Category Archives: Celebration

Celebration

Ash Wednesday Reflection

Ash Wednesday Reflection
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
Remember You are dust. Repent and be faithful to the Gospel.
You have come from dust and you will return to dust.
Expect to hear any of these disturbing words as you appear before the minister who will rub ashes into your forehead in the sign of the cross. Why?

Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God

Marantha Singers

 

Scripture:
Blow the trumpet in Zion; sound the alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming, it is near. Joel 2:1.
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Ps. 51:1.
We entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 2 Cor. 5.
Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Matt. 6:1.

Proclamation of Gods Kingdom

 

Prayer:
Righteous God, in humility and repentance we bring our failures in caring, helping, and loving, we bring the pain we have caused other, we bring the injustice in society of which we are a part, to the transforming power of your grace.
Grant us the courage to accept the healing you offer and to turn again toward the sunrise of your reign, that we may walk with you in the promise of peace you have willed for all the children of the earth, and have made known to us in Christ Jesus. Amen.

O for a Closer Walk with God

William Cowper (1772).

 

Prayer:
Gracious and merciful God, you see into the secret places of our hearts, where we mourn our sins. As we turn again to your grace, receive our prayers.

Look with mercy on our contrite hearts, wash from us the stain of iniquity, and create a new and right spirit in us, that we may declare your praise and offer an acceptable sacrifice in these Lenten days; through Christ Jesus, who bore our sins on the cross. Amen.

Lords Prayer

Charlotte Church

 

Prayer:
O God, you delight not in pomp and show, but in a humble and contrite heart. Overturn our love of worldly possessions and fix our hearts more firmly on you, that, having nothing, we may yet possess everything, a treasure stored up for us in heaven. Amen.

Just as I am without one plea

Charlotte Elliot (1835).
Antrim Mennonite Choir

 

Blessing:
The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Celebration

Transfiguration Celebration

Transfiguration Celebration
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
Exodus informs us that Moses was on the mountain for forty days and nights before he came down with the law on the tablets.
In Psalm 2, David tells us that we will be happy taking refuge in the Lord.
Peter informs us that prophecy comes to us through those moved by the Holy Spirit speaking the Word of God.
God confirms that Jesus is His Son. God Said It, That Settles It. The disciples must first understand their Jesus Christ before they can properly proclaim.
What would you think and do if you are witness to this Transfiguration?

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!

Reginald Heber (1826).

Scripture:
Moses entered the cloud, and went up on the mountain. Moses was on the mountain for forty days and forty nights. Ex. 24:18.
Serve the Lord with fear, with trembling kiss his feet, or he will be angry, and you will perish in the way; for his wrath is quickly kindled. Happy are all who take refuge in him. Ps. 2:11.
No prophecy ever came by human will, but men and women moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. 2 Peter 1:21.
This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him! Matt. 17:5.

Sovereign Lord

Cassidy Brothers
Sweet Spirit

 

Prayer: Holy God, mighty and immortal, you are beyond our knowing, yet we see your glory in the face of Jesus Christ, whose compassion illumines the world.
Transform us into the likeness of the love of Christ, who renewed our humanity so that we may share in his divinity, the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who live and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Name of All Majesty

Timothy Dudley-Smith
Promising Voices

 

Prayer: Dear Lord God, as your Son drew apart to be in prayer with you, we offer our prayers for the transformation of the world and the church.
You revealed your glory and presence in your beloved Son, Jesus the Christ. In receiving our prayers, reveal the glory and presence of your Spirit alive in the world today, free us from all doubts, and empower us to act as a transfigured people. Amen.

Be Thou My Vision O Lord of My Heart

Slane
Mary Byrne, Translator (1903).
Old Irish Hymn, “Bí Thusa ‘mo Shúile,” into English as “Be Thou My Vision”

 

Prayer: Dear Lord God of the covenant, the cloud of your splendor and the fire of your love revealed your Son on the mountain heights. Transform our lives in his image, write your law of love on our hearts, and make us prophets of your glory, that we may lead others into your presence. Amen.

