.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for justice, concord, and safety to flourish in this land. We pray for wrongdoers to be held accountable for their deeds, and to repent of them. We pray for wise words, not inflamed rhetoric, from our leaders. We pray for constructive decisions, not rash actions or empty gestures, from those entrusted with authority. We pray for those who risk their lives on behalf of others, that even in difficult circumstances they exhibit integrity and valor. We pray that in all circumstances, your will be done.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for the sick, injured, dying and bereaved; for the troubled, confused, lonely, or despairing; and for everyone who struggles with the tribulations of this life. Therefore we also pray for our dear ones, including: {List}. Help us to show them that though the world seems against them, you are for them; you love them; you justify them; and you shall indeed make them more than conquerors.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Most Holy Father, we remember before you beloved dead. Remember your faithfulness and loving-kindness to us, though we are in the thousandth generation of those whom you name as your own. Teach us to treasure your Son, our Pearl of great price. Whatever trials we endure in this life, grant the blessed outcome promised to all who love you. In your great mercy, bring us into your Kingdom. There, with all the redeemed, may we rejoice in your love and delight in you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

July 19: 8^th Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 11, Lectionary 16

All: Isaiah 44:6-8 (I am the first and last; beside me there is no god.)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 119:57-64 (I hasten to keep your commandments)

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 86:11-17 (Teach me your way; you are gracious and merciful,

slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love)

Sola/LSB: Romans 8:18-27 (Creation in travail; we groan, Spirit intercedes for us)

                ELW/RCL:  Romans 8:12-25 (At the right time Christ died for the ungodly; sin and death not like the free gift of forgiveness and life)

All: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 (Parable of the wheat and the weeds)

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Opening Hymn: Gracious Spirit, Heed Our Pleading: WOV #687, ELW #401

OR Holy Spirit, Truth/Light Divine (if not used on Pentecost): LBW #257, ELW #398, LSB #496

Hymn of the Day: Come, You Thankful People, Come: LBW #407, ELW #693, LSB #892

Communion 1: Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ: LBW #441, LSB #769, ELW #402

OR Abide with Us, Our Savior: LBW #263, ELW #539

Abide, O Dearest Jesus: LSB #919

Communion 2: Great Is Thy Faithfulness: WOV #771, LSB #809, ELW #733

Closing Hymn: Savior, Again to Your/Thy Dear Name: LBW #262, ELW #534, LSB #917

OR My Hope is  Built on Nothing Less: LBW #293/294, ELW #596/597, LSB #575/576

OR Lead Me, Guide Me: ELW #768, LSB #721

*******

A brief silence is kept.

Holy Father, thank you for stating what we ignore or deny: we’re all a weedy field! Thank you for giving us Jesus’ words, so we can withstand a “cancel culture” that seeks to uproot and destroy. Thank you for his patient tending, that alone can “cancel” our sins and heal us. Thank you for your promise to gather us, from every race, tribe, and nation, as your treasured, holy, precious, and redeemed people.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the first and the last; beside you there is no god. Make your Church faithful and persistent in telling the world that in Jesus, crucified and raised from the dead for the forgiveness of sins unto eternal life, you have revealed to us your very heart.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come to the aid of all who suffer scorn and violence because they name a crucified Jewish carpenter as the one, true, and only God. Grant that they bear faithful witness to that precious truth.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We confess that our congregation is sown with weeds as well as wheat. Forgive us. Deal mercifully with us. By the grace of your Spirit, help us to bear one another’s faults with patience and gentleness. Remind us that you alone will make us pure, holy, and good, by conforming us to your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for our enemies – especially those who hate us because of our faith in Jesus. We pray for all who deny and despise him. We pray for all who do not know him, or who only know a shriveled, distorted image of him. Soften their hearts; enlighten their minds; and fill them with your Spirit, so they may repent and believe in the Good News.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We know there are no perfect rulers, nations, or programs – only sinful people in a fallen and death-shadowed world. Therefore, we groan in travail, pleading that you would free us from bondage and futility. We cry out for redemption and righteousness; for healing and wholeness; and for your Sabbath rest, your Shalom. Until then, make us humble, gentle, and wise; and heal the evil we have caused.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Your Son’s parable counseled letting weeds and wheat grow together. Yet too often, we must stop the spread of deadly weeds like violence, injustice, and hatred. Therefore, we plead on behalf of those in the military, police, security, intelligence, and first response. Give them wisdom, integrity, and honor, so that by their labors, those they serve may have a measure of justice and safety.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Sickness, sorrow, and adversity take root in every life. We cannot uproot them all, yet we know you desire abundant life for your servants. And so, we are bold to pray for everyone who suffers, including: {List}. Heal and encourage them. In your good time, complete in them and in us all, the full and perfect healing that you have promised in Christ Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We thank you, heavenly Father, for those who have gone before us and are at rest in you. Teach us to pray confidently for each other, knowing that you have made us your children. Teach us to care for each other, knowing that you will prosper your handiwork in us. Gather us to yourself as your rich and fruitful harvest in Jesus, so that with all your forgiven sinners, we may abide with you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

