August 2024 Worship Planning Tools by CofChrist

• 4 August 2024

• 11 August 2024

• 18 August 2024

• 25 August 2024

WORSHIP RESOURCES

4 August 2024

Ordinary Time (Proper 13)

Ephesians 4:1-16 Develop Disciples to Serve

Additional Scriptures

2 Samuel 11:26 12:13a; Psalm 51:1-12; John 6:24-35

Share and Care

Prelude

Greetings and Welcome

The presider should prayerfully read all the lectionary scriptures several times and prepare a statement of welcome, including an overview of the scripture and theme of the day. An example: Welcome to this sacred time. We come in response to the invitation issued through God’s grace. We come to continue developing as disciples of Jesus.

The Mission Initiative Develop Disciples to Serve is described as “equipping individuals for Christ’s mission…to be true and living expressions of the life, ministry, and continuing presence of Christ in the world.”

Sharing in Community of Christ, fourth edition, Herald House.org, page 23 Today’s theme scripture from Ephesians 4 is packed with the qualities of the committed disciple.

In this spirit, let’s take a few moments to greet one another. You might suggest a statement such as, “May you be blessed today in this community of believers,” or “May you find blessing in our time together.” The introduction to the welcoming hymn will call us back to quiet community.

Welcoming Hymn

“Hark! the Voice of Jesus Calling”

CCS 592 OR “Come Away from Rush and Hurry”

CCS 83 OR “Jesus Is Calling”

CCS 578

Call to Worship Responsive Reading

Leader: Teach us wisdom in our hearts.

People: Let us hear joy and gladness.

Leader: Hide your face from our sins and blot out all our iniquities.

People: Create in us clean hearts, O God, and put a new and right spirit within us.

Leader: Do not cast us away from your presence.

People: Do not take your Holy Spirit from us.

ALL: Restore to us the joy of your salvation and sustain in us willing spirits.

Psalm 51:6, 8-12, adapted

Hymn of Praise

“God Is a Wonder to My Soul”

OR “God of Wonder, God of Thunder”

OR “Teach Me, God, to Wonder”

Invocation Response

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:1-16

Homily

Based on Ephesians 4:1-16

Prayer for Peace

Light the Peace Candle. Prayer

Inviting God,

CCS 216

CCS 18

CCS 176

You invite us, as disciples of Jesus Christ, to full immersion in your mission. As we worship this morning, may we experience your Holy Spirit prodding us to respond anew to your invitation. It feels doable.

Then we think about the challenges in the world. There is so much poverty to be abolished, hunger to be ended, and peace and justice to be promoted. In particular, the institutions and forces that disrupt our personal peace and threaten the earth are so powerful. It’s all pretty overwhelming, God. So, we turn to you in this prayer for peace.

Help us be immersed in Christ’s peace so that we experience peace in our hearts and minds. Lead political leaders to recognize the worth of every person in the world, whether friend or adversary, leader or citizen. Because it is through Christ, peace is possible. Make it so through us. We pray in Jesus name. Amen.

Peace Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn

“What Does the Lord Require of You?”

OR “In My Life, Lord”

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “We Are Pilgrims on a Journey”

CCS 580

CCS 602

CCS 550

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Focus Moment

Needed: soft bread, chalk, and a chalkboard. Before the invention of erasers in the late 1700s, people often used a rolled-up piece of bread to erase graphite. Demonstrate with bread and a chalkboard. Let several try it. Today, artists still use bread to lighten charcoal or pastel marks in their works. If there is an artist in your group or community who uses bread this way, ask them to demonstrate.

Let us consider this aspect of the bread of life as we kneel before the table of the Lord and receive that which can heal our brokenness and cleanse us. This type of bread can help create clean hearts and right spirits within us.

Communion Scripture: Mark 14:22-25

Communion Message

Communion Hymn

“In These Moments We Remember”

CCS 515 OR “As We Gather at Your Table”

CCS 523 OR “Eat This Bread” sing several times

Invitation to Communion

CCS 528

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others might have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

Blessing and Serving of the Bread Blessing and Serving of the Wine

For guidelines on the Lord’s Supper, including online participation, see CofChrist.org/ourministry-tools

Hymn of Commitment

“Take My Life and Let It Be”

CCS 608 OR “If by Your Grace I Choose to Be”

CCS 587 OR “Jesus’ Hands Were Kind Hands”

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement

CCS 585

During the Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. Through our offerings we join in making God’s work visible in the world.

Explanation for visitors: For more than twenty years, Community of Christ has used the term Disciples Generous Response in place of offertory. It emphasizes that our offerings

are our response as disciples to generous God. Mission Tithes may be designated for worldwide mission or local mission. Undesignated contributions and loose change on Communion Sundays are used for the Abolish Poverty, End Suffering mission initiative.

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or eTithing at eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Closing Hymn

“You Are Called to Tell the Story” CCS 625 OR “Send Me Forth”

651 OR “When We Lift Our Packs and Go”

Benediction

Response

Postlude

634

CCS

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time (Proper 13)

Ephesians 4:1–16

Exploring the Scripture

Ephesians 1–3 focused on the theology of unity, with Christ as the barrier-breaker, destroying the walls between Jews and Gentiles. Ephesians 4–6 provide practical instruction about responding to Christ’s reconciling grace through obedience and living life as disciples. “Therefore” in 4:1 shows the logical result of receiving the reconciling love of Christ is to “lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” Such a life is characterized by humility, gentleness, patience, tolerance, and mutual recognition of one another’s personal worth. The primary purpose of these 16 verses is to urge the members to preserve the unity Christ set up.

Verses 4–6 outline seven features integral to oneness not choices made by humans, but Divine facets of unified faith. “One body” challenged the congregations around Asia Minor and Judea to see themselves as one church, despite differences and conflicts (v. 4). God’s Spirit moves within that body to call members to represent Christ’s teachings, mission, and ministry genuinely.

“One Lord” is Jesus Christ (v. 5). Loyal Roman citizens poured public drinks to the emperor while proclaiming, “Caesar is Lord.” Christians refused to pledge loyalty to Caesar. “Jesus is Lord” became a defiant doctrinal statement that resulted in many Christians being imprisoned or killed.

“One faith” stressed the need to reject old religious practices and beliefs (v. 5). Mixing ideas from different religions was unacceptable in early Christianity. “One baptism” meant that Jews and Gentiles alike received the same sacrament of baptism, dying to old ways, and raised again to new life in Christ (v. 5). There wasn’t one procedure for Jewish Christians and a different one for Gentiles. All baptized converts were equal.