Blessing:
The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Celebration

Disciples Here and Now Celebration

Disciples Here and Now Celebration
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
Today we learn one more installment of Jesus teaching the Sermon on the Mount. It is very fitting for the final Sunday in Epiphany. Jesus wants the attention of His disciples to gather just what it means to be His disciples. Pearls of Wisdom for us today.

How can I keep from singing

a cappella

Scripture:
You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord. Lev. 19:18.
Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. Ps. 119:33.
According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it. Each builder must choose with care how to build on it. 1 Cor. 3:10.
Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you. Matt. 5:42.

Make me a channel of your peace.

St Francis Assisi
Sebastian Temple

 

Prayer: Perfect Light of revelation, as you shone in the life of Jesus, whose epiphany we celebrate, so shine in us and through us, that we may become beacons of truth and compassion, enlightening all creation with deeds of justice and mercy. Amen.

Lord of Glory

King’s Kids

 

Prayer: To God who welcomes all in love, let us pray for the good of the church and the concerns of those in need.
God of every land and nation, you have created all people and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ. Listen to the cries of those who pray to you, and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name, all people will know the power of love at work in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Teach me, O Lord, your way of truth

Psalmody

 

Prayer: Dear Lord God most holy, in Jesus Christ you have laid a foundation upon which to build our lives. Help us to follow your perfect law of love, that we may fulfill it and observe it to the end. Amen.

My hope is built on nothing less

Edward Mote (1834).
Sovereign Grace

 

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Celebration

Discipleship in the City Celebration

Discipleship in the City Celebration
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
We are still at the scene of Jesus preaching the Sermon on the Mount. Today, Matthew brings us awareness of the responsibilities of discipleship with community focus. We are accountable and responsible for one another for the sake of the community. Pursuing success in righteousness as a disciple of Jesus Christ may intersect with and challenge perceived social earthly material success, but this is to be expected. When faced with material wealth which might be enjoyed for a portion of this life directly placed at odds with discipleship and salvation with Jesus Christ, which do you choose?

Be Not Afraid

John Michael Talbot

Scripture:
If you obey the commandments of the Lord your God that I am commanding you today, by loving the Lord your God, walking in his ways, and observing his commandments, decrees, and ordinances, then you shall live and become numerous, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to possess. Deut. 30:16.
Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. Ps. 119:1.
For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building. 1 Cor. 3:9.
So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Matt. 5:23-4.

Prayer: Dear Lord God, you spoke your word and revealed your good news in Jesus, the Christ.
Fill all creation with that word again, so that by proclaiming your joyful promises to all nations
and singing of your glorious hope to all peoples,
we may become one living body, your incarnate presence on the earth. Amen.

Teach me, O Lord, Your Way of Truth

Psalmody

Prayer: To Our Lord God who welcomes all in love, let us pray for the good of the church and the concerns of those in need.

God of every land and nation, you have created all people and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ. Listen to the cries of those who pray to you, and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name, all people will know the power of love at work in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Gentile or Jew

One Bread One Body
John Foley
John Michael Talbot

 

Prayer: Divine Gardener, you give growth to our seeds and to the towering forest trees; you raise to abundant life that which seems dead. Teach us to choose blessing and life rather than death, so that we may walk blamelessly, seeking you through reconciliation with all of your children. Amen.

Dona Nobis Pacem Domine

Jacques Berthier

Blessing:

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Celebration, Prayer

Salt and Light Upon the City Celebration

Salt and Light Upon the City Celebration
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
Isaiah tells us that when we worship, we should do it selflessly, more concerned for the community than for self.
In Psalm 112 David tells us that if you are good you will do well.
In 1 Cor. 2 Paul speaks to us as it informs us we may come to adopt the righteousness of Jesus through servitude and this culminates our days in knowing Joy.
We are still at the scene of Jesus preaching the Sermon on the Mount. Today, Matthew brings us awareness of the responsibilities of discipleship. It is ours to live out our identity, today we focus on salt and light. In our natural dispositions, we may seek comfort, yet Jesus calls upon us to be salt and light. We will explore this call.