July 12: 7^th Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 10, Lectionary 15

All: Isaiah 55:10-13 (God’s Word does not return to him empty)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 65:1-13 (A song of praise for God’s bounty in nature)

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 65:1-13 (Happy are they whom you choose to live in your courts;

thanksgiving for the bounty of creation)

Sola/LSB: Romans 8:12-17 (Spirit bears witness to our adoption by God; we cry Abba, Father)

                ELW/RCL: Romans 8:1-11 (Mind set on the flesh can’t please God; but you are in the Spirit, and the life of Christ dwells in you)

All: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 (Parable of the good seed on different soils)

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Opening Hymn: How Marvelous God’s Greatness: LBW #515 simple, singable tune!

                OR This Is My Father’s World: LBW #554, ELW #824

Hymn of the Day: Sing to the Lord of Harvest: LBW #412, ELW #412, LSB #893

OR We Plow the Fields and Scatter: LBW #362, ELW #680 [more modern, Hispanic tune], #681 [traditional, German tune])

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

Communion 2: Now Thank We All Our God: LBW #533/4, ELW #839/40, LSB #895

Closing Hymn: On What Has Now Been Sown: LBW #261, ELW #550, LSB #921

OR Lord, Let My Heart Be Good Soil: WOV #713, ELW #512

*******

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices in prayer to God on behalf of all people.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the simple images of seeds and soil. Thank you for using what we’re familiar with to convey deep truths. Thank you that we don’t need a Ph.D. or a million online followers to bear rich fruit. Let us always give you glory and nourish people hungry for your healing and love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Fill the Church with the Holy Spirit. Make it beautiful with holiness and rich with wisdom. Let your Word take root in it and accomplish your purpose. Draw all people into its courts. Hear their prayers, forgive their sins, and accomplish their salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant patience, courage, and faith to those who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Do not let their witness to you return to you empty. Dig up the stones and weeds from the hearts of all who hate them, so they, too, bear the fruits of repentance and are saved.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Deal mercifully with this congregation. Make everything we say and do faithful and fruitful. Uproot the deep-rooted weeds and remove the stubborn stones of sin from the fields of our lives. Break down the hard-trodden paths of worldly customs. Make your Word grow richly in us, so that many are fed by it.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you for favorable weather and fruitful earth; for the fields and orchards, flocks and herds, streams and seas, which nourish us all. Bless farmers and ranchers, fishers and shepherds, gardeners and all whose knowledge and effort helps to protect, preserve, and wisely use the gifts of creation. Help us to be generous stewards of your bounty, sharing with all who are in need.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for this nation, beset by troubles and strife, yet still our beloved country. Reform its laws, purify its speech, instruct its leaders, and soften every heart to see one another as your beloved children, created in your image and redeemed at great cost by your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Help us to walk alongside just one other person who struggles with doubt, grief, or despair. Help us speak words that are clear, faithful, truthful, and loving. Help us to enrich their faith in you. Help us, and them, to bear much fruit, to your  glory and for the sake of those still hungering for your goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bring healing and hope to everyone who is afflicted by sorrow, suffering and sin, including: {List}. Lead them out of their darkness into the brightness of your saving love. Grant peace to their hearts and joy to their loved ones. Give them clear reason to praise your awesome deeds of salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for all who have died trusting in you. Lead and guide us, who still walk a road that is stony and desolate, overgrown with the thorns of sin and briers of violence. Refresh us in this wilderness. Give us nourishment for our bodies, hope for our hearts, and your Spirit to abide with us along life’s way. Crown our years with blessing. By the merits of your dear Son, gather us safely to yourself, where with all whom you have redeemed, we may sing with joy forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

