Worship on the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
10:00 am     February 09, 2025
Minister: The Rev. Brad Childs
Music Director: Binu Kapadia     Vocalist: Lynn Vaughan
Welcoming Elder: Gina Kottke     Children’s time presenter: Brad

We gather to worship God

Music Prelude

Greeting
L: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you
P: and also with you

Lighting of the Christ candle
Welcome and announcements
Preparation for worship

Call to worship:
L: A voice beckons in the morning, saying,
P: “You are my Beloved.”
L: It is the voice of One we see dimly, we hear faintly.
P: We reach out for that voice, for the One who has claimed us in love.
L: In this time together, may we hear the voice of God who shepherds us with love and grace.
P: And let us worship God.

Opening praise: This is amazing grace

Prayers of approach and confession

God ever creating, ever loving, ever leading:

your presence is peace when we are frantic;

your Word is truth when we face deception;

our Spirit offers freedom when we are paralyzed by fear.

You give purpose in confusing times;

You call for justice when the world settles for inequality.

For all that you are, all that you have been, and all that you will be,

we worship you as the source of life,  the promise of redemption, and the spirit of love in action, One God, now and always.

Hear us now as we confess to you our sins:

Merciful God, you call us to fullness of life, but we confess our shortcomings.

We have wandered from your ways and wasted your gifts;

we have ignored your grace at work among us, and focused on loss and complaint.

We have been suspicious of the motives of others, too quick to judge and too slow to forgive.

Give us the courage to see clearly who and what we are.

With your forgiveness, cleanse us from all our faults and failings, and inspire us to walk a new way.  Amen.

Response: I will trust in the Lord

Assurance of God’s pardon
God is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
As high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is God’s love;
as far as the east is from the west, so far has God removed our sins from us.
Rejoice that God has forgiven you and opens a new future this day.

We listen for the voice of God

Song: Open our eyes, Lord ( 445)

Children’s time

5 So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, 2 and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets. 3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.

4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”

5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” 6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”

9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him.

The Lord’s Prayer (535)

Song: Joyful, joyful we adore you (410)

Scripture (Nahyeni Bassah): 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

Response: Behold the lamb of God

Message: “Grace”

The resurrection is not merely a historical event but a living truth that propels us forward, enriching our lives and guiding our actions. It stands as the bedrock of our faith, the pivotal truth upon which our hopes and beliefs rest.

Josh McDowell wrote, “As we reflect on these truths, we will explore three vivid illustrations: the unshakable foundation of a skyscraper, the compelling testimony of witnesses, and the miraculous transformation of a metamorphosed butterfly. Through these images, we will delve into how the resurrection serves as a foundation, a validation, and a catalyst for transformation in our lives.”

Imagine the skyline of a bustling city, where modern skyscrapers stand proudly, their heights reaching toward the heavens. These architectural marvels dazzle us with their curves and angles, their glass facades reflecting the sunlight in a myriad of colors. Yet, as breathtaking as their exteriors may be, the true marvel lies hidden beneath the surface—a solid foundation, deep and unyielding, anchoring each structure to the bedrock below. Without this foundation, no matter how beautifully constructed, the building would collapse under its own weight.

Much like these skyscrapers, our faith finds its strength and stability in the core truth of the resurrection. Paul begins this passage by reminding the Corinthians of the Gospel he preached: “that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” These foundational truths are not merely historical accounts; they are the bedrock of our beliefs—the anchor that steadies us in times of trial and doubt.

The resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith, the essential element that ensures our beliefs stand firm. Without this core truth, everything else crumbles. Paul emphasizes that Christ’s death and resurrection are not only central to the Gospel but are what gives life to our faith. Without belief in the resurrection, without this foundation, our faith is hollow—a house built on sand, vulnerable to the slightest tremor of doubt.

Just two verses later or as I might put it – in the exact same sentence Paul says… “If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. 15 More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised.”

Have you ever noticed how much people love a good suspense movie? You know, the ones where there’s a big reveal at the end?

Well, Paul, in 1 Corinthians 15, is basically saying: ‘If there’s no resurrection, then the biggest suspense movie of all time ends in a total flop!’

He says,” If there is no resurrection of Christ than there is no resurrection for us.”

So let’s be thankful that the tomb is empty—because who wants to settle for a series finale that leaves us all scratching our heads and saying, ‘Well, that was disappointing!’?”

Just as architects invest countless hours ensuring a building’s foundation is solid and secure, so we need to devote ourselves to rooting our lives in the fundamental truth of the resurrection. This is not a passive endeavor but an active pursuit, requiring immersion in Scripture, prayer, and reflection. Let the truth of the resurrection seep into every aspect of your life, and consider how this foundation influences your decisions, your values, your understanding of the afterlife and of where your loved ones now reside as well as considering your own simple daily actions.

When challenges and doubts arise—when the storms of life attempt to shake us—return to this cornerstone, assured that your faith is securely anchored.

Over the last few years I have been rather blessed to have a friend. He did a sermon here once for me. John owns a Highrise condo over looking Mount Rainer, Washington. I’ve stayed there a few times and there is something really calming about looking out over the city and seeing the mountains in the distance. But what makes it calming is the knowledge that where I stand is secure.

For the Christian, the resurrection is that secure foundation.

This foundation calls us to align our lives with the teachings and mission of Christ. Are we building our lives on this truth? Do our daily actions, thoughts, and words reflect the hope and power of the resurrection? As we walk in faith, let us remain mindful of our foundation—strong and sure.

Shift your gaze from the skyline to a packed courtroom, where the air buzzes with anticipation. Witness after witness steps forward, their consistent testimonies weaving together into a tapestry of truth. Each voice adds weight and credibility to the case at hand. In the courtroom of faith, the resurrection is validated by the transformative testimony of a multitude. Paul names them. And he names people that his audience knows. He says Jesus came back from the dead and Peter (you know him) saw Jesus. He says, you know John, John saw him. Is John a lier? Matthew saw him, ask him! All Jesus’ closest friends saw him. His bother James saw him, ask him. In fact 500 some different people saw him. Go interview them. Go ask! There are people all over the country that saw him back from the dead.

And then finally Paul says, Oh and I saw him too. And this is kind of odd but here Paul calls himself an abortion. He says, Even I saw him, though I was born at the wrong time. By this Paul means only that he wasn’t one of the original 12 disciples.

These encounters with the risen Christ are not mere anecdotes; they are life-altering moments that resonate with authenticity and conviction. And remember, you could be arrested or even killed for claiming to have seen Jesus’ resurrected body.

The significance of these witnesses cannot be overstated. In a time when the testimony of multiple witnesses was necessary to establish truth, the vast number and diversity of people who encountered the risen Jesus provide compelling evidence of the resurrection’s historical reality. People are not generally in the business of making claims that get you killed if you have nothing to gain from lying.

Their lives were not just touched; they were radically transformed by these encounters. The Gospel they proclaimed was based on their very real experiences of the risen Lord.

Our faith today is strengthened by these testimonies, and we are invited to join this chorus of witnesses.

