Join us for a virtual Sunday worship service. Community Church of Fontana is part of the United Church of Christ. All are welcome.
Episode 78: Who Is This Jesus? Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 19, Mark 8:27-38 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Fairest Lord Jesus Author: Joseph A. Seiss (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Fairest Lord Jesus, Ruler of all nature, O Thou of God and man the Son, Thee will I cherish, Thee will I honor, Thou, my soul's glory, joy and crown. Fair are the meadows, fairer still the woodlands, Robed in the blooming garb of spring; Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer, Who makes the woeful heart to sing. Fair is the sunshine, fairer still the moonlight, And all the twinkling starry host; Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer Than all the angels heaven can boast. All fairest beauty, heavenly and earthly, Wondrously, Jesus, is found in Thee; None can be nearer, fairer or dearer, Than Thou, my Savior, art to me. Beautiful Savior! Lord of all the nations! Son of God and Son of Man! Glory and honor, praise, adoration, Now and forever more be Thine. Beautiful Savior, King of Creation Son of God and Son of Man! Truly I'd love Thee, truly I'd serve Thee, Light of my soul, my joy, my crown. Fair are the meadows, Fair are the woodlands, Robed in the flowers of blooming spring; Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer, He makes our sorrowing spirit sing. Fair is the sunshine, Fair is the moonlight, Bright the sparkling stars on high; Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer Than all the angels in the sky. Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations, Son of God and Son of Man! Glory and honor, Praise, adoration Now and forevermore be Thine!
Episode 77: If a tree falls Something a little different today. Reverend Ruth is away on vacation this week, so instead of our regular podcast, we have a question for you. Who are you? We know that people are out there listening to our podcast, but we don't know who or where you are. You might be part of our congregation listening from home due to Covid. You might be a member or friend who lives too far away to join us for services. Or you may be someone who found us online and has become a regular listener. Whoever you are, we would like to hear from you. Let us know what you love about the podcast, why you listen, and what you would change if you could. You can reach us by sending an email to podcast@communitychurchoffontana.org, or by calling the church office at 262-275-2808. We look forward to hearing from you. Here I Am, Lord by Dan Schutte (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry. All who dwell in darkness now My hand will save. I who make the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright. Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send? Here I am, Lord. It is I Lord. I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, where you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart. I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people's pain. I have wept for love of them. They turn away. I will break their hearts of stone, Give them hearts for love alone. I will speak my words to them. Whom shall I send? Here I am, Lord. It is I Lord. I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, where you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart. I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame. I will set a feast for them. My hand will save. Finest bread I will provide, Till their hearts be satisfied. I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? Here I am, Lord. It is I Lord. I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, where you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart. Words & Music: Daniel L Schutte. © 1981 OCP Publications. Music licensed through mymidi.audo.
Episode 76: God's P.O. Box Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 84, 1 Kings 8:1,6,10,11,22-30,41-43 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: I Love Your Church, O God Author: Timothy Dwight (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) I love your church, O Lord! Her saints before you stand, dear as the apple of your eye and graven on your hand. Beyond my highest joy I prize her heavenly ways, her sweet communion, solemn vows, her hymns of love and praise. I love your church, O God, the people you have called, the church our blest Redeemer saved with his own precious blood.
Episode 75: Mind and Heart Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 111, 1 Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Open My Eyes, That I May See Author: Clara H. Scott (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Open my eyes, that I may see Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me; Place in my hands the wonderful key That shall unclasp and set me free. Refrain: Silently now I wait for Thee, Ready my God, Thy will to see, Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine! Open my ears, that I may hear Voices of truth Thou sendest clear; And while the wave notes fall on my ear, Everything false will disappear. Refrain Open my mouth, and let me bear, Gladly the warm truth everywhere; Open my heart and let me prepare Love with Thy children thus to share. Refrain
Episode 74: One Little Word Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Ephesians 4:25-5:2, John 6:35, 41-51 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Love divine, all loves excelling Author: Charles Wesley (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Love divine, all loves excelling, Joy of heaven to earth come down; Fix in us thy humble dwelling; All thy faithful mercies crown! Jesus, Thou art all compassion, Pure unbounded love Thou art; Visit us with Thy salvation; Enter every trembling heart. Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit, Into every troubled breast! Let us all in Thee inherit; Let us find that second rest. Take away our bent to sinning; Alpha and Omega be; End of faith, as its Beginning, Set our hearts at liberty. Come, Almighty to deliver, Let us all Thy life receive; Suddenly return and never, Never more Thy temples leave. Thee we would be always blessing, Serve Thee as Thy hosts above, Pray and praise Thee without ceasing, Glory in Thy perfect love. Finish, then, Thy new creation; Pure and spotless let us be. Let us see Thy great salvation Perfectly restored in Thee; Changed from glory into glory, Till in heaven we take our place, Till we cast our crowns before Thee, Lost in wonder, love, and praise.