.

July 5: 6^th Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 9, Lectionary 14, Independence Day Weekend

All: Zechariah 9:9-12 (Rejoice, daughter of Zion, your lowly King comes to you)

All: Psalm 145:1-14 (The Lord is gracious and full of compassion; all his works praise him)

All: Romans 7:14-25 (I don’t do the good I want to do; another law is at work in me!)

Sola/LSB: Matthew 11:25-30 (My yoke is easy, my burden light)

            ELW/RCL: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 (Jesus, friend of sinners; take my yoke…)

*******

Opening Hymn: Before You, Lord, We Bow: LBW #401, ELW #893, LSB #966

OR Hark, the Glad Sound: LBW #35, ELW #239, LSB #349

Hymn of the Day: I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say: LBW #497, ELW #332/611, LSB #699

NOTE: I know, nobody knows Lydian and Doric modes anymore, so the Tallis tune is tough  for many folks. The words, which are wonderful with the Gospel, can also be sung to the tune Kingsfold, and in ELW is specifically set to that melody at #611. The tune is commonly used for “My Soul Proclaims Your Greatness, Lord” (WOV #730) and is also used for hymns in LSB (#444, 846) and LBW (#391). Try it out!

OR Come to Me, All Pilgrims Thirsty: ELW #777

OR Come unto Me, Ye Weary: LSB #684

Communion 1:  Father Most Holy, Merciful and Tender: LBW #169, ELW #415, LSB #504

Communion 2: When Peace, Like a River, Attendeth My Way: LBW #346, ELW #785, LSB #763

OR One There Is, Above All Others: LBW #298

Closing Hymn: God of Our Fathers: LBW #567

OR America the Beautiful: ELW #888

*******

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices in prayer to God on behalf of all people.

A brief silence is kept.

Dear Father, thank you for Jesus, our friend and yokefellow. Thank you for soul’s refreshment and heart’s ease; for mind’s nourishment and body’s rest. Thank you for the countless blessings we so often take for granted.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant that your Church become as gentle and lowly of heart as its Savior. Use it to draw people who are burdened with sin, suffering, and sorrow, to the One who will give them rest. Let the Church’s mission – faith toward you and fervent love toward others – be light and joyous to bear.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give encouragement and respite to your persecuted Church. Help us, who are richly supplied with your good gifts, to share generously with them. Teach us to pray for them and to speak and act on their behalf. Give us, and them, grace to pray for their tormentors to repent and believe the Good News.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you for this congregation. Help us to see others through Jesus’ eyes. Some are carrying heavy burdens, known only to them and to you. Ease their load. Help us to refresh their spirits. Shape all we say and do, so that many find forgiveness, hope, and renewed joy in loving and serving you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you for this beautiful world, over which you have set us as your stewards. Let your Holy Spirit guide us to be wise, responsible, and compassionate as we tend the land and its creatures. Help us to enjoy the loveliness of creation, finding in it refreshment for our souls and relaxation for our bodies.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

