Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Sadly. Hey Pastor…

Pastor: Sammy, why do you seem so sad?

Sammy: Well, the other lambs were really mean to me today. They made fun of me because my fleece is too curly.

Pastor: I’m really sorry to hear that Sammy.

Sammy: Yes. It made me feel really bad.

Pastor: Boys and Girls, has anyone ever been mean to you or hurt you?

Wait for Answers

Sammy: I am really sad to hear that everyone. I don’t understand why people or lambs can be so mean.

Pastor: It’s a part of living Sammy. We can never escape the mean actions of others. People are mean to family, friends, and complete strangers all the time. And if we are honest, we are mean to people too.

Sammy: I guess I have been mean before too.

Pastor: Jesus never promises us an easy life. But he does promise to be with us through tough times and trials. He says, “not a hair of your head will perish.”

Sammy: That really gives me hope Pastor. Thank you.

Pastor: Boys and girls. Can you please fold your hands and bow your head? Dear Jesus, that you for keeping us, thank you for forming us. Thank you for staying with us in times of trial. In Jesus name we pray, amen!

Sammy: Bye everyone!

Luke 20:27-38 

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy! 

Sammy: Hey Pastor! What is the special theme this week? 

Pastor: What do you mean, Sammy? 

Sammy: Well, two weeks ago we celebrated Reformation Sunday, and last week we celebrated football Sunday– 

Pastor: No, Sammy. We celebrated All-Saints Day. 

Sammy: That’s what I meant. So we had two big weeks in a row at church. What is the big event or theme this week? 

Pastor: Well, this week we are talking about Resurrection. 

Sammy: Happy Resurrection Day, Pastor! 

Pastor: Not quite, Sammy. It’s not really a feast day or a holiday or a celebration. We are having worship together during ordinary time. 

Sammy: Pastor, these times are anything but ordinary. Have you read the newspaper lately? Watched the news? 

Pastor: Let’s get back to our topic for today: Resurrection. Boys and girls, what does “resurrection” mean? 

[Allow time for responses] 

Sammy: These are great answers.  

Pastor: Jesus did rise from the dead. But we also look forward to our resurrection. 

Sammy: What do you mean, Pastor? 

Pastor: One day, Sammy, after we die, we are going to wait for Jesus to come back. When he comes back, the dead will rise and will see his glory. 

Sammy: Is that going to be a scary day? Like a Halloween day? 

Pastor: No, it’s going to be like Easter Sunday. 

Sammy: Oh I love Easter! We get to sing Alleluia songs to God and there’s an egg hunt and Bartholomew the Bunny comes to worship.  

Pastor: That’s the spirit, Sammy. There’s nothing scary about resurrection. Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me will not die, but will have eternal life.” That’s a gift from God. 

Sammy: Yes it is. 

Pastor: Let’s pray. Boys and girls, will you please fold your hands and bow your heads? Dear Jesus, thank you for resurrection. Thank you for your gift of new life. Thank you for your love. Amen. 

Sammy: Bye, everyone! 

Pastor: Bye, Sammy! 

Luke 6:20-31

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone! Pastor, I noticed that the paraments on the altar are white today. Why is that? Is today a special day at church?

Pastor: Yes, today is All-Saints Sunday.

Sammy: Go Saints!

Pastor: What do you mean, Sammy?

Sammy: Go Saints! Kick the ball! Run the ball! Tackle the guy! Touchdown! Woooo!

Pastor: We don’t live in Louisiana, Sammy. Our football teams around here are the Ravens and the Commanders.

Sammy: Oh.

Pastor: ….

Sammy: Go Saints!

Pastor: Let’s move on, Sammy. We are not celebrating a football team today. We are remembering the Saints in Heaven today.

Sammy: Like St. Peter and St. Paul?

Pastor: Yes, but not just St. Peter and St. Paul.

Sammy: Who else?

Pastor: All Christians in Heaven are Saints.

Sammy: Woah. That’s really cool. You mean when we get to Heaven, we get upgraded to Sainthood?

