September 27: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21, Lectionary 26)

ALL: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32 (you are responsible for your own sins; turn from them and live!)

ALL: Psalm 25:1-10 (Lead me in your truth and teach me!)

SOLA/LSB: Philippians 2:1-18 (Be of one heart and mind – the mind of Christ; act without grumbling; be his lights in this broken world, that Paul may boast in you!)

ELW/RCL: Philippians 2:1-13 (Eliminates personal reference)

ALL: Matthew 21:23-32 (By what authority does Jesus act? Parable of two sons who act contrary to their words; which are you like?)

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

Opening Hymn: (echoing Psalm) Lead Me, Guide Me: ELW #768, LSB #721

OR Renew Me, O Eternal Light: LBW #511, LSB #704

OR Come, Let Us Join Our Cheerful Songs: LBW #254, ELW #847, LSB #812

Hymn of the Day: Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word: LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

OR O Master, Let Me Walk with You: LBW #492, ELW #818

Communion 1: Jesus Calls Us; O’er the Tumult: LBW #494, ELW #696

Communion 2: O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, LSB #696

Closing Hymn: Strengthen for Service, Lord, the Hands: LBW #218, ELW #497

OR Look, O Look/Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious (echoes epistle): LBW #156, LSB #495

*******

 

Let us approach the throne of grace on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence is kept.

 

Heavenly Father, thank you for making us your children. Thank you for your patience with us when we speak and act in ways that grieve and displease you. Thank you for your Son Jesus, who perfectly says and does your will. Make us to be like him, so we are your heart’s delight and your blessing to the world.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Fill the Church with the mind of your dear Son, and fashion its members into his likeness. Conform its proclamation to his teaching, and its works to his self-sacrificing love. Let the light of his love shine into the world, so many turn to him and live.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant faith, hope, and charity to our brethren who experience persecution throughout the world. Stir up our hearts to defend and assist them. Let repentance soften the hearts of their tormentors.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Put the mind of Christ into this congregation. Let his humility and love shape and direct all we say and do. Give us hearts that are obedient to your will, to your glory and for the building up of your people.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless all parents, step-parents, and foster parents. Give them your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in your presence. Forgive their errors and relieve their fears. Grant them the joy of seeing their children grow into healthy, loving adults.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make the world’s leaders – not only of nations, but also of local government, and of all useful fields of human endeavor – into your wise and willing offspring. Teach them to serve you by ruling with justice tempered by mercy. Make all of us honest, sensible, and kind. Help us to make our communities and nation flourish. Please, help us to live at peace with each other.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Keep in your special care those in the military, and all who risk their lives for the sake of others. Inform their minds, strengthen their bodies, and purify their hearts. Shape their actions to conform to your will. Bring them home safely and soon, and shield their loved ones with your love.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bring the joy of your saving help to everyone in distress, sorrow, danger or need – including: {List}. Lead them through the things that afflict them into the light of your blessed presence. Give them the blessings of restored health, hope, and fellowship with those who love them.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you, Father, for the lives of your faithful servants who now dwell in your eternal Kingdom. Especially we bless you for our departed loved ones. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief is deep. Give us every good gift we need to walk our pilgrim’s path through this life. Bring us safely into your house, where you have made room for everyone redeemed through the obedient sacrifice of your Son. There let us delight in praising your goodness forever.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Conform our prayers to the heart of Jesus, hear them through the interceding of your Holy Spirit, and grant them in accordance with your gracious will. Amen.

September 20: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20, Lectionary 25)

OR St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist (transferred)

 

17 Pentecost/Proper 20:

SOLA/LSB: Isaiah 55:6-9 (Seek the Lord; he will abundantly pardon, his ways are not our ways)

            ELW/RCL: Jonah 3:10-4:11 (Jonah’s ticked at God’s mercy; God’s rejoinder)

SOLA/LSB: Psalm 27:1-9 (The Lord is my light and salvation, whom then shall I fear?)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 145:1-8 (Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised)

SOLA/LSB: Philippians 1:12-14, 19-30 (Paul’s imprisonment. To live is Christ, to die is gain; only live lives worthy of your calling in Christ)

            ELW/RCL: Philippians 1:21-30 (Eliminates imprisonment)

ALL: Matthew 20:1-16 (Parable of the 11^th-hour workers in the vineyard)

*******

St. Matthew:

Ezekiel 2:8-3:11 (Eat the scroll, O prophet; speak my words to a rebellious people)

Psalm 119:33-40 (Teach me your statutes; lead me in the way of understanding)

Ephesians 2:4-10 (By grace you have been saved! Riches of God’s mercy show in Christ)

Matthew 9:9-13 (Call of Matthew; Jesus came for sinners, not righteous)

*******

The hymns work well for either celebration!