{taken from the Online Book of Common Prayer; it seemed appropriate for the 250^th birthday of the United States.} Almighty God, you have given us this good land for our heritage. We humbly beseech you that we may always prove ourselves to be a people mindful of your favor and glad to do your will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. Endue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in your Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home. Through obedience to your law, may we show forth your praise among the nations of the earth. In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in you to fail.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Ease the burdens borne by all who risk their lives to keep us safe, just, and free. Prosper all they do in accordance with your will. Heal those who are wounded, and comfort and strengthen their loved ones. Help us honor their service and value their skills when their duties are finished.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give rest and healing to everyone weighed down by sin, sorrow, or suffering, including: {List}. Ease the load of care and worry that their loved ones shoulder. Give to us all the joy of your saving help.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for our departed loved ones. Until we are reunited with them and with your children of every time and place, bless us with your steadfast mercy and loving-kindness. Yoke us to our Savior, and guide us by his Spirit. Strengthen us to help each other bear the burdens of life. Lead us into the eternal rest and unending joy which you have promised to everyone redeemed by the work of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

Matthew 10:40-42

Sammy: Good morning everyone! 

Pastor: How are you doing, Sammy?

Sammy: I’m thirsty, Pastor.

Pastor: You’re thirsty?

Sammy: Yes, I need water. Can I have some water?

Pastor: I don’t have any water to give you. There’s a water fountain in the hallway.

Sammy: Even if I use the stool, I still can’t reach the water fountain. I’m thirsty, Pastor. I need a drink. Boys and girls, have you ever needed a drink? Maybe right before bedtime?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: I don’t have a drink for you, Sammy.

Sammy: Well, Jesus says if you give me a drink then you get a treat. I am just trying to help you out, Pastor.

Pastor: Oh, Sammy. Jesus is talking about how we should treat each other.

Sammy: I know that. I am a little one. I am thirsty. I would like a drink. I can’t reach the water fountain. Nobody is sharing a cup of water with me. 

Pastor: Hang on, Sammy. You are missing the point. 

Sammy: I don’t think so. I think I understand the point perfectly. I’m thirsty. I need a drink. You give me a drink. You get a treat. 

Pastor: Jesus is talking about how we should treat each other. People did not always treat Jesus or the disciples very nicely. There were men who brought God’s word to people. These men were called prophets. A lot of times, prophets spoke words of truth that were hard for people to hear. Sometimes, people listened to prophets, and sometimes they just got mad at the prophets.

Sammy: What does this all have to do with my drink?

Pastor: I am getting to that part. Jesus shows us that we need to be loving and welcoming to strangers and to people that are little. 

Sammy: I am little!

Pastor: Yes you are. Jesus is talking about how we need to focus on listening to people who follow God and we need to focus on loving and serving the littlest people in our lives–children.

Sammy: That makes sense to me.

Pastor: I don’t have a drink for you, Sammy. But I think after church I can help you get one. 

Sammy: That sounds great, Pastor.

Pastor: Boys and girls, will you please fold your hands and bow your heads? Dear Jesus, thank you for encouraging us to love and serve each other. Help us to always listen to you. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Scripture: Matthew 10:24-39

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 everyone! Did you bring your sword, Pastor?

Pastor: My sword?

Sammy: Yes your sword. I thought you could show the boys and girls the sword I found the other day.

Pastor: Yes. I remember that day. You were wandering around my yard and I invited you in for a drink.

Sammy: Yes you did. I was a thirsty lamb. You have good water.

Pastor: After you got your drink, you wandered around the house.

Sammy: Yes I did. I found all sorts of wonderful things in your house. So many fun toys and the sword. Show them the sword.

[If you have a play sword, a picture of a sword, etc. share this item with the children]

Pastor: Here is the sword.

Sammy: That’s a great sword!

Pastor: You know, Sammy, it’s great that you found this sword in my house ahead of this Gospel reading today.

Sammy: It is?

Pastor: Yes it is. Today in Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus says, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace but a sword.”

Sammy: What does that mean? What is Jesus saying?

Pastor: Jesus is talking about how when people believe in him, they sometimes have family and friends that don’t believe in him.

Sammy: Some of my family members don’t believe in Jesus. It’s hard for me to talk to them sometimes about how much I love Jesus.