Pastor: That’s right. Martin Luther teaches that we are both sinners and saints. We are not perfect people, but we are redeemed by the blood of the lamb—by Jesus! By Jesus. He’s the lamb. I wasn’t talking about your blood, Sammy.

Sammy: Okay good. I was a little bit worried there for a second. I thought I might need another band-aid.

Pastor: Boys and girls, can you share with us someone you know who is now a Saint in Heaven?

[Allow time for responses]

Sammy: I like hearing about your families and friends. I have a lot of peace knowing that Jesus is one day going to welcome me into Heaven with him, and I will get to join the Saints of Heaven, too.

Pastor: There will be rejoicing on that day, Sammy. What a gift to get to worship our Lord. Boys and girls, will you please pray with me? Let’s fold our hands and bow our heads. Dear Jesus, thank you for your blood. Thank you for welcoming us into Heaven. Thank you for your great love. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

John 8:31-36

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy:

Sammy: Good morning, Pastor. Good morning boys and girls. Hey Pastor, why do you look like you are looking for someone.

Pastor: I am expecting a friend come today. I thought he would be here at worship. But I can’t find him.

Sammy: What does he look like? Maybe I can help you find him.

Pastor:  Well, you can’t really miss him. He’s a really big guy. He’s in a strange outfit, and he’s really grumpy. And his name is Martin Luther.

Sammy: Oh, I thought you were talking about Santa Clause for a moment. But he’s not grumpy. You really know how to disappoint someone Pastor.

Pastor: Sorry to disappoint you, Sammy. But Martin  Luther is as fun as Santa Clause.

Sammy: Pastor you really shouldn’t lie in church.

Pastor: No really. He always brings pretzels and cider with him. So that means snacks Sammy.

Sammy: Okay, I think I like him now. But why is he visiting today?

Pastor: Well today is reformation Sunday. It’s a day when we remember Martin nailing the 95 theses on the door of his church. This moment caused a movement to spark reformation within the church.

Sammy: Oh okay. So he was really important. And I just realized something pastor. His name is Luther. Aren’t we part of a Lutheran church?

Pastor: Good job Sammy. We are a Lutheran church. He is the person that wrote a lot of what we teach here at St. Paul’s. His courage is why we are here today. Let us pray now: Dear Jesus, Thank you for reformers like Martin Luther. Thank you for teachers that followed his lead by teaching people the true gospel. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Luke 18:1-8

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Hello boys and girls! Hey pastor! Can I have a snack?

Pastor: No not right now Sammy. Boys and girls. How do you ask your parents for something? What are some words that you say?

Wait for Responses

Sammy: Those are great answers. Pastor, can I pleeeaaaase have a snack?

Pastor: The way you asked wasn’t the issue, Sammy. It’s not the right time for a snack. It’s time to talk about Jesus!

Sammy: Okay Pastor. It just would be easier for me to learn if I had a snack first.

Pastor: Ugh. Fine. Here is your snack! You’re welcome.

Sammy: Thank you, Pastor! Omnomnomnomnom.

Pastor: Actually, what just happened is a great demonstration of what Jesus taught us today.

Sammy: What does Jesus have to do with snacks pastor?

Pastor: Jesus today taught us about persistence and prayer. How you asked me for a snack is a great example of how often we should be praying to God.

Sammy: Oh, I didn’t realize all I needed to do to get snack was to ask God so much it annoys him.

Pastor: Well, no Sammy. Really you should be praying a lot about lots of different things. Not just because you want something. But because you love God and he loves you.

Sammy: Oh I get it. We don’t ask our parents for things because of the things we get, but we know they are safe people to ask and they love us. Just like God.

Pastor: Exactly Sammy. Boys and girls, can you please pray with me? Dear God, Thank you for loving us. Help us to pray more and thank you for all the good things you give us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen!

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy! Boys and girls, before you go, I have a little snack for you to enjoy later today. Please enjoy these with your parent’s help.

