Prayers of the Church, February 2, 2025, Cycle C: Presentation of Our Lord

1 Samuel 1: 21-28: (Boy Samuel promised, dedicated to God in temple)

Psalm 84: (How lovely is your dwelling, how precious to serve in your Temple!)

Hebrews 2:14-18: (Jesus shares our humanity; frees us from slavery to sin, fear of death; is our merciful high priest, tempted yet sinless)

Luke 2:22-40: (Revisit Simeon and Anna in the Temple!)

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Note: Yes, you did this Gospel a few weeks ago. I’ve added some other hymns, but yes, you might want to sing some of the “Presentation-y” hymns again!!

Opening Hymn: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524

OR Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 1-4; ELW #287, v. 1-4; LSB #389, v. 1-4

Hymn of the Day: Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589

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

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

Communion Hymn #2: Go, My Children, With My Blessing: WOV #721, ELW #543, LSB #922

Closing Hymn: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 5-7; ELW #287, v. 5-6; LSB #389, v. 5-7

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

                OR my paraphrase of the Nunc Dimittus, “Lord, Let Your Servant Go in Peace.”

Use tune for the Doxology

Lord, let your servant go in peace; your faithful Word you have fulfilled.

This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed.

With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory given to Israel,

The Light to nations lost, the peace that makes your wounded people well.

Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son!

Your light no darkness overtakes while endless ages ever run.

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Let us draw near to the Light of Christ, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for making Jesus the Yes to all your promises. Thank you for fulfilling your promises in him! Thank you for the patient faith of Simeon and Anna, and the obedient faith of Joseph and Mary. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so we hope, believe, and obey as they did.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In your Church, you have appointed prophets, martyrs, pastors, bishops, teachers, and ordinary saints to speak your word and to lead all people to new life in Christ. Empower your Church to speak your word boldly, acts fearlessly, and mirror your love, revealed to the world in your beloved Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear the prayers of your suffering Church. Rescue your servants from the hand of the wicked and from the grasp of the unjust and the cruel. Fulfil your promise to be their light, salvation, and glory. Fill their mouth with your praise, and drive out the demons of hatred and unbelief from their persecutors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let this congregation overflow with words of praise to you, and deeds of love toward others. Give us patience in suffering, hope in times of spiritual waiting, and obedience to your commands to love you and serve others in your name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the leaders of the nations, especially our own. Let them heed your words and seek to do your will. Teach them to love justice and hate cruelty. Make them rejoice in truth and reject wrong. Help them wield authority, knowing that they are accountable to you, the Lord of all nations. Give us ears to hear the cries of those afflicted by poverty, injustice, or violence. Give us strength to help them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You sent your Son to deliver your people from bondage to sin and suffering  In his name, we pray for all in any kind of tribulation, including: {List}. Be their rock, their strong deliverer, and their hope. Strengthen all who care for them. Grant them the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We commend into your care our loved ones who have died and are at rest in you. Comfort those whose grief runs deep. Help us to be gentle, patient, and kind to one another. Give us strength to endure whatever afflicts us in this mortal life. Lead us, with all whom you have redeemed by your Son, into your Kingdom. There let our faith become sight, our hope become joy, and your love become our all in all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For all these things, dear Father, and for whatever else you desire for us in your wisdom and compassion, we pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior, Lord, and King. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, February 2, 2025: 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 3

Jeremiah 1:4-10, 17-19: (God calls Jeremiah to speak his Word)

RCL/ELW: Jeremiah 1:4-10: (Omits “Gird up your loins, tell them everything I speak against them; I make you like a fortified city”)

Psalm 71:1-11: (God, be my rock of refuge; deliver me from enemies, from the cruel and wicked)

RCL/ELW: Psalm 71:1-6: (Eliminates obeisance of the King’s enemies)

1 Corinthians 12:31b-13:13: (In praise of charity; faith, hope and love abide, the greatest is love)

Luke 4:31-44: (Jesus casts out demon in temple; heals Peter’s mother-in-law; tells assorted demons to take a hike and shut up about him)

RCL/ELW: Luke 4:21-30: (The worshippers take offense at Jesus, try to run him off cliff)

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Opening Hymn: God, Whose Almighty Word: LBW #400, ELW #673

OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: ELW #843, LSB #849

Hymn of the Day: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524

OR (If preaching on 1 Cor.) Although I Speak With Angel’s Tongue: ELW #644

Communion Hymn #1: Where Charity and Love Prevail: LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