Opening Hymn: There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy: LBW #290, ELW #588

OR for a Hispanic paraphrase of Psalm 27, The Lord is My Light: LSB #723

OR Seek Where You May To Find A Way: LSB #557

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling: LBW #381, LSB #827

OR How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord (lovely, fairly familiar tune): LSB #853

Communion 1: For Me to Live is Jesus: LSB #742

OR O Jesus, I Have Promised: LBW #503, ELW #810

Communion 2: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

Closing Hymn: Lord of All Hopefulness: LBW #469, ELW #765, LSB #738

            OR Take My Life, That I May Be: LBW #406, ELW #583/685

Take My Life, and Let It Be: LSB #783/784

*****

Let us approach the throne of grace on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Thank you, Father, for calling Matthew, and us, to be your disciples and workers in your Kingdom’s vineyard! Thank you for seeking us to do your work, even when others disapprove. Give us grace to hear your call, and strength to do your will. Thank you for the wages of everlasting life and salvation, and for your pleasure in us.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make the Church a place where all may see the fair beauty of Jesus and find a welcome in his outstretched arms. Let them hear the Gospel, respond to your call, and labor fruitfully and faithfully in your service.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for our persecuted sisters and brothers around the world. Give them courage to honor Christ in their body, to boldly speak and joyfully live the Gospel; and to know that they share in Jesus’ suffering.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Help the people of this congregation to stand firm together, striving to proclaim the Gospel in word and deed. Help us to work at whatever task pleases you. Make us glad when others begin to work alongside us, knowing that your grace has drawn them to serve you, even as it drew us.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for our young people, especially those considering a vocation to ministry and service in your Church. Give them delight in learning, and love for your people. Preserve them from the consequences of folly or malice. Use their energy to please you and to serve their neighbor.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant wisdom to our earthly leaders. Let them seek you while you may be found; call upon you while you are near; and govern in accordance with your holy will. Graciously grant patience, kindness, and humility to everyone, so that we may lead peaceable lives.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you for Matthew, apostle and evangelist. Help us to learn from his words and grow stronger in faith toward you and in fervent love for one another.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Be the safe shelter and solid rock to everyone in times of trouble, including: {List}. Lift them high above the things that trouble them. Give patience and compassion to all caregivers, especially those whose work is long, hard, and thankless. Restore them to the joy of fellowship with those who love them.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you, Father, for those we love who are now with Christ. Though we may grieve, we know that “to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Give us strength to labor cheerfully in your vineyards. Help us to share the Gospel wisely and well, following the example of the apostles and evangelists. Then, let us rejoice in the company of the redeemed, as together we see our Savior face to face.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Conform our prayers to the heart of Jesus, hear them through the interceding of your Holy Spirit, and grant them in accordance with your gracious will. Amen.

Prayers, September 13: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19, Lectionary 24)

 

ALL: Genesis 50:15-21 (Joseph forgives his brothers)

ALL: Psalm 103:1-13 (Bless the Lord, O my soul; he has not dealt with us according to our sins)

ALL: Romans 14:1-12 (Don’t quarrel with those weaker in faith over opinions;

whether we live or die, it’s unto the Lord)

ALL: Matthew 18:21-35 (Parable of the unforgiving servant)

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

Opening Hymn: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (nice Psalm paraphrase):

LBW #543, ELW #858 Note: ELW #859 is a “re-translation”), LSB #790

OR (if you’re up for a challenging but dance-like tune and a paraphrase of the Psalm)

My Soul, Now Praise Your Maker: LSB #820

Hymn of the Day: Come Down, O Love Divine: LBW #508, ELW #804, LSB #501

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

Communion 1: I Lay My Sins on Jesus: LBW #305, LSB #606

OR Bread of Life, Our Host and Meal: ELW #464

OR Bless the Lord, O My Soul: WOV #798 (repeat as needed)

Communion 2: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

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

 

*******

 

Let us approach the throne of grace on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence is kept.