“One God and Father of all” expresses the monotheism of Christianity (v. 6). Pagan converts were expected to renounce the old gods and spirits and cling tenaciously to One God, the Creator, the Father of their new household of faith. The One God is superior to any other being, more powerful, more holy, perfect, and more knowing. But to state that God is “above all and through all and in all” goes a step beyond (v. 6).

Verse 7 moves from Divine features of unity to recognizing the diversity of spiritual gifts among members. Paul quotes Psalm 68:18, which praises the mighty acts of God and includes an image of God as a conquering hero, followed by captives taken in war. God rises to the holy throne in the temple to receive gifts from the people, even those who rebelled.

Paul alters the verses, so it is captivity itself that God holds captive, and God gives gifts to the people he frees. Paul expands on the ascension, applying it to the Risen Christ, alive again after “descending” into the Earth in death (v. 9). Jesus, who was killed, is the same as Christ, who rose again, fulfilling ancient prophecy.

Within the church’s unity, diverse gifts are given and expressed in ministry: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. But the various gifts of ministry have the same purpose: to build up the body of Christ, preserve unity, give witness of Jesus Christ, and help disciples mature. Maturity includes speaking the truth in love, not in a spirit of competition or criticism. It means helping each member grow while developing unity in the body.

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS

Central Ideas

1. Today’s text moves from the theology of oneness to the practicalities of living as one within the body of Christ.

2. True oneness includes seven Divine facets of unified faith: one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God, the parent of all.

3. Christ provides through the Holy Spirit diverse spiritual gifts to build up and equip the body not for personal gain.

4. Mature ministry includes speaking the truth gently with love and helping one another grow and mature as disciples.

Questions for the Speaker

1. How unified is your congregation? What could increase the maturity and unity of the members? Of seekers? Of the larger community?

2. How connected is your congregation to other congregations in your mission center? In your nation? In the worldwide church? How are you contributing to the unity of the whole?

3. How do your congregational goals express the unity God intends? What can be done to increase engagement with Christ’s reconciling act?

4. How do the purposes of ministry in verses 12–13 compare to the Mission Initiatives of Community of Christ? (See https://CofChrist.org/about-us/.)

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time, Proper 13

Ephesians 4:1–16 NRSVUE

Gathering

Welcome

Ordinary Time is the period in the Christian calendar from Pentecost to Advent. This period is without major festivals or holy days. During Ordinary Time we focus on our discipleship as individuals and a faith community.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

Today’s Prayer for Peace is inspired by the hymn, “Sing a New World into Being,” Community of Christ Sings 576, by Mary Louise Bringle.

Sing a new world into being: risk transforming heart and mind!... Sing a new world into being: live the promise you believe!

Daring, dreaming God, day after day and week after week, we pray for peace. We work for peace. We carry the pursuit of peace on our shoulders like the work animal carries its load. Today, however, we remember a different kind of difficult: singing peace. To sing is to proclaim your peaceful kingdom! To sing is to risk transformation! To sing is to dream, and it is scary to dream. What if we fail? What if our dream is more a nightmare? What if we fall short of our dream?

Empower us, daring God, to sing a new world into being. May we carry the song of peace on our lips like the songbird sings each morning, warming up for the day’s work ahead. Help us believe in the words we sing, in the words of peace that you call us to create and live.

In the name of Jesus, who sings the promise. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Unity

Read the following to the group: Our Enduring Principle focus this week is on Unity in Diversity. Not one person on Earth is exactly like another. We all are shaped by our culture, genetics, upbringings, families, experiences, beliefs etc. But one thing we all have in common is that we all are divinely made. Unity in Diversity is respecting the differences while honoring the Divine in all voices.

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

But God has so arranged the body…that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it.

1 Corinthians 12:24–26 NRSV

Think over the past week. Who has shown you compassion when you felt sad or were suffering? Who has rejoiced with you in good things? Invite people to share.

Whom do you know who has endured suffering this week? How were you able to share this burden with them?

Who has had cause to rejoice this week? How have you celebrated with them? Invite people to share.

Offer a short blessing of unity and close with “Amen ”

Sharing Around the Table

Ephesians 4:1–16 NRSVUE

I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace: there is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.

But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore it is said,

“When he ascended on high, he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people.”

(When it says, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.) He himself granted that some are apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.

This passage challenges the congregations around Asia Minor and Judea to see themselves as one church, despite differences and conflicts. The writer offers several “teaching points,” that unify believers.

“One Lord” is Jesus Christ. Loyal Roman citizens poured public drinks to the emperor while proclaiming, “Caesar is Lord.” Christians refused to pledge loyalty to Caesar. “Jesus is Lord” became a defiant doctrinal statement that resulted in many Christians being imprisoned or killed.

“One faith” stressed the need to reject old religious practices and beliefs. Mixing ideas from different religions was unacceptable in early Christianity. “One baptism” meant that Jews and Gentiles alike received the same sacrament of baptism, dying to old ways and raised again to new life in Christ.

There wasn’t one procedure for Jewish Christians and a different one for Gentiles. All baptized converts were equal.

“One God and Father of all” expresses the monotheism of Christianity. Pagan converts were expected to renounce the old gods and spirits and cling tenaciously to One God, the Creator.

The writer then recognizes the diversity of spiritual gifts among members. Within the church’s unity, diverse gifts are given and expressed in ministry: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. But the various gifts of ministry have the same purpose: to build the body of Christ, to preserve unity, to give witness of Jesus Christ, and to help disciples mature. Maturity includes speaking the truth in love, not in a spirit of competition or criticism. It means helping each member grow while developing unity in the body.

Questions

1. Romans honored the imperial leaders. Who or what do you honor (by giving praise, time, and devotion)?

2. How connected are you to other people of faith? What understandings do you find in common?

3. How do you express spiritual giftedness?

Sending

Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Discipling God, as we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us save wisely, spend responsibly, and give generously. In this way may we prepare for the future and create a better tomorrow for our families, friends, the mission of Christ, and the world. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 602, “In My Life, Lord”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

• Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

• Thoughts for Children

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

1 Corinthians 11:23–26 NRSV

Communion Statement

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

We share in Communion as an expression of blessing, healing, peace, and community. In preparation let’s sing from Community of Christ Sings (select one):

515 “In these Moments We Remember”

516 “Coming Together for Wine and for Bread”

521 “Let Us Break Bread Together”

525 “Small Is the Table”

528 “Eat This Bread”

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• straw for each person

• small pieces of paper (about two inches square)

Give each person a straw and hold up a small piece of paper.

Say: I would like you to pass this piece of paper around our circle without touching it with any part of your body. You can use the straws to help.