OR Ubi Caritas et Amor: ELW #642

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

Closing Hymn: Not for Tongues of Heaven’ Angels: LSB #695

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

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Let us draw near to the Light of Christ, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, sometimes your Word seem hard and stern and offensive. But in Jesus, you assure us that your Word is good. In him, you flesh out your never-failing love for us. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so we can thank you for every Word you speak to us. Help us to model, however imperfectly, your perfect love for your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In your Church, you have appointed prophets, martyrs, pastors, bishops, teachers, and ordinary saints to speak your word and to lead all people to new life in Christ. Empower your Church to speak your word boldly, acts fearlessly, and mirror your love, revealed to the world in your beloved Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear the prayers of your suffering Church. Rescue your servants from the hand of the wicked and from the grasp of the unjust and the cruel. Be their rock and their refuge. Fill their mouth with your praise, and drive out the demons of hatred and unbelief from their persecutors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let this congregation overflow with words of praise to you, and deeds of love toward others. Help us to be rich in patience and kindness. Let us lack only in resentment, irritability, and self-promotion. Let everyone know we are Christians by Jesus’ love, who touches them through us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the leaders of the nations, especially our own. Let them heed your words and seek to do your will. Teach them to love justice and hate cruelty. Make them rejoice in truth and reject wrong. Help them wield authority, knowing that they are accountable to you, the Lord of all nations. Give us ears to hear the cries of those afflicted by poverty, injustice, or violence. Give us strength to help them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

With authority and power, Jesus forgave and redeemed people held in bondage to sin, evil, and death.  In his name, we pray for all who suffer from any kind of affliction, including: {List}. Be their rock, their strong deliverer, and their hope. Strengthen all who care for them. Grant them the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We commend into your care our loved ones who have died and are at rest in you. Comfort those whose grief runs deep. Help us to be gentle, patient, and kind to one another. Give us strength to endure whatever afflicts us in this mortal life. Lead us, with all whom you have redeemed by your Son, into your Kingdom. There let our faith become sight, our hope become joy, and your love become our all in all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For all these things, dear Father, and for whatever else you desire for us in your wisdom and compassion, we pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior, Lord, and King. Amen.

Scripture

John 1:[1-9] 10-18

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: Good morning, boys and girls! Good morning, Pastor.

Pastor: Sammy, did you know that we can find Jesus in the Old Testament?

Sammy: We can? I thought Jesus only appeared in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, and that he only appeared in the New Testament.

Pastor: Many follows of Jesus today think that Jesus is only in the four gospels, but he is in the Old Testament as well.

Sammy: Where? Do the boys and girls know where we can find Jesus?

Pastor: Boys and girls, do you know where we can find Jesus? 

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: In the Gospel of John today, John declares that Jesus is the Word of God who was in the beginning. Who created the heavens and earth, Sammy?

Sammy: God did. He spoke and creation came into being.

Pastor: That’s right. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit existed from the beginning, before the creation of our world.

Sammy: What is the first thing that God created, Pastor?

Pastor: In the Gospel today, John talks about Jesus as the light of the world, and that’s also the first thing that God created: light.

Sammy: I like the light, Pastor. I like when I can see where I am going.

Pastor: When we follow Jesus, our creator, we will see more clearly than ever before.

Sammy: So where else can we find Jesus in the Old Testament?

Pastor: Jesus walked with Abraham and ate with him. He stood in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When you read stories from the Old Testament, you have to look for him. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are present all throughout scripture, and Jesus walks among his people many times.

Sammy: I love knowing that Jesus walks with us today, too. We have an amazing God.

Pastor: Yes, we do. Boys and girls, let’s fold our hands and bow our heads. Please repeat after me: Dear Jesus, Thank you for creating light and for always being there, even before creation. Help us to search for you daily, especially as we read the scriptures. Thank you for your love. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Sammy: Guess what guess what guess what!

Pastor: What, Sammy? You seem really excited to tell us something.

Sammy: You are never going to believe what I saw!

Pastor: What did you see, Sammy?

Sammy: I was sleeping, okay? I was all curled up next to my maaamaaa and then all of a sudden, someone turned on the sun in the middle of the night.

Pastor: Someone turned on the sun?

Sammy: Yes! The sky was that bright! First there was darkness and little twinkly stars and then boom! A light as bright as the sun filled the sky. So of course I woke up. And you are never going to believe what happened next.