THE PRAYERS, November 23: Christ the King Sunday

Sola/LSB: Malachi 3:13-18 (God tells his people of their complaints against him; they listen and ponder his words; God will spare the righteous as a father spares his children)

            ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 23:1-6(God provides good Shepherd, righteous Branch for his people)

ALL: Psalm 46 (Kingdoms totter and fall into the sea, but God is our refuge and strength)

Sola/LSB: Colossians 1:13-20 (Jesus is the perfect image of God; in him all things hang together)

            ELW/RCL: Colossians 1:11-20 (Adds prayer for strength, joy, endurance, thanks)

Sola/LSB: Luke 23:27-43 (From the Via Dolorosa to the Cross; Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom; Father, into your hands I commend my spirit)

            ELW/RCL: Luke 23:33-43 (Lacks Via Dolorosa)

*******

Opening Hymn:   The Head That once Was Crowned With Thorns:  LBW #173, ELW #432, LSB #532  (All use St. Magnus as tune. If it’s is unfamiliar, use Azmon, tune for “O For 1000 Tongues”)

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

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Remember Me (Repeat as desired): WOV #740, ELW #616, LSB #767

Communion Hymn #2: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537

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

OR Soon and Very Soon: WOV #744, ELW #439

*******

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to be our King, whose throne was first the Cross, and whose crown was first the thorns. Thank you for his glorious and gentle rule. Thank you for filling us with your Holy Spirit, so we have the faith to acclaim him as King and love him as Savior and Brother.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have made the Church the Body of which Christ Jesus is the head. Fill the Church with your Spirit, so that through its words and deeds, many are delivered from the domain of darkness, receive forgiveness and redemption, and are transferred into the Kingdom of your beloved Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make this congregation your treasured possession. Form us in the image of Jesus. Use us to proclaim his love and draw others to his Cross, until the whole world adores him as King, Savior, and God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Unite the suffering of your persecuted people to the Passion of Christ. Let their tormentors see Jesus’ love in their actions, hear his forgiveness on their lips, and turn to him in repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our enemies, for criminals, evildoers, and hatemongers, and for everyone who is hard to forgive. Teach us to pray with Jesus, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” Let him subdue every sinful heart to his will, so that he might truly be all in all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Say to our rulers: “Be still; and know that I alone am God.” School their proud and disobedient wills to your commands. Be a strong bulwark and mighty fortress for the poor, weak, and innocent. Let peace, justice, health, and mercy be established in every land. Teach us all to acclaim Jesus as King of kings and Lord of all nations, and cause his peace to rule undisturbed in every heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make war to cease in all the world. Break the bow, shatter the spear, and burn the shields with fire. Hasten the day when we need not lift up prayers for those in the military, or for first responders. Until then, equip them with integrity, competence, and courage. Preserve them in safety and heal them when they falter. When they return, use them in new ways to benefit our communities and nation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Exalt yourself, O Lord; be the refuge and strength of all who are afflicted by evil and suffering. This day, we remember before you: {List}. Be their present help in time of trouble; and make their hearts glad.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, your Son promises Paradise to any who, like the repentant thief, turns in faith to him. We entrust to you our beloved dead. Help us to comfort and encourage each other to trust and follow Jesus. Teach us to pray, “Jesus, remember me, when you come into your Kingdom.” And in your mercy, fulfill those words! Grant that we shall be with him in Paradise! Let us, with all the redeemed, adore and bless him forever, who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, as Savior, Lord, King, and God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, November 16: 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28)

ALL: Malachi 4:1-6 (On the Day of the Lord, the wicked burn like stubble, but Sun of Righteousness rises on the blessed with healing in his wings)

ALL: Psalm 98 (Let everyone sing to the Lord; he comes with righteousness to judge the earth)

Sola/LSB: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-13 (God will order your days and deeds; therefore walk in righteousness and godliness)

            ELW/RCL: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13  (Lacks Paul asking for their prayer, commending them to God against evil one)