Pastor: Don’t be discouraged, Sammy. When Jesus came to earth the first time, he brought a sword, and people were divided against one another. When Jesus comes back to create a new Heaven and a new Earth, we will have peace.

Sammy: I look forward to that day, Pastor. But until then, maybe hang on tight to that sword.

Pastor: I will, Sammy. Boys and girls, can you please pray with me? Let’s fold our hands and bow our heads. Dear Jesus, help us to pray for peace among our friends and family. We thank you Jesus for your love. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Matthew 28:16-20

Sammy: Good morning everyone! 

Pastor: How are you doing, Sammy?

Sammy: I am doing well, but I am a little confused.

Pastor: What are you confused about, Sammy?

Sammy: What does authority mean? 

Pastor: That’s a great question, Sammy. Boys and girls, let’s try to help Sammy understand this word.

Sammy: Wait–I have a guess. 

Pastor: Go ahead, Sammy. What do you think authority means?

Sammy: Well, you heat up water on the stove, and then you get a mug, and you put dried leaves in the mug. Author-it-tea.

Pastor: That’s not right, Sammy.

Sammy: Well, it was worth a try.

Pastor: It’s always a good idea to try. Even if you are wrong. Still try. Anyway, boys and girls, what do you think authority means?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: I love all of these answers. Authority means that person is in charge. He or she is given something to rule or command. And everyone needs to look to that person for where to go or for what to do.

Sammy: So what is Jesus given authority of?

Pastor: Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” All authority. Everything in Heaven and on Earth belongs to Jesus.

Sammy: Woah. Everything?

Pastor: Everything.

Sammy: Everything? Are you sure?

Pastor: Sammy, Jesus is God. Everything belongs to him. Everything in Heaven and everything on Earth.

Sammy: Pastor, that means all of us belong to Jesus too.

Pastor: That’s right, Sammy. Jesus has authority over our good days, our bad days, our happy moments, and our sad moments. He is with us at school, on the playground, at church. There is nothing too big or too small for Jesus. He has authority over everything.

Sammy: I have so much peace knowing that Jesus has authority over everything. That means, no matter what, he is King.

Pastor: That’s right, Sammy. Boys and girls, will you pray with me? Dear Jesus, we thank you for your authority. We praise you for your love and for holding our lives in your hands. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Scripture: John 20:19-23

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 everyone! 

Pastor: Peace be with you, Sammy.

Sammy: Peace be with you, too, Pastor. Hey, Pastor?

Pastor: Yes, Sammy?

Sammy: We say, “Peace be with you” during church, and Jesus says “Peace be with you a lot.” Today he said “Peace be with you” to his disciples.

Pastor: All of what you said is true, Sammy.

Sammy: So what does “Peace be with you” mean? I hear this phrase every Sunday, but I just don’t get it. I don’t go around greeting animals at the farm saying, “Peace be with you” to them. And when I go to the farmer’s market, the farmers don’t say, “Peace be with you” to each other. I hear a lot of “Good morning!” and “How are you?” and “What’s up?” but not ever “Peace be with you” until I come to church. So what does it mean and why do we say it?

Pastor: That’s a great question, Sammy. Boys and girls, what does “Peace be with you” mean?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: Thank you for all of the wonderful answers. Sammy, “Peace be with you” is a very special phrase. “Peace be with you” is a blessing. We are asking God to give a blessing of peace to others, and we are praying for peace between us and our neighbors. Church is a great place to share peace. But we can share peace with each other anywhere we go.

Sammy: That makes sense to me. I like that I can share peace with my friends and neighbors. 

Pastor: Something else that is really important about the Gospel reading for today is that Jesus gives his disciples the Holy Spirit. 

Sammy: That’s an incredible gift!

Pastor: Yes, the Holy Spirit is a gift Jesus gives us now. When we follow Jesus, we get to experience the peace of the Holy Spirit.

Sammy: I like that. Peace be with you, Pastor.