Pastor: Please tell us.

Sammy: I saw angels fill the sky. One angel named Gabriel told all of us: my maaamaaa, my cousins, and aunts and uncles, and even farmers Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John and the shepherds something really special.

Pastor: What did he say?

Sammy: Gabriel said, “Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: ¹¹ to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah,^[b] the Lord. ¹² This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” I just stood there with my mouth hanging open.

Pastor: What else happened?

Sammy: Well then the angels started singing! They sounded so good. Just like our choir here at St. Paul’s.

Pastor: Well what happened next?

Sammy: Are you serious, Pastor Jim? Of course I had to go see the baby. I love babies.

Pastor: Who went to go see the baby?

Sammy: My maaamaaa, my cousins, and aunts and uncles, and even farmers Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John and the shepherds, too. We all went.

Pastor: And, what did you think?

Sammy: The baby was so cute. His momma and dada wrapped him up in swaddling clothes just like the shepherds use for lambs and laid him in the manger—just like the manger I eat from. He’s a lamb just like me! But you know, Pastor Jim, I could tell that there is something really special about this baby.

Pastor: What do you mean?

Sammy: This baby is no ordinary baby. This baby shone brighter than all of the angels in the night sky. And I felt such peace when I laid down in front of the manger. And I knew in my heart that even I, a little lamb, am so loved.

Pastor: Sammy, you witnessed the greatest event in the history of man. God is with us. A savior is born to us. Boys and girls, let’s pray: Dear Jesus: Thank you for being with us. Thank you for guiding us. Thank you for coming to earth as a baby. Thank you for your love. Amen.

Sammy: I have a gift for each of the boys and girls here today. I have a little lamb for each of you to adopt into your family to remind you how much Jesus loves you. Pastor Jim, can you give everyone a lamb please?

Pastor Jim: Merry Christmas, Sammy!

Sammy: Merry Christmas, Pastor Jim! Merry Christmas boys and girls!

Scripture:

Luke 1:39-45 [46-55]

Script:

Pastor: Good morning, everyone! Let’s say good morning to our friend

Sammy and see if she is there. 1, 2, 3 GOOD MORNING SAMMY!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone! Pastor! Guess what!

Pastor: Yes Sammy?

Sammy: A ewe on our farm is having an another Lamb! I’m going to have more friends!

Pastor: That’s great Sammy. It’s always great to have another life coming into the world.

Sammy: Your mentioned two babies in our gospel reading today. One of them leaped in his mother’s belly. Why did he do that?

Pastor: Well, the two babies I spoke about today were John the Baptist and Jesus. They were both alive inside the bellies of their mama’s, Mary and Elizabeth.

Sammy: You mean Jesus was a baby just like all of us were? That’s amazing!

Pastor: Yes it is, and you can find him in our church today! Boys and girls where can we find baby Jesus in our church today!

Wait for answers

Sammy: Those are great answers everyone! Pastor Jim. You didn’t answer my question. Why did John leap in his mother’s womb?

Pastor:  John even as a little baby in his mother’s belly recognized the savior to the whole world. That even as a very little person he was already doing what he would as an adult. Point people to Jesus.

Sammy: Wow, if he can point people to Jesus before he is even born, we can do it now even when we are small.

Pastor: Yes, we can. Boys and Girls, can you pray with me today? Fold your hands and bow your heads. Dear Jesus, help us to point to you like John. So others may find you. Thank you, lord Jesus for saving us. Amen

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: January 26, 2025: 3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 2

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10: (Ezra reads book of Moses, instructs people; Nehemiah declares a day of feasting)

Psalm 19:1-14: (The heavens proclaim God’s glory; my heart rejoices in his precepts. Let the

words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in his sight)

1 Corinthians 12:12-31a: (The unity of the Body of Christ)

Luke 4:16-30: (Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah concerning the healing of the poor, lame, blind and imprisoned, declaring that today that Word has been fulfilled)

RCL/ELW: Luke 4:14-21: (Rest heard next week)

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

Hymn of the Day: O Christ Our Light, Our Radiance True: LBW #380, ELW #675

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

OR Rise, Shine, You People: LBW #393, ELW #665, LSB #825

OR The People That in Darkness Sat: LSB #412

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

OR Arise, Your Light Has Come: WOV #652, ELW #314

Communion Hymn #2: O God of Mercy, God of Light/Might: LBW #425, ELW #714; LSB #852