Allow participants to brainstorm together how to pass the paper. Let them try until they successfully do so.

Once the piece of paper has been passed around, say: Passing this piece of paper around our circle was difficult. It required everyone to participate, use skills, and share ideas of what might work. Today’s scripture reminds us that we are called to be peacemakers, and sometimes that is difficult work. Still, we are called to work together to make God’s peace a reality.

Note: If participants have trouble finding ways to pass the piece of paper, you might suggest:

• Blowing the paper to the next person

• Bending the straw in half and using it like tweezers.

• Sucking on the straw to grab hold of the paper and then letting your breath out to pass it to the next person.

Adapted from “Go with Peace” by Kelly Guinan

11 August 2024

Ordinary Time (Proper 14) Ephesians 4:25—5:2

Be Imitators of God

Additional Scriptures

2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33; Psalm 130; John 6:35,41-51

Preparation

Before worship, as participants assemble, pass out index cards and pencils that will be used during the Reflection Activity.

Prelude

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns

Include an overall vision for today’s service. The scripture for today calls worship participants to reflect on their life journey and assess if there are things present in their lives that are preventing them from being imitators of God. Do social or political issues divide us so that we are distant from one another? Do we have broken relationships that need restoration, forgiveness extended, and reconciliation practiced so we may genuinely be imitators of God? How shall we be together as imitators of God?

Call to Worship

Reader 1: Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord; Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications!

Reader 2: If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.

Reader 1: I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning.

Reader 2: O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is great power to redeem. It is he who will redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

Hymn of Invitation

Psalm 130

“As We Gather” Sing twice. CCS 73 OR “Now in This Moment” CCS 96

WORSHIP RESOURCES

Invocation Response

Lectio Divina: Ephesians 4:25 5:2

Sit quietly and enter a time of prayerful reflection. Breathe calmly and relax your body.

Briefly describe the four ways the scripture will be read and reflected on.

Listen the scripture four different times, allowing time for meditation and prayer between each reading.

Lectio

Listen to the passage to get a sense of Paul’s letter. Allow it to become as if it is written to you.

Meditatio

Listen to the scripture again but this time for meaning and understanding. Ask questions. Why was Paul writing this letter? What are the surface and underlying meanings? Where do you see the Holy in these words?

Oratio

Read the passage again, and this time pay attention to your emotional responses. What feelings surface as I read this scripture? Do I feel joy, sorrow, fear, anger, or guilt? Share your feelings with God in prayer. Ask for help in listening deeply to these emotions and meanings.

Contemplatio

Enter a time of receptive prayer. Let go of the images from the scripture and all other thoughts, interpretations, and worries. Breathe deeply and calmly, entering a profound silent state of listening. Wait for whatever God may bring to you in the quietness. If any insights or impressions come, note them with gratitude and then return to receptive listening. If no particular awareness comes, let your mind return to the scripture passage. When you feel your prayer/meditation has ended, offer a word of thanks to God, open your eyes, and return to the room around you.

Sung Response

“As God Is Joy”

CCS 366 OR “Santo, santo, santo/Holy, Holy, Holy” Sing several times

CCS 159 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Reflection Activity: Lament and Hope

When I look at the scripture in Ephesians, I am confronted with two feelings lament and hope. Lament is not the dominant feeling, but it does cause me to pause and reflect on my behaviors. It also causes me to hope as I feel it is challenging to lament without having hope.

Some Christian theologians suggest that lament should always be integral to worship. The definition of lament is an expression of deep sorrow or grief. Our lament today may be deep

sorrow and loss or an expression of listening to the Ephesians scripture calling us to be beloved children, imitators of God. Our lament could be understanding a need to change a behavior, custom, or belief that genuinely hold us back from being a full member of the body of Christ.

When you entered the sanctuary, you were provided an index card and a pencil. I invite you to write on the card what you need to address to become an imitator of God. What relationship do you need to mend? Some meditation music will be played. During the offering, you are invited to place the card in the offering to express your commitment to be more intentional in being an imitator of God. After the meditative music, we will share a hymn of lament.

Meditation Music

Hymn of Lament

“What Comfort Can Our Worship Bring”

CCS 199 OR “When Senseless Violence”

Homily

Based on Ephesians 4:25 5:2

Prayer for Peace Hymn of Peace

“Keep Your Lamps Trimmed”

Light the Peace Candle. Peace Prayer

“Darker midnight lies before us…”

“Lo, the morning soon is breaking…”

“Children, don’t grow weary.”

God of midnight and morning,

CCS 205

CCS 633

We are grateful for your presence as we pursue peace. We are grateful to feel your strong yet soft hands holding our weary heads. Each of us has a different path, a different struggle. May we be there for our fellow strivers to hold them in their weariness. And may we be courageous to let them hold us in return.

We strive through the dark midnight.

We strive through the blinding sunrise.

We strive for your vision of peace.

Then, as we strive, show us your light. When we can see that light at the end of the tunnel then we know that our pursuit for peace is not in vain, that our fatigue and weary is worth the striving. That there will come a day when all children will be united in peace again.

In the name of Jesus, the ever-burning lamp, Amen.

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement

Tiffany and Caleb Brian

Poul Wilson

The Hymn of Peace is a spiritual. Some congregations worldwide make it a matter of giving to African American ministries and agencies that affirm and uphold the worth of all in the community. Their contributions are a way to acknowledge past injustices. Please consider this additional offering as part of the worship experience.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Closing Hymn

“Your Cause Be Mine”

639 OR “Go, My Children, with My Blessing” CCS 650

Benediction

Postlude

CCS

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time (Proper 14)

Ephesians 4:25—5:2

Exploring the Scripture

Today, our scripture text focuses on the practicalities of living as one within the Body of Christ by addressing specific behaviors that divide people. The author urges Christians to put away the former way of life before baptism and be renewed in spirit (vv. 22–23). When converted from old ways to become a new creation in Christ, disciples die to the habits that once ruled their lives. They come up from the water with new expectations and behaviors to help build and uphold the community.

Our opening verse begins with putting away lies and speaking truth to one another in love (see v. 15), because we belong to one another as a family. Anger occurs but must not divide people. Reconcile your anger before sunset (the beginning of a new day), so it doesn’t fester and cause you to sin. Unresolved anger takes on a life of its own, growing larger as we rehearse and nourish our grievances.

Thieves are commanded to repent, find honest work, and then give generously of their wages to the needy. Thieves must join others in the community in providing for the less fortunate. Christians are to speak graciously to one another, with the intent of helping one another grow, mature, and develop in faith. This challenge goes beyond avoiding anger and speaking honestly, challenging disciples to make their speech count to encourage and strengthen the Body.

