Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, March 22, 2026, A, 5th Sunday in Lent

All: Ezekiel 37:1-14 (The valley of dry bones)

All: Psalm 130 (Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord)

Sola/LSB: Romans 8:1-11 (The life-giving Spirit)

                RCL/ELW: Romans 8:6-11 (You are not in the flesh but in the Spirit of Christ,

                                who dwells within you and gives you life)

All: John 11:1-45[46-53]) (The death and raising of Lazarus)

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

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

Hymn Paraphrase of Psalm 130: Out of the Depths I Cry to You:  LBW #295, ELW #600

From Depths of Woe I Cry to Thee: LSB #607

Hymn of the Day: Be Still, My Soul: LSB #752 (Yeah, Finlandia. They used to play it on KFUO in St. Louis when they remembered the faithful departed. Can’t sing it without tearing up!)

OR Christ, the Life of All the Living: LBW #97, ELW #339, LSB #420

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3, Lent 5 stanza

Communion Hymn 1: What Wondrous Love is This: LBW #385, ELW #666, LSB #543

Communion Hymn 2: We Sing the Praise of Him Who Died: LBW #344, LSB #429 (Unfamiliar, though fairly simple tune. Words are superb. Sing to the Doxology!)

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

*******

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Lord, we live in a valley of deathly shadows. Thank you for Jesus, who calls us by name from our tombs. Help us to firmly believe that his is our Resurrection and our Life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon your Church. Make it the living body of Jesus in the world. In Word and Sacrament, and by deeds of mercy and forgiveness, let it share your life and grace with all who are held captive to sin, evil and death.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon your persecuted servants throughout the world. Revive their faith and knit them into an undying fellowship with Jesus and with one another. By their courageous witness and their patient suffering, glorify your Name and turn many hearts to repentant faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all missionaries, pastors, and theologians. By their faithful preaching and acts of charity, grant life and salvation to those who walk in the valley of the shadow of death.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon this congregation, so that our worship, words, and deeds abound with the fruits of that Spirit. Fill us with Jesus, and give us grace to share his life with everyone we meet.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all to whom death draws near, especially those who die alone or unloved. Grant them serenity, faith, and reconciliation with you and with family. Bless them with the mercy and grace promised by your Son to any who will receive him. Give a double portion of your Spirit to hospice workers and to all who care for the dying.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all who lead the nations, especially our own. Fill them with wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, fear of the Lord; and joy in doing your will. Help them work for the welfare of their people. Give your grace and peace to us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all who risk their lives to defend life and liberty. Keep them faithful, true, and bold. Shield and direct them in perilous situations. Raise and heal them when they fall. Deliver them into a place of safety when their task has ended.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all who all who suffer, including: {List}. As Jesus raised up Lazarus from death, we beseech you, raise up these dear and restore them to their loved ones.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy and gracious Father, thank you for calling your faithful servants by name, out of death and into your eternal life. Breathe your Spirit upon us, for we are still troubled by the sin, death, and the devil. Give us grace to comfort, encourage, and help each other along life’s road. Grant us faith to confess your Son as the Resurrection and the Life, the One who has come into the world to bring us salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, March 15, 2026, A, 4th Sunday in Lent

Sola/LSB: Isaiah 42:14-21 (I will lead the blind by paths they don’t see)

                RCL/ELW: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 (Samuel anoints David)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 142 (I cry to the Lord, for I have been brought very low)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd)

All: Ephesians 5:8-14 (Once you were in darkness; now walk as children of the light)

All: John 9:1-41 (Jesus heals the man born blind)

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Opening Hymn: I Want Jesus to Walk With Me: WOV #660, ELW #325

OR O Son of God, in Galilee: LBW #426, LSB #841 (Both tunes are fairly easy, but if they’re not familiar, use tune for “O God, Our Help in Ages Past.”)

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

Hymn of the Day: When to the World Our Savior Came: LSB #551 (Great words, familiar tune!)

OR Be Thou My Vision: WOV #776, ELW #793

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3, Lent 4 stanza

Communion Hymn 1: Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound: LBW #448, ELW #779, LBW #744

Communion Hymn 2:  My God, How Wonderful Thou Art: LBW #524, ELW #863

OR Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us: LBW #481, ELW #789, LSB #711

Note: Both LSB and ELW use the tune older members will remember from SBH, “Bradbury.”