Pastor: Peace be with you, Sammy. Boys and girls, we are going to pray, and then I would like you to say, “Peace be with you” to someone on your way back to your seat. Let’s practice. Ready? Peace be with you. Nice job! Let’s bow our heads and fold our hands. Dear Jesus, thank you for your peace. Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Sammy: Peace be with you.

Pastor: Peace be with you.

Prayers of the Church

June 28, 5^th Sunday after Pentecost:  Proper 8, Lectionary 13

All: Jeremiah 28:5-9 (Would that the word of the prophet who speaks peace come to pass!)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 119:153-160 (Preserve my life from those who do not heed your law)

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18 (God’s covenant with David)

Sola/LSB: Romans 7:1-13 (We have died to Law in Christ; sin caused the Law to be death for us)

                ELW/RCL: Romans 6:12-23 (Delivered from slavery to sin, be slaves to righteousness)

Sola/LSB: Matthew 10:34-42 (I come not with peace but a sword; whoever doesn’t take up cross and follow isn’t worthy of Jesus, whoever gives cup of water in His name receives reward)

                ELW/RCL: Matthew 10:40-42 (Whoever welcomes you welcomes me)

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

Opening Hymn: O God of Mercy, God of Light/Might: LBW #425, ELW #714, LSB #852

Hymn of the Day: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus: LBW #389, LSB #660 (Even if your congregation , like mine, normally sits for the Hymn of the Day, GET EM ON THEIR FEETSES for this one!)

OR Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word: LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

Communion 1: We Give Thee but Thine Own: LBW #410, ELW #686, LSB #781

Communion 2:  Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842

Closing Hymn: Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun: LBW #530, ELW #434, LSB #832

*******

Let us pray for the Church, the world, and for one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Father, you pay us the compliment of revealing hard truths to us. You expect us to see the world honestly, and to value your truth above even earthly peace. You speak to us of sin and death, cross bearing and persecution, suffering and service. Give us a double measure of your Spirit as we seek to be disciples of Jesus, because, dear Lord, we’re going to need it!

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give the Church courage to speak your truth, even when that seems to bring not peace but a sword. Keep it faithful to the testimony of apostles and martyrs, saints, and doctors of your one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church throughout all time and space. Grant that it should prefer nothing whatsoever to Christ; and that it should count as its greatest honor the bearing of his Cross in this sin-shadowed world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Preserve the lives of your persecuted servants from those who despise your Law. When they must bear a bitter cross, keep them faithful, firmly fixed on the joy set before them. Give us courage to defend and assist them. Give us grace to faithfully serve the Lord for whom they are willing to die.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless the people and ministries of this congregation. Give us fresh ways to reach, speak with, and walk alongside people who don’t know your love. We ask a special blessing upon all Vacation Bible School programs this summer. Give them dedicated volunteers and lots of happy children.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Even in the lazy days of summer, you call us to be Jesus’ apprentices in the art of healing souls, teaching minds, and softening hearts to receive your great gifts. Bless and guide everyone learning to be disciples of Jesus, walking with him as he seeks the hurting and lost.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace. Give to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will. Bless us with peace, and with freedom from every evil  and falsehood. Teach us all to live together as your children, and to work together for the prospering of all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep those in the military, and all who defend life and liberty, safe from harm to body and soul. Prosper all they do that is in accordance with your will. Give them clear heads, capable hands, and upright spirits. Bring them safely home when their task is done, and heal those who are injured in any way.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray on behalf of your servants who suffer in body, mind, spirit, or circumstance, and for all who crave your mercy and blessing, including: {List}. Restore them to health, wholeness, and hope. Help us to give even a cup of cold water for the sake of our Lord and his love for them. Bless all caregivers, doctors, nurses, technicians, and therapists with compassion, expertise, and cheerful service.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

With reverence and affection, we remember before you our beloved dead. Comfort all who grieve. Help us care for each other for Jesus’ sake. Help us speak hard truths with humility and love. Give us grace to take up our cross and follow Jesus, knowing that he will lead us through danger, evil, and death, and will bring us home to you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.