Reflect on the moments in your life when you have encountered God’s presence—those times of grace, peace, or powerful love that have shaped your journey. Write these experiences down, cherish them, and when the time comes, share them with others. Engage with the stories of fellow believers, recognizing that this sacred exchange enriches our faith and deepens our connection within the community.

Picture yourself in that courtroom, not as a passive observer but as an active participant. Your voice, your story, adds depth and dimension to the collective testimony of the living Christ.

In a world searching for truth, your testimony becomes a beacon of light, bringing warmth and assurance to those who hear it. Together, we build a community grounded in shared faith, each story a vibrant thread woven into a beautiful tapestry of belief.

Our stories of faith become the bridge that connects past to present, drawing us into a deeper understanding of God’s work in our lives and the world. As we share our stories, let us listen with open hearts and ready minds, eager to learn from the experiences of others and be inspired by their journeys. We are part of a great cloud of witnesses, united in our commitment to live out the truth of the resurrection each day.

Finally, let us marvel at the wondrous transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Picture the caterpillar, earthbound and unassuming, as it enters a chrysalis, concealed from view. Inside its cocoon, a miraculous change is taking place. When it emerges, it is not merely a changed version of its former self; it is a new creation, adorned with vibrant wings that carry it skyward, a testament to the transformative power of nature.

Paul’s life serves as a vivid example of this transformation. Once a zealous persecutor of Christians, Paul encountered the risen Christ on the road to Damascus. In that moment, God’s grace reshaped his heart and future, turning him from an adversary of the Gospel into one of its most passionate advocates. His transformation, achieved by God’s grace alone, not only altered his journey but ignited a mission that changed the early church and continues to impact us today.

God’s grace continues its transformative work within each of us, shaping and renewing our lives. Are we open to this miraculous change? Reflect on the areas of your life that yearn for the touch of grace—wounded relationships, burdensome past mistakes, priorities in need of realignment. Acknowledge and surrender these to God, allowing the resurrection to infuse them with healing and hope. Embrace the invitation to emerge renewed, and as you do, become an instrument of grace in the lives of others, offering them a glimpse of God’s transformative power.

Picture yourself as the butterfly, delicate yet resilient, basking in the sunlight of God’s grace. As you take flight, let your life be a testament to the beauty and possibility of transformation, inviting others to embark upon their journey of change. The resurrection empowers us not merely to be recipients of grace, but channels of it, extending hope and renewal to those we encounter.

In the transformation lies the promise of new beginnings and endless possibilities. Just as Paul’s life was radically altered, so too can our lives be reshaped by the power of the resurrection. Let us open our hearts to the work of the Holy Spirit, welcoming the change that He brings with humility and joy. As we embrace this transformation, let us encourage and support one another on our faith journeys, celebrating each step of growth and discovery.

As we stand on the firm foundation of Christ’s resurrection, buoyed by the testimony of countless witnesses and transformed by God’s grace, let our lives be a beacon of light in a world that so desperately needs hope and healing. Today, we are not mere observers of an ancient story, but active participants in the living reality of the resurrection, called to reflect its truth and power in our everyday actions, decisions, and relationships.

May we leave here today emboldened by the power of Christ’s resurrection, ready to share the Gospel with a world searching for purpose and joy. Let our words and deeds reflect this light, illuminating hope and drawing others to the love of God. In this way, may we each become a living embodiment of the resurrected Christ, breathing life into the world around us, one grace-filled moment at a time. Amen.

Song: Follow me the Master said (645: (vss 1, 2, 4)

We respond to serve God

Our time of giving

Offertory Prayer

God of surprising generosity, Jesus encouraged his disciples to keep fishing when they thought their nets were empty. Encourage us to keep giving even when needs seem overwhelming and resources scarce. We entrust our gifts to you with the faith you can surprise us and others through all they can accomplish in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayers for our world

God, our creator and our redeemer, you have given us a universe that is full of wonders that we cannot begin to understand.

Thank you for all of the blessings of your creation.

Ruler of the nations, we thank you for the country in which we live, a country where we can live in freedom, a country where we can worship you when and as we choose.

Head of the church, we thank you for our denomination and for this congregation.

We thank you for all of the people who give so much of themselves in support of your ministry in this place and around the world.

God, our parent and our friend, we thank you for the families into which we were born, or adopted, or married, or accepted, and for the circles of friendship that surround us as we move through life.

God, our healer and our comforter, we ask that you would be with all those who are sick, all those who are suffering, all those who are grieving, all those who are lonely.

We ask your blessing also on those whom we now name in our hearts ….

Keep a time of silence.

God, who calls us to follow, we ask that you continue to inspire us on our journey of faith. May this congregation be a source of hope and light in this community.

May you give us strength to carry on as your faithful ones, sometimes lost and sometimes found, always in your care and keeping.

We pray for your church in all places around this world, that it might be healed and renewed.

God of peace, we ask that you would use the leaders of our nation to help bring peace to all nations.

Grant that we might help to bring justice to all your people in this your earth.

We pray especially this morning for the people of ….

God of creation, we need your help to look after the world that you have made.

Grant that we might be faithful stewards of your universe, so that those who come here after us will also enjoy its beauty.

Grant that we might learn to control our use of the world’s resources, so that our impact on this planet might be lessened and your glaciers and icefields might not be destroyed by us.

Loving God, your son promised that our prayers would be heard by you.

Remind us of your will for us, and encourage us to live in your light. Amen

Song: I, the Lord of sea and sky (592)

Sending out with God’s blessing

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15:5-6)

Response: The blessing

Music postlude

————————————————————————-

Numbers in brackets after a song/hymn indicate that it is from the 1997 Book of Praise of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. Those and other songs are being used in accordance with the specifications of Dayspring’s licensing with One License (3095377) and CLC (A735555).

The Rev. Brad Childs retains the copyright (© 2024) on all original material in this service. As far as Brad Childs is aware, all of the material that has not been attributed to others is his own creation or is in the public domain. Unacknowledged use of copyrighted material is unintentional and will be corrected immediately upon notification being received.

Worship on the Lord’s Day: February 2, 2025    10:00 am
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Online & Onsite (Mixed Presence) Gathering as a Worshipping Community
Led by the Raymond Baker
Communion presented, via videotape, by the Rev Brad Childs
Music Director: Binu Kapadia           Vocalist: Vivian Houg
Elder: Iris Routledge

We gather to worship God

Music prelude

Greeting
L: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
P: and also with you.

Lighting of the Christ candle
Welcome and announcements
Silent preparation for worship

Call to Worship
L: Who made this beautiful day?
P: We believe the God, the Creator, made this day –
L: God made this day so we can rest, and reflect, and enjoy;
P: God made this day so we can open our eyes and see beauty,
L: And see pain, and see opportunity,
P: And see hope.
L: So let us go into this day with our eyes and hearts wide open,
P: And let us worship God.

Opening praise: Love the Lord, your God

Prayers of approach and confession

Lord God, you are an amazing and loving God, we come to you humbly and in awe. You are greater than we can imagine, and your creation fills us with wonder.

