THE PRAYERS,

Advent 1, Cycle A (December 1, 2019)

 

As we await the coming of Christ in mercy and majesty, let us pray for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their need.

A brief silence

 

Thank you, Lord, for words of warning and mercy. Thank you for your promise to visit your people with judgment and forgiveness. Thank you for Jesus, your final Word and the Yes to all your promises. Make us ready to receive him into our hearts, homes, and world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Stir up your power, O Lord; and purify your Church. Make it a holy dwelling, fit for your Son. Make it your house, into which the nations stream. Make it the New Jerusalem, the home of all whom you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Stir up your power, O Lord; and cleanse the hearts of all who worship here. Fill us with love for you; affection for one another; and generosity toward our neighbors, especially those most in need of your forgiveness and kindness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Stir up your power, O Lord; and come to the aid of your persecuted Church. Lift up their heads; strengthen their faith; and deliver them from their enemies. Set free those who hate you from bondage to sin; and give all of us grace to bear witness to Christ until he comes again in glory.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Stir up your power, O Lord, and guide all who walk the path of discipleship. Give them grace to listen, ponder, and obey your Word. In all they do, help them prepare your Way into the hearts of others, especially those who walk in the darkness of doubt or despair.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Stir up your power, O Lord, and grant your Spirit to the leaders of the nations. Teach them to work together for the common good and to put the best construction on the words and deeds of those with whom they disagree. Remind them that they must give an account of their stewardship of authority to you, the Lord of the nations and their King and God.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Stir up your power, O Lord; and banish the evils of violence, chaos, brutality and hatred from this death-shadowed world. Give your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might to all who defend life and liberty; to all who protect our communities from danger; and to all first responders. Grant success to all they do that serves your will; heal them when they fall; restore them to their loved ones; and speed the day when they may serve you in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Stir up your power, O Lord; and bring healing and hope to all whose need is great. Especially we lift before you: {List}. Deliver them from all that darkens their lives. Restore them to fellowship with all who love them. Give patience, gentleness, and respite to caregivers; and shine the light of your love upon us all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Stir up your power, O Lord; and raise from the shadows of death all who have fallen asleep in you, especially those whose loss grieves us most. Help us to comfort those whose hearts are heavy in this season of feasting and joy. Give us grace to be children of the day, filled with the light of your love. Help us to encourage one another in steadfast faith and deeds of charity until your dear Son returns in glory. Then, by your mercy, bring us safely into your eternal Kingdom, which you have prepared for all whom you have redeemed.

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.

“Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, “I am of Paul,” and “I of Apollos,” and “I of Cephas,” and “I of Christ.”  Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?”  (1 Corinthians 12-13)

To whom do we belong?  Is it to one whom we admire?  Is it to one who has taught us?  It is good to have mentors, but there is only
one Who is Lord of all.  The One through
whom all things have their being, the One who made all things, is the One who
is worthy of all honor and praise.  It is
He who is Your Savior and this is He of whom Paul speaks.  Come to the One who saves.

Lord, teach me the way of salvation that I may walk in the way of
truth.  Guide me according to Your never-failing
Word in all that I need to know in order that above all things, I may praise
You.  Guide me, O Lord, in Thy Spirit to
now and always walk in Your will.  Let me
see through those who would get in Your way in order to live the truth which
You have revealed for all people.

Truth made flesh, my Lord and
Savior Jesus, guide me now and always in the way of truth that I would walk
with and in You in the way You have taught Your disciples.  Lead me always to have no other gods before
You, the Triune God who is in all and through all.  May I always abide in You and have good and
godly priorities.  Lead me, O Lord, in
the way of truth.  Amen.

“God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His
Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.   Now I
exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree
and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the
same mind and in the same judgment.  For
I have been informed concerning you, my brethren, by Chloe’s people, that there
are quarrels among you.”  (1 Corinthians
1:9-11)

We are born into a fallen humanity.  There are divisions and quarreling that happens, but it ought not be so.  We are called by One Lord through one baptism into the one faith by which we are eternally reconciled to One God.  Come into the truth revealed in faith and work together with all whom You fellowship, for this is good and pleasing to the One who calls us by grace into eternity.

Lord, I know how to be contentious and quarrelsome.  Lead me away from the old man and into the
new life to which I have been called. 
Guide me according to Your truth that I would walk humbly with You, my
Lord, God and Savior.  Lead me in the way
of everlasting life that I would now and forever abide in the truth You have
revealed once for all.  Lead me according
to Your will.

