Worship Planning Tools - September 2023

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Worship Resources 3 September 2023

Ordinary Time (Proper 17) World Hunger Emphasis

Romans 12:9-21 Practice Christ-like Hospitality Additional Scriptures Exodus 3:1-15; Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45c; Matthew 16:21-28; Doctrine and Covenants 161:3a

Preparation For the last two weeks of August, include in the announcements that the congregation will have opportunity to donate canned goods for a local food bank during the Disciples’ Generous Response portion of the service today, September 3, World Hunger Emphasis Sunday. If worshipping online, have members consider a food or monetary donation locally or an extra donation to Abolish Poverty, End Suffering.

Prelude Welcome Call to Worship Responsive Reading This reading does not have to be printed or projected. Instruct the congregation to repeat the phrase, “Praise the Lord!” whenever the reader pauses and raises a hand or another signal.

Leader: O give thanks to the Lord, call on God’s name, make known God’s deeds among the peoples.

All: Praise the Lord!

Leader: Sing to the Lord sing praises to God, tell of God’s wonderful works.

All: Praise the Lord!

Leader: All: Leader: All: Leader: All: Leader: All:

Glory in God’s holy name. Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.

Praise the Lord!

Seek the Lord’s strength and presence continually.

Praise the Lord!

Remember the wonderful works God has done; miracles and the judgements God has uttered.

Praise the Lord!

O give thanks to the Lord.

Praise the Lord!

-Psalm 105:1-6, 45c adapted

Hymn of Praise “Praise with Joy the World’s Creator” OR “Sing to God as Sings the Ocean” OR “God of Creation”

CCS 57 CCS 104 CCS 147

Invocation Response Scripture Reading Romans 12:9-21

Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer Reader 1 Give us, God of the earth and of the wheat fields, our daily food. That food does not belong to us, it is yours and given generously. Food to share, food that is blessed, satiating each person; satisfying hunger and solitude, without hoarding or hiding.

Reader 2 Do not give us just the food, give us also the dignity that we are denied - to overcome walls and war, greed and ambition, privatization of public knowledge and resources. These exclude, marginalize, condemn, expel, and kill.

Reader 1 Give us safe spaces where we can meet - to celebrate our human diversities. Give us the ability to embrace with compassion and the willingness to share, with outstretched hands and sensitive hearts, committed to the fullness of life.

Reader 2 Give us words that encourage, actions that are inclusive and just, gestures that give hope and instill courage. Give us songs that inspire us each day, with tenderness and sustenance - our glasses overflowing with justice, peace and equity. Amen -Gerardo Oberman, Argentina; translated and adapted by Greta Nania Montoya Ortega, WCC https://www.oikoumene.org/resources/documents/prayersand-action-to-overcome-hunger

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Disciples’ Generous Response World Hunger Meditation Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6A9DpLBc9-Q&t=190s This video shows how contributions to Abolish Poverty, End Suffering have helped transform lives in India and Zambia.

Statement Today, as we focus on practicing Christ-like hospitality, what better way to share our faith than with generously sharing what we have with the poor and hungry while working to stop conditions that diminish the worth of all persons. Your contribution to the Abolish Poverty, End Suffering Mission Initiative will help the World Hunger Tangible Love Team fund ministries and projects that address the needs of those enmeshed in poverty, hunger, and injustice.

If your congregation is donating canned goods locally, incorporate this act of giving into the offering by having people come forward with their donations or having one or two members of the congregation collect items and bring them up front.

During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

Oblation The first Sunday of the month focuses the Disciples’ Generous Response on Abolish Poverty, End Suffering, which includes Oblation ministry.

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.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at CofChrist.org/spiritual-practices-generosity/.

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 Communion Message Invitation to Communion

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.

Hymn of Preparation “In These Moments We Remember” CCS 515 OR “God Extends an Invitation/Nuestro Padre nos invita” CCS 520 Sing at least twice. Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

OR “Bread of the World” CCS 527 Blessing and Serving of the Bread and Wine For guidelines on the Lord’s Supper, including online participation, see www.OurMinistryTools.org

Pastoral Prayer Closing Hymn “Sent Forth by God’s Blessing” CCS 648 OR “You Shall Go Out with Joy” CCS 645 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Sending Forth Doctrine and Covenants 161:3a

Postlude

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Ordinary Time (Proper 17)

Romans 12:9-21 Exploring the Scripture Having encouraged disciples to live for Christ, Paul outlines series of actions that represent a Christcentered lifestyle. His writing moves from teaching to strongly urging the Roman Christians to take specific actions. His advice in any one matter would be enough for an entire sermon. Taken as a whole, Romans 12:9-21 represents a Christian’s “to do” and “don’t do” list reminiscent of the Ten Commandments. Each ethical teaching is a broad, general category that could easily include various specific applications. Each serve as a guiding principle for individuals to interpret and employ in real life.

Verses 9 and 10 deal with love. Love did not refer to sentiment or romantic attachment but meant wanting the best and highest good for someone else, with no strings attached. Hating what is evil includes refusing to take part in the evil present in the world around you. Wanting good for others leads to mutual affection and upholding another’s honor ahead of your own.

Verses 11 - 13 deal with faith. Enthusiasm, zeal, and an ardent spirit are the characteristics of the faith that steadfastly serves God. That faith allows Christians to rejoice in hope and endure suffering patiently.

It promotes a strong prayer life. And eventually, it leads to giving generously to other church members and offering hospitality to strangers.

Verses 14 and 15 deal with compassion for all. Paul modeled returning good for evil in his own life when he blessed those who persecuted him. Compassion means “feeling with” another, whether they are rejoicing or weeping. God weeps with those who weep and finds joy with those who rejoice. Christians are called to do the same.

Harmony and peace are the themes of verses 16 – 19. Reject arrogance and arrogant behavior, which serves the individual at the expense of the community. Instead, associate with, be in solidarity with, the humble; and do humble tasks, always open to learning more. Instead of giving evil for evil, Paul urges the saints to act nobly, for the highest good—an echo of the meaning of love. Christians are called to be peacemakers and renounce vindictiveness. Vengeance and judgment are the domain of God alone.