God, receive our praise and prayers today. Prepare us to hear your Word and receive its wisdom and guidance. Show us what we need to do and the gifts you’ve given us. Holy Spirit, move within us, awaken our gifts, and inspire us to act.

We come to you through Christ. We accept His sacrifice for our sins. Confident in your forgiveness, we desire to start fresh with you as Lord of every part of our lives.

Thank you, Lord, for your love that fills our lives. Help us to share that love with others. Forgive us when we fail to show love. Forgive us when we give in to temptation, and help us to turn to you instead. Renew us and make us new.

In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Response: We come to ask your forgiveness, O God

Assurance of God’s forgiveness

God is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is God’s love; as far as the East is from the West, so far has God removed our sins. This is all done through us accepting Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for our sins. Thanks be to God, whose love and forgiveness are steadfast. May we be steadfast in our forgiveness of one another.

We listen for the voice of God

Song: Saviour, teach me day by day (698)

Scripture readings (NRSV): Jeremiah 1:4-10; Luke 4:21-20; and  I Corinthians 13:1-13

Response: Glory to the Father

Message: Godly Love

Years ago, as I prepared to officiate the wedding of my niece and her fiancé, the fiancé made a particular request. Having attended numerous weddings, he asked if I  could omit the familiar passage from 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. This presented an interesting challenge. While crafting my message, I sought to truly capture the essence of love, and in doing so, I came to a renewed appreciation for those very verses. I ultimately felt compelled to ask their permission to include them, for I realized that they weren’t simply a common reading; they beautifully encapsulate the very heart of godly love.

Some time ago, I unfortunately succumbed to watching one episode of “The Bachelor.” I was rather dismayed to witness several contestants, after mere two encounters with the supposed object of their affections, profess to have fallen in love. This fleeting and superficial notion of love, so prevalent in our society, made me ponder. It underscored the critical need for us, as Christians, to cultivate a truly godly understanding of love. And so, today’s sermon will explore this Godly love in: our relationship with one another, our love for the Church, our love for God, and, of course, God’s boundless love for each of us.

In the tapestry of human existence, amidst the myriad emotions and experiences that shape our lives, there lies a thread that binds all Christians – love. Not the fleeting infatuation often portrayed in today’s society, but a love that is profound, enduring, and transformative.

The Bible, employs a variety of Greek words to express the concept of love. In 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, the passage we explore today, the word used is agape. This agape love, as revealed in the Bible, is not merely a passive sentiment, but a selfless, unconditional, and active force. It is a conscious choice, a deliberate act of will to benefit others, rather than a feeling that simply arises within us. Indeed, Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, offering himself for our sins, stands as the ultimate and most profound expression of agape love.

Corinthians 13 is between two Chapters about spiritual gifts. It’s as if we’re privy to a letter Paul addressed to a church in turmoil, a community grappling with the question of which spiritual gift reigns supreme. In this chapter, Paul, with the urgency of a bold, all-caps email, delivers a resounding message: without love, these gifts, however impressive, are ultimately devoid of meaning.

Without love, the most eloquent speech (tongues of men and angels), deep spiritual knowledge (prophecy), and profound faith are meaningless.

I spent years and tens of thousands of dollars on my seminary education. If I preached to you out of anger and not love. This sermon would be useless.

I truly believe that God is all powerful but if I treated my neighbours with distane and not love. I believe I would not be acting like a believer.

Agape Love is Godly love for others.

Just a few weeks ago, I attended a funeral service led by a minister named Terry, whom I’ve had the privilege of knowing for years. I’m consistently struck by his genuine love and sincere care for others. He possesses a remarkable ability to be fully present with each person he encounters, offering them his undivided attention and heartfelt loving compassion. This particular funeral was especially poignant, as it was for a young man who tragically succumbed to an overdose. The grief in the room was palpable, a heavy blanket of sorrow. Yet, as Terry moved among the mourners, greeting each one with his characteristic warmth and love, a subtle shift began to occur. His presence, a beacon of Godly love, seemed to lighten the oppressive atmosphere, offering a glimmer of comfort amidst the devastation. This is a powerful testament to how our godly love for others can ripple outwards, impacting not only individuals but entire communities.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 contains attributes of love. These are the verses that I used for our niece’s wedding.  Let me read them out and as I read them imagine a person that shows these attributes:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

This is the kind of person we are all drawn to, the kind of person who reflects the very image of God.

A person who is patient with you. A person who is kind in all their dealings. This person also would not be competitive or boastful and is not prideful. This person would not speak ill of others but thinks well of others. This person rejoices in seeking God’s will in all he does. This person is level headed and not easily angered. This person has grace and does not hold grudges.

I was watching YouTube videos on success in life. This was from a secular point of view. Jamie Dimon the CEO of J. P. Morgan Chase, the largest bank in the United States and Ray Dalio, CEO of Bridgewater and Associates, both said the problem with most people that they meet is they do not have principles.

If we had Godly principles found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 the world would be a better place.

I truly believe the Holy Spirit can help us become people like this.

In a world obsessed with success, where principles are often sacrificed at the altar of ambition. Let us remember that Godly love for others is the foundation upon which the Kingdom of God is built. Godly Giftedness, talent, or Godly Wisdom without love hinders our progress to help a hurting world.

The Holy Spirit empowers us to cultivate these virtues, to become beacons of Godly love in a world desperately yearning for compassion and understanding. Let us not use our gifts for self-glorification, but to edify and uplift one another, reflecting God’s love in all that we do.

From an eternal perspective, our earthly achievements will fade, but the Godly love we share will endure and have a lasting impact. Let us, therefore, embrace agape love, not only in our personal relationships but also in our service to the church and our communities. For it is through love that we truly experience the divine, and it is through love that we leave a lasting legacy that transcends time itself.

As I said before, Jesus died on the Cross for our sins because God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. God showed us His love. Now it is our time to show our love through loving service in our church and to show love for others.

I pray to God that we all have faith, hope and love but we can’t forget that Agape or Godly love is the foundation for all.

May God grant us the grace to love as He loves, unconditionally and sacrificially, that we may be His instruments of peace and healing in a broken world. Amen.

Song: There is a Redeemer (358)

We respond to serve God: Our time of giving

Reflection on giving: Dayspring is empowered to carry out our mission of worship, service, and care by generously given volunteer time, talent, and treasure. Many thanks to all who give so generously!

PWS&D Sunday

This is the special Presbyterian World Service and Development Sunday. Your session, elders and Reverend Brad would invite you to give a special offering today to PWS&D. This is not in place of your regular offering.

Presbyterian World Service and Development is the international development and relief agency of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. PWS and D responds with programs in food security, health, livelihoods, human rights, and emergency relief to ease the pain of want and build more sustainable futures. The agriculture programs in developing countries rely on small-scale subsistence farming for survival. Soil erosion, prolonged drought and the rising price of seeds and commercial fertilizers make it difficult for farmers to increase crop production or purchase a variety of foods to balance their diets. This leads to high rates of hunger and malnutrition. Working with partners in Guatemala, Haiti, Malawi, Tanzania, Nicaragua and Pakistan, PWS and D is helping farmers increase crop yields, grow crop varieties, improve nutrition and build resilience to environmental changes.