Episode 73: Bread for Thought Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15, John 6:24-35 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Let Us Break Bread Together Author: Unknown (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me.
Episode 72: An Offering of Presence Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 145:10-18, John 6:1-21 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: What a friend we have in Jesus Author: Joseph M. Scriven Alternative lyrics from Hymns for Today's Church (2nd ed.) (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! what a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Have we trials and temptations, is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged: take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness — take it to the Lord in prayer. Are we weak and heavy-laden, burdened with a load of care? Jesus is our mighty saviour: he will listen to our prayer. Do your friends despise, forsake you? take it to the Lord in prayer; in his arms he will enfold you and his love will shield you there.
Episode 71: The Household of God Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Ephesians 2: 11-22, Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: We Are One in the Spirit Author: Peter Scholtes (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) We Are One In The Spirit We Are One In The Lord And We Pray That All Unity May One Day Be Restored And They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love, By Our Love; Yes, They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love! We Will Walk With Each Other We Will Walk Hand In Hand And Together We Will Spread The News, That God Is In Our Land And They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love, By Our Love; Yes, They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love! We Will Work With Each Other We Will Work Side By Side And We'll Guard Each Man's Dignity, And Save Each Man's Pride. And They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love, By Our Love; Yes, They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love!
Episode 70: Where is the Good News? Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 23, Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: It Is Well With My Soul Author: Horatio G. Spafford (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul. Refrain It is well, with my soul, It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well, with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul. Refrain My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! Refrain For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live: If Jordan above me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul. Refrain But, Lord, ‘tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait, The sky, not the grave, is our goal; Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord! Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul! Refrain And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, Even so, it is well with my soul. Refrain
Episode 69: Rejection in Nazareth: Plan B Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Mark 6:1-13 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Let Us Break Bread Together Author: Unknown (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me.
Episode 68: In Search of Healing Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 130, Mark 6:1-13 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: There is a balm in Gilead African-American spiritual (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Refrain: There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole. There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sinsick soul. Sometimes I feel discouraged, and think my work's in vain, but then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again. (Refrain) Don't ever feel discouraged, for Jesus is your friend, who, if you ask for knowledge, will never fail to lend. (Refrain) If you cannot preach like Peter, if you cannot pray like Paul, you can tell the love of Jesus, who died to save us all. (Refrain)
Episode 67: The Other Side Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32; Mark 4:35-41 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: When the storms of life are raging Author: Charles Albert Tindley (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) When the storms of life are raging, Stand by me (stand by me); When the storms of life are raging, Stand by me (stand by me); When the world is tossing me Like a ship upon the sea, Thou Who rulest wind and water, Stand by me (stand by me). In the midst of tribulation, Stand by me (stand by me); In the midst of tribulation, Stand by me (stand by me); When the hosts of hell assail, And my strength begins to fail, Thou Who never lost a battle, Stand by me (stand by me). In the midst of faults and failures, Stand by me (stand by me); In the midst of faults and failures, Stand by me (stand by me); When I do the best I can, And my friends misunderstand, Thou Who knowest all about me, Stand by me (stand by me). In the midst of persecution, Stand by me (stand by me); In the midst of persecution, Stand by me (stand by me); When my foes in battle array Undertake to stop my way, Thou Who savèd Paul and Silas, Stand by me (stand by me). When I'm growing old and feeble, Stand by me (stand by me); When I'm growing old and feeble, Stand by me (stand by me); When my life becomes a burden, And I'm nearing chilly Jordan, O Thou “Lily of the Valley,” Stand by me (stand by me)
Episode 66: God At Work Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15, Mark 4:26-34 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Sent forth by God's blessing Author: Omer Westendorf (1917-1997) (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Sent forth by God's blessing, Our true faith confessing, The people of God from His dwelling take leave. The Supper is ended. O now be extended The fruits of this service in all who believe. The seed of His teaching, Receptive souls reaching, Shall blossom in action for God and for all. His grace did invite us, His love shall unite us To work for God's kingdom and answer His call. With praise and thanksgiving To God ever-living, The tasks of our ev'ryday life we will face. Our faith ever sharing, In love ever caring, Embracing His children of each tribe and race. With Your feast You feed us, With Your light now lead us; Unite us as one in this life that we share. Then may all the living With praise and thanksgiving Give honor to Christ and His name that we bear.