 

We are your debtors in so many ways, dear Father! We sometimes forget how even small sins can, if unrepented and unforgiven, run up a soul-crushing “tab.” Thank you for being willing to cancel our debt. Keep us mindful of the costly generosity of your beloved Son. Give us his grace and strength, to willingly forgive the debts of those who have wronged us.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Teach your Church how to be a school for forgiveness and mercy. Give it pastors who explain and practice forgiving. Make its worship an encounter with your forgiveness. Equip its members to pray for and share the forgiveness you give through the death and resurrection of Jesus.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

How hard it must be to forgive, when people are tortured simply for believing in Jesus, who prayed for his enemies even from the Cross! Give them a double portion of his Spirit, so that they may bless and not curse, forgive and not revile. Let persecutors repent from their evil and ask forgiveness from those they have wronged.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make the people of this congregation rich in mercy, abounding in kindness, tireless in good works, and joyful in praising you, the source of all mercy.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for all who are crushed beneath a load of debt. They can do foolish or dangerous things to seek relief. Help them to ask for help. Help those to whom they are indebted to move beyond anger and self-interest, into the uncharted yet blessed waters of mercy. Remind them how indebted they are to you, for you forgive their debts of sin.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Be merciful to this poor broken world. Help our leaders to rule with justice tempered with mercy. Bestow on all of us a spirit of patience, forbearance, humility, and kindness. Teach us to outdo one another in showing mercy and righteousness.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for everyone seeking to be Jesus’ disciples, especially as he teaches them the hard path of forgiveness and self-sacrifice. Fill them with your Spirit. Help them to share your Son’s costly grace rightly and wisely, even with people who are obnoxious, obstinate, or oblivious.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Renew the life and health of all who are afflicted in any way by the powers of sin, evil, sickness, or death. Today we plead on behalf of: {List}. Heal all their infirmities, dear Lord; and crown them with your mercy and loving-kindness.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Most holy Father, you show goodness and mercy toward those who die trusting in you. Thank you for redeeming their lives from the grave. Make your ways known also to us. Renew our strength and take away our sin. Lead us in the pathways of your loving-kindness. Teach us to forgive rather than to condemn one another. Grant that whether we live or die, we know that we are yours. Raise us to that perfect and glorious life which you give to all whom you have redeemed.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Conform our prayers to the heart of Jesus, hear them through the interceding of your Holy Spirit, and grant them in accordance with your gracious will. Amen.

 

The 2^nd Half of the Season of Pentecost, Cycle A

September 13 – November 22, 2026

 

NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry 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 after Pentecost/Holy Trinity this year are Proper 5, 6, 7, etc., in Sola/LSB. They’re designated “Lectionary 10, 11, 12” in RCL/ELW this year, and though there’s a reason, I’m not going to explain that discrepancy! 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.

 

For General/Green Season Use: A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution

 

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, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Gospel Acclamation (Spoken)

Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.

OR

Alleluia. Your Word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth. Alleluia.

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Offertory Prayer

(Note: both are prayers of Ignatius Loyola!)

Let us pray. Lord, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labor and not to ask for reward, save that of knowing that I do your will. Amen.

 

OR

 

Let us pray. Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will. All I have and call my own, You have given all to me; to you, Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace, for

that is enough for me. Amen.

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Great Thanksgiving and Proper Preface

 

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. For you are the source of light and life, you made us in your image, and called us to new life in Jesus Christ our Lord; who on the first day of the week overcame death and the grave, and by his glorious resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Eucharistic Prayer

 

Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world.

On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, with praise and thanksgiving. Recalling our Savior’s death, resurrection, and ascension, we pray that you would sanctify these gifts by your Holy Spirit, to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom.

 

All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

 

OR

 

And so, Father, we bring you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

On the night he was betrayed he took bread, said the blessing, broke the bread, and gave it to his friends, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”

 

After supper, he took the cup of wine, gave thanks, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

 

Father, we now celebrate the memorial of your Son. By means of this holy bread and cup, we proclaim his death and resurrection, until he comes again. Gather us by this Holy Communion into one body in your Son Jesus Christ. Make us a living sacrifice of praise. By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: Post-Communion Prayer

Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted us as living members

of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, and you have fed us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of his Body and Blood. Send us now into the world in peace, and grant us strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

OR

Almighty and ever-living God, we thank you for feeding us with the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. Send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 13: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19, Lectionary 24)

 

 

ALL: Genesis 50:15-21 (Joseph forgives his brothers)

           

ALL: Psalm 103:1-13 (Bless the Lord, O my soul; he has not dealt with us according to our sins)

 

ALL: Romans 14:1-12 (Don’t quarrel with those weaker in faith over opinions;

whether we live or die, it’s unto the Lord)

 

ALL: Matthew 18:21-35 (Parable of the unforgiving servant)

 

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

 

Opening Hymn: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (nice Psalm paraphrase):

LBW #543, ELW #858 Note: ELW #859 is a “re-translation”), LSB #790

 