Lord Jesus, You have come that we
might have life and have it abundantly. 
Guide me in the Word of truth that I may now and always abide in the
goodness of Your grace and mercy.  Lead
me in the way You know I need to go that I would abide peaceably with others as
You abide with me.  Guide me, O Lord, and
help me to always follow where You lead that I would each day become more like
You.  Amen.

“I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was
given you in Christ Jesus, that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all
speech and all knowledge, even as the testimony concerning Christ was confirmed
in you, so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the
revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end,
blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 
(1 Corinthians 1:4-8)

Be thankful not only for the
grace you have received, but also for the grace the Lord grants others.  The Lord knows those who are His, You do
not.  Although all have been called, few
obey the call.  Be one of those who obey
and realize that all you need has been provided by the One who gave Himself for
You that you may stand before the Father as one who is blameless.

Lord, teach me what all of these things mean.  Too often I become wrapped up in the ways of
this world and hurriedly go about my business forgetting that I am to walk with
You as You walk with me.  Lead me in the
revelation You have given that I may learn how to become blameless even as I
know Your grace makes me blameless.  Lead
me by grace to become blameless in eternity.

Lord Jesus, You have empowered
all who believe to walk boldly in the faith You give.  Grant me a willingness to always live by
grace, proclaiming the good and gracious news of the salvation You alone make
possible.  Conform me to You that I may
be like You.  Teach me all I need to know
that I would journey in faith with You until the day I stand before You face to
face.  Amen.

“Paul, called as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, to the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling, with all who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”  (1 Corinthians 1:1-3)

We are called and sanctified
through our Lord Jesus Christ.  No one has
authority on their own.  None does
anything for the Lord except in the name of Christ.  At all times and in all places, we are reminded
that, as a person of faith, we are under the headship of our Lord and Savior,
Jesus Christ.  It is by grace alone,
which is a gift of God, that we are redeemed and are thereby able to stand in
the Father’s presence,

Help me, O Lord, with my pride which is at the heart of all rebellion,
that I would remember always that the position I’ve been granted by grace is only
because of what Christ has done for me. 
Guide me to be charitable with others and to reflect genuine
humility.  In You alone Lord do I have
hope and only under Your authority am I able to do all things.  Keep me under Your authority always.

Lord Jesus, by Your blood are we
healed and only under Your grace do we have any merit.  Teach me the line between the boldness of
faith and the humility of service.  Teach
me to always be gracious with others, but also bold in what is right in the
Father’s eyes.  Show me what meekness is
and what standing upon Your Word means. 
Lead me to be faithful to You now and always.  Amen.

“Praise Him with loud cymbals; Praise Him with clashing cymbals!  Let everything that has breath praise the
Lord.  Praise the Lord!”  (Psalm 150:5-6)

Everything created belongs to
the One who made all things.  He is
gracious and giving and has granted that all we need has been provided.  Do not cling to what is created, but to the
One who made all things.  In Him is life,
liberty and completeness.  Come into His
presence with praise and thanksgiving. 
Know that in the Lord, all things necessary shall be provided, and that
in Him is joy.

Lord, teach me to live a life of praise and thanksgiving.  Guide me according to Your goodness to see
that in You is the hope for all people. 
May I learn to live life in such a way that in and through all things it
is evident that I look to You.  Let my praise
be noisy and obvious.  Let who I am in
You be apparent to all whom I meet.  Lead
me in the way of righteousness now and always.

Lord Jesus, You have come to show
the way, and by ascending and sending the Spirit, You have provided all that is
needed to become like You in looking to the Father for all things.  Guide me, O Lord, according to the
righteousness granted by Your grace that I may live into the purpose for which
I have been created, Help me now and always to follow Your lead and go where
You send me.  Amen.

“Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; praise Him with the lute and
harp!  Praise Him with the timbrel and dance;
praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!”  (Psalm 150:3-4)

Make a joyful noise unto the
Lord.  Sing a song, for the Lord delights
in those who sing from their hearts. 
Give thanks to the Lord in all circumstances and be one who knows that Lord
is leading you all the days of your life. 
Come to the Lord and be grateful that He has called you by name and
knows the plans He has for you.  Join the
dance of creation and live in the Lord’s presence.