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

OR O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, ELW #806, LSB #696

*******

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for the light of sun, moon, stars, streetlights, candles, and lamps. Thank you for these “created lights” that bear witness to the true and uncreated Light, your Son, Jesus Christ. Lead us, even when eyes fail and earthly lights grow dim, to his kindly light, which no darkness can overcome.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the blindness of your Church. Give it eyes to see its own sin, and to repent. Give it eyes to see the world’s sins, and to offer your forgiveness to any who will receive it. Give it eyes to see the plight of all who are afflicted by sin, death, and the devil, and to proclaim your redemption, given through the Passion of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the blindness of those who hate the followers of Jesus, and of all who turn a blind eye to their plight. Grant that the words and actions of all who suffer on account of Christ may inspire their enemies to repent and believe in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give clear sight and strong faith to missionaries, seminarians and their professors, pastors, and all of Jesus’ apprentices. Through their labors, lead many who are spiritually blind to Jesus for healing.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal any spiritual blindness in this congregation. Give us eyes to see Jesus in one another. For his sake, help us love even people we don’t yet like. Give us eyes to see new opportunities for serving you. As we become braver in sharing our faith, make us lamps shining with Jesus’ love for everyone we encounter.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let your healing, blessing, and grace rest upon the blind and deaf, and those with impaired senses of touch, taste, balance, or movement. Give them strength and courage. Sharpen the perception of their other senses. Surround them with people whose respect and encouragement leads them to greater faith in you, their light and their life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the blindness of the nations, and all who are in positions of authority. Give them eyes to seek your will, and hearts and hands to do it. Give them eyes to see injustice, deceit and cruelty, and the strength and courage to combat them. Make each of us into children of your light, living in faith toward you and with fervent love toward one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As your dear Son healed the man born blind, we pray that he would also bring healing, light, hope, and faith to everyone who suffers from any affliction, including: {List}. Lift them up from pain, sorrow, fear, or grief. And give them the joy of your saving help, now and always.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for receiving into your greater light and into your eternal life, our beloved dead. Deal mercifully with those shadowed by grief. We pray: Lord, let us receive our sight, so that day by day, we see you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly. Lead us, with all who have redeemed by the merits of your Son, to heaven, there to gaze on his fair beauty forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, March 8, 2026, A, 3rd Sunday in Lent

All: Exodus 17:1-7 (Israelites murmur against God, who gives water from the rock)

All: Psalm 95: (We are the people of God’s pasture; don’t be like those who murmured!)

All: Romans 5:1-8 (9-11) (Justified by faith in Christ, we have peace with God through

                him, who died for the ungodly)

All: John 4:5-26 [may add 27-30, 39-42]) (Jesus and the woman at the well)

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Opening Hymn: Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing: LBW #499, ELW #807, LSB #686

OR Christ, the Word of God Incarnate: LSB #540, v. 1-3 Fairly familiar Early American tune. Just wonderful words. Verse 2 especially goes with the Gospel reading)

OR “Come, Let Us Sing Unto the Lord” (paraphrase of Psalm 95)

Words by Rev. Cathy Ammlung, STS; Tune: Kirken (Built on a Rock, the Church Shall Stand)

1. Come, let us sing unto the Lord, Our mighty Rock of salvation.

Come, with our psalms of thanks outpoured To the great King of all nations.

Come, make a joyful noise of praise; Come, worship God through all our days;

Come in his presence, adoring.

2. Within the hollow of his hand, Caverns and hills find their dwelling.

Measureless seas and trackless land Their Maker’s glories are telling.

Come; worship; bend the knee and bless Our God, Our Shepherd. We confess

His hand’s our pasture forever.

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

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

(Note: the 2^nd ELW tune is “Kingsfold,” a nice English folk tune. You’ll find it used in LBW #391)

OR As the Deer Runs to the River: ELW #331

OR O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts: LBW #356

OR Lent 3 stanza, Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3

Communion Hymn 1: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524

OR Eat This Bread: WOV #709, ELW #472 (Just repeat first set of words 3x)

Communion Hymn 2: Come With Us, O Blessed Jesus: LBW #219, ELW #501

Closing Hymn: Glories of Your Name are Spoken:

LBW #358, ELW #648 (BEWARE! Uses different tune, even though “Austria” is used elsewhere!)