“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit…” (v. 30). Baptism opened the door for the gift of the Holy Spirit, set like a “seal” on the promises represented in the baptismal covenant (v. 30). The “seal” of the Holy Spirit also functioned like branding slaves receiving the Holy Spirit was the mark of becoming Christ’s follower, of belonging to the Risen Lord. Converts cannot return to the old ways. The Spirit renews our hearts, guides our choices, and calls us into dedicated service modeled on Jesus’ ministry.

Christians are called to renounce bitterness, wrath, anger, wrangling, slander, and malice, to live together in kindness, forgiving one another as Christ forgave. As part of the Body of Christ, we give up selfishness and petty concerns to deepen and keep unity with others.

The first two verses of chapter 5 summarize the instructions given in chapter 4. As children of God, disciples are called to mimic God as one would mimic the behavior of a beloved head of household. What does it mean to mimic God? Christians proclaim God is love, so mimicking God means living out to the best of our human ability the unconditional mercy, kindness, and love of God. It is the love that wants the best for the beloved, no strings attached.

Where there is love, there is a desire to put away those things that irritate or grieve the beloved. Using Christ as the model for loving actions, thoughts, words, and intents brings about the transformation of the individual and the community of believers. Each day, we grow more like the One we worship and copy. In the process, the community of believers grows closer to taking on the identity of the kingdom of God.

Central Ideas

1. Ephesians urges Christians to avoid lying, thieving, malice, and destructive behaviors, because they damage the unity and growth of the Body.

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS

2. Anger is natural. But we must face and work through our anger quickly to avoid deep rifts and grievances within the community.

3. We are challenged to mimic God as if God were the head of our family, whom we choose to copy.

4. Transformation of the Christian community into the kingdom of God begins with the personal choices and loving care of faith-filled individuals.

Questions for the Speaker

1. Which of the negative behaviors mentioned in this scripture passage is hardest for you to overcome? Why? What can you do to change that?

2. When have you dealt quickly and successfully with your anger? When have you helped another do so?

3. How do you “mimic God?” How does your congregation, as a community, mimic God?

4. How have personal choices made by your congregants contributed to the continuing work, maturation, and growth of your congregation?

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time, Proper 14

Ephesians 4:25—

5:2

NRSVUE

Gathering

Welcome

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Today’s Prayer for Peace is inspired by the hymn, “Keep Your Lamps Trimmed,” Community of Christ Sings 633, a Negro spiritual

Darker midnight lies before us… Lo, the morning soon is breaking… Children, don’t grow weary…

God of midnight and morning, we are grateful for your presence as we pursue peace. We are grateful to feel your strong, yet soft, hands holding our weary heads. Each of us has a different path, a different struggle. May we be there for our fellow strivers to hold them in their weariness. And may we be courageous to let them hold us in return.

We strive through the dark midnight.

We strive through the blinding sunrise.

We strive for your vision of peace.

Then, as we strive, show us your light. When we can see that light at the end of the tunnel, then we know our pursuit for peace is not in vain, our fatigue and weariness are worth the striving. That there will come a day when all children will be united in peace.

In the name of Jesus, the ever-burning Lamp. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Holding in the Light

Our Enduring Principle focus this week is Blessings in Community. We are called to create communities of peace in our families, neighborhoods, congregations, nations, tribes, and world. A spiritual practice that helps us feel connected to our communities is Holding in the Light. It is a form of intercessory prayer/meditation adapted from the Quaker Movement. We will stand in a circle together. I will have a candle to light in my hand. Each of you will hold your hands in front of you as if helping me hold the light.

Pause to let the group get situated.

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

While looking at the light from the candle, center yourself. Breathe in the word love, breathe out the word light Repeat three times.

Say the names of loved ones, communities, or countries you are holding light for. You can name them aloud to hold as a group or keep them in your heart.

Pause to let people offer names aloud or silently.

Now imagine these persons being surrounded by the light as bright as the candle. We will hold these loved ones in light for three minutes.

Pause for three minutes.

Offer a moment of gratitude for your loved ones, your communities, and this experience of Holding in the Light.

Next time you see a sunset or sunrise, you can remember to hold a loved one in the light.

Sharing Around the Table

Ephesians 4:25 5:2 NRSVUE

So then, putting away falsehood, let each of you speak the truth with your neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not make room for the devil. Those who steal must give up stealing; rather, let them labor, doing good work with their own hands, so as to have something to share with the needy. Let no evil talk come out of your mouths but only what is good for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with which you were marked with a seal for the day of redemption. Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you. Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

This passage continues a section that contrasts the old and new life for new disciples, using concrete examples. It focuses on behaviors of living as one within the Body of Christ. The author urges Ephesian converts to discard their ways of life before baptism, be renewed by the Spirit, and become a new creation in Christ. Disciples come up from the water with new expectations and behaviors to help build and uphold the community of believers.

Disciples are to put away lies and speak truth to one another in love because we belong to one another as a family. Truth is essential to authentic communities. We should reconcile our anger, so it doesn’t fester, cause us to sin, and divide people. Unresolved anger takes on a life of its own, growing larger as we rehearse and nourish our grievances. Thieves are commanded to repent, find honest work, and then give generously of their wages to needy, less-fortunate members of the community. Words matter. Christians are to speak graciously to one another, with the intent of helping one another grow, mature, and develop in faith.

Bad behavior harms individuals and the community of believers. It grieves the Holy Spirit. Converts cannot return to the old ways. The Spirit renews our hearts, guides our choices, and calls us into dedicated service modeled on Jesus’s ministry. Christians are called to live together in kindness, forgiving one another as Christ forgave. As part of the Body of Christ, we give up selfishness and petty concerns to deepen and keep unity with others.

As children of God, disciples are called to mimic God as one would mimic the behavior of a beloved head of household. Christians proclaim God is love, so mimicking God means living to the best of our human ability the unconditional mercy, kindness, and love of God. It is love that wants the best for the beloved. Where there is love, there is a desire to put away those things that irritate or grieve the beloved.

Using Christ as the model for loving actions, thoughts, words, and intents brings about the transformation of the individual The community of believers takes on the identity of the kingdom of God.

Questions

1. Which negative/destructive behavior mentioned in this scripture is hardest for you to overcome?

2. What helps most in unlearning negative behaviors and learning positive, affirming alternatives?

3. What do you think it means to “mimic” God? How do you mimic God?

Sending Statement of Generosity

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 360, “God of the Future”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

• Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

• Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• skinny strips of purple paper (about 1.5 inches wide)

• pencil

• tape

Say: In today’s scripture we are reminded to say only kind words, even when we are tempted to say unkind things. Today we are going to play a game called Never, Better, Best.