 

I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say
Come Unto Me and Rest
Horatius Bonar (1846).

I heard the voice of Jesus say,
“Come unto me and rest;
lay down, O weary one, lay down
your head upon my breast.”
I came to Jesus as I was,
so weary, worn, and sad;
I found him in a resting place,
and he has made me glad.

 

Scripture:
Shout out, do not hold back! Lift up your voice like a trumpet! Is. 58:1.
Praise the Lord! Happy are those who greatly delight in His commandments. Ps. 112:1.
What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Cor. 2:9.
No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. Matt. 5:15.

Prayer:
Perfect Light of revelation,
as you shone in the life of Jesus,
whose epiphany we celebrate,
so shine in us and through us,
that we may become beacons of truth and compassion,
enlightening all creation with deeds of justice and mercy. Amen.

 

Here in this Place New Light is Streaming
Gather Us In
Marty Haugen

 

Prayer: To God who welcomes all in love, let us pray for the good of the church and the concerns of those in need.
God of every land and nation, you have created all people and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ. Listen to the cries of those who pray to you, and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name, all people will know the power of love at work in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

God Moves in a Mysterious Way
William Cowper (1774).
Jeremy Riddle Choral
acapella

 

Prayer:
O God of light,
your searching Spirit reveals and illumines
your presence in creation.
Shine your radiant holiness into our lives,
that we may offer our hands and hearts to your work:
to heal and shelter,
to feed and clothe,
to break every yoke and silence evil tongues. Amen.

 

Christ, Be Our Light!
Longing for light, we wait in darkness
Bernadette Farrell

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Celebration, Devotion, Prayer, Reflection

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
Mary and Joseph took the infant Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem forty days after His birth to complete Mary’s purification after childbirth, and to perform the redemption of the firstborn son, in obedience to the Torah. Mary and Joseph could not afford a lamb; so they sacrificed two young pigeons. Upon bringing Jesus into the temple, they met Simeon. The Holy Spirit told Simeon that “he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Simeon then uttered the prayer that would become known as the Nunc Dimittis or Canticle of Simeon, which prophesied the redemption of the world by Jesus.

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

Scripture:
I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. Malachi 3:1.
Happy are those who live in your house, ever singing your praise. Ps. 84:4.
Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested. Heb. 2:18.
Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation. Luke 2:29-30.
Prayer: God of steadfast love, you sent your Son to be the light of the world, saving people everywhere from sin and death. As Anna gave thanks for the freedom he would bring, and Simeon saw in him the dawn of redemption, complete your purpose once made known in him. Make us the vessels of his light, that all the world may glory in the splendor of your peace. Amen.

 

When to the Temple Mary Went
Johannes Eccard
Guilford Cathedral Choir (Barry Rose).

Prayer: Strong and mighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus, the presentation of your Son in the temple was his first entrance into the place of sacrifice. Grant that, trusting in his offering upon the cross to forgive our sins and uphold us in the time of trial, we may sing your praises and live in the light of your salvation, Jesus Christ. Amen.
The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Celebration, Prayer

Beatitudes Celebration

Beatitudes Celebration
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Sermon on the Mount
Sermon on the Mount

Introduction:
Today in Matthews gospel reading Jesus reveals to us that we are blessed as we go through life’s challenges. This is a great way to begin each day, especially at this time in our lives.
Micah prophesies that God wants us to be His people. It is not about the offering, but rather the real who you are. Act in justice, be kind and walk humbly with God.
How do we worship in the presence of God? Listen carefully to our psalm today.
Paul humbles the people of Corinth. In all our days on earth we should pursue to match our behavior with our desire to be one with God.
So we see that God is aware that we meet challenges in our daily lives. He will be there to assist us in getting through these challenges. We should move forward in our lives without fear. God will be there to give us the strength we need as we need it. Amen.