Luke 21:5-36 (Signs of the end; description of tribulation; grace to speak God’s truth before kings; watch, pray)

            ELW/RCL: Luke 21:5-19 (Lacks some signs of the end, parable of fig tree)

*****

Opening Hymn:   The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348

Hymn of the Day: The Clouds of Judgment Gather: LBW #322 (Not a difficult Irish tune. But yes, you can sing it to Aurelia, the tune for The Church’s One Foundation.), LSB #513 (A sturdy Welsh tune)

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

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Still Lead/Lead Thou On: LBW #341, ELW #624, LSB #718

Communion Hymn #2: Guide Me Ever,/O Thou Great Redeemer LBW #343, ELW #618, LSB #918

Closing Hymn: Great Is Thy Faithfulness: WOV #771, ELW #733, LSB #809

OR O Christ the Same (gotta love singing O Danny Boy!): WOV #778, ELW #760

*******

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Most holy God, you promise to come with power, glory, judgment, and healing. Sometimes that disturbs us! We want you to make all things right and new! But before that can happen, you’ll show us our sins in all their ghastly glory. Cover us then, Lord, with your healing wings. Clothe us in the righteousness of Christ. Shield us with your Holy Spirit. Make us holy, whole, and filled with your eternal life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cleanse and strengthen your Church throughout the world. Make it watchful and faithful. Let it tirelessly preach the Gospel and serve the world for Jesus’ sake. Make it a place of healing for people who are wounded by the powers of sin, death, and the devil.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Sometimes it is hard for our congregation to “keep on keeping on” in worship, witness, and welcome. Keep our eyes firmly fixed on Jesus and our ears alert to his Word. Amid the distractions and temptations we experience, grant that we may prefer nothing whatsoever to Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Strengthen and shield everyone persecuted on account of Jesus. By their faithful endurance, turn the hearts of their tormentors to Christ in repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for missionaries, seminarians, and for all whom you call to be a pastor, chaplain, deacon, or other church worker. Fill them with your Spirit. Kindle faith, hope, and love in their hearts. Surround them by a cloud of faithful witnesses, mentors, teachers, and prayer warriors. Bless them to be a blessing to others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Although the form of this world is passing away, still it is our home. Bestow wisdom, integrity, and mercy upon our leaders in government, education, industry, the military, our courts of justice, and every occupation in which people hold positions of responsibility and power. Grant to everyone the blessing of peace and a measure of prosperity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep all who suffer in your special care, including: {List}. Grant healing to body, soul, heart, and mind. Strengthen everyone who cares for them. And surround them with the protection of your holy wings.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy God, we thank you for the lives of your faithful people, especially those dearest to us, who now rest from their labors. Wipe away the tears of all who mourn their loss. Support us in this life with your Word and holy Sacraments. Give us strength and charity, so that we encourage one another as we follow Jesus even through the valley of death’s shadow. Bring us, by his merits, into your Kingdom, where with all the redeemed, we shall adore you in the unity you share eternally with your Son and the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

THE PRAYERS,  November 9: 22^nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 27

Sola/LSB: Exodus 3: 1-15 (Moses and the burning bush; revelation of the divine Name)

            ELW/RCL: Job 19:23-27a (I know my Redeemer lives; after my skin destroyed,

in my flesh I shall see God)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 148 (Let all creation praise the Name of the Lord!)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 17:1-9 (Hear my prayer; keep me as the apple of your eye)

Sola/LSB: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8. 13-17 (The man of wickedness shall be revealed when Jesus comes. You have been chosen by God to walk in his truth, in the Gospel. Stand fast in the traditions you have received.)   

            ELW/RCL: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17 (Lacks some verses about the worker of iniquity)

Sola/LSB: Luke 20:27-40 Sadducees’ parable of one bride for seven brothers; Jesus says God said I AM, not I WAS, the God of Abraham et. al.)

            ELW/RCL: Luke 20:27-38 (Lacks “they dared not ask him anything else!”)