Humans who dare to revenge themselves are grabbing the power and authority of the Divine.

Finally, Paul sums up his teachings by urging all disciples to meet their enemies’ needs willingly.

Proverbs 25:21-22 urges the Israelites to give bread and water to their enemies. Such a response to evil will heap shame on the perpetrators and perhaps even cause them to repent. Loving, generous actions can overcome evil with good and bring about transformation. Christians are called to invest in God’s overpowering force of goodness, mercy, and grace, with Christ as the model. These appeals for Christcentered living are the ethical imperatives set in in being “like-minded” with Jesus Christ and in the Christian community.

Central Ideas 1. Love is wanting the best and highest good for someone else, with no strings attached.

2. Sincere faith is the foundation for service, hope, patient endurance, trusting prayer, generosity, and hospitality.

3. Christians are called to weep with those who weep and find joy with those who rejoice.

4. Arrogance and egocentricity serve the individual at the expense of the community. Christians are called to act nobly for the highest good.

5. Vengeance and judgment are the domain of God alone. Christians are called to be peacemakers and renounce vindictiveness.

Questions for the Speaker 1. How does the ancient definition of love change how you understand the advice to “love your enemies?” How can you apply it in your own life?

2. When have you wept with those who weep and rejoiced with those who were celebrating? When have you sensed God weeping or rejoicing with you?

3. What evidence of arrogance and ego can you identify in your ministry and life as a disciple?

How do you combat them?

4. What does it mean to renounce vindictiveness in your world today? In the church community?

In the political arena? In your inner world of memories, emotion, and brokenness?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A, Letters Ordinary Time Proper 17

Romans 12:9–21 NRSV

Gathering Welcome Ordinary Time is the Christian Calendar period from Pentecost to Advent. This time is without major festivals or holy days. During Ordinary Time we focus on our discipleship as individuals and as 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 Community of Christ Sings 560, “How Many Times We Start Again,” by Thomas H. Troeger.

But greater than the cost we find is our expanded view of what it means with heart and mind To trust and follow you…

God of starting again, today is no special day by the measures of the world. Simply another day. Not a Holy Day with capitalized letters. Not a Day of Importance, also capitalized. An ordinary day in ordinary time. The perfect day to follow your voice in pursuit of peace.

Stir in us a passion to pursue peace, even as we are settled in our comfortable daily routines. Our hearts long to follow you. Our minds yearn for your expanded view.

Disturb our peace so we might be brave to follow and disturb the un-peace in our societies.

May we start again to meet strangers.

May we start again to trust and follow you.

In the name of Jesus, who is with us in the ordinary. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Loving Kindness Blessing Today we are focusing on the Enduring Principle of Worth of All Persons. The definition of this principle states, “We seek to uphold and restore the worth of all people individually and in community, challenging unjust systems that diminish human worth.” By practicing the Loving Kindness Blessing we remind ourselves of the Worth of All Persons.

I’ll say a phrase, and I invite you to repeat the words after me in your mind. Give the words time to resonate in your heart and mind:

May I be blessed with loving kindness. May I be blessed with health. May I be blessed with true happiness. May I be blessed with peace. Pause.

Think of someone who is beloved to you. Visualize the person as you pray: May my beloved be blessed with loving kindness. May my beloved be blessed with health. May my beloved be blessed with true happiness. May my beloved be blessed with peace. Pause.

Now think of a close friend. Visualize the person as you pray: May my friend be blessed with loving kindness. May my friend be blessed with health.

May my friend be blessed with true happiness. May my friend be blessed with peace.

Pause.

Think of someone with whom you are in conflict or has harmed you. Visualize this person. Breathe deeply and lovingly pray this blessing: May the one who harmed me be blessed with loving kindness. May the one who harmed me be blessed with health. May the one who harmed me be blessed with true happiness. May the one who harmed me be blessed with peace. Pause.

Think of Mother Earth and all creation. Visualize all creation. Breathe out love to all of creation as you pray.

May the Earth be blessed with loving kindness. May the Earth be blessed with health.

May the Earth be blessed with true happiness. May the Earth be blessed with peace.

Pause.

Invite people to share the thoughts, emotions, and images they experienced in this time of blessing.

Sharing Around the Table

Romans 12:9–21 NRSV

Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.

Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” No, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Having encouraged disciples to live for Christ, Paul outlines a series of actions that represents a Christ-centered lifestyle. His writing moves from teaching to strongly urging the Roman Christians to take specific actions. Taken as a whole, this passage represents a kind of Christian “to do” and “do not do” lists reminiscent of the Ten Commandments.

Love. This love does not refer to sentiment or romantic attachment; it means wanting the best and highest good for someone else, with no strings attached. Hating what is evil includes refusing to take part in evil around you as well as speaking and acting peacefully against that evil.

Faith. Enthusiasm, zeal, and an ardent spirit are characteristics of faith that steadfastly serve God. That faith allows Christians to rejoice in hope and endure suffering patiently. It promotes a strong prayer life and eventually leads to giving generously to other church members and offering hospitality to strangers.

Compassion. Compassion means “feeling with” another, whether they are rejoicing or weeping. God weeps with those who weep and finds joy with those who rejoice. Christians are called to do the same.

Harmony and Peace. Reject arrogance and arrogant behavior, which serve the individual at the expense of the community. Instead, associate with and be in solidarity with the humble. Do humble tasks, always open to learning more.

Christians are called to be peacemakers and renounce vindictiveness. Vengeance and judgment are the domain of God alone. Humans who dare to seek revenge themselves are grabbing the power and authority of the Divine.

Paul sums up his teachings by urging all disciples to meet their enemies’ needs willingly.

Loving, generous actions can overcome evil with good and bring about transformation.

Christians are called to invest in God’s overpowering force of goodness, mercy, and grace, with Christ as the model. These appeals for Christ-centered living are the ethical imperatives set in being “like-minded” with Jesus Christ and in the Christian community.

Questions 1. When have you experienced true compassion, wanting the best and highest good for someone else?