Episode 65: Standing Outside Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 138, Mark 3:20-35 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Let Us Break Bread Together Author: Unknown (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me.
Episode 64: Judge Not Order of the Service – Welcome – Memorial Day Remembrance – Scripture Readings: Isaiah 6: 1-8, John 3: 1-17 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Holy Holy Holy Author: Reginald Heber (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessèd Trinity! Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore Thee, Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee, Who was, and is, and evermore shall be. Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee, Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see; Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee, Perfect in power, in love, and purity. Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! All Thy works shall praise Thy Name, in earth, and sky, and sea; Holy, holy, holy; merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessèd Trinity!
Episode 63: All Good Gifts Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 104: 24-34, 35b, Act 2: 1-21 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: We plough the fields, and scatter Author: Matthias Claudius (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) We plow the fields, and scatter the good seed on the land, But it is fed and watered by God's almighty hand; He sends the snow in winter, the warmth to swell the grain, The breezes and the sunshine, and soft refreshing rain. Refrain All good gifts around us Are sent from heaven above, Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord For all His love. He only is the Maker of all things near and far; He paints the wayside flower, He lights the evening star; The winds and waves obey Him, by Him the birds are fed; Much more to us, His children, He gives our daily bread. Refrain We thank Thee, then, O Father, for all things bright and good, The seed time and the harvest, our life, our health, and food; No gifts have we to offer, for all Thy love imparts, But that which Thou desirest, our humble, thankful hearts. Refrain
Episode 62: Prayer of the High Priest Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 1, John 17:6-19 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Sweet Hour of Prayer! Author: William Walford (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! That calls me from a world of care, And bids me at my Father's throne Make all my wants and wishes known. In seasons of distress and grief, My soul has often found relief And oft escaped the tempter's snare By thy return, sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! The joys I feel, the bliss I share, Of those whose anxious spirits burn With strong desires for thy return! With such I hasten to the place Where God my Savior shows His face, And gladly take my station there, And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! Thy wings shall my petition bear To Him whose truth and faithfulness Engage the waiting soul to bless. And since He bids me seek His face, Believe His Word and trust His grace, I'll cast on Him my every care, And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! May I thy consolation share, Till, from Mount Pisgah's lofty height, I view my home and take my flight: This robe of flesh I'll drop and rise To seize the everlasting prize; And shout, while passing through the air, "Farewell, farewell, sweet hour of prayer!"
Episode 61: Children of God Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: What a friend we have in Jesus Author: Joseph M. Scriven Alternative lyrics from Hymns for Today's Church (2nd ed.) (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! what a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Have we trials and temptations, is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged: take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness — take it to the Lord in prayer. Are we weak and heavy-laden, burdened with a load of care? Jesus is our mighty saviour: he will listen to our prayer. Do your friends despise, forsake you? take it to the Lord in prayer; in his arms he will enfold you and his love will shield you there.
Episode 60: The Ends of the Earth Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 22:25-31, Acts 8:26-40 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Let Us Break Bread Together Author: Unknown (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me.
Episode 56: He Is Not Here Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 118: 1-2, 14-24, Mark 16: 1-8 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Jesus Christ is Risen Today Author: Latin 14th Century (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia! our triumphant holy day, Alleluia! who did once upon the cross, Alleluia! suffer to redeem our loss. Alleluia! Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia! unto Christ, our heavenly King, Alleluia! who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia! sinners to redeem and save. Alleluia! But the pains which he endured, Alleluia! our salvation have procured, Alleluia! now above the sky he's King, Alleluia! where the angels ever sing. Alleluia! Sing we to our God above, Alleluia! Praise eternal as his love; Alleluia! Praise him, all ye heav'nly host, Alleluia! Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Alleluia!
Episode 55: The Untriumphal Entry Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 118: 1-2, 19-29, Mark 11: 1-11 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: All Glory, Laud, and Honor Author: Theodulph of Orleans (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Refrain All glory, laud and honor, To Thee, Redeemer, King, To Whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring. Thou art the King of Israel, Thou David's royal Son, Who in the Lord's Name comest, The King and Blessèd One. Refrain The company of angels Are praising Thee on High, And mortal men and all things Created make reply. Refrain The people of the Hebrews With palms before Thee went; Our prayer and praise and anthems Before Thee we present. Refrain To Thee, before Thy passion, They sang their hymns of praise; To Thee, now high exalted, Our melody we raise. Refrain Thou didst accept their praises; Accept the prayers we bring, Who in all good delightest, Thou good and gracious King. Refrain Be Thou, O Lord, the Rider, And we the little ass, That to God's holy city Together we may pass.