Now let us pray for PWS & D

Holy God, Creator of all that is good, grant us the wisdom and compassion to be faithful stewards of this world and its people. Our hearts are heavy for those whose lives are marked by famine, poverty, and war, for all who suffer the injustices of oppressive governments and inequitable economies.

Today, we offer special thanks for our community of faith across this nation and for our global partners in ministry. We lift up those working through Presbyterian World Service and Development (PWS&D), whose dedication empowers local communities in developing nations to build a better future. We pray for PWS&D, that their efforts may be fruitful and bring relief to those in need.

We are grateful, Lord, for organizations like PWS&D, which extend your love and compassion to the most vulnerable. May PWS and D’s work be blessed and may it inspire us to greater acts of service.

Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, we pray. Amen.

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Invitation

This is not a Dayspring Table. Neither is it a Presbyterian Table. It is a Table for all humankind – for men and women, girls and boys, who are seeking, or who have found, a relationship with Jesus Christ, whose Table this is. Do we believe that we are not in charge of the Table – rather that Jesus is? Yes – and Jesus says that all are welcome.

Song: Let us break bread together (548)

Communion Prayer

As we partake of this bread and wine, we honor Creator and creation.

As we bless and share these gifts, we celebrate the Table fellowship of Jesus.

All are made worthy by Jesus – adults, teenagers, children.  All are welcome!

We celebrate the communion and community of all humankind.

And we join with the universe to lift our hearts in joyful praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.

O God, we give you thanks and praise.

You brought the universe into being, instilled all creation with life, and shaped us humans as Your people.

In Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life and the True Vine, You feed us with the Word. You nourish us with Your Love poured out in abundance upon us.

O present Spirit, help us recognize the risen Christ in the breaking of the bread.

You feed us and all the world with this bread.

You bring joy with this wine and grape juice.

Bread and Wine are leaven, salt, and life in us – a community of faith strengthened by this symbolic meal.

We pray in the name of Jesus who came among us – a deep mystery of faith.

Christ has died,
Christ is risen,
Christ will come again.

Come, Holy One, come.

Bless and prosper this community of faith and service.

Bless and prosper our lives, that justice and love may be the measure of our individual and community witness.

Bless us as we sing the prayer which Jesus taught.

The Lord’s Prayer (469)

Offering of the Bread

“The Bread of life is for all who come in faith.”

Offering of the Wine

“Christ’s love is poured out for all of us.”

Song: One bread, one body (540)

The prayer after Communion

Eternal God, we give you thanks for this holy mystery in which you have given yourself to us symbolically and we have experienced your Real Presence.

We thank You for all those who have shared in this mystery, and thus in You – here and in many places through two millennia.

Grant that we may go into the world in the strength of your Spirit, to give ourselves for others in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Hymn: Come let us sing (706)

Sending out with God’s blessing

May the Lord grant you peace. May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all. In The Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit Amen.

Response: Benediction (as you go)

Music postlude

————————————————————————-

The Communion liturgy is based on the liturgies of the PCC’s 1991 Book of Common Worship. Numbers in brackets after a song/hymn indicate that it is from the 1997 Book of Praise of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. Those and other songs are being used in accordance with the specifications of Dayspring’s licensing with One License (3095377) and CLC (A735555).

Raymond Baker retains the copyright (© 2024) on all original material in this service. As far as he is aware, all of the material that has not been attributed to others is his own creation or is in the public domain. Unacknowledged use of copyrighted material is unintentional and will be corrected immediately upon notification being received.

Worship on the third Sunday after the Epiphany
10:00 am    January 26, 2025
Minister: The Rev. Brad Childs     Music Director: Binu Kapadia
Vocalist: Linda Farrah-Basford     Welcoming Elder: Rom Rhoad
Children’s time presenter: Brad     Reader Godfrey Esoh, Sr.

We gather to worship God

Music Prelude

Greeting
L: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ  be with you
P: and also with you

Lighting of the Christ candle
Welcome and announcements
Preparation for worship

Call to worship:
L: Welcome to all who have come in search of something;
P: We have come to seek the living God.
L: Happy are those who find a way and follow that path;
P: We do not make this journey by ourselves.
L: Blessed are those who give their lives over to their Creator.
P: In faith, in trust, with hope, let us worship God.

Opening praise: Everlasting God

Prayers of approach and confession
Creator, Christ and Spirit;
You are the maker of a better world.
You are the creator of lasting peace.
We worship you for the gifts of peace and healing that
You bring into troubled lives.
You have shown us the way to work for justice, to love friend and enemy alike, to build a better world.
In this time of worship, inspire us to believe our work in your name makes a difference.
So may we live to bring glory to you through our commitment to you  and the communion we share with so many around world as your faithful disciples.
Knowing your love is everlasting, we confess to you our sins.
God of grace and harmony, we confess we can be divisive when you call us to unity,
quarrelsome when you call us to seek peace, and critical rather than caring.
We have grown used to our own ways and cannot imagine you would ask us to change even for the sake of the Gospel.
Forgive us when we mistake our familiar traditions for your truth.
Show us how we can witness to your love through working and worshipping together. Amen.

Response: We come to ask your forgiveness

Assurance of God’s love
God’s mercy is from everlasting to everlasting.
It shines into the world and scatters the darkness.
Know that you are forgiven and forgive one another.
Be at peace and walk in the newness of life, led by God’s light.

Musical offering: Clare, Brad and Binu

We listen for the voice of God

Song: Jesus loves me (373)

Children’s time: Song from 1876
²⁶ Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? ²⁷ Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? ²⁸ “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, ²⁹ yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. ³⁰ And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? ³¹ “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ ³² These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. ³³ Seek the Kingdom of God^[a] above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. ³⁴ “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

The Lord’s Prayer (535)

Song: This is the day (78)

Scriptures: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; Luke 4:14-21

Response: Glory to the Father

Message: Hometown Prophet
These words of Jesus have caused me pause over the years. This one line scared me. See, at the end of our reading, after the people get angry with Jesus, he says, “No prophet is accepted in his own house.” Being that I was a student when I was here before, I had a lot of fear about coming back. Luckily, I’m not much of a prophet, and things have turned out well.

Now, all of us have left home at some point. Some went away to college or the military or into the world and started to work and raise a family independently. You become changed when you go away for more than a visit or a trip. We get an education and experiences that are different from everyone back home. We grow and mature and make new friends. We become more independent and genuinely make decisions about and for ourselves. When we go home, everyone tends to expect the same person who went away. They feel everything around the house and the neighbourhood is the same as when we left. They expect certain things from us when we come back. Depending on the circumstances, they may be proud, knowing that you have been working hard on your education and genuinely becoming the you you will be. Sometimes, people come back because their lives are messed up. People again look at you expecting the same person, but everyone who goes away comes back changed, for the better or for the worse.