Lord, You have taught me many things, but knowledge is not the answer
to life.  You have given me many
promises, but they are not the reason I live. 
It is for You, in You and through You that I have my being.  Draw me closer to You, O Lord, that I would
now and always walk humbly with You my Maker and live in harmony with Your will.  Guide me in the way of life, O Lord.

Lord Jesus, You have come to show
the way of life for all who have come in faith and know that through You we
have our being.  Lead me in the way of
salvation that I would now and always abide in You and You in me.  Guide me according to the goodness of Your
grace to be one who worships in spirit and in truth, giving thanks for all that
You are and have done.  Amen.

 

Lessons and Suggested Hymns and Prayers,

 Advent through Transfiguration,

Cycle A, December 1, 2019 – February 23, 2020

 

NOTE:

LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

 

There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.

 

Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.

 

Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance,  I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.

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A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for Advent

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept.

Most merciful God,

I confess to you with my whole heart my neglect and forgetfulness of your commandments: my wrong thinking, speaking, and acting; the hurts I have done to others; and the good I have left undone.  O God, forgive me, for I have sinned against you. Raise me to newness of life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hear this promise of Almighty God: He prepares in our hearts a royal highway for his Son’s near approach, and cleanses us from all our sins. He drives away the darkness of sin and death, that we may behold the glory of his Son, the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Spoken Gospel Acclamation for Advent

Alleluia. Come and save us, LORD our God; Let your face shine upon us that we may be saved. Alleluia.

 

Offertory Prayer for Advent

Holy God, receive these tokens of our love for you. Make them holy, and use them as you desire, for the glory of your coming Kingdom, and for the well-being of the people you long to redeem. This we ask in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 

Post-Communion Prayer for Advent

Almighty and ever-living God, We give you thanks for these heavenly gifts.  Kindle in us the fire of your Spirit, that when your Christ comes again, we may shine as lights before his face; who is alive and reigns now and forever. Amen.

 

Sending Words for Advent

Go in peace. Prepare the way of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

 

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A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for Christmastide

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept.

Most merciful Father,

We confess that we walk in the darkness of sin and not in your light. Sometimes we treat the priceless gift of your Son as an afterthought. And often we do not give the gift of forgiveness, mercy, and care to those who need them from us. Lead us into the light of your healing, forgiveness, and love. Restore to us the joy proclaimed by angels and shepherds at your Son’s birth among us. Amen.

Behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy: For unto you is born a Savior who is Christ the Lord.  His name is Jesus, for he saves us from our sins. He is called Emmanuel, for he is God with us. For his sake, his Father forgives and blesses you, calls you his children, and bestows his Holy Spirit to guide, strengthen, and sanctify you in all your words and deeds. Amen.

 

Spoken Gospel Acclamation for Christmastide

Alleluia. The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him he gave power to become the children of God. Alleluia.

 

Offertory Prayer for Christmastide

Heavenly Father, receive, bless, and use these gifts, given for love Jesus Christ, your gift to us, your Son, our Savior, and our Lord. Amen.

Post-Communion Prayer for Christmastide

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your great gift of love, your Son Jesus Christ. May we who have received his body and blood bear the light of his love into the world, to your glory and for the healing of the nations. Amen.

 

Sending Words for Christmastide

Go in peace. Christ is born. Thanks be to God.

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A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for the Epiphany Season

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept.

Most merciful Father,

Although in Christ our light has come, too much we prefer the darkness of sin. We do not let your holy light shine in our lives so others may see our good works and glorify you. We are deeply sorry and humbly repent. Forgive us and fill us with your Spirit. Give us once again the joy of your salvation; and send us out to proclaim your strong saving love, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Arise, shine, for your Light has come; and the glorious mercy of the Lord shines round about you. In the name of and by the authority of our Savior Jesus Christ, I announce the forgiveness of your sin. May the Holy Spirit strengthen your faith, heal your spirit, and equip you to proclaim the greatness of the Lord until he comes in glory. Amen.

 

Spoken Gospel Acclamation for the Epiphany Season

Alleluia. Glory to you, O Christ, proclaimed to the Gentiles. Glory to you, O Christ, believed in throughout the world. Alleluia.