2. What does it mean to love your enemies in your world today?

3. How are you investing in goodness, mercy, and grace?

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.

This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: Discipling God, as we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to 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 CCS 621, “Help Us Express Your Love”

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: big paper (optional) marker (optional)

In his letter to the Romans, Paul offers guidance on how we are called to live in community. Living in community brings a lot of blessings, but it can be really difficult. Though it is hard to live in community, it is to loving community that we are called.

Ask: If you were writing a letter like Paul to a group of people trying to live together in community, what advice would you give? (Affirm all answers.)

You may choose to compose a letter together on a big sheet of paper, or you may just have participants share their advice.

Close with a prayer, thanking God for the Blessings of Community and asking God to help each person be a good community member.

Worship Resources 10 September 2023

Ordinary Time (Proper 18)

Romans 13:8-14 Love Your Neighbor Additional Scriptures Exodus 12:1-14; Psalm 149; Matthew 18:15-20; Mosiah 11:16, 152-156

Prelude Welcome Gathering Hymn “When In Our Music God Is Glorified” CCS 1 OR “All Creatures of Our God and King” CCS 98 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

OR “Louez le Seigneur!/Praise, Praise, Praise the Lord!”

CCS 106 Sing several times. See the Performance Note suggestion at the bottom of the page.

Call to Worship Responsive Reading This reading does not have to be printed or projected. Instruct the congregation to repeat the phrase, “Praise the Lord!” whenever the reader pauses and raises a hand or another signal.

Leader: Sing to the Lord a new song, let Israel (or use the name of your town) be glad in its Maker; let us, the children of Zion, rejoice in our King!

All: Praise the Lord!

Leader: Let us praise the Lord with dancing and the music of tambourine and lyre.

All: Praise the Lord!

Leader: Let the faithful exult in glory, let us sing for joy!

All: Praise the Lord!

-Psalm 149:1-6, adapted

Hymn of Praise “Praise the Lord Together Singing” Sing in a 2, 3, or 4-part round if possible OR “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!”

CCS 642 CCS 52

OR “For the Beauty of the Earth”

CCS 130

Invocation Response Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Scripture Reading Alma taught that everyone should love their neighbors as themselves; that there should be no contention among them.

King Mosiah sent a proclamation throughout the land that there should be equality among all; that they should not let pride or haughtiness disturb their peace; that everyone should esteem their neighbor, laboring with their own hands for their support; doing the things that abound in the grace of God. And there began to be peace in the land…

- Mosiah 11:16, 152-156a, adapted Prayer Dear Heavenly Parent, Soften our hearts as we listen each day.

Give us the guidance to follow your ways.

Help our love grow with each new soul we meet.

Heal us with grace so we can bring peace.

In your living name, Amen.

-Dawn Adams, used with permission For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Focus Moment: Walking the Neighborhood For information visit https://www.emporiacofchrist.org/70craigblog/spiritual-practiceof-neighborhood-walking OR the Pastors and Leaders Field Guide. You are welcome to change words to make this practice fit the people in your group. If you are in person, and everyone is able, you could take this practice outside. Otherwise, encourage people to use their imaginations.

Walking the Neighborhood is a simple practice, usually done outside, in your neighborhood, in small groups, as a way to discern what God might be calling you to do there. Today, we will take a few minutes to quietly walk our neighborhoods with God. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths. Imagine it is a beautiful day as you stand outside your home. Look to the left and the right and notice the houses there. Start walking, whichever way you want to go. If you know your neighbors, smile and greet them. If you don’t know your neighbors, smile and greet them, too. Throw a stick for a

dog. Smile at the kids. Wave at the people sitting on their front porch. As you are walking, ask God to bless this community that is your neighborhood. Walk back home, noticing any difference you feel about your neighborhood. Did you hear God’s whisper or nudge as you walked? Turn to another and share your experience.

Scripture Reading Romans 13:8-14

Hymn of Reflection “Peace of Jesus” OR “Take the Path of the Disciple” OR “Who Is My Mother, Who Is My Brother?”

CCS 318 CCS 558 CCS 336

Message Based on Romans 13:8-14

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement The church’s mission statement states that, “We proclaim Jesus Christ and promote communities of joy, hope, love, and peace.” One way we do that is by promoting Christ-centered communities of justice and peacefulness. Loving our neighbors is a commitment to valuing the worth of each person and generously meeting their needs.

During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

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.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at CofChrist.org/spiritualpractices-generosity/.

Hymn of Neighbors “In Christ There Is No East or West” OR “Help Us Accept Each Other” OR “Somos el cuerpo de Cristo/We Are the Body of Christ”

Closing Prayer Postlude

CCS 339 CCS 333 CCS 337

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Ordinary Time (Proper 18)

Romans 13:8-14 Exploring the Scripture Paul’s teachings in Romans 13-14 urges believers to live the gospel’s principles in practical, everyday life. Today’s passage focuses on two ideas: 1) the foundational commandment to love one another, which sums up the entire body of Jewish law; and 2) the urgency of a Christ-centered lifestyle as Christians wait for the Second Coming.

Paul advises the Romans to avoid debt. The only debt they should incur is indebtedness that results from loving one another. In ancient times, a standard definition of love was this: love is wishing only good for others, above all else. To want goodness for another carries a duty to work to make the wish for goodness active. Thus, it is impossible to love without being under the obligation (the debt) of love.

For centuries, rabbis and prophets debated which commandment was the greatest. Various answers were proposed, quoting scriptures such as Micah 6:8, Amos 5:24, and Leviticus 19:2. Matthew, Mark, and Luke recorded Jesus’ answer, based on Deuteronomy 6:5: to love God completely is the primary commandment. The second most important is to love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18).

However, before any of the Gospels were written, Paul identified love as the law’s fulfillment, which testifies to the early knowledge of Jesus’ teaching about love.

Paul’s list of directives in Romans 13-14 stands as a Christian summary of the ethics that bind them. Paul is direct. Living love underlies and supersedes all the rest, both for Jewish and Christian law. “Love does no wrong; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law” (v. 10). Although Paul continues to offer advice and urge ethical behavior, all else functions as examples of doing no wrong while standing under the debt of love.

