Contemplative Service of Word and Prayer
February 8, 2023
Welcome to worship this evening with Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. During this liturgical season of “Time after Epiphany” or “Ordinary Time,” we gather in worship mid-week during our ordinary daily life to contemplate our divine God who became human, appearing in flesh among us.
This service of spoken word follows the liturgy from All Creation Sings God’s word, voices of contemporary contemplatives, personal silent reflection, and prayer is the heart of this contemplative service. Throughout the service, we will observe time of silence together. Silence makes room to breathe deeply, time to still the heart and quiet restless thoughts, and, a place to listen and rest in the presence of God, “like a child upon its mother’s breast” (Psalm 131:2). Some times of silence will last no longer than a deep breath; some will be more spacious. A handbell or singing bowl may be rung to mark them.
We begin worship together in silence and in the unhurried pace of prayer.
GATHERING
The Holy Spirit gathers us into a community of prayer. Gather in silence.
GREETING
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. | And also with you.
OPENING PRAYER
Let us pray.
O God of Wisdom, source of life, you transform all things, foolishness into wisdom, weakness into strength, sorrows into joy. Embolden us to proclaim to this generation the joy we have in Jesus as our ancestors before us. Help us rely not on our own understanding, but on your wisdom and strength through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. | Amen.
CONTEMPLATIVE VOICE: AMANDA GORMAN
Powerful quote from The Hill We Climb
“There is always light, if only your brave enough to see it. If only your brave enough to be it.” possibly prevail over us?” “The hill we climb, if only we dare it: Because being American is more than a pride we inherit—It's the past we step into, and how we repair it.”
WORD
God speaks to us in scripture reading, silence, reflection, and song.
THE READING Psalm 112:1-9
1Praise the LORD!
Happy are those who fear the LORD, who greatly delight in his commandments.
2Their descendants will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.
3Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.
4They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright; they are gracious, merciful, and righteous.
5It is well with those who deal generously and lend, who conduct their affairs with justice.
6For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered forever.
7They are not afraid of evil tidings; their hearts are firm, secure in the LORD.
8Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.
9They have distributed freely, they have given to the poor; their righteousness endures forever; their horn is exalted in honor.
HOMILY Pastor Ron BonnerSILENCE
Silence concludes with a bowl chime
PRAYER
The Holy Spirit prays with us and through us.
INVITATION TO PRAYER
In peace, we pray to you, Lord God.
Silence ended with a bowl chime
For all people in their daily life and work; For our families, friends, and neighbors, and for those who are alone.
For this community, the nation, and the world; For all who work for justice, freedom, and peace.
For the just and proper use of your creation; For the victims of hunger, fear, injustice, and oppression.
For all who are in danger, sorrow, or any kind of trouble;
For those who minister to the sick, the friendless, and the needy.
For the peace and unity of the Church of God; For all who proclaim the Gospel, and all who seek the Truth.
For Elizabeth Eaton, our Presiding Bishop, and Kevin Strickland, our Bishop; and for all bishops and other ministers; For all who serve God in his Church.
For the special needs and concerns of this congregation.
The People may add their own petitions
Hear us, Lord;
For your mercy is great.
We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life. The People may add their own thanksgivings
We will exalt you, O God our King; And praise your Name for ever and ever.
We pray for all who have died, that they may have a place in your eternal kingdom.
The People may add their own petitions
Lord, let your loving-kindness be upon them; Who put their trust in you.
Silence ended with a bowl chime
O Lord our God, accept the fervent prayers of your people; in the multitude of your mercies, look with compassion upon us and all who turn to you for help; for you are gracious, O lover of souls, and to you we give glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and forever.
Amen.
LORD’S PRAYER
Gathered into one by the Holy Spirit, let us pray as Jesus taught us.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.
SENDING
God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