For this game, I will give you a situation that you may or may not have experienced. Once you hear the situation, I want you to think of the various ways you could respond. First, I will ask you for a way you never would respond in this situation. If I call on you, you can tell me the unkind words you never would want to say.

Next, I will ask for someone to share a better way to respond, a way that doesn’t use unkind words. Finally, I will ask someone to share the best way they could respond, what you could say that would communicate God’s peace, even when you are upset.

All right, let’s try it:

• Your sibling comes into your room and takes one of your toys without asking.

• Your friends don’t want to join the game you want to play at recess.

• Your friends don’t want to include another student in a game at recess.

• You ask to go outside, but your adult says you need to clean your room first.

• Only one cookie is left; you and your sibling both want it.

Note: Let the kids have fun with this, especially when they are sharing the things they never would say even if they are joking around, laughing, and trying really hard to think of unkind things In later moments, when they are tempted to use unkind words, they will remember this activity and hopefully chose differently.

18 August 2024

Ordinary Time (Proper 15)

Ephesians 5:15-20

Let My Spirit Always Sing

Additional Scriptures

I Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14; Psalm 111; John 6:51-58; Doctrine and Covenants 161:1b

Preparation

Today’s theme has three critical components. These include focusing on spiritual living, singing psalms, making music to the Lord, and giving thanks. A worship center could include elements or symbols involving spirituality, singing, and thankfulness.

Prelude

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns

Provide a vision for the worship service as a time of sharing. The scripture for today calls worship participants to continue to explore their Christian lifestyle and what it means to be imitators of God. By taking practical steps to accept the necessary changes we must make, changes needed within the worshipping community as well. Using the themes of imitators, community, singing, and thankfulness, this service will provide an opportunity to lift our voices in song.

Call to Worship Responsive Reading

Leader: Give thanks to the Lord with your whole heart.

People: Great are the works of the Lord!

Leader: God’s righteousness endures forever.

People: The Lord is gracious and merciful.

ALL: Holy and awesome is God’s name. God’s praise endures forever!

Psalm 111:1-4, 9-10, adapted

Hymn of Invitation

“Great and Marvelous Are Thy Works”

CCS 118 OR “Herr, du mein Gott/You Are My God”

CCS 12 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Invocation

Response

WORSHIP RESOURCES

Dwelling in the Word: Ephesians 5:15-20

First Reading: Just listen to Paul’s words.

Second Reading: What word or phrase makes an impression on you?

Third Reading: What is God’s call to you today?

If time allows, in small groups or pairs, discuss the insights gleaned from this scripture.

Song

“Praise the Source of Faith and Learning” Stanza 1

174 OR “Let My Spirit Always Sing” Stanza 1

Testimony 1

Ask someone to share a story about a time when they were wise, making the most of the time.

269

Song

“Praise the Source of Faith and Learning” Stanza 2

174 OR “Let My Spirit Always Sing” Stanza 2

Testimony 2

Ask someone to share a story about a time when they were filled with Spirit.

269

Song

“Praise the Source of Faith and Learning” Stanza 3 CCS 174 OR “Let My Spirit Always Sing” Stanza 3

Testimony 3

Ask someone to share a story about a time when they were blessed by singing and making melody to the Lord…

269

Song

“Praise the Source of Faith and Learning” Stanza 4

174 OR “Let My Spirit Always Sing” Stanza 4

Testimony 4

269

Ask someone to share a story about a time when they found themselves giving thanks to God…

Disciples’ Generous Response

Hymn of Offering

“Take My Gifts and Let Me Love You” CCS 609 OR “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me”

Testimony

581

Ask someone to share a story about a time when they were filled with the spirit of giving.

Statement

During the Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God‘s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. Through our offerings we can join in making God’s work visible in the world.

CCS

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or eTithing at eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Prayer for Peace

Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer

Spirit of searching, It is challenging to keep searching for and working for peace. It is difficult to live out your command to love one another. It is difficult not to. God, be with us in our exhaustion that comes from traveling the noble river of peace. May we feel your comforting and energizing presence.

The tides ebb and flow, and the seasons do, too. Our quest for peace must not. We must persist. Help us to go on loving, to go on pursuing peace. When it feels like we‘ve said the same thing, we‘ve fought the same fight, and we‘ve forgiven the same wrongs over and over, open our ears to your call. May we be willing to abandon our small boats in the pursuit of peace. Draw us to the lakeshore, to the community that quests alongside us.

In the name of Jesus, who is the wind in our sails. Amen. Tiffany and Caleb Brian

Closing Hymn

“How Many Times We Start Again”

OR “Called by Christ to Love Each Other”

Benediction

Sending Forth: Doctrine and Covenants 161:1b

Postlude

CCS 560

CCS 577

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time (Proper 15)

Ephesians 5:15–20

Exploring the Scripture

The simplicity of today’s lectionary passage can lull the preacher into a superficial, feel-good message about song and thanksgiving. Looking deeper, one discovers layers of meaning intended to enrich life as a disciple and challenge Christians to stay true to the teachings of Christ. Verses 8 through 14, preceding today’s passage, remind Christians they are “children of the light.” The light of Christ shines through their lives and makes them visible to others. “Be careful then how you live…” because others are watching to see if following Christ makes a difference in your life (v. 15). Ephesians was written mainly to converts from Roman and Greek gods, contrasting the old ways of behaving and new life in Christ. Our passage must be read considering that transformation. Wisdom is equated with “making the most of time, because the days are evil” (v. 16). Christ’s followers believed his return was imminent, and he would usher in the last days. Jewish apocalyptic thought predicted evil days of persecution, conflicts, wars, and natural disasters. The letter calls Christ’s followers to use wisely the few days they have been given and hold true to the values that epitomize Kingdom-living. Whether the evil days refer to the end times or a specific moment, disciples recognized the urgency of working while there is yet day.

The wise understand the will of the Lord: “thy kingdom come; thy will be done…” Which will triumph, God’s will or human will? We think today in either-or, but in the first century world, it could be both-and.

Greek and Aramaic had a verb tense that has dropped out of use, called the middle voice. The subject and the object of the verb acted cooperatively in the middle voice, to create action. English comes closest to a middle voice when we say, “Let us take counsel together.” To understand the will of the Lord is to align our human will with God’s in collaboration toward a common goal. Those who are wise understand God invites humans into cooperative action to bring about transformation and new life.