“You know what time it is…” (v. 11). Early Christians believed Christ would return soon, possibly within their lifetime. Paul encourages them to be prepared and alert (v. 12). Righteous living includes giving up vices such as drunkenness, debauchery, immorality, quarreling, and jealousy. These vices he mentions as “works of darkness” (v. 12), done in secret, are held tightly within men’s and women’s hidden activity to decay and damage relationships. But “the night is far gone, the day is near.” Christians are creatures of the light: open, transparent, glowing with love and goodwill, awake and ready for Christ’s return.

“The armor of light” (v. 12) and “putting on the Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 14) are synonymous. Both refer to adopting Christian values and a lifestyle that shines clearly for all to see, and that provides a barrier against the impulse of “the flesh, to gratify its desires” (v. 14). Here, the “flesh” refers not only to physical appetites but all the temptations of superficial, worldly existence, some of which he used as examples in verse 13. Like soldiers preparing for battle, the faithful “put on” Jesus Christ to ward off temptations and strengthen resolve. Paul’s intent, however, goes far beyond donning a mask or costume.

“Putting on the Lord Jesus Christ” is a discipline of the heart that transforms and strengthens the believing community to fulfill the law of love in daily life.

Central Ideas 1. To want good in another’s life (to love) carries with it a duty to work for that good.

2. Love underlies and supersedes all Jewish and Christian law because love does no wrong.

3. Christians are creatures of the light: open, transparent, glowing with love, awake, and ready for Christ’s return.

4. Adopting a Christ-centered lifestyle provides a barrier against the lure of superficial, self-centered values.

Questions for the Speaker 1. What debts do you owe to those you love most deeply? How do you perform those duties?

2. Do you agree with the idea that “love does no wrong”? Can you think of an exception? What is Paul saying?

3. How does your congregation show it is a community of light rather than darkness?

4. How do you deal with the paradox of being open and vulnerable as a form of protection against the world’s brokenness?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A Letters Ordinary Time, Proper 18 Romans 13:8–14 NRSV Gathering Welcome Ordinary Time is the Christian Calendar period from Pentecost to Advent. This time is without major festivals or holy days. During Ordinary Time we focus on our discipleship as individuals and as 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 Community of Christ Sings 379, “O for a World,”

by Miriam Therese Winter.

We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice that opens us to unity and gives our vision voice.

God of dreamers, thank you for hopes and dreams. It is a challenge to hope and dream; it is scary and requires us to be vulnerable. But as long as we dream of peace and what that means for our world, we can move! We can make those dreams happen! Thank you for those among us with peaceful, prophetic visions. Give them courage to call us into those visions. Give us courage to respond.

Each day, each choice is an opportunity to choose joy, hope, love, and peace. May our leaders be discerning in decisions, guiding us closer to shalom. May we, too, be thoughtful as we join in dreaming and restoring a world of peace.

In the name of Jesus, the Vision of the visionaries. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Dwelling in the Word

Today we will experience Dwelling in the Word as we focus on the Enduring Principle of Continuing Revelation.

I will read a scripture aloud. As you hear it, allow words, images, or phrases to come to your mind. Try not to focus on them. Let them rest in you. After a moment of silence, I will read

the excerpt a second time. As you hear the words again, listen for how God’s Spirit is nudging you or catching your attention.

Read the following excerpt from Exodus 3:13–15 NRSV: But Moses said to God, “If I come to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” He said further, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” God also said to Moses, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘The Lord, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you’: This is my name forever, and this my title for all generations.

Pause.

Read the passage a second time.

Pause.

Invite group members to share responses to these questions: 1. What words, phrases or images came to mind?

2. How do you sense God’s presence in this passage?

3. How is God revealing divine purpose in your life?

Sharing Around the Table Romans 13:8–14 NRSV

Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law.

Besides this, you know what time it is, how it now is the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone; the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us live honorably as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

In today’s scriptures we find counsel given to early believers regarding Christian behavior in everyday life.

Paul advises the Romans to avoid debt. The only debt they should incur is indebtedness that results from loving one another. In ancient times, a standard definition of love was this: Love is wishing only good for others, above all else. To want goodness for another carries a duty to work to make the wish for goodness active. Thus, it is impossible to love without being under the obligation (the debt) of love.

For centuries, rabbis and prophets debated which commandment was the greatest.

Various answers were proposed, quoting scriptures such as Micah 6:8, Amos 5:24, and Leviticus 19:2. Matthew, Mark, and Luke recorded Jesus’s answer, based on Deuteronomy 6:5: to love God completely is the primary commandment. The second-most important is to love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18). However, before any of the Gospels were written, Paul identified love as the law’s fulfillment, which testifies to the early knowledge of Jesus’s teaching about love.

Love does no wrong. Living love supersedes all other commandments. Although Paul continues to offer advice and urge ethical behavior, all else functions as examples of doing no wrong while standing under the debt of love.

Early Christians believed Christ would return soon, possibly within their lifetime. Paul encourages them to be prepared and alert—putting aside “works of darkness” and “living honorably in the day.”

Christians are creatures of the light: open, transparent, glowing with love and goodwill, awake and ready for Christ’s return. The faithful “put on” Jesus Christ to ward off temptations and strengthen resolve. Far beyond donning a mask or costume, to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” is a discipline of the heart that transforms and strengthens the believing community to fulfill the law of love in daily life.

Questions 1. What debts do you owe to those you love most deeply? How do you perform those duties?

2. How do you make “the wish for goodness” (love) active for God, self, and neighbor?

3. When have you made a conscious choice to live in light rather than darkness?

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.

This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: Discipling God, as we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to 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 CCS 226 “He Came Singing Love” Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group • •

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

• • •

You will need: construction paper with different shapes (large rectangles, small rectangles, small squares, large triangles) cut from different colors large piece of butcher paper with grass drawn on the bottom and “Love your Neighbor” written along the top in big letters. glue sticks

Say: Today, we are going to work together to create a neighborhood using these different shapes. You each can create a house that looks however you want. Once it is finished, you can attach it to our neighborhood paper along the grass.