Closing Hymn: O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing: LBW #559, ELW #886, LSB #528

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Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord God, thank you for your Word, given to us as Holy Scripture, the sure foundation for life as your beloved community. Thank you for your Word made flesh in your Son, Jesus Christ. Conform our lives to His. Send us with your Word to all who are blinded by distractions, deafened by voices of pleasure and power, lamed by suffering, imprisoned by sin, and impoverished in body, mind, or spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church a place where your Word is faithfully proclaimed, eagerly heard, and gladly heeded. We also pray your persecuted disciples. Do not let us despise or ignore their suffering or their testimony. Say to them, “Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Build up the Body of Christ in this congregation. Help us to accept, develop, and share the gifts you have given each of us. Teach us to encourage and rejoice in the gifts of others, whether those gifts seem small or great. Let all be done to glorify you and to share your mercy with those around us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray, therefore, on behalf of shut-ins, the physically and mentally challenged, the frail, and everyone whose gifts are often overlooked or despised, even by themselves. Grant that, following our Lord’s example, we may honor them; and that we may rejoice together as fellow members of his Body.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach your precepts to all who take counsel for the nations; to our military; and to first responders. Grant them wisdom, integrity, and common sense. Let all of us live peacefully, work fruitfully, and enjoy the many blessings and gifts which you have provided for the benefit of all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son bestowed healing, sight, freedom, and good news to all who are in bondage to the powers of sin, evil and death. We lift before you the needs of all who need his strong saving love, including: {List}. Visit them with your salvation; heal their bodies and revive their hearts; and let them rejoice you.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Thank you, heavenly Father, for receiving into your Kingdom those who died trusting in your Word. Keep us close to Jesus. Speak your Word of life, and let us feed on it. Fill us with your Spirit, and help us share it. Knit us into Christ’s Body, and make us rejoice in it. Keep us faithful unto death, and then say to us: “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep, and do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength, forevermore.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, dear Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us. We pray in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: January 19, 2025: 2^nd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 1

Isaiah 62:1-5: (Zion shall be the beautiful and beloved bride of God)

Psalm 128: (The blessedness of family life for those who love God)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 36:5-10: (God’s steadfast love, righteousness, judgments, salvation are for all. “In your light we see light.”)

1 Corinthians 12:1-11: (no one speaking by the Spirit of God says “Let Jesus be cursed;” no one says “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit)

John 2:1-11: (Wedding at Cana)

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Opening Hymn: O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, v. 1-3: LBW #76, ELW #308 (Heaven forfend we should call Jesus our heavenly Bridegroom in verse 2; instead he’s our precious diamond. Sigh.), LSB #395

OR Jesus, Come! For We Invite You: ELW #312

OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here: LSB #399, v. 1, 4, 5

Hymn of the Day: All Praise to You, O Lord: LBW #78

OR Songs of Thankfulness and Praise: LBW #90, ELW #310, LSB #394

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/458, ELW #775, LSB #743

OR What Feast of Love: WOV #701, ELW #487

Communion Hymn #2: Now the Silence: LBW #205, ELW #460, LSB #910

Closing Hymn: O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, v. 4-6: LBW #76, ELW #308, LSB #395