In today’s Scripture lesson, Jesus ends up in the synagogue where he grew up. Pretty much everybody knows him there. He has been gone for a while. We know that he went to Jerusalem, ended up out by the river, and was baptized by John. He’s been living and working in Capernaum, the larger town just outside Nazareth. After baptism, Jesus went into the wilderness, fasted for 40 days, and was tempted. According to Luke, he returns to Galilee in the power of the spirit, and people all over are talking about him.

Next, like a college student returning home at the end of the semester, Jesus shows up in his local synagogue surrounded by his mom, his family, the neighbours, and everyone who watched him grow up. The scripture says that Jesus went to the Synagogue as was his custom. So, he’s been teaching in different communities, it seems, and now he’s back to his home church. And they expect something from him.

A synagogue service required the presence of ten adult males (called a minion). There were no priests there. It was a lay-led service. At the service, the Shema was recited. It is generally considered the most crucial Hebrew Bible or Old Testament verse. It goes: Sh’ma Yisrael, Adonai Eloheinu, Adonai Echad!

4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart, soul, and strength. 6 These commandments I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home, walk along the road, lie down, and get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and gates.

Then came Tephillah—intercessory prayer and the Eighteen Benedictions—which were said standing facing Jerusalem. (Praise to God, repentance, healing, call for the Messiah).

After this, the Scriptures were read, beginning with a portion from the Torah (the first five books) and moving next to a section from the Prophets. I understand that the scriptures for each week were assigned, probably defined by the priest in Jerusalem. At the time, the people’s ancient language had largely been unused. The scripture would be in Hebrew, which most people could not understand. The community would come together to purchase single copies of each biblical scroll. They kept it in a shiny case and took it out to parade around the room before reading. The “preacher” for the day would read the text in Hebrew and then explain its meaning in the common language for everyone to understand. Then, the service would be closed with another benediction.

In each community that Jesus stayed in for the Sabbath, he went to church. As a visitor of age, he was asked if he would participate in the service. It was an honour to be asked, and it still is today.

In the synagogue, I can picture him sitting with the family. Mom, with a proud look on her face as her handsome grown son sits beside her. Some may not recognize him right away. We know he was asked or volunteered to read the scripture that day. We are told that he found the place to read.

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, release the oppressed, and proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.”

At the time, people stood to read and sat to teach. Jesus reads the passage, gives the scroll back, and moves to sit down. The people are all watching and waiting for his instruction on the scriptures. The feeling I get from the scripture is that they expect to hear some great things come from the new college Grad. It’s sort of like saying. Ok, you got all the book learning; say something good.

Jesus begins to speak in response to the scriptures. And here is Jesus’ sermon for the day. He said,

“Today, this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” And that’s it.

Okay, so this is the shortest worship service ever. One sentence from the Bible and a one-sentence sermon. Well, probably not. What we have here is perhaps just the part that made people angry. And angry they were.

The people were waiting for the “Day of the Lord,” when all the children of Israel would be released from Roman control. On this day, it was expected that the Jews would establish a new kingdom under a new King. But also, the blind would see, the naked would be clothed, and no sin or corruption would touch the people. And, of course, the Day of the Lord would also mean the destruction of all God’s (and, by extension, the Hebrew people’s) enemies!

Long ago, God divided the promised land between 12 families or tribes. That land was to belong to each family forever. Yes, trades were made, land was sold, and people couldn’t always pay their debts, so something had to be done.

Every fifty years, enslaved people and bondservants in Israel were to be set free. The land was supposed to be returned to its tribe, and all debts forgiven. This ensured that long-term servitude did not become permanent and that individuals had the chance to regain their freedom and start anew. While there are slaves in the bible it was always temporary.

Any ancestral land sold due to economic hardship was to be returned to the original family. This prevented the permanent loss of familial inheritance and reduced socio-economic disparities over generations. It underscored that the land ultimately belonged to God.

Like the sabbatical year that occurred every seven years, during the Jubilee, the land was to lie fallow, not to be sown or harvested except by the owner. People were to eat only what the land naturally produced. This emphasized reliance on God.

Debts would be forgiven, providing economic relief to those in financial distress. This was intended to break cycles of poverty and allow people to reset their economic status.

The Year of Jubilee was a profound expression of social justice, emphasizing equality and care for the poor and marginalized. It highlighted God’s desire to treat everyone fairly and avoid generational poverty.

By mandating the return of land and the release of servants, the Jubilee reminded the Israelites that ultimate ownership belonged to God. People were stewards of what God had entrusted them rather than absolute owners.

The Jubilee provided hope for the disadvantaged and a fresh start for those burdened by debt or servitude. It mirrored themes of forgiveness, restoration, and freedom offered by God.

Little historical evidence shows that the Jubilee was consistently practiced in ancient Israel. Over time, its principles became more symbolic and prophetic, representing the ultimate liberation and restoration expected with the arrival of the Messiah.

The radical economic and social restructuring required by the Jubilee may have been challenging to implement consistently. Cancelling debts, freeing enslaved people, and returning land would have disrupted the established socio-economic order. Some scholars suggest that the Jubilee served more as an ideal or theological vision rather than a regularly enacted law. Its presence in scripture still taught essential lessons about God’s justice and mercy, regardless of its application.

Ultimately, while the Jubilee holds profound symbolic importance within the Bible’s theological and ethical landscape, direct evidence of its historical enactment in ancient Hebrew society is elusive. The Jubilee’s enduring legacy lies in its justice, equality, and renewal principles, which resonate in today’s theological discourse and social justice discussions.

Some prophetic texts, such as Isaiah 61, echo themes of restoration and liberation akin to the Jubilee, indicating its conceptual importance in Israel’s religious framework. These themes are prevalent in messages about justice, mercy, and restoration.

However, the Day of the Lord was also the Day of Judgement. Jesus omits one line at the end of the reading: “And the Day of the great Vengeance of Our God!”

This day was meant to be a blessing to the Hebrews but a curse to everyone else. It was to be a time when God would crush the people’s enemies and Smite them. The people were happy about the grace part, but they wanted vengeance! And they hadn’t seen any vengeance!

In my imagination, I can hear an uncomfortable silence. People politely wait for more. They expect Jesus to have a thought or connection to some other scripture—one sentence, something to explain what he means.

The initial reaction is like attending a piano recital or school play. Everyone is complimentary. “Wasn’t that nice?” We can only guess what the thoughts were, Good or bad. According to scripture, the outward response to Jesus is favourable. Even the Question, “Isn’t that Joseph’s son?” can be positive. Perhaps it is the tone of voice or inflection we don’t have today. Isn’t that Joseph’s Son? The carpenter, an ordinary workman…. A few years ago, this man worked as a helper on my cart or house.

For whatever reason, Jesus knows that his words aren’t sitting well. So in verse 23, Jesus told them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: ’Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.’ ” In other words, if you are the Messiah, then everything in your family will surely be perfect. Physicians heal you or fix all your family problems! They want proof and get mad when they don’t see what they want to see. Very mad!

But they know Jesus, they know his family, and they know their lives aren’t perfect. If he can’t fix his house, how can he restore the kingdom?