Allow participants time to create the houses. As they work, comment on the choices that make each house special and different from the others.

If some participants finish sooner than others, allow them to work on another house to add to the neighborhood.

Once everyone has added their unique house to the neighborhood, say: In today’s scripture we are reminded that we should love our neighbors. Just like each house in our neighborhood looks different, each of our neighbors is different. These differences are important and make the world a better place. Regardless of how our neighbors differ from us, we still should love them.

Close with a prayer asking God to help us love our neighbors.

Worship Resources 17 September 2023

Ordinary Time (Proper 19) Heritage Day

Romans 14:1-12 We Belong to God Additional Scriptures Exodus 14:19-31, Psalm 114, Matthew 18:21-35, Doctrine and Covenants 163:10

Preparation Ask several people of varying ages to be ready to respond with testimonies for the Focus Moment.

Prelude Consider using “Heritage, Restoration” hymns found in the Topical Index of Community Christ Sings.

Welcome Call to Worship Psalm 114 This could be read in its entirety by one person OR individuals could read one verse each.

Heritage Hymn “Redeemer of Israel” CCS 388 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “Onward to Zion” CCS 390 OR “Lord, You Have Brought Us” CCS 76

Invocation Response Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer

Creator, We pause to come into your presence. We know you are already here; but, we are the ones who must clear away our clutter before we can experience that presence.

We speak of peace, but somehow, we do not fully understand; perhaps, because we cannot define it and fail to incorporate it into our actions or our very beings.

Yet, when we draw into your presence, we feel the peace we crave to wrap around ourselves and those we love. Perhaps gratitude for those moments keeps us from wondering how they happened. Perhaps we try to create those moments for others; perhaps we don’t remember that we have to let go of so much to be in your presence. We have pushed you away by rushing into our own understandings of peace.

So today, we pause to pray for peace. We need your grace to understand it and incorporate it into our beings, lives, and experiences.

Thank you for your presence, Amen.

-Pamela Carr, used with permission For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Hymn of Journey

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

“When We Are Living/Pues si vivimos” CCS 242/243 OR “There’s an Old, Old Path” CCS 244/245

Focus Moment Invite participants to share their stories of being part of Community of Christ. What is most important to them about Community of Christ? What experience(s) have they had that helped them know they belong to God? This can be facilitated in the large group or by dividing into small groups or pairs.

Disciples’ Generous Response Heritage Story Share this story about Joseph Smith III and Blessings of Community https://www.historicsitesfoundation.org/uploads/1/2/5/5/125573177/blessings_of_ community.pdf Statement The generosity of the Saints is part of our history. Joseph Smith III embodied this generosity, as well as the Worth of All Persons, even before he joined the Reorganization. We are a people that helped those in need in the past, we continue to be generous in the present, and we model this generosity so it will continue into the future.

During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding

mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

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.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes Hymn of Generosity to be sung as offering is received “As Saints of Old” CCS 620 OR “Brothers and Sisters of Mine” CCS 616 OR ”Take My Life, That I May Be/Toma, oh Dios, mi voluntad” CCS 610 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at CofChrist.org/spiritualpractices-generosity/.

Scripture Reading Romans 14:1-12

Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn "The God of Abraham Praise” OR “God of All Time” OR “In the Crossroads of the Moment”

CCS 94 CCS 270 CCS 170

Message Based on Romans 14:1-12

Closing Hymn

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

“The Spirit of God like a Fire Is Burning” CCS 384 OR “We Thank You, O God, for Our Prophets” CCS 180 OR “Lord, Who Views All People Precious” CCS 637

Benediction Sending Forth Doctrine and Covenants 163:10

Sung Response “God Be with You Till We Meet Again” OR “The Lord Bless You and Keep You”

Postlude

CCS 664 CCS 655

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Ordinary Time (Proper 19)

Romans 14:1-12 Exploring the Scripture Today’s text continues Paul’s teachings on living ethical, Christ-centered lives. Paul began by encouraging the Roman Christians to “welcome those who are weak in the faith, but not to quarrel over opinions.” The broad statement could easily be applied to a wide variety of issues that might challenge a follower of Jesus. Such could include a new convert’s ignorance or a lapse in a seasoned spiritual leader’s behavior. Paul quickly focused on a topic critical to the early Christian community’s faith and unity: food.

Various cultural taboos affected the eating behaviors of early Christians. Jews had strict dietary laws banning pork, shellfish, and combinations of foods, such as milk and meat. Besides, Jews were forbidden to eat meat that was sacrificed to a god other than YHWH but later was sold at the market. Certain sects of Roman and Jewish culture practiced diets that included more limits. Social standing dictated which foods a family could or could not afford. All these factors arose among Christian communities as they gathered to eat common meals. Judgments were pronounced or implied as people witnessed their neighbors’ eating habits.

Paul’s use of the term “the weak” can be problematic. Is someone who eats only vegetables “weak” because they pass judgment on meat-eaters? Or are they “weak” physically because of a lack of protein in their diet, or financially because they cannot afford meat? The intent is not clear. Possibly Paul referred to the “weak” as those who were governed by strict scruples, which took precedence in their lives over love and compassion for those who are different. Such division of opinion is not essential in a community that genuinely cares for one another.

More radical is Paul’s application of this principle to the Sabbath. Jewish Christians continued to hold the seventh day as more holy than the rest of the week. But Gentile Christians considered each day equal.

It was a point of conflict. As Paul pointed out, all days are days to give thanks, and all eating should be done with gratitude. Those who abstain from eating should also honor God and give thanks.

Self-centeredness must be replaced with God-centeredness. “If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s” (v. 8). This is a guarantee secured by Christ’s death and resurrection. He conquered both life and death and gave them willingly to God. As Christ’s followers, whatever we do, we belong to God. Community of Christ upholds this principle in our understanding of the sacrament of laying on of hands. Whatever the results of our petitions to God, we belong to God and can be assured of God’s love and grace.

In conclusion, Paul urged Christ’s followers to avoid judging one another. Each of us is accountable for our actions. Only God has the power and authority to judge. Finally, all will kneel before the Divine, all will praise God, and all will make their accountability to a God of love and grace as well as receive judgment.