Episode 54: We Wish to See Jesus Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Jeremiah 31: 31-34, John 12: 20-33 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Give Me Jesus Author: African American Spiritual (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) In the morning when I rise, In the morning when I rise, In the morning when I rise, Give me Jesus. Refrain Give me Jesus, Give me Jesus You may have all the rest, Give me Jesus. Dark midnight was my cry, Dark midnight was my cry, Dark midnight was my cry, Give me Jesus. Refrain Just about the break of day, Just about the break of day, Just about the break of day, Give me Jesus. Refrain Oh, when I come to die, Oh, when I come to die, Oh, when I come to die, Give me Jesus. Refrain And when I want to sing, And when I want to sing, And when I want to sing, Give me Jesus. Refrain
Episode 53: Everlasting Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Numbers 21: 4-9, John 3: 14-21 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: God So Loved the World Author: John Stainer (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) God so loved the world. God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoso believeth, believeth in Him should not perish, should not perish but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world. God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. God so loved the world. God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoso believeth, believeth in Him should not perish, should not perish but have everlasting life, everlasting life, everlasting, everlasting life. God so loved the world. God so loved the world. God so loved the world.
Episode 52: Be the Church Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 19, John 2: 13-22 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Let Us Break Bread Together Author: Unknown (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me.
Episode 51: Seasons of Sacrifice Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 22: 23-31, Mark 8: 31-38 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: In the Cross of Christ I Glory Author: John Bowring (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) In the cross of Christ I glory, Towering o'er the wrecks of time; All the light of sacred story Gathers round its head sublime. When the woes of life o'ertake me, Hopes deceive, and fears annoy, Never shall the cross forsake me, Lo! it glows with peace and joy. When the sun of bliss is beaming Light and love upon my way, From the cross the radiance streaming Adds more luster to the day. Bane and blessing, pain and pleasure, By the cross are sanctified; Peace is there that knows no measure, Joys that through all time abide. In the cross of Christ I glory, Towering o'er the wrecks of time; All the light of sacred story Gathers round its head sublime.
Episode 50: Giving Up Lent for Lent Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 25:1-10, Mark 1: 9-15 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: When the storms of life are raging Author: Charles Albert Tindley (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) When the storms of life are raging, Stand by me (stand by me); When the storms of life are raging, Stand by me (stand by me); When the world is tossing me Like a ship upon the sea, Thou Who rulest wind and water, Stand by me (stand by me). In the midst of tribulation, Stand by me (stand by me); In the midst of tribulation, Stand by me (stand by me); When the hosts of hell assail, And my strength begins to fail, Thou Who never lost a battle, Stand by me (stand by me). In the midst of faults and failures, Stand by me (stand by me); In the midst of faults and failures, Stand by me (stand by me); When I do the best I can, And my friends misunderstand, Thou Who knowest all about me, Stand by me (stand by me). In the midst of persecution, Stand by me (stand by me); In the midst of persecution, Stand by me (stand by me); When my foes in battle array Undertake to stop my way, Thou Who savèd Paul and Silas, Stand by me (stand by me). When I’m growing old and feeble, Stand by me (stand by me); When I’m growing old and feeble, Stand by me (stand by me); When my life becomes a burden, And I’m nearing chilly Jordan, O Thou “Lily of the Valley,” Stand by me (stand by me)
Episode 49: Bedazzled Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: 2 Kings 1: 1-12, Mark 9: 1-9 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Immortal, invisible, God only wise Author: Walter C. Smith (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Immortal, invisible, God only wise, In light inaccessible hid from our eyes, Most blessèd, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, victorious, Thy great Name we praise. Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light, Nor wanting, nor wasting, Thou rulest in might; Thy justice, like mountains, high soaring above Thy clouds, which are fountains of goodness and love. To all, life Thou givest, to both great and small; In all life Thou livest, the true life of all; We blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree, And wither and perish—but naught changeth Thee. Great Father of glory, pure Father of light, Thine angels adore Thee, all veiling their sight; But of all Thy rich graces this grace, Lord, impart Take the veil from our faces, the vile from our heart. All laud we would render; O help us to see ‘Tis only the splendor of light hideth Thee, And so let Thy glory, Almighty, impart, Through Christ in His story, Thy Christ to the heart.