*******

Opening Hymn: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus: LBW #389, LSB #660

OR For All Your Saints, O Lord: LBW #176, ELW #427

Hymn of the Day: The God of Abraham Praise (I know you may have done it a few weeks ago. Do it today, too; these verses dovetail with the lessons!): LBW #544, v. 1,11,12; ELW #831, v. 1,7,8; LSB #1,8,9

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus Shall Reign Where’er The Sun: LBW #530, ELW #434, LSB #832

Communion Hymn #2: O Happy Day When We Shall Stand: LBW #351, ELW #441

Closing Hymn: My Lord, What A Morning: WOV #627, ELW #438, LSB #968

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

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, we stand awestruck before your presence. You reveal your name in a burning bush. You reveal your heart in your crucified Son. You bestow liberty to captives, forgiveness to sinners, sight to the blind, truth to the deluded, and life to the dead! We adore you, O God and we bless you forever!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

By the power of your Spirit, give your Church such words and wisdom that your enemies may neither withstand nor contradict its witness. Keep it steadfast in faith, unwavering in endurance, diligent in service, and joyful in hope. Give it faithful pastors who announce the coming of the Son of Man, so that many repent, receive strength to stand before him, and see their Redeemer drawing near.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the people and the mission of this congregation. Keep us watchful, faithful, and brave. Keep our minds, hearts, lips, eyes and hands focused on speaking and doing your will. Help us to encourage the fearful, challenge the idle, and comfort the grieving. Give us strength to lighten the loads of all who are burdened by the cares and sorrows of this broken world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide, protect and encourage your missionaries, so that they do not grow weary in announcing the Gospel of salvation throughout the world. Give bold words and steadfast faith to Christians who are persecuted on account of the name of Jesus. Grant us grace to speak on their behalf, and to help them however we can. Cause those who despise them to repent and to seek forgiveness and redemption.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Wars and rumors of wars, persecution and injustice, and natural disasters made worse by human sinfulness afflict us even in this modern age. Teach your laws and statutes to the world’s rulers, so that their hearts are turned to care for their people. Help all of us to speak and act with compassion and kindness, because we do not know what burdens are borne by those around us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for injured, sick and dying; of pregnant and nursing mothers; of the handicapped and addicted; and of all who have none to care for them in their times of greatest need. We pray also for first responders and those in the military who stand between us and chaotic dangers. Today, we especially pray for: {List}. Grant that the Sun of Righteousness, even the Lord Jesus Christ, should rise upon them with healing in his wings; and give them the joy of his saving help.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Almighty and gracious Father, those who have died trusting in you are already singing songs of exultation and victory. We thank you for fulfilling your promises to them. Grant that even in the midst of the turmoil and heartache of this broken world, we may bear witness to your steadfast mercy, and announce your salvation to all who have hearts to hear. Grant to all who trust in you the fulfillment of your promise: that our Redeemer lives, and that after our skin has been thus destroyed, yet in our flesh, we shall see you. There, healed from sin and sorrow, let us rejoice in your great love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

Prayers, November 2: All Saints Sunday

Sola/LSB: Revelation 7:(2-8) 9-17 (The tribes of Israel are numbered; behold a host arrayed in white, praising the God who has delivered them)

            ELW/RCL: Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 (Vision of 4 great beasts; saints shall receive God’s kingdom forever)

ALL: Psalm 149 (Praise God for his deliverance – and his vengeance!)

Sola/LSB: 1 John 3:1-3 (We are God’s children; when Jesus appears, we shall be like him.)

            ELW/RCL: Ephesians 1:11-23 (Inheritance of saints in Christ; prayer for Spirit to enlighten, reveal Jesus’ greatness and gifts)

Sola/LSB: Matthew 5:1-12 (The beatitudes)

            ELW/RCL: (Beatitudes and woes; do to others as you wish them to do to you)

*******

Opening Hymn:  Behold the/a Host, Arrayed in White: ELW #425, LSB #676 (superior translation!)