 

Offertory Prayer for the Epiphany Season

Let us pray. Merciful Father, the magi brought gifts to your Son, the Babe of Bethlehem. Graciously accept our gifts, given to glorify and worship Christ our Savior, and to bring healing and hope to the people he came to redeem. Amen.

Post-Communion Prayer for the Epiphany Season

We thank you, gracious Father, for the gift of your dear Son, given to us in this holy Sacrament. Strengthen us, through this gift, in faith toward you, and in fervent love toward one another.  This we ask in the name of your Son Jesus Christ, our Light and our Life. Amen.

 

Sending Words for the Epiphany Season

Go in peace. Share the light of Christ. Thanks be to God.

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December 1, 2019: Advent 1

 

Isaiah 2:1-5 (Nations stream to the house of the Lord)

Psalm 122 (I was glad when they said to me Let us go up to the house of the Lord)

Romans 13:8-14 (Keep the commandments. Behave as children of the day)

            RCL: Romans 13:11-14 (Omits part about commandments)

 Matthew 21:1-11 (Jesus enters Jerusalem)

OR Matthew 24:36-44 (Signs of the end; coming of Son of Man)

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Opening Hymn: LBW #22, The Advent of Our God (LSB #331, The Advent of Our King)

OR ELW #247, Come Now, O Prince of Peace (simple Asian tune)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #28, Savior of the Nations, Come (LSB #332) (ELW #263; note omission of verse about dull hellfires…)

 Communion 1: LBW #351, O Happy Day when We Shall Stand (ELW #441)

Communion 2: LBW #34, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (LSB #357, ELW #257 – they both have all the verses!)

 Closing: LBW #31, Wake, Awake, For Night is Flying (LSB #516)  (ELW #436: note “Dear friend” replaces “bridegroom…”)

OR ELW #539, Abide, O Dearest Jesus (LSB #919, LBW #263, Abide With Us, Our Savior)

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 December 8, 2019: Advent 2

 

Isaiah 11:1-10 (A shoot springs up from Jesse’s root; God’s Spirit is upon him)

Psalm 72:1-10 (Prayer for the King’s son to rule with justice)

            RCL: Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19

Romans 15:4-13 (Live in harmony; Gentiles have also received God’s mercy)

Matthew 3:1-12(John the Baptist: prepare the way of the Lord!)

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Opening Hymn: LBW #29, Comfort, Comfort Now My People (ELW #256, LSB #347)

OR LBW #58, Lo, How a Rose is Growing

(ELW#272, LSB #359, Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming (familiar translation)

                Yes I KNOW it’s a Christmas hymn, but it ties directly to the Isaiah text!

 

Hymn of the Day: LSB #346, When All the World Was Cursed (familiar tune)

OR LBW #26, Prepare the Royal Highway (ELW #264)

OR ELW #255, There’s a Voice in the Wilderness

 

Communion 1: LBW #36, On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry (ELW #249, LSB #344)

Communion 2: WOV #647, My Lord, What a Morning (ELW #438, LSB #968)

 

Closing Hymn:  LBW #57, Let Our Gladness Have No End (ELW #291; LSB #381)

YES I KNOW it is a Christmas hymn, but our brethren at Concordia suggest it because of its link to the Isaiah text. Plus it’s pretty. So there.

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December 15, 2019: Advent 3

Isaiah 35:1-10 (The wilderness rejoices when God comes to it)

Psalm 146 (The Lord sets prisoners free, opens eyes of blind)

            RCL: Ps. 146:5-10 (eliminates “do not put trust in rulers”)

or Luke 1:46b-55 (The Magnificat)

James 5:7-11 (Be patient until the Lord comes)

Matthew 11:2-15 (Jesus addresses John’s disciples: blind see, poor hear the Gospel; violence attends coming of Kingdom)

            RCL: Matthew 11:2-11 (Eliminates bit about violence)

 

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Opening Hymn: ELW #242, Awake, Awake, and Greet the New Morn (WOV #633)

    OR LBW #87, Hail to the Lord’s Anointed (ELW #311, LSB #398)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #23, O Lord, How Shall I Meet You (ELW #241, LSB #334)

   OR ELW #266, All Earth is Hopeful (WOV #629)

Communion 1: LBW #530, Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun (LSB #832)

Communion 2: LBW #35, Hark the Glad Sound! (ELW #239, LSB #349)

 

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

OR (especially if Magnificat is used) ELW #723, Canticle of the Turning

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December 22, 2019: Advent 4

 

Isaiah 7:1-17 (2 assurances to King Ahaz of God’s presence:  the second is that Emmanuel shall be born of the virgin)

            RCL: Isaiah 7:10-16 (only 2^nd promise)

Psalm 24 (Lift up your heads, that the King of Glory may come in)

            RCL: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 (Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.)