Glorious Things of You are Spoken: LSB #648

OR Christ, the Word of God Incarnate: LSB #540, v. 4-6

***

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus, your living water. Sometimes we don’t realize how thirsty we are. Sometimes what we drink makes us even thirstier. Thank you that Jesus quenches our thirst for your goodness, love, forgiveness, and life, by filling us with Himself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church a place where your living water flows. Use it to quench the thirst, heal the hearts, and cleanse the souls of people dying for lack of your love. May it always share your holy Word so that many may hear, and come to believe, that your Son is the Savior of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray on behalf of our persecuted sisters and brothers. Fulfill in them the Apostle’s words: that suffering produces endurance; endurance produces character; character produces hope; and hope does not put them to shame, because God’s love has been poured into their hearts through the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Jesus said the fields are ripe for the harvest. Therefore we pray: Call, equip, and send new pastors and evangelists to preach the Good News. Make each of us disciples “on a mission with you” to eagerly share the Living Water with thirsty souls in our communities.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on this congregation. Make us people eager to worship you in spirit and in truth; to care for one another with gentle hearts; and to share the living water of your Son with everyone we know.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for everyone who makes clean water available throughout the world. Grant that all who benefit from the pure and refreshing waters of this life may also be drawn to the Living Water of eternal life, Jesus Christ your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on our nation, its leaders, and its people. Although we are all sinful and rebellious, save us, we pray, from our folly. Give us hearts that delight in your law, and wills set to obey it. Remove from us the spirit of discord and strife, and crown us with the blessing of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Refresh and heal with your Living Water everyone burdened with suffering and sorrow, including: { List}. Give them renewed strength, deep peace, strong hope, and abiding faith in your compassion.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, with reverence and affection, we entrust our beloved dead into your care. Wipe away the tears all who mourn. Refresh us with your Word and Sacraments as we pass through death’s valleys. Help us to encourage one another; to rejoice even though suffering; to cultivate good character; to live in hope; and to lean on your promises. Speed the day when, in Spirit and in truth, the whole company of the redeemed will worship you, and acclaim your Son as the Savior of the world, our Lord and our God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

March 1, 2026, 2nd Sunday in Lent

Sola/LSB: Genesis 12:1-9 (God calls Abram, promises land and offspring)

                RCL/ELW: Genesis 12:1-4a

All: Psalm 121 (From whence does my help come? The Lord, who will watch over you)

All: Romans 4:1-8, 13-17 (The promises to Abraham came through the righteousness

                of faith, not works of law)

All: John 3:1-17 (Jesus and Nicodemus; God so loved the world….)

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Opening Hymn:The God of Abraham Praise: LBW #544, v. 1-4, 11; ELW #831, v. 1-4, 8; LSB #798, v. 1-4, 9

OR O Christ, Our Hope: LBW #300, ELW #604, LSB #553

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

Hymn paraphrase of Psalm 121: Unto the Hills: LBW #445

Hymn of the Day: God Loved the World So That He Gave:  LBW #292, ELW #323, LSB #571 (If LBW or LSB tune is unfamiliar, take ELW’s suggestion and use Rockingham Old, tune for “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”)

OR Lord, Thee I Love With All My Heart: LBW #325, ELW #750, LSB #708 (One of the great chorales. If congregation is timid, have soloist or choir sing it.)

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3, Lent 2 stanza

Communion Hymn 1: Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me: LBW #333, ELW #767, LSB #722

OR Day by Day: WOV #746, ELW #790

Communion Hymn 2:  O Love That Will Not Let Me Go: LBW #324

OR Jesus, Feed Us: ELW #464

Closing Hymn: Guide Me Ever/O Thou, Great Redeemer: LBW #543, ELW #618, LSB #918

***

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Dearest heavenly Father, we know John 3:16 by heart. Thank you for its truth. You do so love the world! You gave your only Son! We have everlasting life, not death! Thank you for your love. By your Spirit, let our lives reflect that love – to you, and to people who don’t yet know your love or believe your Word.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let the wind of your Spirit blow through your Church. Breathe your life and love through it, to revive everyone who is wounded and dying from the assaults of the sin, death, and the devil. Make the Church your “wounded healer,” able to draw broken and sinful people close to Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep watch over our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world when they cry to you for help. Preserve them from every evil. Grant repentance, forgiveness, and new life to their tormentors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Nicodemus, a teacher in Israel, needed the challenge, wisdom, and words of life that only Jesus could give. Grant that all who seek to be pastors, teachers, and theologians should always sit at Jesus’ feet. Fill them with his Spirit. Make them truth-filled teachers and trustworthy guides to everyone in their care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill this congregation with the Holy Spirit, so that day by day, our hearts, minds, words, and works are reborn as instruments of your will. Use us to bring your redeeming love to those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for travelers, immigrants, and refugees. Protect them from cruel traffickers, false promises, and deadly dangers. We also pray for those who strive to keep our nation safe from those who abuse our hospitality and endanger the innocent.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach and guide the leaders of all nations, especially our own. Help them prefer integrity and wisdom to the allure of power or popularity. Make them watchful and protective toward those entrusted to their care. Guide them in paths of justice and righteousness, and help us all to walk in those paths.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the shield and strength of those who risk their lives on our behalf. Do not let their foot be moved. Deliver them from evil. Use them to bring safety and help in dangerous situations. Restore them to their loved ones when their task is done. Grant honor to the fallen, healing to the wounded, and peace to all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Watch over everyone who endures pain, sorrow, fear, doubt, loneliness, or despair, including: {List}. Be their shade and shelter. Give hope to their hearts, health to their bodies, confidence to their minds, and faith to their souls.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, thank you for embracing our beloved dead in your everlasting arms. Keep us steadfast in faith. Guide us through this “barren land.” Feed us with the Bread of Heaven. Be our strength and shield. When we tread the verge of Jordan, bid our anxious fears subside. By the Cross of Jesus, land us safe on Canaan’s side. Fill us with songs and praises that, with all the redeemed, we sing to you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, February 22, 2026, A, 1^st Sunday in Lent