OR Come, Join in Cana’s Feast: LSB #408

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Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, thank you for loving your people so passionately that the best human analogy is that of a wedding, and of the love between a bride and bridegroom. Forgive us when we can’t properly hear or understand these words! Thank you for the healing and forgiveness that you bestow in Jesus. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who constantly forms us into Christ’s image and his bride.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Adorn your Church with faithful teaching and preaching, and with deeds of mercy and reconciliation. Grant that its worship befits the adoration and delight of a bride for her beloved. Overshadow your persecuted servants with your Holy Spirit. Let them bless the Name of Jesus their Lord. Let their tormentors repent of cursing his Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Later this week as we commemorate the sanctity of life, we pray for mercy on women who seek, or who have endured, an abortion – and upon the father of their unborn child. Help them understand your love for them, and their unborn child. Where forgiveness is needed, grant it freely. Help them to turn to you. Give them the strength to choose life, not death, if they are pregnant. Give them the grace to forgive themselves and each other, and to be healed in body and soul, if they have already had an abortion. We also pray for those who struggle to have children and cannot; for those who have lost a child they loved; and for those who struggle to love their children when that is difficult. Have mercy on them all.  They face terrible demons of grief, shame, regret, fear, and anger. Help us to walk with them through their dark valleys. Help us to share our confidence that you will lead them safely through.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, for many of our congregations, the phrase “we are family” is literally true! Bind us together with the cords of your love, as well as kinship ties and traditions. Make this congregation a place where many are adopted into your family, and where the bounties of your blessings are lovingly shared with all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the States, tomorrow is Inauguration Day and also the commemoration of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Let his vision for a healed, just, and united people guide the new President and his cabinet. Let your steadfast love and righteousness dwell in the hearts of all our elected and appointed leaders; in the minds of all who take counsel for the nations; and in the actions of everyone in positions of authority in our society. Give us grace to share the gifts and skills you have so generously bestowed – especially with the poor and lonely, the suffering and the sorrowing.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of everyone who struggles with pain, grief, addiction, fear, shame, doubt, or despair. We lift before you the needs of: {List.} Give them courage to cling to you in times of trouble. Give to those who care for them a double portion of your compassionate and loving Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Thank you, heavenly Father, for all our beloved dead who clung faithfully to your promise of salvation. Dry our tears and ease our sorrow. Give us grace to live in faith toward you, and with fervent love for one another. Then, by your great mercy, gather us, with all whom your dear Son is pleased to call his bride and his beloved, at the table of that marriage feast which has no end.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, dear Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us. We pray in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: January 12, 2025: The Baptism of Our Lord

Isaiah 43:1-7: (I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior)

Psalm 29: (Ascribe glory to the Lord; his mighty voice resounds over the waters)

Romans 6:1-11: (We are baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ)

                RCL/ELW: Acts 8:14-17 (Peter and John lay hands on those baptized in Jesus’ name, they receive Spirit)

Luke 3:15-17, 21-22: (John speaks of the One who will baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit; baptism of Jesus)

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Opening Hymn: When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853

Hymn of the Day: Praise and Thanksgiving Be to God Our Maker

(tune is same as for “Father Most Holy”): LBW #191, ELW #458

OR To Jordan’s River Came Our Lord: LSB #405

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

OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here: LSB #399, v. 1, 3, 5

Communion Hymn #1: How Firm a Foundation: LBW 507, ELW #796, LSB #728

OR Remember and Rejoice: ELW #454

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

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

(ELW and LSB conveniently have this laid out on 2 facing pages. LSB also has a verse that has been omitted from LBW and ELW. If you dare, add it: “Against the demon snares of sin, the vice that gives temptation force, the natural lusts that war within, the hostile foes that mar my course; Or few or many, far or nigh, in ev’ry place, and in all hours, against their fierce hostility, I bind to me those holy pow’rs!):

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Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us a glimpse into the mystery of the Trinity in the Baptism of your beloved Son. Thank you for uniting us to him, in the power of the heaven-descended Dove. Thank you for naming us your beloved children, in our own Baptism. Give us grace to live lives well-pleasing to you. Let all of our thoughts, words, and deeds cry “Glory!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Through your holy Church, let the world hear the thunder of your voice and know the beauty of your holiness. Strengthen and defend all who suffer for confessing Jesus as Lord. Fulfill among them your promise that the flames of persecution should not burn them, nor the waters of death carry them away from you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless all who are baptized or reaffirming their baptismal covenant today. Stir up your Spirit in them, that they may be freed from sin, united to Christ, and named as your children forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the people and the ministry of this congregation. Make us dead to sin and alive to you in Christ. Burn away the chaff from our hearts. Gather up and sanctify all that you have cleansed. Help us share with family and friends the goodness of the new life we have in our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Protect, purify, and guide the leaders of all nations, especially our own. Establish peace, wisdom, and righteousness among us. Keep watch over those who walk through the floods of violence and the flames of war to defend us.  Conform their decisions, words, and actions to your will. Bring them home safely and soon. Bring healing to communities wounded by violence and fractured by injustice and hatred.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Say to all who suffer in mind, body or spirit, “Do not fear, for I am with you.” Especially we name before you: {List}. Gather them from the far reaches of suffering and sorrow; restore them to all who love them; and remind them always that they are precious in your sight.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We remember before you our loved ones whom you have delivered from the waters of death. You have also called us by name, and made us your own in Baptism. Keep us united with Jesus.  Strengthen us by your Spirit to daily walk in the newness of his life. At the last, say to us and to all whom you name as your own, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. ²I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.⁴ You are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you, ⁷everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.’