Romans 1:1-7 (Promise of the Messiah, coming from David’s line)

Matthew 1:18-25 (The annunciation – to Joseph)

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Opening Hymn: LBW #32, Fling Wide the Door (ELW #259)

OR LSB #340, Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates

            OR WOV #633, Awake, Awake, and Greet the New Morn (ELW #242)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #38, O Savior, Rend the Heavens Wide (LSB #355)

(Wonderful, powerful prayer. If tune is unfamiliar, use the Doxology!)

OR ELW #250, Blessed Be the God of Israel (WOV #725)

 

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

Communion 2: WOV #643, Once in Royal David’s City (ELW #269; LSB #376)

 

Closing Hymn: ELW #593, Drawn to the Light

OR LBW #30, Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (ELW #254; LSB #338)

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December 24, 2019: Christmas Eve, the Nativity of Our Lord

Isaiah 9:2-7 (For Unto us a child is born)

Psalm 96 (Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name)

Titus 2:11-14 (God’s salvation has appeared in Jesus, training us to live godly lives)

Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) (The story of Jesus’ birth)

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Opening Hymn: LBW #45, O Come, All Ye Faithful (ELW #283; LSB #379)

 

Hymn of Praise: LBW #71, Angels We Have Heard on High (ELW #289; LSB #368)

 

Gradual Hymn: LBW #43, Rejoice, Rejoice, This Happy Morn (LSB #391)

            OR ELW #297, Jesus, What a Wonderful Child

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #47, Let All Together Praise Our God (Break out the trumpets and horns and timpani, please!!) (ELW #287; LSB #389)

OR LBW #55, Good Christian Friends, Rejoice (ELW #288)

 

Offertory Hymn: LBW #40, What Child is This (ELW #296; LSB #370)

Communion Hymns: Use as many as needed for your circumstance, or if you have a family service early and a festive service later, I have some for either!

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #69, I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve (ELW #271)

Communion Hymn #2:  LBW #67, Away in a Manger (ELW #277, 278; LSB #364, 365)

Communion Hymn #3: LBW #54, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear (ELW #282; LSB #366)

Communion Hymn #4: LBW #44, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (ELW #276; LSB #393)

Communion Hymn #5:  LBW #41, O Little Town of Bethlehem (ELW #279; LSB #361)

 

Candle-Lighting Hymn: LBW #65, Silent Night (ELW #281; LSB #363)

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #39, Joy to the World (ELW #267; LSB #387)

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December 25, 2019: Christmas Day, the Nativity of Our Lord

Isaiah 52:7-10 (How beautiful the feet of messengers who announce, ‘Your God reigns;’ the ends of the earth shall see his salvation)

Psalm 2 (You are my Son; today have I begotten you; you shall rule the nations)

            RCL: Psalm 98

Hebrews 1:1-12 (The Son, the perfect image of God, far higher than angels)

John 1:1-18 (In the beginning was the Word…)

            RCL: John 1:1-14

 

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Opening Hymn: LBW #51, v. 1-4, 12-14, From Heaven Above To Earth I Come (ELW #268, v.1-4, 12-14, LSB #358, 1-3, 5, 13-15)

 

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

 

Gradual Hymn: LBW #50, Angels, From the Realms of Glory (ELW #275, LSB #367)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #42, Of the Father’s Love Begotten (ELW #295, LSB #384)

 

Offertory Hymn: ELW #294, In the Bleak Midwinter

OR LBW #40, What Child is This (ELW #296, LSB #370)

 

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #72, ‘Twas in the Moon of Wintertime (ELW #284)

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

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #70, Go Tell it on the Mountain (ELW #290, LSB #388)

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December 29, 2019: 1^st Sunday after Christmas

Isaiah 63:7-14 (Remembrance of God’s mercy, steadfast love and guidance)

            RCL: Isaiah 63:7-9

Psalm 111 (The works of God’s hands are faithful, just; fear of the Lord is beginning of wisdom)

Galatians 4:4-7 (God sent his Son so we may be adopted and cry Abba)

Matthew 2:13-23(Slaughter of the innocents; escape to and return from Egypt)

 

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

Opening Hymn: LBW #39, Joy to the World (ELW #267; LSB #387)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #62, The Bells of Christmas (lovely Scandinavian carol!)