But instead of proof, Jesus responds: 24, “I tell you the truth,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown. Or “I didn’t expect you to understand.”

The people started out thinking that Jesus was a pretty good guy—a good teacher—but he was no messiah. He is the carpenter’s son, and that’s the best he will ever be.

And that’s when things take a massive turn for the worse. Remember, this is a worship service. And when Jesus says this, it becomes a mob. They chase him away with plans to throw him off of a cliff!

I wonder… Do we do this?

As we close our reflection on Luke 4:14-21, let’s pause and envision that profound scene in the synagogue of Nazareth. Jesus stands among familiar faces—His neighbours, His kin, and those who watched Him grow from a child into a man. As the scroll rolls open, His words cut through the air, resonating with both promise and challenge. “Today, this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing,” He proclaims. In that moment, light breaks through cultural notions, illuminating paths of liberation and hope.

It was a moment pregnant with potential – a divine invitation for the community to embrace their Messiah. Yet, as the message swirled around the room, their reception soon soured. The hope of all Israel stood before them, but when faced with the prospect of transformative change, they hesitated and resisted.

The question arises: Do we, too, find ourselves inviting Jesus in only to chase Him away when His words ask too much of us?

Imagine you are hosting a dear friend for dinner. You’ve set the table, prepared the meal, and planned every detail. This friend arrives, bringing not only their presence but fresh insights and perspectives that challenge the status quo of your home. Initially enticed by this fresh wind, you eventually become uncomfortable with the rearrangement of your cherished decor—the figurative things you’ve clung to for comfort. In your uncertainty, you cast out new insight and the friend.

Jesus comes to us, friends, not merely to sit at our table in a comfortable companionship. He comes as a gentle architect, a loving renovator of the human heart, eager to strip away the layers of self-conception and societal expectations that confine our imaginations. He invites us into the liberating work of restoring God’s kingdom on earth.

Yet how often do we, overwhelmed by the enormity of transformation, cling to the safety of what we have known? Perhaps we unconsciously chase away the very presence we longed to invite, stifling His transformative work.

Today, let us choose openness, a posture of humility—a willingness to not only invite Jesus into our lives but also allow Him to remain, renew, and reshape us. Perhaps we can take a moment in prayerful reflection, asking: What parts of our lives might we be guarding from Christ’s influence? What treasured comforts keep us from fully embracing His vision for our lives and our community?

May this sacred space become a heart-haven where we engage in the problematic yet holy work of allowing Christ to dwell richly among us, challenging, loving, and leading us toward the beautiful corners of growth yet undiscovered.

As we leave today, renewed in spirit and united in purpose, may we passionately pursue lives marked by radical hospitality—not just inviting Jesus in on our terms but welcoming Him fully, ready to walk together toward the kingdom He reveals. Because if a prophet is welcome anywhere – it’s here in this house. Amen.

Song: We cannot own the sunlit sky (717)

We respond to serve God

Our time of giving

Prayers for ourselves and others

Creator God, you made each of us in our uniqueness, and together, you made all of us to bear your image in the world.

Accept our unique gifts, and bless them for the sake of your Son, Jesus.

May they bear his grace and mercy into the world you love to fulfil your purposes.

God of life, God of love.

You created us and set us in relationship with each other: in families and neighbourhoods, in churches and communities, in cultures and nations.

We give you thanks for the rich gifts of arts and culture, of home life and community celebration which bring meaning and encouragement to our lives.

Help us contribute our gifts to the traditions and imagination that sustain the best of our common life from one generation to the next.

God of mercy and forgiveness, you call us to live together in peace and unity.

In this Week of Prayer for Christian unity, we pray that your Spirit will create understanding and cooperation among all who bear Christ’s name.

Help us share our gifts with each other so that churches within our community may flourish and our shared mission will find new energy.

Please lead us to reach out to those of other faiths and no faith so that, together, we may be a blessing in the world you love.

God of healing and hope,

We pray for our neighbourhoods and our nation.

Where people are divided, and bitterness turns into resentment, show us how to work for reconciliation.

Inspire our leaders at every level of community life to work together for the care of the most vulnerable and to restore the goodness of our common life.

Make us generous citizens and careful stewards of the land you entrust to us together.

God of justice and mercy,

We pray for the world you love, the world Christ died to redeem, so deeply divided by religious and political animosities, by ancient bitterness and current conflict.

Encourage world leaders to work for peace and understanding, especially in places torn apart by violence, poverty, hunger, and the effects of natural disasters.

May the hope that Jesus embodies encourage us to work for positive change.

God of courage and comfort,

We remember those of our congregation and community in need of your special attention today…

Keep a silence for 30 seconds, and/or name people and local concerns.

Use us as agents of your healing and hope. Amen.    

Song: Will you come and follow me (634)

Sending out with God’s blessing

 Response: God to enfold you

Music postlude

————————————————————————-

Numbers in brackets after a song/hymn indicate that it is from the 1997 Book of Praise of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. Those and other songs are being used in accordance with the specifications of Dayspring’s licensing with One License (3095377) and CLC (A735555).

The Rev. Brad Childs retains the copyright (© 2024) on all original material in this service. As far as Brad Childs is aware, all of the material that has not been attributed to others is his own creation or is in the public domain. Unacknowledged use of copyrighted material is unintentional and will be corrected immediately upon notification being received.

Worship on the Second Sunday after the Epiphany
10:00 am January 19, 2025
Minister: Rev. Brad Childs     Music Director: Binu Kapadia
Vocalists: Peter and Cheryl Sheridan     Reader: Martin Sawdon
Welcoming Elder: Sam Malayang    Children’s time presenter: Vivian Houg

We gather to worship God

Music Prelude

Greeting
L: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you
P: and also with you

Lighting of the Christ candle
Welcome and announcements
Preparation for worship

Call to worship:
L: God of the feast and abundance,
P: you constantly turn water into fine wine.
L: Though the wine has run out,
P: you work miracles among us.
L: Though the work feels impossible,
P: you accomplish wonders through us.
L: Though many fail to perceive it,
P: you reveal your glory among us.
L: Please help us receive your good gifts today,
P: so we might learn to put our faith in you. Amen

Opening praise: Here I am to worship

Prayers of approach and confession

Loving God, we come to You today with open hearts, asking for Your forgiveness and help. We know we have made mistakes and haven’t , done the right thing. In our thoughts, words, and actions, we haven’t lived the way You want us to.

We admit that we haven’t always put You first in our lives or loved other people as much as we love ourselves. Sometimes we think more about what we want instead of what others need. And of course we do. But we want to do both. Please forgive us for being selfish and not caring for those around us as much as we might.

We know we have been quick to speak and slow to listen, missing chances to understand others. We sometimes use words that hurt instead of heal, and we don’t always say the kind things we should. Forgive us for this and for the moments we stayed quiet when we could have offered hope and love.

In our busy lives, we haven’t always made time for You, God. We let the noise around us distract us from listening to Your voice and following Your guidance. We ask for Your forgiveness and help to make time to connect with You.