Episode 48: Healed to Serve Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 147:1-11, Mark 1: 29-39 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Let us break bread together Author: Unknown (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me.
Episode 47: A New Teaching Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm Psalm 111, Mark 1:21-28 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name Author: Edward Perronet (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) All hail the power of Jesus' Name! Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all. Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all. Let highborn seraphs tune the lyre, and as they tune it, fall Before His face Who tunes their choir, and crown Him Lord of all. Before His face Who tunes their choir, and crown Him Lord of all. Crown Him, ye morning stars of light, who fixed this floating ball; Now hail the strength of Israel's might, and crown Him Lord of all. Now hail the strength of Israel's might, and crown Him Lord of all. Crown Him, ye martyrs of your God, who from His altar call; Extol the Stem of Jesse's Rod, and crown Him Lord of all. Extol the Stem of Jesse's Rod, and crown Him Lord of all. Ye seed of Israel's chosen race, ye ransomed from the fall, Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all. Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all. Hail Him, ye heirs of David's line, whom David Lord did call, The God incarnate, Man divine, and crown Him Lord of all, The God incarnate, Man divine, and crown Him Lord of all. Sinners, whose love can ne'er forget the wormwood and the gall, Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all. Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all. Let every tribe and every tongue before Him prostrate fall And shout in universal song the crownèd Lord of all. And shout in universal song the crownèd Lord of all. O that, with yonder sacred throng, we at His feet may fall, Join in the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all, Join in the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all!
Episode 46: The Medium is the Message Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 62:5-12, Mark 1:14-20 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Spirit of God, descend upon my heart Author: George Croly (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Spirit of God, descend upon my heart; Wean it from earth; through all its pulses move; Stoop to my weakness, mighty as Thou art; And make me love Thee as I ought to love. I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies, No sudden rending of the veil of clay, No angel visitant, no opening skies; But take the dimness of my soul away. Teach me to feel that Thou art always nigh; Teach me the struggles of the soul to bear. To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh, Teach me the patience of unanswered prayer. Hast Thou not bid me love Thee, God and King? All, all Thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind. I see Thy cross; there teach my heart to cling: O let me seek Thee, and O let me find! Teach me to love Thee as Thine angels love, One holy passion filling all my frame; The kindling of the heaven descended Dove, My heart an altar, and Thy love the flame.
Hymn: Be Thou My Vision Author: Mary E. Byrne (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart; Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art. Thou my best Thought, by day or by night, Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light. Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word; I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord; Thou my great Father, I Thy true son; Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one. Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight; Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight; Thou my soul’s Shelter, Thou my high Tower: Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power. Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise, Thou mine Inheritance, now and always: Thou and Thou only, first in my heart, High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art. High King of Heaven, my victory won, May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s Sun! Heart of my own heart, whatever befall, Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.
Episode 44: Giving Voice Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 29, Mark 1: 4-11 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Let There Be Peace On Earth Author: Jill Jackson and Sy Miller (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let there be peace on earth And let it begin with me Let There Be Peace on Earth The peace that was meant to be With God as our Father Brothers all are we Let me walk with my brother In perfect harmony. Let peace begin with me Let this be the moment now. With ev'ry step I take Let this be my solemn vow To take each moment and live Each moment in peace eternally Let there be peace on earth And let it begin with me
Episode 43: Three Gifts Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Isaiah 60: 1-6, Matthew 2: 1-12 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing Author: Robert Robinson (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace; Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise. Teach me some melodious sonnet, Sung by flaming tongues above. Praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it, Mount of Thy redeeming love. Here I raise my Ebenezer, Hither by Thy help I'm come, And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger Wandering from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood. Sorrowing I shall be in spirit, Till released from flesh and sin, Yet from what I do inherit, Here Thy praises I’ll begin; Here I raise my Ebenezer; Here by Thy great help I’ve come; And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wandering from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood; How His kindness yet pursues me Mortal tongue can never tell, Clothed in flesh, till death shall loose me I cannot proclaim it well. O to grace how great a debtor Daily I’m constrained to be! Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, Bind my wandering heart to Thee. Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, Prone to leave the God I love; Here’s my heart, O take and seal it, Seal it for Thy courts above. O that day when freed from sinning, I shall see Thy lovely face; Clothed then in blood washed linen How I’ll sing Thy sovereign grace; Come, my Lord, no longer tarry, Take my ransomed soul away; Send thine angels now to carry Me to realms of endless day.