 

We are Called. Come Live in the Light
David Haas

 

Scripture:
Rise, plead your case before the mountains, and let the hills hear your voice. Micah 6:1.
Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy hill? Ps. 15:2.
The message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Cor. 1:18.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven. Matt. 5:12.

 

Prayer: Perfect Light of revelation, as you shone in the life of Jesus, whose epiphany we celebrate, so shine in us and through us, that we may become beacons of truth and compassion, enlightening all creation with deeds of justice and mercy. Amen.

 

Blest are the Pure in Heart
John Keble (1819).

 

Prayer: To God who welcomes all in love, let us pray for the good of the church and the concerns of those in need.

God of every land and nation, you have created all people and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ. Listen to the cries of those who pray to you, and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name, all people will know the power of love at work in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Beatitudes
Beatitudes

Beatitudes as stated in today’s Gospel:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Matt. 5:3-11.

 

Old Rugged Cross
George Bennard (1913).
Elvis Presley

 

Prayer: God our deliverer, you walk with the meek and the poor, the compassionate and those who mourn, and you call us to walk humbly with you. When we are foolish, be our wisdom; when we are weak, be our strength; that, as we learn to do justice and to love mercy, your rule may come as blessing. Amen.

 

Be Not Afraid
Bob Dufford (1975).
performed by John Michael Talbot

 

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Beatitudes Prayer Card
Beatitudes Prayer Card
Celebration, Community Activity

Dysart Music Ministry

Dysart Family Music Ministry

Spirit of Peace supports the community. It is time to Join Us in reaching out to visit with the Dysart Family Music Ministry. https://www.dysartfamilymusic.com/

We get the following descriptions from their website …
LeWain and Lorena Dysart, with their five children, offer Gospel Music fans unique, tight family harmonies, with a diverse and powerful selection of music.

Dysart Family Music Ministry
Dysart Family Music Ministry

The Dysart’s approach to their music ministry incorporates a serious focus on personal relationships with Jesus, their love for each other in the home, and just plain hard work on their music.

After singing and clapping along with the Dysart Family Christian Gospel – themed Music, Pastor Michael visits and finds the Dysart Family reverent, personably friendly and down to earth pursuing concerns in supporting the community using the gifts the Good Lord gives them.

The Dysarts upcoming scheduled performances in their music ministry is busy, looking like the family is on tour almost every weekend.

Spirit of Peace suggests that everyone give this family music ministry performance engagement a visit and get back to us about your impressions.

Peace and Joy! Pastor Michael Hanus

Celebration, Prayer

Follow Jesus Celebration

Follow Jesus Celebration
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
In Isaiah today we have the light shining in the darkness. The promise of deliverance through the prophecy of a coming Messiah is a source of great joy!
Our psalm today is grounded in trust and joy in worshiping the Lord.
In Corinthians Paul wants to stress and persuade the people to live together in the Word, not hear it and then go on with inconsistent disjointed lives. Remain turned toward the God that bestows blessings upon you and do not turn away, even in hard times.
In our gospel lesson today Jesus walks throughout and declares the land of the covenant and the heavens as belonging to God although the earthly space was under the secular law of the imperial powers of the day. Jesus portrays God as creator, savior and judge. Jesus walks among the people preaches and calls men and women as His disciples. Jesus demonstrates the justness that will come in heaven as He heals the afflictions on earth and fulfills the prophets words.
We are here to hear and share in the proclamation of the Good News. What great strength and caring we find in Jesus! If Jesus walks among us today, whom among us would follow Him?

Learning to Follow Jesus
Learning to Follow Jesus

Scripture:
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness on them light has shined. Is. 9:2.
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Ps. 27:1.
Now I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in agreement and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same purpose. 1 Cor. 1:10.
Follow me, and I will make you fish for people. Matt. 4:19. Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people. Matt. 4:23.