OR LBW #57, Let Our Gladness Have No End (ELW #291; LSB #381) 

 

Communion 1: WOV #642, I Wonder as I Wander

Communion 2: LBW #55, Good Christian Friends, Rejoice (ELW #288)

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #53, Cold December Flies Away (ELW #299)

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January 6, 2020: The Epiphany of Our Lord

Isaiah 60:1-6 (Arise, shine, your light has come; nations stream to Israel, bringing gifts)

Psalm 72:1-11 (Prayer for guidance and support for the King)

            RCL: Ps. 72:1-7, 10-14

Ephesians 3:1-12 (The mystery of salvation revealed to Gentiles; Paul has become steward of  God’s mysteries so that through the Church, nations may know God’s wisdom)

Matthew 2:1-12 (The magi adore Jesus, bringing gifts, departing by another way)

 

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

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #76, O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, v. 1-3 (ELW #308; LSB #395)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #82, As With Gladness Men of Old (ELW #302; LSB #397)

Communion 1: LBW #75, Bright and Glorious is the Sky (ELW #301)

Communion 2: WOV #646, We Three Kings of Orient Are

 

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

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January 12, 2020: The Baptism of Our Lord, Proper 1

Isaiah 42:1-9 (God’s servant will not crush a bruised reed; he is given as light to nations, to open blind eyes and free prisoners of darkness)

Psalm 29 (The voice of the Lord; all cry “Glory!”)

Romans 6:1-11 (We have been baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection)

            RCL: Acts 10:34-43 (Peter preaches sermon to newly-baptized Gentiles)

Matthew 3:13-17 (Jesus comes to John in the Jordan and is baptized)

 

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

Opening Hymn: LBW #548, O, Worship the King (ELW #842; LSB #804)

            OR LBW #515, How Marvelous God’s Greatness (ELW #830) (very simple, lovely Swedish tune)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #191, Praise and Thanksgiving Be to God Our Maker (ELW #458)

(it’s a familiar tune, and it’s a good hymn for baptism/renewal of baptism in the service)

OR LBW #79, To Jordan Came the Christ, Our Lord (LSB #406/7)

I know, I know, but it’s one of the great doctrinal hymns on Baptism. Heck, you might not have to preach more than 5 minutes if you sing this hymn. Have the choir do a few verses, then alternate choir and congregation. It’s good for them.

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

Communion 1: LBW #90, Songs of Thankfulness and Praise (ELW #310; LSB #394)

Communion 2: WOV #693, Baptized in Water (ELW #456)

            OR ELW #454, Remember and Rejoice (Familiar tune, great words!)

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #188 I Bind Unto Myself This Day (ELW #450; LSB #604)

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January 19, 2020: 2^nd Sunday after the Epiphany; Proper 2

OR The Confession of St. Peter, Transferred

*****

2^nd Sunday after Epiphany lessons and hymn suggestions

Isaiah 49:1-7 (God’s Servant given as light to all nations)

Psalm 40:1-11 (Happy are they who make the Lord their trust; he does not require burnt offerings but a willing heart)

1 Corinthians 1:1-9 (Thanksgiving that the Corinthians are enriched with every spiritual gift)

John 1:29-42a (John says, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!” 2 of his disciples become Jesus’ disciples)

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

Opening Hymn: LBW #504, O God, My Faithful God (ELW #806; LSB #696)

            OR LSB #540, Christ, the Word of God Incarnate, v.1-3 (GREAT hymn, singable tune! This is worth getting copyright permissions for, if you don’t have LSB)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #103, O Christ, Thou Lamb of God

   OR ELW #199, Jesus, Lamb of God

   OR ELW #336, Lamb of God (Your only Son, no sin to hide) (LSB #550)

 

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

Communion 2: ELW #733, Great is Thy Faithfulness (WOV #771, LSB #809)

 

Closing Hymn: ELW #866, We Are Marching in the Light of God (WOV #650)

   OR LBW #87, Hail to the Lord’s Anointed (ELW #311; LSB #398)