OR (if you’re up for a challenging but dance-like tune and a paraphrase of the Psalm)

My Soul, Now Praise Your Maker: LSB #820

 

Hymn of the Day: Come Down, O Love Divine: LBW #508, ELW #804, LSB #501

 

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

 

Communion 1: I Lay My Sins on Jesus: LBW #305, LSB #606

 

OR Bread of Life, Our Host and Meal: ELW #464

 

OR Bless the Lord, O My Soul: WOV #798 (repeat as needed)

 

Communion 2: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

 

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

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

 

September 20: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20, Lectionary 25)

OR St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist (transferred)

 

17 Pentecost/Proper 20:

 

SOLA/LSB: Isaiah 55:6-9 (Seek the Lord; he will abundantly pardon, his ways are not our ways)

            ELW/RCL: Jonah 3:10-4:11 (Jonah’s ticked at God’s mercy; God’s rejoinder)

 

SOLA/LSB: Psalm 27:1-9 (The Lord is my light and salvation, whom then shall I fear?)

           

ELW/RCL: Psalm 145:1-8 (Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised)

 

SOLA/LSB: Philippians 1:12-14, 19-30 (Paul’s imprisonment. To live is Christ, to die is gain; only live lives worthy of your calling in Christ)

           

ELW/RCL: Philippians 1:21-30 (Eliminates imprisonment)

 

ALL: Matthew 20:1-16 (Parable of the 11^th-hour workers in the vineyard)

 

*******

 

St. Matthew:

Ezekiel 2:8-3:11 (Eat the scroll, O prophet; speak my words to a rebellious people)

Psalm 119:33-40 (Teach me your statutes; lead me in the way of understanding)

Ephesians 2:4-10 (By grace you have been saved! Riches of God’s mercy show in Christ)

Matthew 9:9-13 (Call of Matthew; Jesus came for sinners, not righteous)

*******

The hymns work well for either celebration!

 

Opening Hymn: There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy: LBW #290, ELW #588

 

OR for a Hispanic paraphrase of Psalm 27, The Lord is My Light: LSB #723

 

OR Seek Where You May To Find A Way: LSB #557

 

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling: LBW #381, LSB #827

 

OR How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord (lovely, fairly familiar tune): LSB #853

 

Communion 1: For Me to Live is Jesus: LSB #742

 

OR O Jesus, I Have Promised: LBW #503, ELW #810

 

Communion 2: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

 

Closing Hymn: Lord of All Hopefulness: LBW #469, ELW #765, LSB #738

 

            OR Take My Life, That I May Be: LBW #406, ELW #583/685

Take My Life, and Let It Be: LSB #783/784

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

 

September 27: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21, Lectionary 26)

 

ALL: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32 (you are responsible for your own sins; turn from them and live!)

 

ALL: Psalm 25:1-10 (Lead me in your truth and teach me!)

 

SOLA/LSB: Philippians 2:1-18 (Be of one heart and mind – the mind of Christ; act without grumbling; be his lights in this broken world, that Paul may boast in you!)

 

ELW/RCL: Philippians 2:1-13 (Eliminates personal reference)

 

ALL: Matthew 21:23-32 (By what authority does Jesus act? Parable of two sons who act contrary to their words; which are you like?)

 

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

 

Opening Hymn: (echoing Psalm) Lead Me, Guide Me: ELW #768, LSB #721

 

OR Renew Me, O Eternal Light: LBW #511, LSB #704

 

OR Come, Let Us Join Our Cheerful Songs: LBW #254, ELW #847, LSB #812

 

Hymn of the Day: Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word: LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

 

OR O Master, Let Me Walk with You: LBW #492, ELW #818

 

Communion 1: Jesus Calls Us; O’er the Tumult: LBW #494, ELW #696

 

Communion 2: O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, LSB #696

 

Closing Hymn: Strengthen for Service, Lord, the Hands: LBW #218, ELW #497

 

OR Look, O Look/Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious (echoes epistle): LBW #156, LSB #495

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

 

October 4: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22, Lectionary 27)

 

ALL: Isaiah 5:1-7 (Love song about beloved vineyard turns to lament over its wild grapes)

 

SOLA/LSB: Psalm 80:7-19 (Come to the aid of your vineyard, against those who trample it!)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 80:7-15

 

ALL: Philippians 3:4b-14 (My richest gains I count but loss because of surpassing excellence

of knowing Christ)

 

ALL: Matthew 21:33-46 (Parable of the wicked tenants in master’s vineyard)

 

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

 

Opening Hymn: Judge Eternal, Throned in Splendor: LBW #418

 

