Walking with Jesus.
That is today’s title for the sermon by Rev. Taylor.
As a small boy, one of my favorite Children’s Bible story was the classic “Footprints in the Sand”. I was immediately sucked into the story, believing that my imaginary self was actually walking with Jesus but then I was all alone as the two sets of footprints became one.
Where did Jesus go? More importantly, why did he go? These were pressing matters for my still forming mind!
We all know Jesus did not abandon my imaginary self (or us), but was carrying me in my time of need and that made me feel happy and feel safe.
As we walk with Jesus today I have a feeling that this pandemic has caused Jesus to once again carry us during a time of trouble and concern.
May our Faith and today’s Sunday Service allow Jesus to carry us for another day… for another week…until we are once again in the place we are supposed to be, walking together once again!
May it be so,
Jerry B.
Welcome
George Fetzer, Deacon
Opening Music
All Things Bright and Beautiful
Rev. Taylor Liturgy Video
Call to Worship
Pastor: How glorious it is to hear of Jesus’ resurrection.
People: At his death, our hearts cried out and we felt lost.
Pastor: But he comes to us and walks with us, even now.
People: In the holy word, in the music, in the prayers, he is present with us.
Pastor: Open your hearts to the Lord.
People: Lord, help us really be ready to receive you into our lives. AMEN.
Opening Prayer
Loving God, come and speak to our hearts today.
May we, like those on the Emmaus Road, find your words burning with hope in our lives.
Strengthen us and give us courage for the journey ahead.
For we pray in Christ’s Name. AMEN.
Prayer of Confession
Lord, you are so patient with us. You brought us through Easter when we rejoiced at the news of the resurrection of your Son our Savior.
You were with us in the upper room when we remained hidden out of our fears, sharing with Thomas our doubts and anxieties.
Now you come to us on the road. You come to us in our everyday lives, moving out of this pristine setting of worship into the work world.
But we aren’t always ready for you and don’t always see you or feel your presence.
We let so many things crowd in on our lives and these intrusions blot out our awareness of your presence.
Forgive our blindness and our stubbornness.
Help us keep our hearts open to you, to see and tell the good things you have done in our lives.
For we ask this in Jesus’ Name. AMEN.
Word of Assurance
Even though you have not seen Jesus, one to one, you have assurance of his presence and his love with you.
The promises of God are always true.
God is with us, in the resurrection of Jesus, in our journeys, in our lives.
Praise be to God. AMEN.
Second Hymn
Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)
Gospel Reading
Luke 24:13 – 35
Offertory & Song
I Can See (on The Emmaus Road)
Sunday Sermon – Rev. Taylor
Walking with Jesus
Closing Hymn
Alleluia, Alleluia Hymn with Words
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord!
Please join us for our Virtual Coffee Hour at 11 am each Sunday!
great sermon Reverend Taylor. Thank you.