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

 

 *|*|*|*|*|

Confession of St. Peter Lessons and Hymn Suggestions

 

Acts 4:8-13 (Peter explains how lame man was healed by power of Jesus’ name)

Psalm 18:1-7, 17-20 (God’s mighty deliverance in time of great distress)

1 Corinthians 10:1-5 (Not all Israelites were saved in the wilderness!)

Matthew 16:13-19 (Peter’s confession; Jesus’ commendation)

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

Opening Hymn: LBW #504, O God, My Faithful God (ELW #806; LSB #696)

            OR LSB #540, Christ, the Word of God Incarnate, v.1-3

(GREAT hymn, singable tune! This is worth getting copyright permissions for, if you don’t have LSB)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #464, You Are the Way (ELW #758; LSB #526)

 

Communion 1: LBW #328/329, All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name

(ELW #634 [lacks verse about martyrs]; LSB #549)

Communion 2: WOV #771, Great is Thy Faithfulness (ELW #733; LSB #809)

 

Closing Hymn: WOV #650, We Are Marching in the Light of God (ELW #866)

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

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

January 26, 2020: 3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany; Proper 3

OR The Conversion of St. Paul

***

3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany Lessons and Hymn Suggestions

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

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

            RCL: Psalm 27:1, 4-9

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)

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)

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

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

OR LBW #393, Rise, Shine, You People! (ELW #665; LSB #825)

            OR WOV #671, Shine, Jesus, Shine (ELW #651)

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #380, O Christ, Our Light, Our Radiance True (ELW #875) (LSB #839, O Christ, Our True and Only Light)

Communion 1: LBW #249, God Himself is Present

OR WOV #660, I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light (ELW #815; LSB #411)

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

 

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

OR ELW #715, Christ, Be Our Light

*/*/*/*/*/*/

The Conversion of St. Paul Lessons and Hymn Suggestions

 

Acts 9:1-22 (Saul falls off his high horse, is converted)

Psalm 67 (May God be gracious and bless us. “Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you.)

Galatians 1:11-24 (Paul speaks of his persecution of the Church, his conversion, and his ministry)

Luke 21:10-19 (they will arrest you and persecute you because of my name. I will give you words and wisdom that none will be able to contradict)

 

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

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

   OR LBW #393, Rise, Shine, You People! (ELW #665; LSB #825) 

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #507, How Firm a Foundation (ELW #796; LSB #728)

Communion 1: LBW #379, Spread, O Spread, Almighty Word (ELW #663) (LSB #830, Spread the Reign of God the Lord)

Communion 2: WOV #660, I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light (ELW #815; LSB #411)

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #389, Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus

   OR ELW #715, Christ, Be Our Light

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

February 2, 2020: The Presentation of Our Lord

OR 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 4

***

Presentation of Our Lord lessons and hymns

 

1 Samuel 1:21-28 (Hannah brings the boy Samuel to the Temple, fulfilling her vow)

Psalm 84 (How lovely is thy dwelling, O Lord of hosts! My soul has a desire and longing to dwell in the courts of the Lord!)

Hebrews 2:14-18 (We have a merciful high priest, like us in every way except without sin)

Luke 2:22-40 (Baby Jesus is brought to the Temple)

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

Opening Hymn: LBW #250, Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty (ELW #533; LSB #901)

 

Hymn of the Day: ELW #417, In His Temple Now Behold Him

(LBW #184 uses an unfamiliar tune. Use the tune suggested in ELW – the one for “Angels, From the Realms of Glory”)

(LSB #519, uses another, Westminster Abby, often used for “Christ is Made the Sure Foundation”)

 

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

Communion 2: LBW #351, O Happy Day When We Shall Stand (familiar tune!)

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #339, O Lord, Now Let Your Servant (ELW #313)

    OR ELW #201, Now, Lord

   OR LSB #937, Lord, Bid Your Servant Go in Peace

   OR LSB  #938, In Peace and Joy I Now Depart (LBW #349, I Leave As You Have Promised, Lord – has only the first verse)

 

*/*/*/*/*/*/

 

4^th Sunday after Epiphany lessons and hymns

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?)

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

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

Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)

 

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

Opening Hymn: ELW #710, Let Streams of Living Justice Flow

(Gustav Holst’s majestic tune Thaxted pairs well with the Micah text!)