Central Ideas 1. Diverse opinions or scruples are unimportant in a community that genuinely cares for one another if Christ’s love is the foundation.

2. Whether we live or whether we die, we belong to God. All our living and dying should be with gratitude and honor to God. 3. Christians are to avoid judging one another. Judgment is the privilege of God, who alone has the power and authority to judge humans.

Questions for the Speaker 1. What scruples in your life might cause you to judge unconsciously or consciously someone else?

How can you manage that human tendency?

2. When have you been fully aware that your life belonged to God? How did it feel? How did you respond in gratitude?

3. How do you currently find ways to honor God with your life? How can a person honor God with her or his death?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A Letters Ordinary Time, Proper 19 Romans 14:1–12 NRSV Gathering Welcome Ordinary Time is the Christian Calendar period from Pentecost to Advent. This time is without major festivals or holy days. During Ordinary Time we focus on our discipleship as individuals and as 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 Community of Christ Sings 330, “Summoned by the God Who Made Us” by Delores Dufner.

Let us bring the gifts that differ, and in splendid, varied ways, sing a new church into being, one in faith and love and praise.

Spirit of summons, we feel your pull. We feel your summons to work for peace. We feel it the way the honeybee feels the tug of the flower—we feel it in our bodies. Yet, we ignore it; we pretend it isn’t what deep inside we know it really is. We shrug it off as unrealistic and full of folly. It is too much. It is too naive. It is too hard.

But our community knows our mission—to use our varied gifts in harmony to sing a new church into the world, ever transforming, ever striving to be your peaceful beacon! We feel your pull. We accept your challenge to widen our circles.

In the name of Jesus, who binds us together in community. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Holy Listening

Today we are focusing on the Enduring Principle of All Are Called. We believe all people have gifts. We are given opportunities in community to share those with one another. By

practicing Holy Listening, we can learn more about how people are feeling called to share their giftedness in community and how we can support one another in those calls.

Ask the person next to you to join you in conversation. Find a spot in the room to get comfortable and face one another. You will take turns sharing your stories of how you sense the gifts God has given you and how you feel called to share those gifts. You each will have five minutes to share. During this time the listener will just listen and nod, but not comment. After the five minutes, the listener may respond with this one sentence. “I noticed that….”

Then switch places and repeat.

Before you start this exercise, please repeat this prayer with me: “Help me be wholly present to this human being.”

Start the timer. After five minutes remind the listeners to say their one-sentence response and then invite them to switch places.

Start the timer again.

When each person is done sharing, remind the listeners to say their one sentence.

In closing, ask the group to share reflections on this spiritual practice.

Sharing Around the Table Romans 14:1–12 NRSV

Welcome those who are weak in faith, but not for the purpose of quarreling over opinions. Some believe in eating anything, while the weak eat only vegetables. Those who eat must not despise those who abstain, and those who abstain must not pass judgment on those who eat; for God has welcomed them. Who are you to pass judgment on servants of another? It is before their own lord that they stand or fall. And they will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make them stand.

Some judge one day to be better than another, while others judge all days to be alike.

Let all be fully convinced in their own minds. Those who observe the day, observe it in honor of the Lord. Also those who eat, eat in honor of the Lord, since they give thanks to God; while those who abstain, abstain in honor of the Lord and give thanks to God. We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, so that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.

Why do you pass judgment on your brother or sister? Or you, why do you despise your brother or sister? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. For it is written, “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.” So then, each of us will be accountable to God. Today’s text continues Paul’s teachings on living ethical, Christ-centered lives. Too often in the church, we find ourselves in conflict over issues that are insignificant in the greater scheme of things—especially our call to participate in Christ’s mission. Divisions over everything from appropriate dress to the color of the carpet and the right way to pray can create stumbling blocks to the real purposes of the gathered community. The same apparently was true

for the church in Rome, where a new faith community—representing a wide variety of traditions, ideas, perspectives, moral codes, and the like—was forming.

Even the opening words of this passage, “welcome those who are weak in the faith,” could be a source of debate. Who, after all, are those weak in the faith? The call to welcome the “weak” is a broad statement that easily could be applied to a wide variety of issues challenging a follower of Jesus. Weak in the faith could include a new convert’s ignorance or a lapse in a seasoned spiritual leader’s behavior.

The foods we eat, the ways we pray and worship, the clothes we wear, how we experience God, and even the ways we refer to God are unique and individual…not necessarily right or wrong. Paul reminds the budding Christian community in Rome to put aside disagreements and differences that lead to judgment and division. Like us, the Romans were reminded to focus on what matters most…“we are the Lord’s” called to live Christ’s mission. As such, we are called to welcome and care for others despite our differences.

Our Enduring Principle of Unity in Diversity does not call us to sameness; rather it invites us to celebrate our differences, experience the richness that comes from a variety of perspectives and life journeys, and grow in our discipleship.

Questions 1. When have you found yourself judging someone else, unconsciously or consciously?

2. How has your understanding of God grown through exposure to the culture, traditions, or perspectives of someone else?

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.

This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: Discipling God, as we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to 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 CCS 242, “When We Are Living”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group • •

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children If you do not have an outdoor space, you will need a recording of the sounds from a natural space, such as a rainforest.

Today’s scripture reminds us that all creation can praise God. That means animals, plants, and other natural things have ways to praise God, though they can’t use words like we do.

Today, we are going to try a spiritual practice that will help us hear the praise that creation gives to God. If you have access to outdoor space: Lead participants outside. Invite them to find a comfortable place to sit and close their eyes.

Have them take three deep breaths and quiet their bodies. Ask them to listen quietly to the sounds of nature around them and see if they can hear how creation praises God. If you are playing a recording of nature sounds: Invite participants to find a comfortable place to sit and close their eyes. Have them take three deep breaths and quiet their bodies. Ask them to listen quietly to the sounds of nature you play and see if they can hear how creation praises God. After a period, invite everyone back together. Allow them to share how they heard creation sing praises to God.