Sola/LSB: Genesis 3:1-21 (The serpent tempts Adam and Eve to disobey God)

RCL/ELW: Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7

 All: Psalm 32:1-7 (Happy are they whose sins are forgiven!)

All: Romans 5:12-1 (Sin came through Adam; righteousness, through Christ)

All: Matthew 4:1-11 (Satan tempts Jesus to disobey his Father)

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Opening Hymn: A Mighty Fortress is Our God: LBW #229, ELW #504, LSB #657

OR In Adam We Have All Been One: LBW #372, LSB #569

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

Hymn of the Day: O Lord, Throughout These Forty Days: LBW #99, ELW #319, LSB #418

OR Rise! To Arms! With Prayer Employ You: LSB #668 (Tune is “Wake, Awake, For Night is Flying.” Words are gutsy encouragement against temptation. Pretty cool.)

                OR The Tree of Life, With Ev’ry Good: LSB #561 (Tune looks straightforward. Beautiful words that tell of the Fall, and of our Redemption through the various trees – life, knowledge, Cross, life)

OR Lent 1 stanza, Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3

Communion Hymn 1: Lord Jesus, Think on Me: LBW #309, LSB #610

                OR That Priceless Grace: ELW #591

Communion Hymn 2:  All Who Would Valiant Be: LBW #498

Closing Hymn: Jesus, Still Lead/Lead Thou On: LBW #341, ELW #624, LSB #843

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Sola/LSB: Genesis 3:1-21 (The serpent tempts Adam and Eve to disobey God)

RCL/ELW: Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7

 Psalm 32:1-7 (Happy are they whose sins are forgiven!)

Romans 5:12-1 (Sin came through Adam; righteousness, through Christ)

Matthew 4:1-11 (Satan tempts Jesus to disobey his Father)

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for Jesus. Thank you for letting him be tempted just as we are when we’re at our weakest! Thank you because he stands with us, and for us. Thank you for causing him to dwell in us, through the worst temptations and struggles we face.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, forgive your Church when it falls into lukewarm worship, wayward teaching, fractured fellowship, stingy charity, and halfhearted witness. Forgive it when it condemns certain sinners, but re-brands its favorite sins as virtue. Help it to stand firm in your Word when it is tempted by sins of faithlessness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive our persecuted brethren throughout the world when their anguish curdles into bitterness, retribution, or loss of faith. Strengthen and heal them, so by their witness, you lead their tormentors to repentance and true faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive missionaries and all who seek to be your disciples, when their passion for the Gospel cools, or when they become impatient or distracted. Kindle the fire of your Holy Spirit within them, so that they glorify you in all they say and do.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive this congregation when we focus on the speck in another’s eye, ignoring the log in our own. Forgive us when we seek our own will, not yours. Forgive us when we boast of ourselves, not the Cross of Christ. Fashion us into the image of Jesus, so others, seeing our good works, glorify you alone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Strengthen us when we are tempted to sin. Warn and rebuke us, so we resist and repent. Guide us, so we feed on your Word and commit ourselves into your care. Humble us, so we rely only on our Savior, who in all things was tempted as we are, yet without sin.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive the nations and leaders of the world, including our own. Forgive the arrogance and ambition that drive decisions. Forgive the cruelty, suspicion, and hatred that fuel wars. Forgive the apathy and prejudice that fuel neglect and injustice. Create new hearts within us, and grant us your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive our military and all first responders when their hearts become hardened by vengeance or hatred. Heal, guide, and strengthen them to act in accordance with your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, have mercy on all who are sick, injured, or handicapped; addicted, abused, or abandoned; despairing, frightened, or ashamed; frightened, grieving or dying. Today we pray for: {List}. Deliver them from the powers of sin, death, and the devil. Restore them to fellowship with all who love them. Renew their faith in you, their Savior and Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, thank you for showing mercy to all who have died trusting in your promises. Keep us steadfast in faith. Forgive us when we give in to temptation. When the long Lent of this life is complete and the hour of death draws near, let the Cross of Christ sustain us in faith and hope. By his glorious Resurrection, raises us from our tombs. Through the Holy Spirit, breathe your life and love into us forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, Ash Wednesday, A (February 18, 2026)