City of God
Dan Schutte

 

Prayer: Perfect Light of revelation, as you shone in the life of Jesus, whose epiphany we celebrate, so shine in us and through us, that we may become beacons of truth and compassion, enlightening all creation with deeds of justice and mercy. Amen.

Rock of Ages
Augustus Toplady (1776).
performed by Antrim Mennonite Choir

 

Prayer: To God who welcomes all in love, let us pray for the good of the church and the concerns of those in need.

God of every land and nation, you have created all people and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ. Listen to the cries of those who pray to you, and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name, all people will know the power of love at work in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Thou My Vision
Old Irish Bí Thusa ‘mo Shúile
Slane
Translator Mary Elizabeth Byrne
performed by Selah

 

Prayer: Dear Lord God of Blazing light, through the power of the cross you shattered our darkness, scattering the fears that bind us and setting us free to live as your children. Give us courage and conviction that we may joyfully turn and follow you into new adventures of faithful service, led by the light that shines through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

The Summons
John Bell

 

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!

Celebration

Seeking Jesus Celebration

Seeking Jesus Celebration
for the Community.
Modern Song Focus on Contemporary Church Artists
performing hymns of traditional foundation.
Everyone is Welcome!

Introduction:
In our gospel today, John is an excellent witness for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. John dutifully tells others what he has seen, offers evidence on behalf of the one who sent him, points to the Lamb of God who gives up His life for the sin of the world.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus asks what are you seeking? The soon to be apostles, Simon (Peter) and his brother Andrew, are looking for Teacher just to be with Him. What will be your response?

Seeking Jesus
Seeking Jesus

Scripture:
Kings shall see and stand up, princes, and they shall prostrate themselves, because of the Lord, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you. Is. 49:7.
I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart. Ps. 40:8.
He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 1:8.
John the Baptist testifies, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. John 1:32.

 

My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine
William Featherstone (1864).

My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine;
for thee all the follies of sin I resign;
my gracious Redeemer, my Savior art thou;
if ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.

Prayer: Perfect Light of revelation, as you shone in the life of Jesus, whose epiphany we celebrate, so shine in us and through us, that we may become beacons of truth and compassion, enlightening all creation with deeds of justice and mercy. Amen.

This hymn reminds discouraged Christians of the grace they have been given. It is often easy to take a negative view of life, but when we remember the things we have been given, we cannot deny that we are blessed. The hymn proclaims that all power belongs to God, and that he desires to bless us.

Count Your Blessings
When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed
Johnson Oatman (1897).
performed by Ann Williamson

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

 

Prayer: To God who welcomes all in love, let us pray for the good of the church and the concerns of those in need. God of every land and nation, you have created all people and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ. Listen to the cries of those who pray to you, and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name, all people will know the power of love at work in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Charlotte Elliott possesses a deep spiritual-mindedness which is so prominent in her hymns. Though weak and feeble in body, she possessed a strong imagination, and a well-cultured and intellectual mind. Her love of poetry and music was great, and is reflected in her verse.

Just as I Am without One Plea
Charlotte Elliott (1800s).

Just as I am, without one plea,
but that thy blood was shed for me,
and that thou bidd’st me come to thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Prayer: Steadfast God, you have enriched and enlightened us by the revelation of your eternal Christ. Comfort us in our mortality and strengthen us to walk the path of your desire, so that by word and deed we may manifest the gracious news of your faithfulness and love. Amen.

O for a Closer Walk with God
William Cowper (1772).

O for a closer walk with God,
a calm and heavenly frame,
a light to shine upon the road
that leads me to the Lamb!

 

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

We are all stewards spreading the Word of Jesus’ blessings for His people.
Picnic Fellowship Activities for the Entire Family!

Of course lively discussion and activities will be available!
Perhaps you may prefer to sit and visit!
Please Contact Us with Special Requests!