OR Built on A/The Rock the Church Shall Stand: LBW #365, ELW #652, LSB #645

 

OR As Saints of Old Their Firstfruits Brought: LBW #404 (aw heck. I hate when great hymns are set to bad or difficult tunes. Use “Forest Green,” the jaunty English folk melody used for “I Sing the Almighty Power of God.” That’s what is used in ELW #695!), ELW #695

 

Hymn of the Day: There in God’s Garden: WOV #668, ELW #342 (This is a great and noble hymn, magnificent words, majestic tune. If your folks don’t know it, teach it to them! Use it as a Hymn of the Month Club hymn! I’m serious. Do it. It’s up there with “In Christ Alone,” which if you can find it online, is also a wonderful hymn here.)

OR Ah, Holy Jesus: LBW #123, ELW #349

 

OR  Fruitful Trees, the Spirit’s Sowing: LSB #691

 

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

 

Communion 2:  When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425/6

 

Closing Hymn: The Church’s One Foundation: LBW #369, ELW #654, LSB #644

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

thanks for Philippians’ gift)

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

LBW #314, ELW#425, LSB # 676

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

OR The Feast is Ready: ELW #531

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

*******

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

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

 

 

 

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 will come with trumpet)

 

ALL: Matthew 25:1-13 (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

 

 

 

 

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

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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)

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

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! Good to see everyone! Tell me about your summer so far? How was Vacation Bible School?

 

[Allow time for responses]

 

Pastor: I am glad that everyone is doing well and that you are having a great summer. What are some of the foods you’re enjoying this summer?

 

Sammy: Well, at the farm the grazing is delightful! There’s wonderful plants growing in abundance over the summer. I enjoy eating a lot.

 

Pastor: Me, too. I don’t graze like you, but I do eat special foods in the summer time.

 

Sammy: What kinds of foods?

 

Pastor: I eat BBQ, grilled foods, sweet corn, fresh watermelon, peaches.

 

Sammy: That all sounds delicious!

 

Pastor: Summer is a great time of year. The fresh food is in abundance and thanks to our local farmers and gardeners, there’s plenty to eat.

 

Sammy: In a week we will really get to see the abundance of food growing in our county at the County Fair! I can’t wait to go! I heard all about the fair on the farm.

 

Pastor: You know, all of this talk of food reminds me of the Gospel story for today. Jesus met with a large crowd and was healing the sick and talking with them for the day. When evening came, the people were hungry.

 

Sammy: Was there a meadow nearby?

 

Pastor: A meadow? 

 

Sammy: For grazing. 

 

Pastor: People don’t graze. They need food that’s not hay and grass.

 

Sammy: Oh. I forgot. Well, what did they eat?

 

Pastor: All the disciples had was five loaves of bread and two fish.

 

Sammy: That doesn’t sound too bad. That could feed a few people.

 

Pastor: That’s right, but Jesus wanted to feed more than 5,000 people. That’s more than a few. That’s more people than we have for church right now.

 

Sammy: Wow! How did Jesus feed all of the hungry people?

 

Pastor: Jesus blessed and broke the loaves and gave the food to the people to eat. All of the people ate and they were all full. And there were leftovers!

 

Sammy: I love leftovers!

 

Pastor: Me too! Does anyone else love leftovers?

 

[Allow time for responses]

 

Pastor: Thank you all for sharing this time with me. Jesus is God. He provides everything we need and he surely loves us. Will you all please fold your hands, bow your heads, and repeat after me? Dear Jesus, thank you for giving us good food. Thank you for miracles. Thank you for being with us and healing us. We love you. Amen.

Scripture:

Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

 

Script:

Sammy: Good morning everyone! 

 

Pastor: We have VBS happening at our church this week.

 

Sammy: It’s going to be so exciting.

 

Pastor: I am looking forward to traveling to Ireland with all of the boys and girls tomorrow. And you know, it’s not too late to sign up and join us in the adventure to Emerald Crossing.

 

Sammy: How do we sign up?

 

Pastor: Ask your family to go online to our church website. You can also come talk to me or Mr. Scott after church today.

 

Sammy: You know, Pastor, I am a little nervous about VBS.

 

Pastor: Why’s that?

 

Sammy: Every year I go to VBS, I meet new people.

 

Pastor: And?

 

Sammy: That’s it. I just get nervous to meet new people.

 

Pastor: You know, Jesus talks about how we are going to live in our world. He tells a story, a parable, about a man who plants seed that is good. And then an enemy comes in and plants a bunch of weeds in a field.