February 18, 2026: Ash Wednesday

All: Joel 2:12-19 (Declare a fast; repent, pray)

All: Psalm 51 (Create in me a clean heart!)

All: 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 (Be reconciled to God and one another; now is the

                acceptable time!)

All: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (On prayer, fasting, and giving alms)

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Opening Hymn, if you’re not chanting Psalm 51: O Lord, Throughout These Forty Days:

LBW #99, ELW #319, LSB #418

Lenten Hymn, if desired: written by Cathy Ammlung. Or use as the opening hymn

Tune: St. Catherine, “Faith of Our Fathers.”Use refrain as opening line

Glory we give you, God of Grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

Father almighty, great God and King,

Glorious, gracious, merciful, true,

Our praise and worship and blessing we bring;

Receive it, Lord, as homage due.

Glory we give you, God of grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

Lord Jesus Christ, your Father’s true Son,

Sin-bearing Lamb, the world’s one true Light,

Grant life and mercy from your heav’nly throne.

Our praise make perfect in your sight.

Glory we give you, God of Grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

Most Holy Spirit, great God and Lord,

You give us grace to bless and adore

One with the Father and with the Word,

To you be glory forevermore!

Glory we give you, God of Grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

Hymn of the Day: Lord, Help Us Walk the Servant Way: LSB #857 (Marvelous Herman Stuempfle hymn, to simple tune. Sets tone for Lent. Get one-time license and use it!)

                OR Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus: LBW #486, ELW #802, LSB #685

OR O Sun of Justice: WOV #659 (2^nd verse great if you preach on 2 Corinthians text; tune is simple plainsong chant, but feel free to sing it to the Doxology, Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow)

Communion Hymn 1: Restore in Us, O God: ELW #328

                OR O Christ, Thou Lamb of God: LBW #103

OR Just a Closer Walk With Thee: ELW #697

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

OR Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling: WOV 734, ELW #608

Closing Hymn: Bless Now, O God, the Journey: ELW #326

OR Savior, When in Dust to You/Thee: LBW #91, ELW #601, LSB #419

*******

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer on behalf of all his people.

A brief silence

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us. As you are holy, make us holy. As you are mighty, give us strength to turn from sin to live for you alone. As you are immortal, by the death and resurrection of our Savior Christ, lead us out of death to life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon your church. Purge it of false teaching, uncharitable words, and unholy actions. Fill it with your Holy Spirit, and use it to grant the joy of your saving help to all repentant sinners.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon all who are persecuted on account of your Jesus. Keep them steadfast in faith, patient in suffering, persistent in prayer, and gracious in forgiving. Soften the hearts of all who despise Christ. Grant them repentance and true faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on seminary and church college professors, on Christian school and preschool teachers and aides, and on everyone seeking to follow Jesus as his disciple. Give wisdom to their minds, eloquence to their tongues, and love to their souls, for you and for all they serve.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on this congregation. Cleanse it so it more perfectly reveals your love for us and those to whom we minister. Grant that we may prefer nothing whatsoever to Jesus Christ, and to sharing his forgiveness and salvation with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon all converts, all who are preparing for baptism at Easter, and all whose faith wavers because of doubt or despair.  Fill them with your Spirit, and bring them into your loving embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon the nations of the world and their rulers, especially our own. Lead them in paths of righteousness, justice, and mercy. Conform them to your will as they care for the lives entrusted to them. Never let them, or us, forget the needs of the poor, the widow, and the orphan; the dispossessed and unemployed; the sick and forgotten; the abused and the unjustly imprisoned. Give us the means and the will to ease their burden.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on all who stand in harm’s way in defense of life and liberty. Strengthen them in every virtue that increases concord, establishes safety, and protects innocent lives.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on all who suffer in body, mind, heart or soul – especially those who crave our prayers, including: {List}. Refresh their spirits, renew their hope, and restore their joy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, keep in your care our beloved dead. Comfort those whose grief runs deep. Help us to encourage one another throughout this troubled life. Keep us steadfast in faith, constant in hope, and warm in love. Lead us from death into the eternal life you have prepared for all whom you have redeemed through the passion of your Son, the Savior of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, February 15: The Transfiguration of Our Lord

ALL: Exodus 24:8-18 (The 70 elders and Moses on the mountain with God)

SOLA/RCL: Psalm 2:6-12 (You are my Son, today have I begotten you; tremble, O nations, before him!)