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

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

 

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

OR LBW #492, O Master, Let Me Walk With You (ELW #818)

 

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

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

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #377, Lift High the Cross (ELW #660. Note: “soldiers” replaced with “servants,” and a verse is omitted. LSB #837,)

OR LBW #425, O God of Mercy, God of Light (LSB #852)

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

February 9, 2020: 5^th Sunday after the Epiphany; Proper 5

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

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

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

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

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

Opening Hymn: LBW #376, Your Kingdom Come!

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

 

Hymn of the Day: LBW #233, Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness (ELW #511; LSB 578) 

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

February 16, 2020: 6^th Sunday after the Epiphany; Proper 6

 

Deuteronomy 30:15-20 (I set before you life and death; choose life; obey my commandments)

Psalm 119:1-8 (Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the Law of the Lord)

1 Corinthians 3:1-9 (Paul chides Corinthians for childish quarreling; he, Apollos and others are ALL Christ’s servants, working together; Church is God’s field and building)

Matthew 5:21-37 (Hard words about anger, lust, and divorce)

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

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

Hymn of the Day: LBW #307, Forgive Our Sins As We Forgive (ELW #605; LSB #843)

 

Communion 1: LBW #257, Holy Spirit, Truth Divine (ELW #398) (LSB #496, Holy Spirit, Light Divine)

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

   OR ELW #697, Just a Closer Walk With Thee

 

Closing Hymn: LBW #370, Blest Be the Tie That Binds (ELW #656, LSB #549)

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

February 23, 2020: The Transfiguration of Our Lord

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

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

            RCL: Psalm 2, complete

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)

Matthew 17:1-9 (The Transfiguration account)

 

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

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

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

   OR LBW #80, O Wondrous Type! O Vision Fair! (LSB #413) (ELW #316, O wondrous Vision! Image Fair!)

 

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

Communion 2: WOV #651, Shine, Jesus, Shine (ELW #671)

 

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

OR WOV #654, Alleluia, Song of Gladness (ELW #318; LSB #417)

 

 

“Praise the Lord!  Praise God in
His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty firmament!  Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him
according to His excellent greatness!” 
(Psalm 150:1-3)

The sanctuary of the Lord is the
Lord Himself.  Why do you trust in
created things when the Lord, who is forever, is your strength and refuge.  Come into the presence of the Lord and abide
in the safety of His presence now and forever. 
Know that He who made all things knows the plans He has for those who
are His.  Praise Him for the mighty acts
He has and will do.

Lord, teach me to look beyond today in order to know that it is You who
is guiding me all the days of our lives. 
All time is in Your hands.  Guide
me, O Lord, in the way of truth that I may abide with You now and forever.  Lead me according to Your purposes to see
that in You is the hope before us all. 
Lead me and I will follow.  Lead
me to abide now and always with You.

Jesus, You promised that if we
abide in You, You will abide in us.  Help
me learn, understand and live in this truth. 
Lead me to see that in You alone is the hope for all people of every
age.  Teach me to know that regardless of
the circumstances of this age, You are always with me and will guide me through
all of life.  You are my Lord and
Savior.  Guide me today and always.  Amen.

“To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; to execute on them the written judgment – this honor have all His saints.  Praise the Lord!”  (Psalm 149:8-9)

The seasons come and go.  Rulers rise, wane, and then fall.  In this age we become excited over the events
of the day and emotions can cloud our judgement.  The reality is that the Lord is the Lord of
all.  Everything falls under His
purview.  Do not fear the tyrant of
today, but love the Maker of all days. 
Trust in Him above all things and know that it is He alone who can
fulfil all of His promises.

Lord, teach me to trust You above all things.  Guide me in the way of life that I may now
and forever abide in the hope You give me. 
All of time is in Your hands and apart from You there is nothing I need
fear.  Troubles may come today, but You
are still God.  Help me to trust always
in Your provision, knowing that all You allow has purpose for Your saints, and
lead me to trust You in every situation.

Lord Jesus, You have given Your Word and You have given promises.  Yes, trouble may come, but You are with us every step of the way.  Lead me, O Lord, to see that in You alone is the hope of salvation.  Guide me according to Your Word to know that in You I can rest in Your peace that surpasses my understanding.  Lead me this day to trust in the provision You have given knowing that all things rest in the Father’s hands. Amen.