In verses 18–19, joyful celebrations of song, thanksgiving, and praise arise from the promptings of the Holy Spirit, not from artificial stimulation. It was not uncommon in Greek and Roman rituals to use wine to heighten religious fervor. Those who had taken part in such celebrations in their previous life would recognize the subtle reference to human-induced ecstasy.

Christian worship, however, arises in the heart, is inspired by the Spirit, and finds expression in praise and gratitude to God “at all times and for everything” (v. 20). This is the standard by which to measure the authenticity of Christian worship and celebration. Does it praise God and recognize God’s blessing in everything? If not, something is amiss, either in motive, execution, intent, or process.

Music can unite our reasoning ability with our emotional life, touching memories, creating vision, and intensely challenging us to act. As we sing in worship or in secular gatherings, this text reminds us to direct the melody of our hearts toward thanksgiving to God, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS

Central Ideas

1. We are called to live as children of the light, leading exemplary lives that make visible the Christ within.

2. Regardless of the difficulties or evils of life, Christ’s followers make the most of the precious and limited time given us.

3. The Holy Spirit inspires genuine worship, not from human efforts to create spiritual fervor.

4. Thanks and praise to God for everything always is the standard by which to measure the authenticity of Christian worship and celebration.

Questions for the Speaker

1. What old ways need to be transformed in your own life, to make Christ’s light more visible in the world?

2. When have you suddenly been intensely aware of the preciousness of one moment? What was it like? How did it transform your day?

3. Which hymns or songs deeply touch your heart during worship? How do they turn your attention away from yourself and toward praise of God?

4. When have you been aware of human efforts to manufacture spiritual ecstasy in worship? What are the guidelines Community of Christ provides for avoiding artificial spiritual manifestations?

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time, Proper 15

Ephesians 5:15–20 NRSVUE

Gathering Welcome

Ordinary Time is the period in the Christian calendar from Pentecost to Advent. This period is without major festivals or holy days. During Ordinary Time we focus on discipleship as individuals and a faith community.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Today’s Prayer for Peace is inspired by the hymn, “You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore,” Community of Christ Sings 582, by Cesáreo Gabaráin

You need my hands, my exhaustion, Working love for the rest of the weary—

A love that’s willing to go on loving.

Spirit of searching, it is difficult to keep searching and working for peace. It is difficult to live your command to love one another. It is difficult not to. God, be with us in our exhaustion that comes from traveling the noble river of peace. May we feel your comforting and energizing presence.

The tides ebb and flow, and the seasons do, too. Our quest for peace must not. We must persist. Help us to go on loving, to go on pursuing peace. When it feels like we’ve said the same thing, we’ve fought the same fight, and we’ve forgiven the same wrongs over and over, open our ears to your call. May we be willing to abandon our small boats in the pursuit of peace. Draw us to the lakeshore, to the community that quests alongside us.

In the name of Jesus, who is the wind in our sails Amen

Spiritual Practice

Receiving with Gratitude

Enduring Principles are a foundation of Community of Christ. Today we are focusing on Grace and Generosity. The first thing we do in this life is receive. Our first breath is a gift we receive. The spiritual practice for today is in breath-prayer form. During the prayer we use words to breathe in and words to breathe out. Today we will be breathing in receive life and breathing out thank you.

Slowly read the following:

Sit with relaxed posture and close your eyes. We will spend three minutes in breath prayer. Breathe in a regular, natural rhythm.

As you breathe in, receive life As you exhale, thank you

Breathe in and out, focusing on what you are breathing in and what you are exhaling.

SPACE:

RESOURCE

SMALL-GROUP

SACRED

FOR

MINISTRY

Watch the time for three minutes. Urge participants to continue the breath prayer the full three minutes.

When time is up, ask the following questions for a short group discussion:

• What is one thing you are grateful for in this moment?

• How do you feel about receiving?

After the discussion, say:

Thank you, God, for another day. Thank you for the opportunity to connect with others, to receive and to give to one another. Amen.

Sharing Around the Table Ephesians 5:15–20 NRSVUE

Be careful, then, how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to one another, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ephesians was written mainly to converts from Roman and Greek gods, contrasting the old ways of behaving and new life in Christ. Our passage must be read while considering that transformation. Looking deeply in this section on Christian conduct and identity, one discovers layers of meaning intended to enrich life as a disciple and challenge Christians to stay true to the teachings of Christ. No one wants to be thought of as foolish. Wisdom, self-understanding, and purposeful living are recommended here, especially since early Christians had a sense of urgency because they thought the end of time was imminent. Christians needed to be vigilant and join Christ’s work to transform Earth. They needed to focus on what builds the body and be careful how they lived. Others were watching to see if Christ made a difference in their lives and systems of oppression.

Here joyful celebrations of song, thanksgiving, and praise arise from the promptings of the Holy Spirit, not from artificial stimulation. It was not uncommon in Greek and Roman rituals to use wine to heighten religious fervor. Those who had taken part in such celebrations in their previous life would recognize the subtle reference to human-induced ecstasy. Christians are urged to avoid debauchery, any excess that leads to loss of self-control.

Instead, they are counseled to be filled by the Spirit and worship God through praise and gratitude “at all times and for everything.” This is the standard by which to measure the authenticity of Christian worship and celebration. Does it praise God and recognize God’s blessing in everything? If not, something is amiss in motive, execution, intent, or process.

Music often is vital to a worship experience because it can unite our reasoning, shape our heart, and open ourselves to the Spirit, touching memories, creating vision, and intensely challenging us to act. As we sing in worship or secular gatherings, this text reminds us to direct the melody of our hearts toward thanksgiving to God, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Questions

1. In your faith journey have you been influenced more by general principles or detailed policies?

2. How do you exercise wisdom?

3. Which hymns or songs deeply touch your heart during worship? How do they turn your attention away from yourself and toward praise of God?

Sending Statement of Generosity

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

Community of Christ Sings 170, “In the Crossroads of This Moment”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

• Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

• Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• various types of bread

Display various types of bread and ask people to identify them.

Say: When making bread, varying ingredients and differing quantities of ingredients create different types of bread. Give examples (like wheat flour or white flour; cinnamon or pumpkin).

The loaves are different textures, sizes, colors, and shapes, resulting in an endless variety of bread from around the world.

Jesus Christ, the Bread of life, uses differences to create a song of the diverse creation. Our voices are loud, soft, brassy, gentle, melodious, raucous, strong, clear, shrill, warm, flat, bright, and deep. Regardless of our differences, we all can sing to the Lord.