 

Sammy: Why would an enemy do that?

 

Pastor: That’s what enemies do. They do bad things on purpose to hurt us on purpose.

 

Sammy: That’s terrible.

 

Pastor: I know, but Jesus has a plan. He protects the wheat and when harvest time comes, he gathers the wheat into the barn. 

 

Sammy: I am glad that this story has a happy ending, and I am glad that we have Jesus in our lives, but what does this parable have to do with me being nervous about VBS this week?

 

Pastor: Well, Jesus is reminding us that just like the wheat and weeds, we as believers grow up and live with nonbelievers. We are either children of God, or we are not. So as children of God, we have to remember that we are living among people who love God, and we are living among people who don’t love God.

 

Sammy: What does that mean?

 

Pastor: At VBS this week, and at preschool and elementary school in about a month, you are going to be in groups and classes with other children who are believers and who love God. You are also going to be in groups and class with other children who are not believers and who do not love God.

 

Sammy: How can other children not love God?

 

Pastor: Sometimes they don’t know about God. We have to remember that not everyone teaches their children about Jesus, but we can.

 

Sammy: We can?

 

Pastor: Well, in church we share the love of Jesus every week. In preschool or school, you can tell others that Jesus loves them. This week at VBS, make a new friend. And you can tell your new friend that Jesus loves him or her, too.

 

Sammy: I like that plan. I can tell my new friends at VBS that Jesus loves them.

 

Pastor: That’s great! Boys and girls, will you pray with me? Dear Jesus, thank you for helping us to make new friends. Help us to tell others about you. Please help us as we go to VBS, school, and work. Amen.

 

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

 

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

 

September 6: 15^th Sunday after Pentecost: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost, Lectionary 23; Labor Day Weekend

Sola/LSB: Ezekiel 33:7-11 (You are a sentinel, so warn those who sin. I do not desire the death of sinners, but that they turn to me and live)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 32:1-7 (The joy of confession and forgiveness of sin)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 119: 33-40 (Teach, lead, give me a heart to obey your commandments)

Sola/LSB: Romans 13:1-10 (Obey earthly rulers. Love fulfills all the commandments)

            ELW/RCL: Romans 13:8-14 (No rulers mentioned. Love each other, put on Christ, for salvation is near!)

Sola/LSB: Matthew 18:1-20 (Become like a little child. Do not lead God’s little ones astray! Cut off whatever causes you to sin. God rejoices over penitent sinners. Discipline in the Church.)

            ELW/RCL: Matthew 18:15-20 (Discipline in the Church)

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

Opening Hymn: Herald, Sound the Note of Judgment (Trust me: this can be sung to tune for “Angels, From the Realms of Glory): LBW #556, LSB #511

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

Hymn of the Day: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive, LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

OR Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us: LBW #481 (Oh for pity’s sake, this tune is dorky! Use “Bradbury” from SBH, also used in ELW and LSB – like decent people do!!!), ELW #789, LSB #711

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

Communion 2: Where Charity and Love Prevail: LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

Closing Hymn: May We Your/Thy Precepts, Lord, Fulfill: LBW #353, LSB #698

            OR O/In God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, ELW #806, LSB #745

*******

Let us approach the throne of grace on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence is kept.

 

O dear Lord, these lessons are hard! It’s tough to think about sin and reconciliation, discipline and hard conversations. Please help us to thank you for the guidance and promise your Son gives us, even in such awkward encounters. And fill us with your Spirit, so we are equipped to put into practice what Jesus has given us for such times.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make your Church courageous in warning people of their sinfulness, and humble in confessing its own sin. Help it to graciously offer forgiveness to any who turn to you. Give it the lovely righteousness of your Son, and make it his dwelling-place, and an outpost of your Kingdom.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Hear the prayers of your faithful people who suffer persecution, torture and death because of Christ. Do not let the waters of hatred overwhelm them; and grant them grace to persevere in faithfulness.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless this congregation with humility, gentleness, and wisdom. Help us to speak truth with so much love, that others eagerly seek the mercy, reconciliation and life that comes from Christ.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for families, congregations, and communities in which people have hurt one another. They struggle with betrayal and anger. They need humility, to confess and repent when they have done wrong. They need courage, to forgive when they have been wronged. They need hope, to relearn trust. Refresh them with your Spirit and nourish them with your Word. Give them the grace and mercy of Jesus, so they can heal and reconcile, to your glory and for the sake of their fellowship.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give everyone the will and the opportunity to work, and give our society the generosity to assist those who cannot. Especially we ask you to strengthen and help entrepreneurs, small business owners, and all employees. Help us to value their contribution to our common welfare. Guide us in finding ways to help them prosper, for the good of all.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give wisdom, courage, and right intentions to those in the military and law enforcement. Make them worthy instruments of your will. Use them to bring safety, freedom, and justice to those who suffer at the hands of evildoers. Heal them when they are victims of evil. By their labors, lay the groundwork for peace to flourish.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We plead on behalf of all who suffer, including {List}. Grant them health, hope, guidance, and the joy of your presence in their lives. Fill all who care for them with compassion. Give your salvation to them all.