            RCL: Psalm 2, complete

ALL: 2 Peter 1:16-21 (We do not follow cleverly devised myths; we are eyewitnesses to God’s glory in Christ as he was transfigured before us)

ALL: Matthew 17:1-9 (The Transfiguration account)

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Opening Hymn: When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW 549, ELW #853, LSB #807

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

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

OR O Wondrous Type! O Vision Fair!: LBW #80, LSB #413

O wondrous Vision! Image Fair!: ELW #316

Communion 1: How Good, Lord, to be Here: LBW #89, ELW #315

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

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

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

*******

Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Holy Lord, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us! In the transfiguration of Jesus, we see your glory. And we see what everyone joined to Jesus will be like. Thank you for this “double vision.” Thank you for showing us that Jesus truly is all in all. Thank you for his suffering and death, which transfigures our own. Thank you for the vision of his glory, which he lovingly pours upon all who cling to him in faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Transfigure your Church. Make it a lamp, radiating Jesus’ light and life. Make it a place where sinful mortals eat and drink in your presence, and live. Make it a place where cleverly devised myths are confounded by the glorious truth of the Gospel. Make it a place where all are fashioned into the image and likeness of Jesus our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Transfigure this congregation: Make our every word and action like clear crystal, through which the radiance of Jesus’ love shines unimpeded upon everyone we meet.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Transfigure the suffering of your persecuted Church.  Unite it to the death and resurrection of Jesus. Give it grace to speak truth and offer forgiveness to its enemies. Transfigure the ministries of seminaries, missionaries, spiritual directors, so all they say and do points to Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Transfigure the sacrifices of those who for our sake stand in harm’s way. Let their actions shine with honor. Grant them healing when they fall, and joy when they return home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Transfigure this death-shadowed world, its people, and its leaders. Enlighten minds to seek your truth, and purify hearts to delight in doing your will. Turn us from being enemies of you, of one another, and of our own eternal good. Transfigure us into your loyal subjects, sisters and brothers to one another, wise stewards of creation, and lovers of your Beloved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Transfigure the lives of all who sit in the shadows of suffering and sorrow, including: {List}. Let Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, rise upon them with healing in his wings. Let sorrow be turned to joy; fear into hope; and despair into faith in your love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, we bless you because you have transfigured the death of your faithful servants. You have turned their death into life, their sin and pain into holy health, and their limitations into delight in your infinite goodness. We humbly beseech you: transfigure each of us into Jesus’ image. Even now, make him our all in all. Speed the day when we gaze into the faces of your redeemed people, and see Jesus smiling back at us forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

All these things, and whatever else you see that we need, grant to us, dear Father, for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, February 8, 2026:

5^th Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 4, Lectionary 5

ALL: Isaiah 58:3-9a (The fasting God requires is justice and refraining from evil)

ALL: Psalm 112:1-9 (God’s blessing to the righteous and those who remember the poor)

ALL: 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 (We preach Christ crucified; God’s wisdom, given through the Spirit,     contrasted with “wisdom of the age”)

ALL: Matthew 5:13-20 (You are to be salt and light; Christ came not to abolish but to fulfill the Law and prophets)

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Opening Hymn: Your Kingdom Come: LBW #376

OR The People Walk: ELW #706 (Nice Hispanic melody)

OR Holy Spirit, Ever Dwelling: LBW #523, ELW #582, LSB #650

Hymn of the Day: Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness (If you didn’t use it last week for Conversion of St. Paul!): LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB 578

OR Lord, Whose Love in/through Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

Communion 1: My Faith Looks Up to Thee: LBW #479, ELW #759, LSB #702

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

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

OR O Christ, Your Heart, Compassionate: ELW #722 (Familiar tune)