Worship Resources 24 September 2023

Ordinary Time (Proper 20)

Philippians 1:21-30 Strive for Oneness Additional Scriptures Exodus 16:2-15; Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45; Matthew 20:1-16; Doctrine and Covenants 164:6a

Prelude Welcome Call to Worship Psalm 105:1-5, 45b

Hymn of Gathering “God of Grace and God of Glory” CCS 624 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “Rejoice Ye Saint of Latter Days” CCS 81 OR “Lord Jesus, of You I Will Sing/Jésus, je voudrais te chanter” CCS 556/557 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Invocation Response Focus Moment Read the storybook, We’re Different, We’re the Same (Sesame Street) by Bobbi Kates and Joe Mathieu. Random House Books for Young Readers, ©1992. ISBN9780679832270.

Who better than Elmo and his Sesame Street friends to teach us that though we may all look different on the outside – deep down, we are all very much alike?

Follow the story with this Activity. If the storybook is not used, proceed to the Activity.

Activity Ask for volunteers to strike a superhero pose and share one special thing about themselves. After each one shares, ask the congregation to respond, “You are unique!”

Have a group of volunteers stand side by side. Be sure to include diverse representation from the congregation. Facilitate a discussion of: In what ways are these people the same?

In what ways are these people different?

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 164:6a Conclusion Community of Christ is a diverse, international family of disciples that embraces diversity and unity through the power of the Holy Spirit. The world needs all kinds of people. We all are wonderful.

Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer God of Grace and Love, Be with us this day as we pray in your name for peace for our community and our world. As we enter this time of reflection and prayer, we are reminded that you have given us the gift of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is through him that we learn how to live, how to love, and how to work in community. Jesus spent his time with the people who never knew true peace and love. It was through him and his courage that people were inspired to spread love into this world for over two thousand years.

Our journey of peace and love is long and often arduous, but if we turn our eyes and hearts to the temple, not as a building, but as a symbol of love and care, our path to you, O God is clear.

Jesus Christ, the Peaceful One, be with us here and now. Inspire us to do great things and to be with those who need us most. Remind us that even though we come from different places and speak different languages, our hearts beat as one, united creation. Bless our Unity in our Diversity.

God, you are constantly inviting us to see the world as you see it - one family, one global community, united actions of love. Allow us to truly live those words of our mission prayer and grant us the courage to risk something new and to become a blessing of your welfare and peace.

In your Son’s name, Amen.

-Humberto Tinsman, used with permission For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Scripture Reading Philippians 1:21-30

Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn “All Are Welcome”

CCS 276

OR “We Need Each Other’s Voice to Sing” CCS 324 OR “Sing of Colors/De colores” CCS 332 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Message Based on Philippians 1:21-30

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement All four of today’s Bible lectionary texts show us how generous and loving God is. The Exodus story tells of God feeding those wandering travelers with manna and quail. The Psalm praises God for that gift and for the attention God showed the Israelites during the Exodus. In the Gospel, Jesus’ parable of the workers in the vineyard illustrates a God who embraces all. In Paul’s letter, he explains that God is working and wants us to join in the work.

Our response to God’s generous love is to respond with joyful hearts. One way to do this is to offer love and grace by serving others and letting generosity become part of our nature.

During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

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.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at CofChrist.org/spiritualpractices-generosity/.

Closing Hymn “The Trees of the Field” sing at least twice CCS 645 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “Listen for the Call of God” CCS 343 OR “Kanisa Litajengwa/Oh, Who Will Build the Church Now?” CCS 338

Pastoral Prayer for Oneness Response Postlude

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Ordinary Time (Proper 20)

Philippians 1:21-30 Exploring the Scripture Philippi was a small Roman city in Macedonia (now called Kavala in the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region of Greece), which had few Jewish residents. Paul was successful in baptizing several Greek and Roman Gentiles as followers of Christ. His letter to the Philippians reveals his love for the disciples and their enthusiastic support for Paul financially and personally.

Scholars agree that Paul wrote Philippians from prison, where he faced a capital charge and the possibility of execution. One of his purposes for writing was to assure his friends that he was well, strong in the faith, and committed to the gospel, regardless of personal consequences. His assurance of well-being turned into an assurance the gospel was prospering regardless of Paul’s imprisonment. “For to me, living is Christ, and dying is gain” (v. 21).

Does “…living is Christ” represent a mystical spirituality or advocacy for action? It is both. At its deepest level, genuine spiritual practice leads us to discern God’s work in the world and take part. In Christ, Paul found his spiritual identity and his purpose in life: making Christ visible through his words, actions, and decisions.

Paul wrote that if he survives his imprisonment, it will allow him to continue the work God has called him to do. If not, he will unite with Christ in death, a result for which he longs. Even as he struggled between the two conflicting wishes, he reassured the Philippians that he hoped to share with them again in mutual joy.

Paul turned his statement of reassurance and continued support into a challenge. “Only, live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (v. 27), regardless of the result of Paul’s imprisonment. He assured them that he would know if they are standing firm in the spirit, in unity, in faithfulness, and with courage in the face of opponents. In Philippi, Christians faced ostracism and persecution. Like Paul, they paid a high price for their faithful discipleship (v. 30), but they considered it a gracious gift to be allowed to suffer for the faith. Paul’s struggle between wishing for life or death was their struggle as well. His words encouraged them toward life.

As we face multiple crises, some wonder if death would be preferable to the continued struggle of coping with an ever-changing, divisive, often violent world. Some religious groups proclaim that Christians should abandon this world and retreat into isolation until God calls them home. Others choose to act compassionately to make a difference wherever they are.

Community of Christ continues to affirm that God is at work in the world, and our task is to discern where that activity occurs in everyday life. We are called to share in God’s work, not abandon it. Like Paul, we find our purpose in supporting one another, building community, and standing firm against opponents of Christ and God’s kingdom. Live so Christ may be seen through you. Speak so Christ may be heard through you. And act to support and help those whom Christ’s love enfolds when no one else cares.

Central Ideas 1. Paul struggled between wishing for death to unite with Christ or choose life to fulfill the work God called him to do.