 

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your “little ones” who, have died to this world and now live eternally in your embrace. Give us the grace to live as your little ones, too.  Help us to trust and obey you. Help us to aid, warn, and forgive each other. Give us your mercy, and for Jesus’ sake, lead us into your Kingdom. Grant us the joy of seeing your face and of worshipping you in the company of all you have redeemed.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Conform our prayers to the heart of Jesus, hear them through the interceding of your Holy Spirit, and grant them in accordance with your gracious will. Amen.

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?

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

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

*******

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.

August 23: 13^th Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 16, Lectionary 21

 

All: Isaiah 51:1-6 (Listen for God’s teaching, wait for his deliverance)

All: Psalm 138 (God is faithful; he listens to the lowly)

Sola/LSB: Romans 11:33-12:8 (The depth and riches of God’s wisdom! Present bodies as living sacrifice to him; do not be conformed to this world, but transformed by renewal of your mind)

            ELW/RCL: Romans 12:1-8 (Present your body as a living sacrifice to God; do not be

conformed to this world, but transformed by renewal of your mind)

All: Matthew 16:13-20 (Peter’s confession; on this rock I will build my Church)

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

OR Father of Mercies, In Your Word: LBW #240 Note: do try this nice hymn; same tune as

                           “Forgive our sins as we forgive” – early American.

Hymn of the Day: Built on a Rock, the Church Shall Stand: LBW #365, ELW #652, LSB #645

OR The Son of God Goes Forth to War: LBW #183, LSB #661

Communion 1: Take My Life, That I May Be: LBW #406, ELW #583, 685

Take My Life and Let it Be: LSB #783/4

Communion 2: The Church’s One Foundation: LBW #369, ELW #654, LSB #644

Closing Hymn: Christ is Made the Sure Foundation: WOV #747, ELW #645, LSB #909

LBW #367, same words, different tune. I recommend using the WOV version if you can.

*******

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! He was so very human, and yet you gave him faith to confess Jesus as your Son and Messiah. As you used him, please use us to do your work of forgiving, confessing, and proclaiming Jesus as Lord to the world.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Establish the Church upon the solid rock of Christ, and on the faithful witness of your apostles. Make the Church truly the one body of Christ upon this earth. Do not let the gates of hell prevail against its faithful proclamation and teaching. By your Holy Spirit, make it wise, gracious, and steadfast in rightly forgiving and retaining sin. Use it to bring many to faith in Jesus their Savior.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Keep safe your servants who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Christ and God. Visit them with your righteousness and draw near with your salvation. Let our words and deeds never tarnish their witness. We also pray for missionaries, seminarians, and theologians entrusted with proclaiming your word.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Conform this congregation to your good, acceptable, and perfect will. Help us to not think too highly of ourselves, but with sober judgment to use our talents according to the grace you have given each of us. Build up the body of your beloved Son among us through sound preaching and teaching, generous giving, cheerful service, and loving kindness.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless all those who have instructed and shaped our faith – parents, grandparents, pastors, Sunday School teachers, and everyone whose love for Jesus shines brightly in word and deed. Thank you for the saints whose confession of Jesus as Lord has been a blessing to others, and has formed the unseen foundation of our own faith. Use us to encourage, instruct and guide others in lives of discipleship and service, to your glory and for the building up of your people.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Teach the world’s rulers listen to you, the giver of justice and the author of salvation. Conform their decisions and deeds to your righteous will, so that they care for the lowly and give hope to all who cry out to you. Heal the divisions that fracture families, communities, and nations; and help us to live at peace with our neighbors.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless all who risk their lives to protect, defend, and rescue others. Give them valor, loyalty, wisdom, and competence. Help them to act according to your will and for the benefit of your people. Heal their wounds; reunite them swiftly with loved ones; and crown their labors with the blessing of your peace.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Graciously answer the prayers of all who call upon you for help, including: {List}. Keep them safe in the midst of suffering and sorrow. Increase their strength and faith. Let them see the light of your salvation.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Gracious Father, your love endures forever. In your mercy, draw near and fulfil your purpose for us. Keep us steadfast in faith, bold in witness, generous in sharing, cheerful in helping, gentle in exhorting, frequent in forgiving, and constant in thankfulness to you, our rock, and our salvation. Lead us into presence of Christ our Lord. Give to us, and to all whom he has redeemed, eternal joy and gladness; thanksgiving and the voice of song.

