Welcome to the Sunday Gathering recap (songs, hymns, liturgy and sermon). This blog gives you an opportunity to reflect on what you heard in the gathering or catch up if you weren’t able to be with us.
*The indented sections are responses read aloud by the congregation during the Gathering
MICAH 3
CALL TO WORSHIP
I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name.
The LORD reigns forever, executing judgment from his throne. He will judge the world with justice and rule the nations with fairness.
The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
Sing praises to the LORD who reigns. Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds.
(Based on Psalm 9:1-11)
Song: O For A Thousand Tongues
Song: This is Amazing Grace
CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE
We've already heard that God is a compassionate God, we've just sung that he rules with truth and justice. When we're reminded of God's character, we realise how far short we fall from his standards. Instead of looking to serve those in need, we use our time, money and resources for selfish gain. Often our selfishness causes hurt and harm to others rather good. Take a moment to reflect on that now, to confess these ways before God...
Father God, forgive us for using the good gifts you have given us to serve ourselves rather than others. Help us to see the needs of those around us and use all that we have to meet them. Forgive us when our selfishness causes harm to others. Remind us of your generosity, shown to us in Christ, when he gave himself up for us. Help us to show that generosity towards others in how we love and care for them. Amen.
Song: Shine into our Night
PASSING OF THE PEACE
PREACHING OF THE WORD
Alex Passmore preached from God’s word to us this Sunday from Micah 3. Click here to listen to that sermon.
COMMUNION
Every week we want to respond to what God has done for us in Jesus. One of the great ways he has provided for us to remember the truth of the gospel is giving us communion. As we take the bread and wine we remember what Jesus has done for us.
POST COMMUNION READING
Jesus’ death brings us life and this meal reminds us that we are fed by Jesus and forgiven because of Jesus.
We rejoice that You have died, rose again, and are now with the Father advocating for us. Amen.
With our money, time, and talent we give generously, knowing that through Your Son, Jesus, You have generously given to us.
We rejoice that You have given everything and we joyfully give everything back to Your care. Amen.
Song: When I Survey
Song: Before the Throne of God Above
COMMITMENT READING
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.
He was in the form of God, but did not count equality with God something to be grasped. He emptied himself, taking on the form of a servant and humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
(Based on Philippians 2:3-8)
Song: The Lion and the Lamb
BENEDICTION
May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
Peace be with you.
And also with you.