We also confess that we haven’t cared for the earth, Your marvellous creation. We’ve used its resources without thinking about how it affects the future. Please forgive us and help us to protect and care for the world around us.

We know we’ve ignored injustice and suffering, sometimes choosing comfort over doing what’s right. We’ve stayed silent when we should have spoken up. Forgive us for looking away and show us how to love mercy and act justly.

In our friendships and communities, we’ve let differences divide us when we should be united. Forgive us for judging others and help us to see everyone with love and understanding. Teach us to build bridges and break down barriers.

Gracious God, we’re sorry for our failures, but we trust in Your love and mercy. Clean our hearts and renew our spirits so we can walk in Your light and truth. Give us the strength to live as true followers of Jesus, sharing hope and joy everywhere we go.

Thank You for always offering us forgiveness through Jesus Christ, our Savior. We trust in His love and peace. Amen.

Response: We come to ask your forgiveness

Assurance of God’s pardon

God’s love for us is endless, and His mercy knows no bounds. When we come to God with a sincere heart, asking for forgiveness, He welcomes us with open arms and wipes our slate clean.

We are forgiven and made new through Jesus Christ, God’s own Son. Jesus came to show us the way of love and peace, and through His sacrifice, we are set free from our mistakes and given a fresh start. Thanks be to God!

Musical offering by the Dayspring Singers: Little drummer boy/Peace on earth

We listen for the voice of God

Song: Jesus loves me (373)                                              

Children’s time

Theme: Jesus performs miracles — not magic tricks.

Object: Two pitchers, one clear and one opaque, a package of grape Kool-Aid, a spoon, and a glass. (Ahead of time, put the package of Kool-Aid in the opaque pitcher.)

Scripture: This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him. John 2:11 (NIV)

This morning you are going to see an amazing feat of magic. I am going to take the plain, ordinary water in this glass pitcher and turn it into wine. Would anyone like to taste this water to make sure that it is just plain water? (Someone will surely take you up on your offer.)

OK, now that we know that this is just a pitcher of plain water, I will perform my magic. (Pour the water into the opaque pitcher with Kool-Aid in the bottom.) Now, I will take my magic spoon and stir the water. Now, watch this! (Pour the Kool-Aid into the glass.) Isn’t that the most amazing thing you have ever seen? How did I do that? (Allow time for them to guess how it was done.) The truth is, there was nothing magical about what happened. In the bottom of this pitcher was a package of grape Kool-Aid. I didn’t turn water into wine…all I did was turn water into Kool-Aid. Anyone can do that!

I did this silly little “magic” trick this morning to start us to thinking about the miracles that Jesus performed. Notice that I said, “Miracles” not “Magic.” During his time on earth, Jesus performed many miracles. He healed the sick, he raised the dead, he walked on water, and he fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish. These miracles could not be explained by a simple trick. They were things that only God could do. Our Bible lesson today tells of the very first miracle of Jesus — turning water into wine.

There was a great wedding celebration in the village of Cana. Almost everyone in town was there. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples were also invited. Everyone was having a good time until a very unfortunate thing happened. They ran out of wine. Jesus’ mother went looking for her son. When she found Jesus, she said to him, “There is no more wine.” Even though Jesus wasn’t ready to reveal that he was the Messiah, he quietly took on the responsibility of helping the host out of his predicament.

His mother told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you to do.”

There were six stone water jars nearby. Each one could hold twenty or thirty gallons. “Fill the jars with water,” Jesus told the servants. When the jars had been filled, he said, “Now dip some out and take it to the master of ceremonies.” The servants did as they were told, and I am sure you probably know what happened. The water had been turned into wine. Not only that, it was the best wine they had had all evening.

This was the first miracle that Jesus performed. The Bible tells us that after they saw Jesus perform this miracle, the disciples believed in him. That was always the reason that Jesus performed a miracle. He didn’t do it so that he would become popular or well-liked. He did it so that all would believe that he was God’s Son who had come to save them.

I believe…do you?

Prayer: Father, thank you for sending your Son and for the miracle of salvation. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer (535)

Song: Speak, Lord in the stillness (442)

Scripture: Isaiah 62:1-5; Psalm 36:5-10; 1 Corinthians 12:1-11; John 2:1-11

Response: Glory to the Father            

Message: The First Miracle

This first miracle of Jesus took place in a village called, Cana of Galilee. Cana was an inconspicuous little town just outside of Nazareth (another inconspicuous little town). Cana had no social significance in its day at all but it was about to become the sight of something huge. God, it seems, loves doing big things with so called “little people”. Mary the mother of Jesus, as well as Jesus and his disciples had all been invited to the wedding there. Most likely the whole town was invited as well as relatives and friends from all over the Galilean community. Cultural norms would have us to understand that this was a “peasant” wedding from some of the information we see. But that wouldn’t affect the guests much. These types of weddings just worked a little more like potlucks than the wealthy weddings did. And the “ceremony” would be completely unaffected. In fact, there weren’t really ceremonies to be affected. The actual “wedding ceremony” was just two groups of people escorting the couple into a tent. But what happened afterwords was a sight to behold. You see, for 3 days and ending on the day before the Sabbath the town would party… and the wine would flow.

Now, before we move on I want to delve into the story just a bit in order to explain a few things about it.

In Verse1-3 it says, On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.”

Because at the time Jesus was seen as Rabbani (a rabbinic teacher) and the disciples were seen as Talmudiyyim (a special class of students), Jesus would not be responsible to bring food or other preparations for himself, but he would normally be responsible for the contribution of the disciples. However, Jesus and the disciples were also publicly known to be involved in a mendicant (Men-D-Cant) ministry (dependent upon others for funds). Because of this, Jesus and the disciples would have been one of those rare groups of invites who came to the party but didn’t actually contribute anything – as they would be unable to provide for the feast.

In any case, the couple runs out of wine and so Mary goes to Jesus; probably a bit uncomfortably; and to suggest to him that certain people would be looking at him and at his friends (and her by extension) as freeloaders.

Now if you know the story you may assume that Mary goes to Jesus expecting him to do something. But that’s not the case. Nothing in the story indicates that she expected anything of him at all. In fact, what is almost certain is that she was simply informing him because in this culture of honor and shame, they all might be wearing out their welcome. But notice this… there is nothing in her words which in any way that suggest she asked anything of him or expects anything from him. She only informs him of the problem stating, “They have no more wine”. And that’s all she says. (Derrett, Law in the NT 228–38).

4 “Woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.”

It’s an interesting response. Some would see this as confrontation, “Don’t bother me woman”, but in truth this is just one place where accurately translating something makes for confusion. Firstly, in the first century, referring to a mother or a wife as “women” was considered an affectionate designation. In fact, “woman” is a typical address in love poems written at the time. So don’t worry. He is not belittling his mother. Secondly “Why do you involve me” or “what has this to do with me” is also confusing for modern readers. But in 2 Kings 3:13 the prophet Elijah uses the exact same words in response to a request but again he also immediately does a kind deed in response to a lack of something needed. In other words… there is no need to read something negative into this statement. In fact, although it doesn’t appear like it in English, in Aramaic there was a sort of implied intent to get involved in his response. This is why the Amplified Bible renders this “Dear woman my time is not yet”.