*******

Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, your Word is challenge, command, and marching orders for us. But we often stumble, fall short, or go AWOL in fulfilling it! Thank you for Jesus, who fulfilled your Word and who IS your Word. Thank you for planting his grace, mercy, and obedience in our hearts. For his sake, make us like him: salt and light, hope and holiness, so others may turn to him and live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cause your Church to constantly preach Christ, crucified for the forgiveness of sin unto everlasting life. Keep it from being conformed to the desires and whims of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people and ministries of this congregation. Fill us with your Holy Spirit. Let everything we say and do glorify you and help our neighbor, especially the poor, lonely, and distressed people in our community.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, being a disciple means being a student of Jesus. Give us teachable hearts and minds! Lead your “apprentices” in paths of devotion and holiness. Form us into “journeymen” who walk with those whose path is hard and lonely. Use us to bring hope, encouragement, and Jesus’ love to those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you our persecuted sisters and brothers. Make them lamps shining in dark places. Bring them justice and deliverance. Soften the hearts of their enemies so they may turn to you and live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cause the rulers of all nations, especially our own, to obey the words of the prophet: to do justice tempered with mercy, and to care for the poor. Help us all not only to refrain from evil, but to actively pursue righteousness, as we strive to live in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring healing and hope to everyone burdened by sin, sorrow, and suffering. Today we pray for: {List}. Shine the light of Christ upon them, and upon all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for our beloved dead, especially those who were salt and light in our lives. Keep us in your care throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Kindle your Spirit in us, and help us to encourage one another along life’s way. For the sake of your beloved Son, who gave himself for us, bring us into your eternal Kingdom, where with all whom he had redeemed, we may gaze upon his face and adore you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

All these things, and whatever else you see that we need, grant to us, dear Father, for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, February 1, 2026: 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 3, Lectionary 4

ALL: Micah 6:1-8 (Answer me, my people; how have I burdened you? What does the Lord require but to love justice, do mercy, walk humbly before him?)

ALL: Psalm 15 (Who abides with God? Those who walk blamelessly and do what is right)

ALL: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (Christ is the wisdom and power of God, despite the foolishness and   stumbling-block nature of the Cross)

ALL: Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)

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Opening Hymn: Let Streams of Living Justice Flow: ELW #710 (Gustav Holst’s majestic tune Thaxted pairs well with the Micah text!)

            OR Let Justice Flow Like Streams: WOV #763 (Very familiar tune)

            OR Judge Eternal, Throned in Splendor: LBW #418 (Simple Welsh folk tune)

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

Hymn of the Day: Blest Are They:  WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982

OR (if preaching on Corinthians): When I Survey the Wondrous Cross:

LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425/426

Communion 1: Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me: LBW #336, LSB #683

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

Closing Hymn: Lift High the Cross: LBW #377, ELW #660 (Note: “soldiers” replaced with “servants,”

and a verse is omitted), LSB #837

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

*******

Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for Jesus and his teaching! His Beatitudes challenge, humble, and energize us. Give us a double portion of your Holy Spirit, so that by your grace, we may begin to live out those Beatitudes, to your glory and for the blessing and benefit of others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill your Church with your Holy Spirit. In the power of the Spirit, make it love justice, do mercy, and walk humbly before you, its Lord and God. Fill the Church with the splendor of Jesus’ glory, the beauty of his holiness, and the sweetness of his love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make each member of this congregation into disciples of Jesus, so that we may be a sign of your goodness and mercy to our friends, families, neighbors, and community.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Raise up pastors, theologians, professors, deacons, and other Christian leaders who earnestly and patiently seek your will, and who teach others, by word and by example, to do the same.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the light in dark places, the sword and shield victorious, for all who risk their life on behalf of others. Give them integrity, courage, and wisdom as they strive to bring justice and safety in dangerous places. Heal their body, mind, and soul. Strengthen their loved ones. Help us to honor their sacrifice and benefit from their labors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our earthly rulers, whether or not we agree with them. Conform their minds, hearts, and actions to your holy will. Help them to strengthen bonds of respect, trust, and concord in every community across our nation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless, heal, and strengthen the sick and sorrowful, including those we name now before you: {List}. We also pray for women who are pregnant or have recently given birth, especially those whose health is imperiled; for women who have had an abortion or miscarriage; for newborn infants, especially those at risk of illness or injury; for all fathers; and for everyone who cares for and rejoices in the gift of new life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As we entrust our beloved dead into your hands, and commend ourselves to your care, we pray: Now, Lord, you let your servants go in peace; your Word has been fulfilled. Our own eyes have seen the salvation that you have prepared in the sight of every people. A light to reveal you to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever, Amen.