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, dear Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us. We pray in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

January 5, 2025: 2^nd Sunday of Christmas 2 OR Epiphany, Transferred

Christmas 2 Lessons and Hymns:

1 Kings 3:4-15: (God grants Solomon’s request for wisdom)

                RCL/ELW: Jeremiah 31:7-14: (God will ransom his people, lead them like a shepherd)

Psalm 119:97-104: (You have made me wiser than my enemies because I meditate on your law)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 147: 12-20: Praise for God feeding, protecting, blessing his people)

Ephesians 1: 3-14: (God makes us holy, blameless in Christ, adopts us as children)

Luke 2:40-52: (the boy Jesus with the elders in the Temple)

                RCL/ELW: John 1:1-18: In the beginning was the Word, full of grace and truth!

Opening Hymn: Come Rejoicing, Praises Voicing (A lovely, simple Bohemian carol): LBW #66

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

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

Hymn of the Day: All Hail To You, O Blessed Morn: LBW #73

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

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

Communion Hymn #2: Go Tell It On the Mountain: LBW #70, ELW #290, ELW #388

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

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The Epiphany of Our Lord lessons and texts (transferred or on the day!)

Isaiah 60:1-6: (Arise, shine, your Light has come; kings shall bring riches)

Psalm 72:1-11(12-15): (Give the king justice, O God, let kings from far away bring tribute)

Ephesians 3:1-12 (Paul is an apostle to the Gentiles, who are granted fullness of salvation

through Christ)

Matthew 2:1-12: (The wise men come to worship Jesus, return home by another way)

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

Hymn of the Day: O Chief of Cities, Bethlehem (a nice English folk tune. And the words really shouldn’t be missed. Still you can use tune for “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”): LBW #81

OR Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies: LBW #265, ELW #553, LSB #873

OR The Star Proclaims the King is Here, LSB #399, v. 1, 2, 5

Communion Hymn #1: We Three Kings of Orient Are: WOV #646

OR Light Shone in Darkness: ELW #307

Communion Hymn #2: Bright and Glorious is the Sky:  LBW #75, ELW #301

Closing Hymn: Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning: LBW #84, ELW #303, LSB #400

*******

With joy and gratitude for the gift of Jesus, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

Holy God, thank you for Jesus. He shares our life, and shares your life with us. He grew in wisdom and understanding, and gives us the Holy Spirit so we can, too. He takes our sin, and gives us his pure, holy grace and love. He is your unfailing Light in the darkest days and places we endure. Thank you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son adorned the earthly Temple with his presence as a baby and as a growing lad. He is your Holy of Holies in our midst. Make your Church a Temple fit for his habitation. Grant that it may adorn his dear presence with faithful words, heartfelt worship, and deeds of love and mercy. May it draw all people to Jesus’ feet, there to learn from him the Good News of our salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Grant to your persecuted servants your imperishable inheritance of grace, faithfulness, and endurance.  Make us generous in aiding, defending, and praying for them. Turn the hearts of their adversaries away from sin and hatred, and toward you in repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation, so that people gladly come here to encounter you in Word and Sacrament, in fellowship, learning, and service. Make us wise in the ways of charity and faithfulness, so that all may find your precepts to be sweeter than honey.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We pray your favor upon this new year; upon our hopes for a better future; and upon all who find no release from the sorrows and cares of the previous years. Give us wisdom and strength to seek your will for our common good. Draw us toward that eternal New Year that you alone shall bring.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Solomon prayed for wisdom to lead your people according to your precepts. The wise men heeded your guiding and warning words. The prophets attended to your wisdom and counsel. Give that wisdom to all of our earthly rulers. Fill them with deep love for justice, mercy, wisdom, and integrity. Let all people live free from the consequences of malice, stupidity, and calamity. Crown not just this new year, but all of our years, with the blessings of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

These are perilous times, dear Lord! Guide, strengthen and protect our military and first responders. May they accomplish all that is in accordance with your will. Return them swiftly to their loved ones. Bring them healing, hope, and renewed opportunities to serve you in the world.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Be the light and salvation of everyone who calls on you in times of trouble. We plead especially for: {List}. Grant them health, wholeness, and hope. Ease the burdens and bless the labors of all who care for them. Refresh their spirits, and bind us all together in cords of mutual care and compassion.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