Adapted from “Scripture Based Focus Moments”

25 August 2024

Ordinary Time (Proper 16)

Ephesians 6:10-20

Be Ready to Proclaim the Gospel of

Peace

Additional Scriptures

I Kings 8:1, 6, 10-11, 22-30, 41-43; Psalm 84; John 6:56-69

Preparation

See the Focus Moment for the materials needed.

Prelude

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns

Provide a vision for today’s service. The scripture for today calls worship participants to equip themselves so that they may confront evil and powerful authorities in such a way that they use the tools God has made available. These tools assist in being better able to accept others, tolerate differences, and provide a way ahead for the building of the peaceable kin-dom.

Call to Worship

The psalm phrases can be read by one or more readers or even the whole congregation.

How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, indeed it faints, for the courts of the Lord, my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God.

Psalm 84:1-2

Sing Praise

“Praise to the Living God” Stanza 1

8 OR “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Stanza 1 CCS 11

Even the sparrow finds a home and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God. Happy are those who live in your house, ever singing your praise.

Psalm 84:3-4

Sing Praise

“Praise to the Living God” Stanza 2

8 OR “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Stanza 2 CCS 11

…a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than live in the tents of wickedness.

Psalm 84:10

WORSHIP RESOURCES

CCS

Sing Praise

“Praise to the Living God” Stanza 3 CCS 8 OR “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Stanza 3 CCS 11

For the Lord God is a sun and shield; my God bestows favor and honor. No good thing does the Lord withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, happy is everyone who trusts in you.

Psalm 84:11-12, adapted

Invocation

Response

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:10-20

Focus Moment What Do You Need to Proclaim the Gospel of Peace?

Materials

• two oranges

• a glass bowl large enough for two oranges to be completely submerged

• water

We just heard about pieces of armor that give us protection so we can be ready to proclaim the gospel of peace.

Place both oranges in the bowl with their “armor” on (keep the skin on both oranges.) Talk about how the oranges are floating, or “standing firm” in the water. Little by little, begin peeling away some of the “armor” (skin) of one of the oranges. You might peel off a chunk and say something like:

Uh oh, this orange forgot to put on a belt of truth. When someone says something ugly about you today, you might believe it. If you believe that lie, instead of the truth that your wonderfully made, you might not be able to stand as firm in the water.

Place the orange back in the water and notice that, although it doesn’t sink completely, it begins dipping further down in the water than the orange still wearing all its armor. Continue peeling back a little at a time, talking about a new piece of armor the orange forgot to put on, talking about how that might affect our readiness to proclaim the gospel of peace, and then placing the orange in the water to see it sink more and more each time.

By the time you remove the armor, the orange will completely sink. Contrast the two oranges. The one with the protection can stand firm. The protection according to Paul’s letter includes truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Holy Spirit.

Sung Reflection Sing several times.

“Bless the Lord”

CCS 575 OR “Sizohamba Naye/We Will Walk with God”

CCS 377 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Sharing in the Spoken Word

Based on Ephesians 6:10-20

Prayer for Peace Hymn of Peace

“There Is a Balm in Gilead” CCS 234 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Light the Peace Candle. Prayer for Peace

Healing God,

In the moments of fear and angst and destruction that we see in the news around the world, we feel discouraged. How can we as individuals and small communities respond? How can our prayers and actions reach communities that we may never meet? Our prayers for peace feel inadequate in the face of it all, and yet, we are reminded that in you all things are possible. In you, the balm of Gilead flows to soothe and heal the fears and pains of the world. In you, the spirit flows and reminds us that simple acts can have lasting impact.

Reminding our neighbors that we love them can create ripples through our community as people find their worth again. As communities recognize the actions that they can take to make the wounded whole, other communities can join in.

Healing God, is that how the balm of Gilead spreads? Through simple actions that lift the spirit of others? Through community actions that call out for justice in a war-torn world? God, in this unique moment in time, we ask that you help us spread the balm of Gilead, the soothing healing power of your spirit across our neighborhoods and workplaces and communities we don’t yet know, so that the wounded may be healed, the hungry may be fed, and the tyranny of injustice overturned. Bless these acts. Amen.

Tiffany and Caleb Brian

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or through eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing

Closing Hymn

and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

“God of Grace and God of Glory”

624 OR “Lift Every Voice and Sing” CCS 555

Benediction

Postlude

CCS

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time (Proper 16)

Ephesians 6:10–20

Exploring the Scripture

Today’s lectionary text urges disciples to “put on the whole armor of God” (v. 11). Sunday school classes delight in creating cardboard armor labeled “truth,” “righteousness,” “peace,” “faith,” and “salvation” while they wave the “sword of the Spirit” (v. 17). Some congregations have used this passage to justify a militaristic view of discipleship. Some denominations extend the metaphor to promote “The Warrior Jesus,” complete with hand grenades and automatic weaponry. Unfortunately, Christians have used this passage to persecute those they call heretics, non-Christians, and fellow Christians.

Early disciples were familiar with Isaiah 11:4–5, which clothed the ideal Messianic King with the spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, and fear of the Lord. He would judge the poor with righteousness, the meek with equity. He would strike the Earth with his words and kill the wicked with his breath. His belt was righteousness, and faithfulness would gird his loins. Isaiah 59:17 describes God donning a breastplate of righteousness, a helmet of salvation, vengeance for clothing, and a mantle of fury to wipe out injustice.

How can we interpret this mix of peaceful and warlike images on which Ephesians is based? Ancient Israel anticipated a Messiah of peace and justice, shepherding his flock and providing bounty for his people. But such blessings would come with a cost.

For Isaiah, vengeance was directed against the enemies and oppressors of Israel. In Ephesians, the warlike armor defends the convert against relapsing into old ways. Turning from pagan lives to Christianity required preparation through prayer and focused effort (v. 18) to deal with the inner warfare between old habits and new transformation.

God’s armor also strengthens Christians persecuted for espousing peace. Early Christians who refused to serve in the Roman militia were imprisoned for sedition. This text reminds Christ’s followers that even in the face of persecution, they must not take up arms against “enemies of blood and flesh” but against “spiritual forces of evil” (v. 12).

The reference to powers and authorities pointed toward Roman rulers and systemic injustice as the enemies and the “cosmic powers” of sin, evil, and death (v. 12). Against such pervasive spiritual darkness, Christians stood “strong in the Lord” (v. 10), sharing a gospel of peace, protected only by the “whole armor of God” (v. 11).

The armor pieces represent spiritual resources of truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and God’s Word. The sword of the Spirit is the offensive weapon of choice, proclaiming the word. Sharing the word of God is seldom popular, but the Spirit strengthens and equips followers to be strong in witness.