 

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.

August 16: 12^th Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 15, Lectionary 20

 

All: Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 (My house shall be a house of prayer for all peoples)

All: Psalm 67 (God judges the nations with equity and guides all the people of earth)

All: Romans 11:1-2a, 13-15, 28-32 (God’s election of Jews irrevocable; he will show mercy!)

All: Matthew 15:21-28 (Healing of Syro-Phoenecian woman’s daughter)

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Opening Hymn: Both go well with Romans text. Blessed Be the God of Israel: WOV #725, ELW #250

OR Bless Israel’s God Words: Rev. Cathy Ammlung, STS; Tune: Angelic Songs (O Zion, Haste)

1. Bless Israel’s God; he has redeemed his people:

Raised up a Savior born from David’s line;

Promised of old, through prophets’ proclamation,

To save from deadly foes with pow’r divine;

Promised to show our fathers mercy sure;

Promised his covenant forever shall endure.

 

2. Through Abraham, God swore an oath to save us

From hands of foes, to serve him fearlessly

In holiness and righteousness before him,

There to adore and bless him constantly.

You, child – God’s prophet, go before his face,

Give saving knowledge of forgiveness and God’s grace!

 

3. Tenderly, God bestows his love and mercy,

His heav’nly Dayspring shines upon our plight.

Darkness and death no longer can confound us:

In paths of peace, he guides us by his light.

Glory to Father, Son, and Spirit – Lord

God who through the ages ever is adored!

Hymn of the Day: In Christ There is No East or West: LBW #359, ELW #650, LSB #653

OR How Wide the Love of Christ!: LSB #535 (Simple tune. Another Herm Stuempfle gem ignored by many Lutheran hymnals. I’d recommend you get a one-time license from CPH to use this.)

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

Communion 2: What a Friend We Have in Jesus: LBW #439, ELW #742, LSB #770

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

*******

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

 

A brief silence is kept.

Dear Father, we are slow to see others as your beloved children! Soften our hearts to lead them into Jesus’ presence. Help us to discover that at the foot of his Cross, we truly are sisters and brothers.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Fashion your Church into your house of prayer upon the earth. By your Holy Spirit, show it how to rightly welcome all people into its midst.  Through your Word and holy Sacraments, draw many close to your beloved Son. Let them receive his promised mercy, forgiveness, healing, and salvation.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

There are many who refuse your mercy, reject your Son, and persecute your servants. Forgive them and soften their hearts. Strengthen Christians who suffer because of Jesus, to witness to him with humility, boldness, and steadfast endurance.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make this congregation a house of prayer. Fashion us into people of prayer. Transform our ministries into expressions of prayer, offered to you on behalf of our neighbors and our world. Help us to welcome fellow sinners. Give us grace to walk with them on the lifelong journey of repentance and obedient faith.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

O God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, we pray for your people Israel. Grant to the Jews lively faith in you, fervent love for others, and joyful obedience to your holy Word. Let us together receive your promised mercy, entrusted to Abraham and ratified in the death and resurrection of Jesus.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Forgive and heal the hatred and violence that destroy peace, justice, and goodwill. Teach our rulers diligently seek the good of everyone entrusted to their care. Increase understanding, cooperation, and kindness between those of different backgrounds or beliefs. Teach us all to look beyond those things which divide, and to cling to your merciful will to heal and save all who will receive you.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

As the school year starts, we pray for students, parents, teachers, and aides. Let them teach, learn, and share all useful knowledge, and cherish truth, wisdom, and righteousness. Bless seminaries and Christian colleges and schools with faithfulness to Jesus, love of neighbor, and the practice of virtue.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In Christ, your mercy and salvation are for all who call upon your name. Thus we pray for all who suffer – including: {List}. Be gracious to them, and bless them. Show them the light of your countenance. Draw them, and all who care for them, closer to your Son. Bestow upon them the joy of your saving help.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you, dear Father, for giving your fullest healing to the faithful departed. We commend them into your care, especially those dearest to us. Keep us united with them and with each other, by uniting us all with Jesus, and filling us with your Spirit. Grant us the unmatched joy of life in your house – not as pet dogs under the table; nor as strangers or as guests; but as your children, at home with you 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.