Episode 42: An Ordinary Day Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Isaiah 61:10-11, 62:1-3, Luke 2:22-40 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: I Wonder as I Wander Author: Appalachian carol (collected by John Jacob Niles (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) I wonder as I wander, out under the sky; how Jesus the Saviour did come for to die for poor ord'n'ry people like you and like I. I wonder as I wander, out under the sky. When Mary birthed Jesus, all in a cow's stall, came wise men and farmers and shepherds all, and high from the heavens a star's light did fall; the promise of the ages it then did recall. If Jesus had wanted for any wee thing, a star in the sky or a bird on the wing, or all of God's angels in heav'n for to sing, he surely could have had it, 'cause he was the king. I wonder as I wander, out under the sky; how Jesus the Saviour did come for to die for poor ord'n'ry people like you and like I. I wonder as I wander, out under the sky.
Episode 41: A Christmas Eve Like No Other Order of the Service – Introduction – Lessons and carols – Prayer – Communion – Lighting of the Christ Candle – Sharing the Light of Christ – Thought for the Season – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Carols Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming Away in a Manger It Came Upon the Midnight Clear Angels We Have Heard On High Advent Song: A Candle is Burning Author: Sandra Dean Lyrics used with permission. Sung to the tune of “Away in a Manger.” We honor Messiah with Christ’s candle’s flame. Our Christmas Eve candles glad tidings proclaim. O come all ye faithful, rejoice in this night as God comes among us, the Christian’s true light. Silent Night! Holy Night! Author: Josef Mohr Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright. ‘round yon virgin mother and child; holy infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace. Silent night! Holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight, glories stream from heaven afar heavenly hosts sing allelulia; Christ, the Savior, is born! Christ, the Savior, is born! Silent night! Holy night! Son of God, love’s pure light. Radiant beams from thy holy face, With the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth. Joy to the World Author: Isaac Watts Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; let every heart prepare him room, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven, and heaven and nature sing. Joy to the world, the Savior reigns! Let all their songs employ; while fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy, repeat, repeat the sounding joy. He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove the glories of his righteousness, and wonders of his love, and wonders of his love, and wonders, wonders of his love.
Episode 40: Children's Christmas Pageant Order of the Service – Welcome – Advent reading and song – Scripture Readings: 2 Samuel 7:1-11,16, Luke 1:26-38 – Children's Christmas Pageant – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Advent Song: A Candle is Burning Author: Sandra Dean Lyrics used with permission. Sung to the tune of “Away in a Manger.” A candle is burning, a candle of love, A candle to point us to heaven above. A baby for Christmas, a wonderful birth, for Jesus is bringing God’s love to our earth. Hymn: O come, O come, Emmanuel Author: John M. Neale (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. O come, Thou Wisdom from on high, Who orderest all things mightily; To us the path of knowledge show, And teach us in her ways to go. Refrain O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell Thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. Refrain O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. Refrain O come, Thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery. Refrain O come, O come, great Lord of might, Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's height In ancient times once gave the law In cloud and majesty and awe. Refrain O come, Thou Root of Jesse's tree, An ensign of Thy people be; Before Thee rulers silent fall; All peoples on Thy mercy call. Refrain O come, Desire of nations, bind In one the hearts of all mankind; Bid Thou our sad divisions cease, And be Thyself our King of Peace. Refrain
Episode 39: Mary Knew Order of the Service – Welcome – Advent reading and song – Scripture Readings: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Luke 1:46b-55 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Advent Song: A Candle is Burning Author: Sandra Dean Lyrics used with permission. Sung to the tune of “Away in a Manger.” A candle is burning, a candle of joy. A candle to welcome brave Mary’s new boy. Our hearts fill with wonder, and eyes light and glow as joy brightens winter like sunshine on snow. Hymn: O come, O come, Emmanuel Author: John M. Neale (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. O come, Thou Wisdom from on high, Who orderest all things mightily; To us the path of knowledge show, And teach us in her ways to go. Refrain O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell Thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. Refrain O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. Refrain O come, Thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery. Refrain O come, O come, great Lord of might, Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's height In ancient times once gave the law In cloud and majesty and awe. Refrain O come, Thou Root of Jesse's tree, An ensign of Thy people be; Before Thee rulers silent fall; All peoples on Thy mercy call. Refrain O come, Desire of nations, bind In one the hearts of all mankind; Bid Thou our sad divisions cease, And be Thyself our King of Peace. Refrain
Episode 38: Here Is Our God Order of the Service – Welcome – Advent reading and song – Scripture Readings: Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Advent Song: A Candle is Burning Author: Sandra Dean Lyrics used with permission. Sung to the tune of “Away in a Manger.” A candle is burning, a candle of peace, a candle is a signal that conflict must cease: for Jesus is coming to show us the way; a message of peace humbly laid in the hay. Hymn: Let us break bread together Author: Unknown (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees) Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees) When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me.