All these things, and whatever else you see that we need, grant to us, dear Father, for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, January 25, 2026,

3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 2, Lectionary 3

OR Conversion of St. Paul

Conversion of St. Paul Lessons and Hymns

ALL: Acts 9:1-22 (The conversion of Saul)

ALL: Psalm 67 (God be merciful, bless us, make his face shine on us; let all praise him)

ALL: Galatians 1:11-24 (Paul touches on his conversion and its consequences for him)

SOLA/LSB: Matthew 19:27-30 (All who follow Jesus will be given much – with persecution)

            RCL/ELW: Luke 21:10-19 (You will be brought before authorities, persecuted, but will be saved if you are faithful)

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Opening Hymn: Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802

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

            OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: LSB #849 (A winner, worth getting permission for it. Beach Spring is a familiar Early American tune, too.)

Hymn of the Day: Thy Strong Word: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

OR Lord, ‘Tis Not That I Did Choose Thee: LSB #573 (Heartfelt, very Pauline. Relatively easy tune, but can also be sung to Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, “Hyfrydol”)

                OR How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord (Lovely hymn tune, thought-provoking words! Highly recommend) ELW #880, LSB #853

Communion 1: Chief of Sinners Though I Be: LBW #306, ELW #609, LSB #611

OR What Wondrous Love is This: LBW #385, ELW #666, LSB #543

Communion 2: Renew Me, O Eternal Light: LBW #511, LSB #704

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

OR Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus: LBW #487, ELW #802, LSB #685

OR There Is A Balm in Gilead (trust me!): WOV #737, ELW #614, LSB #749

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3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany Lessons and Hymns

ALL: Isaiah 9:1-4 (The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light)

ALL: Psalm 27:1-9 (The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom then shall I fear?)

ALL: 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 (1^st mention of divisions in Church; message of Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but the power of God to those being saved)

ALL: Matthew 4:12-25 (In the region mentioned by Isaiah, Jesus begins his ministry – “Repent; the kingdom of Heaven has come near” – and calls his first disciples)

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Opening Hymn: The People That in Darkness Sat: LSB #412 (great words, familiar tune!)

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

            OR Shine, Jesus, Shine:  WOV #651, ELW #671

Hymn of the Day: O Christ, Our Light, Our Radiance True: LBW #380, ELW #875

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

Communion 1: God Himself is Present: LBW #249

OR (if you didn’t use it on Baptism of Our Lord) I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light:

WOV #660, ELW #815, LSB #411

Communion 2: Renew Me, O Eternal Light: LBW #511, LSB #704

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

OR Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness: LSB #849 (Another winner, worth getting permission for it. Beach Spring is a familiar Early American tune, too.)

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Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Lord, sometimes we think you see us only “From a distance.” Sometimes that’s right where we want you! As St. Paul learned, your presence convicts and upends before it forgives and transforms us. Be gentle, Father, as you shed your holy light on us! Send us Jesus to be God-with-Us, Emmanuel. Give us the grace and comfort of your Holy Spirit, who helps us to repent and to delight in your “joyous light of glory.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

The world scorns the Cross as folly and stumbling block. Therefore, give your Church faith, courage, and wit as it proclaims Christ crucified as the only means of forgiveness, salvation, and life with you forever. Make it lovely with the light of Jesus’ strong saving love for us sinners.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring light and clarity to the people of this congregation, so that every act of worship, fellowship, outreach, stewardship, service, study, and support is centered in Christ alone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who are persecuted on account of naming Christ as Lord. Keep them steadfast in faith and gracious in witness. Soften the hearts of their tormentors, as you changed the heart of St. Paul himself, and bring them to repentant faith in Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This is a hard prayer for us, merciful Father: we pray for the evil and wicked, for abusers and killers, cheaters and deserters, and those who commit every sort of despicable act. When their victims cannot forgive, help us to pray the prayer they cannot: Forgive, dear Lord. Cause the wicked to repent of their evil ways and cling to the Cross of Christ as their only hope.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shine the light of reason, charity, justice, and mercy upon the minds of our earthly rulers. Turn them from every agenda, plan, and pronouncement that does not serve your will or benefit the people entrusted to their care. Remind them that they, and all who have power and authority in society, must give an account of their stewardship to you, the Lord and ruler of all. And bestow upon us all a measure of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring healing, hope, and the light of your dear presence to everyone who sits in the darkness of suffering, shame, or sorrow. Today we plead on behalf of: {List}. Give them, and all who care for them, the grace to say: “May God be gracious and bless us. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, we thank you for the lives and the witness of the faithful departed, including St. Paul {whose conversion we commemorate today}. Be the lamp to our feet and light to our path throughout our earthly pilgrimage. For the sake of your dear Son, lead us, and all whom you are pleased to redeem, into your bright courts of heaven, and into your endless day.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

All these things, and whatever else you see that we need, grant to us, dear Father, for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.