3rd Sunday of Lent
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 95
COMMUNITY CONFESSION& LENTEN CANDLE READING
Leader: Romans 5:21 says, “Sin ruled because of death. So also grace rules in the lives of those who are right with God. The grace of God brings eternal life because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done.” In Jesus, we find ourselves free from judgment. Knowing this, let us confess how often we do not see God in our lives, especially in how we live them.
ALL:God of eternity, you know how often we travel down the rocky roads of doubt and fear. We pester others with our worries; we hurl bitter words at those we love. We have chances to offer ourselves in service, but only give our contempt to those in need. We could share the living waters with the world, but want to store it in jars for safe-keeping. Forgive us, Fountain of Grace; turn towards us and meet us wherever we are.
Leader: In every moment, God seeks to break open our rock-hard sin, so we might be made whole. In Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, our thirst for hope and joy is quenched.
(snuff out 3rdof the Lenten candles).
ALL: Through the power of the Holy Spirit, living water breaks through the roof of our hearts, in such abundance that we don't have enough buckets to hold it all. Thanks be to God! Amen.
NOTES:
The Book of Mark: Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Plot Thickens: Anointing, Sold for Silver, Preparations and a Solemn Ceremony
*For discussion prompts and lenten resources visit this page.
THE LORD’S TABLE
ALL: We come to this table to remember Jesus, and the path toward wholeness he leads us down. His life reminds us that this path is forged through radical love for all. His death shows us that it does not ignore pain and suffering, but offers solidarity in their midst. His resurrection reminds us that it is a hope-filled path we walk.
Leader: The Table of the Lord is open for all who seek to experience love, life and hope.
COMMUNITY SINGING
Big Enough to Hold Me
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: Go forth as God's people to serve those around us.
ALL: We will honor each person as if they were our family.
Leader: Go forth as sisters and brothers of Jesus.
ALL: We will share the gifts of grace and hope with everyone we meet.
Leader: Go forth as those strengthened by the Spirit.
ALL: We will stand with others searching for God's justice in their lives.