Episode 37: Tear Open the Heavens and Come Down! Order of the Service – Welcome – Advent reading and song – Scripture Readings: Isaiah 64:1-9, Mark 13:24-37 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Advent Song: A Candle is Burning Author: Sandra Dean Lyrics used with permission. Sung to the tune of "Away in a Manger." A candle is burning, a flame warm and bright, a candle of hope in November’s dark night. While angels sing blessing from heaven’s starry sky, our hearts we prepare for Jesus is nigh. Hymn: O Come, O Come Emmanuel Author: John M. Neale (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. O come, Thou Wisdom from on high, Who orderest all things mightily; To us the path of knowledge show, And teach us in her ways to go. Refrain O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell Thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. Refrain O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. Refrain O come, Thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery. Refrain O come, O come, great Lord of might, Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's height In ancient times once gave the law In cloud and majesty and awe. Refrain O come, Thou Root of Jesse's tree, An ensign of Thy people be; Before Thee rulers silent fall; All peoples on Thy mercy call. Refrain O come, Desire of nations, bind In one the hearts of all mankind; Bid Thou our sad divisions cease, And be Thyself our King of Peace. Refrain
Episode 36: Who’s the Boss? Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Ephesians 1:15-20, Matthew 25:31-46 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing All hail the power of Jesus' Name! Author: Edward Perronet (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) All hail the power of Jesus' Name! Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all. Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all. Let highborn seraphs tune the lyre, and as they tune it, fall Before His face Who tunes their choir, and crown Him Lord of all. Before His face Who tunes their choir, and crown Him Lord of all. Crown Him, ye morning stars of light, who fixed this floating ball; Now hail the strength of Israel's might, and crown Him Lord of all. Now hail the strength of Israel's might, and crown Him Lord of all. Crown Him, ye martyrs of your God, who from His altar call; Extol the Stem of Jesse's Rod, and crown Him Lord of all. Extol the Stem of Jesse's Rod, and crown Him Lord of all. Ye seed of Israel's chosen race, ye ransomed from the fall, Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all. Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all. Hail Him, ye heirs of David's line, whom David Lord did call, The God incarnate, Man divine, and crown Him Lord of all, The God incarnate, Man divine, and crown Him Lord of all. Sinners, whose love can ne'er forget the wormwood and the gall, Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all. Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all. Let every tribe and every tongue before Him prostrate fall And shout in universal song the crownèd Lord of all. And shout in universal song the crownèd Lord of all. O that, with yonder sacred throng, we at His feet may fall, Join in the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all, Join in the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all!
Episode 35: Double or Nothing Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Matthew 25:14-30 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing Author: Robert Robinson (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace; Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise. Teach me some melodious sonnet, Sung by flaming tongues above. Praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it, Mount of Thy redeeming love. Here I raise my Ebenezer, Hither by Thy help I'm come, And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger Wandering from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood. Sorrowing I shall be in spirit, Till released from flesh and sin, Yet from what I do inherit, Here Thy praises I’ll begin; Here I raise my Ebenezer; Here by Thy great help I’ve come; And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wandering from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood; How His kindness yet pursues me Mortal tongue can never tell, Clothed in flesh, till death shall loose me I cannot proclaim it well. O to grace how great a debtor Daily I’m constrained to be! Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, Bind my wandering heart to Thee. Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, Prone to leave the God I love; Here’s my heart, O take and seal it, Seal it for Thy courts above. O that day when freed from sinning, I shall see Thy lovely face; Clothed then in blood washed linen How I’ll sing Thy sovereign grace; Come, my Lord, no longer tarry, Take my ransomed soul away; Send thine angels now to carry Me to realms of endless day.