These spiritual resources continue to aid us with our inner struggles. Besides, external powers and principalities exist in our world today. Widespread sex, violence, segregation, and addiction of various kinds influence every facet of our culture. Genocide, wars, nuclear threats, and political sanctions terrorize ordinary people in nations worldwide. Governments wield weapons of fear and want. Our resources of truth, peace, justice, and faith offer a counter-message of hope and transformation. As an ambassador in chains, the author ends by pleading for prayers to strengthen his

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS

own witness and proclamation. We are challenged to take up his cry: “Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak” (v. 20).

Central Ideas

1. Ancient metaphors portraying Israel’s righteousness in opposing conquerors have been borrowed to represent Christian defense against persecution.

2. The armor pieces represent spiritual resources to combat sin, evil, and death.

3. Sharing the word of God is seldom popular, but the Spirit strengthens and equips followers to be strong in witness.

4. Like the author of Ephesians, we “must speak” against the powers and principalities that rule in our broken world today.

Questions for the Speaker

1. Where have you faced the militarization of the gospel of Christ’s peace?

2. What spiritual resources do you rely on when you face the difficulties of life, the evils of the world, and the dysfunction of societal systems of injustice?

3. When have you become unpopular for sharing the word of God? How has it influenced your behavior? What is God calling you to do today?

4. When have you witnessed the power of the spoken word to create change and transformation in individual lives? In community and governments?

Year B Letters

Ordinary Time, Proper 16

Ephesians 6:10–20 NRSVUE

Gathering Welcome

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Today’s Prayer for Peace is inspired by the hymn, “There Is a Balm in Gilead,” a Negro spiritual, Community of Christ Sings 234.

Sometimes I feel discouraged, and think my work’s in vain, but then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again

Healing God, in the moments of fear, angst, and destruction that we see in the news around the world, we feel discouraged. How can we as individuals and small communities respond? How can our prayers and actions reach communities that we may never meet? Our prayers for peace feel inadequate in the face of it all, yet we are reminded that in you all things are possible.

In you, the balm of Gilead flows to soothe and heal the fears and pains of the world. In you, the Spirit flows and reminds us that simple acts can have lasting impact. That reminding our local neighbors that we love them can create ripples through our community as people find their worth again. That as communities rise and recognize the actions they can take to make the wounded whole, other communities can join in.

Healing God, is that how the balm of Gilead spreads? Is it through simple actions that lift up others? Is it through community actions that call out for justice in a war-torn world? God, in this unique moment in time, we ask that you help us spread the balm of Gilead, the soothing healing power of your Spirit, across our neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities we don’t yet know, so that the wounded may be healed, the hungry may be fed, and the tyranny of injustice overturned. Bless these acts. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Body Prayer

Today we are focusing on the Enduring Principle of Sacredness of Creation. As a gift, our bodies are amazing! Sometimes we don’t feel fully connected to them. They often know things before we allow our mind to think them. When we pray with the movement of our whole body, rather than just our normal prayer stance, we can receive different insight.

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Read the following to the group:

I will show you the movements with some explanations. Then we will repeat the movements three times silently together.

We start with our hands in prayer pose (hands pressed together in front of you). This centers us.

We raise our arms high. This opens us to the all-encompassing love of God.

We put our hands on our hearts. This reminds us to listen to our voice within. We open our hands in front of our bodies. This offers our love to others.

We lift our hands to the sky. This reminds us to be open to all.

We bring our hands down. This helps us gather and bring all to our heart.

We bring our hands back to prayer pose. This brings us back to stillness and peace.

Repeat the movements three times. Then read the following to the group: Bow to one another and say, “Namaste” (I bow to you).

Sharing Around the Table Ephesians 6:10–20 NRSVUE

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power; put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil, for our struggle is not against blood and flesh but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on the evil day, and having prevailed against everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and belt your waist with truth and put on the breastplate of righteousness and lace up your sandals in preparation for the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints. Pray also for me, so that when I speak a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.

Today’s text is meant to inspire the original recipients of the letter. They are urged to be strong and take up God’s weaponry against the hostile spiritual powers. The writer associates virtues and gifts of salvation with divine armor.

These passages hold a mix of peaceful and warlike images. In Ephesians, the warlike armor defends the convert against relapsing into old ways. Turning from pagan lives to Christianity required preparation through prayer and focused effort to deal with the inner warfare between old habits and new transformation.

God’s armor also strengthens Christians persecuted for espousing peace. Early Christians who refused to serve in the Roman militia were imprisoned for sedition. In this letter, spiritual, quasidemonic powers also must be resisted by using the superior armor of God. As converts with a new life, their most constant enemies were sin, evil, and death. Against spiritual darkness, Christians were to be “strong in the Lord,” sharing a gospel of peace, protected only by the “whole armor of God.”

The armor pieces represent spiritual resources of truth; righteousness; the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and God’s Word. The sword of the Spirit is the weapon of choice in proclaiming the Word. The “sword” symbolizes how believers should be in the forefront as strong witnesses of Christ.

These spiritual resources continue to aid us with our inner struggles. Our resources of truth, peace, justice, and faith offer a counter-message of hope and transformation. As an ambassador in chains, the author ends by pleading for prayers to strengthen his own witness and proclamation. We are challenged to take up his cry: “Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.”

Questions

1. The author tells the reader to “stand” multiple times in our text. He is not suggesting passivity. How does one prepare to stand?

2. When have you become unpopular for sharing the way of God’s peace? How has it influenced your behavior? What is God calling you to do today?

3. What images would you use in place of armor and weaponry to describe faith, trust, and action in sharing God’s purposes?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 603, “A Prophet-Woman Broke a Jar”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

• Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

• Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• paper

• coloring supplies

Say: Today’s scripture reminds us of the importance of prayer. Did you know there are many ways to pray? Today, I want us to try a type of prayer without words. Instead, we each will create a picture of our prayer in our minds.

To start, close your eyes and think of something happening in the world that makes you sad. This could be something at home, in your school, in your country, or in another country.

After you’ve visualized what the situation looks like, imagine the Spirit of God moving in that situation. Perhaps you imagine the Spirit of God as a bright light or a moving rainbow. Perhaps to you the Spirit of God is sprinkling glitter. Whatever you imagine the Spirit of God to look like, visualize it moving through the situation you chose.

As the Spirit moves through that situation, begin to notice changes happening. Imagine that the things making you sad are changing before your eyes. Focus on what is different when the Spirit of God is present there. Imagine that everything is how God wants it to be in that situation.

Using the image in your mind, visualize the ways you are invited to help make those changes a reality.

When you are ready, open your eyes and return to your seat.