2. In Christ, Paul found both his spiritual identity and his purpose for living.

3. Genuine spiritual practice, at its deepest level, leads us to advocacy and action.

4. Paul considered it a privilege to pay a high price for faithful life as a disciple.

5. Community of Christ affirms God’s action in the world and calls us to join in.

Questions for the Speaker 1. “For to me, living is …” What? How would you finish that statement based on your lifestyle choices and activities?

2. How have you suffered for the sake of the gospel?

3. How do you read the signs of the times? How are the crises of our day denying worth and relief to the most vulnerable among us?

4. How do you understand God’s priorities and desires for humankind?

5. Where is God’s Spirit leading us to respond?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A Letters Ordinary Time, Proper 20 Philippians 1:21–30 NRSV Gathering Welcome

Ordinary Time is the Christian calendar period from Pentecost to Advent. This part of the Christian calendar is without major festivals or holy days. During Ordinary Time we focus on our discipleship as individuals and as 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 Community of Christ Sings 581, “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me,” an African-American spiritual.

Anytime and anywhere.

Stirring Spirit, the yearning for peace comes to us at many times and in many places. It is like the changing of seasons: a sprout of green spotted in the morning frost. The first snowflake in the dark of midnight. The cool breeze kissing the face of a sleeping child.

We learn to watch for these moments and to treasure them as they come and go, ephemeral. We watch with our eyes and our ears; we watch with our hands and our souls.

May we also learn to watch for the moments when we can act for the good of humanity.

Anytime and anywhere—these moments may be as brief as a breeze, but our actions can impact a lifetime.

We pray you would bring a season of peace to our lands. We pray that peace would flood our valleys and stir the branches of our trees. That peace would warm our toes and compel our inert hearts to move. We pray that we would live in your peace, and from your peace, and for your peace. Anytime. Anywhere.

In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Discernment through Contemplative Prayer

Enduring Principles are a foundation of Community of Christ. Today we are focusing on the Enduring Principle of Responsible Choices.

We find stories in our scriptures of people reflecting on their history and seeing God’s hand in all of it. When we pause to discern God’s presence in our lives, we can see the divine hand throughout. We can discern Responsible Choices in our lives. One way to help us discern is through contemplative prayer.

Contemplative prayer is a method of meditation used by Christians to sit in silence with God. This prayer helps us experience God’s presence within us. When we get quiet and listen to our heart, we can discern where God is calling us.

Choose a word or phrase of your intent to make Responsible Choices.

Sit comfortably, with your eyes closed and repeat your word slowly and silently.

When you become aware of thoughts, physical sensations, or emotions, allow them to pass and return gently to your word or phrase.

We will continue this practice for three minutes.

Ring a chime to start the meditation. After three minutes ring a chime to end the meditation.

Now we will sit in silence for three minutes to see what comes to us in the silence.

Ring a chime to end the silence.

Invite the group to share its experiences with this spiritual practice.

Sharing Around the Table Philippians 1:21–30 NRSV

For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which I prefer. I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith, so that I may share abundantly in your boasting in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.

Only, live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or am absent and hear about you, I will know that you are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel, and are in no way intimidated by your opponents. For them, this is evidence of their destruction, but of your salvation. And this is God’s doing. For he has graciously granted you the privilege not only of believing in Christ, but of suffering for him as well—since you are having the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I still have.

Philippi was a small Roman city in Macedonia with few Jewish residents. Paul successfully baptized several Greek and Roman Gentiles as followers of Christ. His letter to the Philippians reveals his love for the disciples and their enthusiastic support for Paul financially and personally.

Through Paul’s words, “…living is Christ and dying is gain,” an interesting question is raised. Does “living in Christ” represent a mystical spirituality or advocacy for action? It is both.

At its deepest level, genuine spiritual practice leads us to discern God’s work in the world and take part. In Christ, Paul found his spiritual identity and his purpose in life: making Christ visible through his words, actions, and decisions.

Paul knew that if he survived his imprisonment, it would allow him to continue the work God called him to do. If not, he would unite with Christ in death, a result for which he longed.

Yet, even as he struggled between the conflicting wishes, he reassured the Philippians that he hoped to share with them again in mutual joy.

As we face multiple crises, some wonder if giving up (death) would be preferable to the continued struggle of coping with an ever-changing, divisive, often-violent world. Some religious groups proclaim Christians should abandon this world and retreat into isolation until God calls them home. Others choose to act compassionately to make a difference wherever they are.

Community of Christ continues to affirm that God is working in the world, and our task is to discern where that activity occurs in everyday life. We are called to share in God’s work, not abandon it. Like Paul, we find our purpose in supporting one another, building community, and standing firm against opponents of Christ and God’s kingdom.

Questions 1. How would you finish this statement based on your lifestyle choices and activities? Living for Christ means…

2. What are the crises of our day that oppress or ignore the most vulnerable among us?

3. How do you understand God’s priorities and desires for humankind?

4. How is God’s Spirit leading you to respond?

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.

This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: Discipling God, as we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to 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 CCS 359, “We Are One in the Spirit”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group • •

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

• • • • •

You will need: string branches vase paper leaves or circles coloring supplies

In today’s scripture, we read about the Apostle Paul, who was devoted to Christ’s mission and used his life to share Christ’s love in the world. Paul lived the gospel as a way of life, and he modeled God’s love to lots of people.

Ask: Has someone modeled God’s love to you?

Set up a small “tree.” (It can be made of branches arranged in a vase.)

Say: This is our “family tree.”

Give participants pencils and small paper circles, about two inches/five centimeters in diameter with a string or yarn sewn through one end to hang on the tree. Ask them to draw a portrait of someone who makes them feel welcome in Community of Christ or has been an inspiration in living the gospel. Then ask each person to bring his or her small portrait to tie onto a branch.

Depending on time, you may have participants give the name of the person or tell why the person is special to them. Offer a prayer of thankfulness for those who have carried the gospel forward into each of our lives.

Close with a prayer asking that we all might be models of God’s love in the world.

Adapted from Scripture Based Focus Moments www.heraldhouse.org/search?q=focus+moment