Episode 34: We Are Waiting Order of the Service – Welcome – All Saints’ Day Observance – Scripture Readings: 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18, Matthew 25:1-13 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing God of our fathers Author: Daniel C. Roberts (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) God of our fathers, whose almighty hand Leads forth in beauty all the starry band Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies Our grateful songs before Thy throne arise. Thy love divine hath led us in the past, In this free land by Thee our lot is cast, Be Thou our Ruler, Guardian, Guide and Stay, Thy Word our law, Thy paths our chosen way. From war's alarms, from deadly pestilence, Be Thy strong arm our ever sure defense; Thy true religion in our hearts increase, Thy bounteous goodness nourish us in peace. Refresh Thy people on their toilsome way, Lead us from night to never ending day; Fill all our lives with love and grace divine, And glory, laud, and praise be ever Thine.
Episode 33: Content vs Conduct Order of the Service – Welcome – All Saints' Day Observance – Scripture Readings: 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12 – Sermon – Prayer – Communion – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing For All The Saints Author: William W. How (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) For all the saints, who from their labors rest, Who Thee by faith before the world confessed, Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blessed. Alleluia, Alleluia! Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress and their Might; Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well fought fight; Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true Light. Alleluia, Alleluia! For the Apostles' glorious company, Who bearing forth the Cross o'er land and sea, Shook all the mighty world, we sing to Thee: Alleluia, Alleluia! For the Evangelists, by whose blest word, Like fourfold streams, the garden of the Lord, Is fair and fruitful, be Thy Name adored. Alleluia, Alleluia! For Martyrs, who with rapture kindled eye, Saw the bright crown descending from the sky, And seeing, grasped it, Thee we glorify. Alleluia, Alleluia! O blest communion, fellowship divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; All are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia, Alleluia! O may Thy soldiers, faithful, true and bold, Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old, And win with them the victor's crown of gold. Alleluia, Alleluia! And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, Steals on the ear the distant triumph song, And hearts are brave, again, and arms are strong. Alleluia, Alleluia! The golden evening brightens in the west; Soon, soon to faithful warriors comes their rest; Sweet is the calm of paradise the blessed. Alleluia, Alleluia! But lo! there breaks a yet more glorious day; The saints triumphant rise in bright array; The King of glory passes on His way. Alleluia, Alleluia! From earth's wide bounds, from ocean's farthest coast, Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, And singing to Father, Son and Holy Ghost: Alleluia, Alleluia!
Episode 32: A Disappointing Send-Off Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing A mighty fortress is our God Author: Martin Luther (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing; Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing: For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe; His craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate, On earth is not his equal. Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing; Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's own choosing: Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He; Lord Sabaoth, His Name, from age to age the same, And He must win the battle. And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us, We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us: The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him; His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure, One little word shall fell him. That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth; The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Him Who with us sideth: Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also; The body they may kill: God's truth abideth still, His kingdom is forever. A mighty fortress is our God, a trusty shield and weapon; He helps us free from every need that hath us now overtaken. The old evil foe now means deadly woe; deep guile and great might Are his dread arms in fight; on Earth is not his equal. With might of ours can naught be done, soon were our loss effected; But for us fights the Valiant One, whom God Himself elected. Ask ye, who is this? Jesus Christ it is. Of Sabbath Lord, and there's none other God; He holds the field forever. Though devils all the world should fill, all eager to devour us. We tremble not, we fear no ill, they shall not overpower us. This world's prince may still scowl fierce as he will, He can harm us none, he's judged; the deed is done; One little word can fell him. The Word they still shall let remain nor any thanks have for it; He's by our side upon the plain with His good gifts and Spirit. And take they our life, goods, fame, child and wife, Let these all be gone, they yet have nothing won; The Kingdom ours remaineth.
Episode 31: Behind God Order of the Service – Welcome – Scripture Readings: Psalm 99, Exodus 33: 12-23 – Sermon – Prayer – Thought for the Week – Blessing – Hymn – Closing Hymn: Immortal, invisible, God only wise Author: Walter C. Smith (Hymn will play in full at the end of the podcast.) Immortal, invisible, God only wise, In light inaccessible hid from our eyes, Most blessèd, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, victorious, Thy great Name we praise. Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light, Nor wanting, nor wasting, Thou rulest in might; Thy justice, like mountains, high soaring above Thy clouds, which are fountains of goodness and love. To all, life Thou givest, to both great and small; In all life Thou livest, the true life of all; We blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree, And wither and perish—but naught changeth Thee. Great Father of glory, pure Father of light, Thine angels adore Thee, all veiling their sight; But of all Thy rich graces this grace, Lord, impart Take the veil from our faces, the vile from our heart. All laud we would render; O help us to see 'Tis only the splendor of light hideth Thee, And so let Thy glory, Almighty, impart, Through Christ in His story, Thy Christ to the heart.