The generations rise and fall and pass before you, O Lord. We entrust our beloved dead into your merciful care. Comfort those who grieve, and whose hope falters. Give us eyes to see the suffering around us; lips to pray and encourage; hands to extend in blessing; and hearts to beat with compassion and forgiveness. Grant to all whom you have redeemed through your dear Son, a portion in the imperishable inheritance you have prepared for them. Bring us into your Kingdom, where you reign in unity with your Son and the Holy Spirit, God forever.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Thank you for hearing our prayers, dear Lord. We entrust them, and our lives, into your merciful care. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH: December 29, 2024: First Sunday After Christmas

Exodus 13:1-3a, 11-15:(Consecrate your firstborn males: I freed you from slavery by killing Egyptian firstborn)

RCL/ELW: 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 (The child Samuel ministers at Shiloh)

Psalm 111: (Great are God’s works; the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom)

Colossians 3:12-17: (Clothe selves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,

forgiveness, love. Let peace of Christ rule in your hearts, and his word dwell in you richly)

Luke 2:22-40: (In Temple, Simeon and Anna glorify God for Jesus, the fulfillment of his promises)

                RCL/ELW: Luke 2:41-52: (the boy Jesus with the elders in the Temple)

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

OR Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 1-4; ELW #287, v. 1-4; LSB #389, v. 1-4

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

Hymn of the Day: Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589 (Outstanding words. Fits Samuel, either Gospel text)

                OR Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (Good for Simeon/ Anna): LBW#30, ELW #254, LSB#338

Communion Hymn #1: O Little Town of Bethlehem: LBW #41, ELW #279, LSB #361

Communion Hymn #2: The First Noel: LBW #56, ELW #300

Closing Hymn: Let All Together Praise Our God: LBW #47, v. 5-7; ELW #287, v. 5-6; LSB #389, v. 5-7

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

OR my paraphrase of the Nunc Dimittus, “Lord, Let Your Servant Go in Peace.”

Use tune for “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” or “The Bells of Christmas.”

Lord, let your servant go in peace; your faithful Word you have fulfilled.

This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed.

With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory given to Israel,

The Light to nations lost, the peace that makes your wounded people well.

Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son!

Your light no darkness overtakes while endless ages ever run.

*******

With joy and gratitude for the gift of Jesus, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

Dear Father, thank you for Jesus. Though your eternal Son, he is also our brother – “flesh of our flesh and bone of our bone.” Thank you for allowing him to share with us every stage of growth, life, and death. Thank you for revealing who Jesus is, and why you sent him. Turn our hearts, eyes, and lives toward Christ, our eternal Dayspring and our heart’s delight.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church into the true Temple of Jesus. Let it always reveal him as your light and glory for all people. Enthrone him in the Church as your Word, wisdom, and salvation for the world. Unite your persecuted servants to him, so they may confound their tormentors’ scorn and call them to repentance.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant safe passage to all who travel in this joyous season. Give endurance, patience, and a sense of humor to clerks, cashiers, waitstaff, delivery truck drivers, and everyone else who labors at this hectic time. Thank you for co-workers of different faiths who willingly “cover” for Christians during these holy days. Help us to graciously reciprocate, even before we are asked.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift up before you, dear Lord, the many people and committees of our congregation. Keep our focus on loving you, caring for one another, and sharing the Gospel with those who do not yet know Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Our Christmas cards and carols often speak of peace and goodwill. Yet we see anger, suspicion, discord, and hatred all around us. Gracious God, we implore you to touch every life with your peace, forgiveness, and love. Clothe each of us with the festive garments of goodwill, charity, and generosity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring “tidings of comfort and joy” to everyone burdened by suffering, sin, and sorrow, especially those we name before you: {List}. Gladden the hearts of their loved ones, and give compassion and wisdom to all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for the salvation you have granted to all who have died trusting in you. Ease the grief of those who mourn in this season of joy. Lead us into the New Year and into your eternal Kingdom, with the light of Christ around us; with his peace ruling our hearts; and with his word dwelling in us richly. Gather us, with everyone whom you have redeemed through the merits of your dear Son, at your festal Table. There, in the power of the Holy Spirit, we shall joyfully praise and worship you, forever and ever and unto the ages of ages.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for hearing our prayers, dear Lord. We entrust them, and our lives, into your merciful care. Amen.