Behold a Host, Like Mountains Bright LBW #314

OR  Alabare: WOV #791, LSB #800

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

Hymn of the Day: For All the Saints: LBW #174, ELW #422, LSB #677

OR Blest Are They: WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982

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

Communion Hymn #2: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

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

OR Holy God, We Praise Your Name: LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for all the sinners whom you have redeemed and are pleased to call your saints! Thank you for their example of repentance, trust, and obedience, even when that was hard. Help us remember them with gratitude, and give us grace to follow in their footsteps.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Preserve and guide your one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. Array it in the garments of salvation, and conform it to the likeness of your Son. Adorn it with the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit. Make it a blessing to many, and a sign of your Kingdom’s close approach.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make this congregation lovely with holiness. Let the light of Jesus shine through us, so other people glimpse his great love for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for seminarians and those whom we sense are being called into the holy ministry. Make them pure of heart, filled with peace, and poor in spirit. We plead on behalf of missionaries. Help them to feed all who hunger and thirst with your bread of righteousness – and with earthly bread. And we ask your blessing upon all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Fill them with joy, peace, and gentleness. Give them a gracious word truth and forgiveness, so that their tormentors may repent and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, establish your Kingdom in our midst, and your peace within our hearts, communities, and nations. Make our earthly leaders wise and good, generous and just. Make us all to be pure and humble of heart, hungering and thirsting for your righteousness while easing the hunger and thirst of our neighbors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Until your peace is established in this world, good men and women must risk their lives defending life, liberty, and justice. Bless and protect them. Shelter their families from fear. Bring them safely home. Heal their wounds to body and spirit; and use their service to build a happier and safer world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Deliver from suffering all those whose need is great, including: {List}. Give them the hope, comfort, and faith they need to weather their trials. Restore them to health and fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most gracious Father, receive into your Kingdom our beloved dead, inclulding {List}. Keep us faithful, holy, and steadfast as we walk Jesus’ narrow Way. Give us joy along that way, and help us to encourage one another along it. Bring us safely into your Kingdom, promised to all whom you redeem through your dear Son. There let us see you face to face, and rejoice in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

Script:

Luke 17:11-19

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone! Pastor, I just wanted to thank you for doing a great job.

Pastor: Thank you, Sammy.

Sammy: You always listen to me, tell me stories, teach me about the Word of God, and you are a great friend to me.

Pastor: That’s very kind of you, Sammy.

Sammy: I just wanted you to know.

Pastor: You know, Sammy, your thankfulness reminds me of the Gospel reading for today. Jesus healed ten men with a skin disease.

Sammy: A skin disease?

Pastor: Yes—they called out to Jesus and asked him to heal them. He healed them by telling them to go show themselves to the priests. On the way to the priests, they were healed.

Sammy: But why did he tell them to go to the priests? Why not just heal them right away?

Pastor: What do you think, boys and girls? Why did Jesus send the men to go to the priests instead of healing them right away?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: These are great answers and ideas. Jesus wanted the men to act in faith. Walking toward the priests meant a commitment of faith for them. And men with a skin disease were considered unclean. They were unable to worship God at the temple if they had a skin disease.

Sammy: So that would be like if we couldn’t go to church?

Pastor: Yes.

Sammy: But they couldn’t help it!

Pastor: That was the rule. In Jesus’s time, there was no cure for this skin disease.

Sammy: That’s horrible. They were forever banned from church. I love church. I want to be here every day.

Pastor: I know, Sammy. But you know, what? Jesus healed all ten of these men, and then they could go to worship God in the temple.

Sammy: And one of them went back to thank him. That man is my favorite. Jesus gave him his life back.

Pastor: Jesus gives each of us a new life in him, and it’s important to thank our God for the many gifts he gives us. In fact, let’s pray and thank him right now. Boys and girls, will you please fold your hands and bow your head? Dear Jesus, we thank you for your healing power. We praise you for directing us to you. Help us to be thankful for everything you give us. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!