Mary’s response to him also makes this clear actually, because right after he says “Why do you involve me,” Mary tells the servants to do whatever he tells them to.

Now in the story it says that “6 Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons.”

These traditional stone jars were giant. They served as hand washing stations for before the meal according to Jewish customs. The water could be scooped up with a cup and then poured over the hands of the guest by a wedding servant who was assigned to work much like a butler (no doubt these are the people Mary tells to do what Jesus asks). And “7 Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they fllled them to the brim. 8 Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” And then the story continues, “They did so, 9 and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine.” And finally it concludes with “11 What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.”

Now this is just a silly side note here, but I can’t help myself. If you’ve got 6 jars at 25 gallons, that’s 150 gallons. If you figure 4 ounces to a glass, 128 ounces to a gallon, you get 32 glasses of wine per gallon and for a grand total of 4,800 glasses of wine! That is the first recorded miracle of Jesus. He made somewhere around 4,800 glasses of wine. So even if there are 1000 people at this party that’s still nearly 5 glasses of wine per person and that’s after they already drank all the other wine before Jesus makes this. I just have one word… Baptists?

Now, remember at the beginning of this message I said of the first century Jewish wedding “for 3 days, and ending on the day before the Sabbath the town would party and the wine would flow.” You know what this means now. 150 gallons of it would flow. It’s extravagant. And that’s part of the point.

For the Evangelist John, there are a lot of illusions at play in this story and in the exact words he chooses to tell it with. The basic fact that Jesus makes wine for example, was no doubt intended to be seen by his original Greek audience as a sort of political satire on Greek society. Greeks who worshiped Dionysus (The Greek “wine-giver” god) is slighted by a Jewish Messiah from a know-nothing town out in the middle of know-where; backwoods Galilee.

In addition to this, most commentators quickly acknowledge that in the Johannine narrative there is an implicit contrast between water used for Jewish purification rites and the wine given by Jesus. In other words, John chooses his words very carefully. Water is continually used as a theme throughout his gospel and often as a symbol for the old order ceremonial laws, while wine is poured out like the gift of life. For John a story of Jesus turning water into wine is a story about Jesus tuning the ceremonial law on its head and introducing a new covenant of grace.

On top of this John’s picture of the kingdom of God is also a theme for him. Feasts are prominent in Jewish teaching. They are a stand in for the afterlife. By using a wedding feast as a setting John is also making a statement about the eschaton (the end of days). (Beasley-Murray, John: Commentary (Vol l36. Pg 36).

But of course, John’s main point is much simpler. And it’s not about symbols of the future or allegories for life. And it’s not about political commentary or claims about changing legal code. I do think he is making those points, but John’s main point is that this Jesus is the Messiah and the savior of the world who proves who he is by his deeds.

Where to take it from here

So what does this story mean to us? Well, it means that like disciples we are called to put our faith in Jesus Christ as the Messiah and Savoir of the world and to know him by his deeds and believe. But I think it’s a mistake to think about this story just in terms of who we have faith in. It is about that. But not just that:

I think for us it’s also about what happens in our lives when the wine runs out.

I submit to you that life has its empty spots, in spite of all the glitter and glamour; deep beneath the surface often lays an empty reservoir of lost dreams and hopes. Void and lack, plague our lives and prohibit our pursuits of fulfillment and satisfaction. All of us, in spite of our ages, wages, races, ethnic identities and a host of other things, have to wrestle with the issue of emptiness from time to time. The world is a feast without wine, and it’s often broken and empty. Empty marriages, lost loves, sad goodbyes, illness and death, and shirking bank accounts are the norms of our time.

We think we’ve done the calculations, we think we understand the numbers, we think we know what we need, and we’ve measured things out so carefully in life… but only to find that all are plans have turned to naught. Sooner or later we all have that moment. The wine runs out.

Our own culture is far removed from Jesus and Mary’s and their culture of Honor and Shame but there is still a stigma to sadness, and we are generally less far removed from them, then at first thought. People put on masks of happiness and play the part when truly they suffer. Sometimes the wine runs out and it happens to us all.

The question that confronts us all today is how do we deal with those empty spots in our lives? How do we deal with failing and faulty finances, bankrupt relationships, broken homes and hopes? How do we deal with the things that leave us feeling as if we are stranded on an island by ourselves?

I suggest two things from today’s gospel: 1) nobody is alone in their pain – and pain is normal. & 2) When the wine runs out, we should turn to the Miracle worker who makes water into wine and provides more than we could ever need.

Nobody is alone in their pain – pain is normal.

Max Lucado tells this great story. In it he says, I was flying home to San Antonio one evening and as the wheels of the plane hit the runway, all through the plane you could hear the unfastening of seatbelts. A voice came over the intercom saying, “Please remain seated with your seatbelts fastened until the plane comes to a complete stop”. No one paid the slightest attention to it. People were opening overhead compartments, getting their stuff out. I asked myself, why are they so anxious to get off this plane – and the answer came to me very quickly: They were so anxious to get off the plane because they were home. They were home and they wanted to get off that plane because it’s not where they belonged. Then I asked myself, Why do we Christians, hold so fast to our seats in this world? Why aren’t we as anxious as these people, to get off this crazy world when in fact were not home here either?

The truth is, pain and emptiness exist here for good reason. We all suffer together for a reason. And yes, we will have Great times and bad times alike… but that’s why the wine runs out… Because we aren’t home yet. Life isn’t perfect here. And life doesn’t need to be perfect here because we are not home yet.

When the wine runs out, we should turn to Jesus who turns water into wine.

Ultimately Jesus Christ is the one that brings us home. But before we get there, even this side of heaven we have someone to turn to. When the wine runs out the best thing to do is to go to the winemaker. Have you any rivers that you can’t cross or any mountains that you can’t tunnel through? Jesus specializes in the impossible and he can do what no other power can do… because when you turn everything over to him, one way or another, in this life or the next…

the wine will flow.

Amen.

Song: Great is thy faithfulness (324)

We respond to serve God

Our time of giving

Prayer of gratitude and for others and ourselves    

Loving and Compassionate God,

We come before You today, deeply aware of the pain and suffering in our world. We lift up to You all those who are hurting, whether in body, mind, or spirit. Our hearts break for those affected by illness, conflict, and injustice.

We pray for healing where there is disease. Pour out Your strength and comfort on those in hospitals, homes, and places of care. Be with their families and caregivers and grant them the endurance and resilience they need each day.

In places torn by conflict and violence, we plead for Your peace. Soften hearts that are hardened by hatred and fear and inspire leaders to choose dialogue and reconciliation over division and strife. May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard the hearts of those in despair.

We remember those who feel isolated and lonely. Surround them with community and love, reminding them that they are never alone. Stir in us the compassion to reach out, offering friendship and support to those in need of connection.

For those struggling with grief and loss, Lord, bring comfort and hope. Let them feel Your presence and give them the courage to face each new day. May Your promise of eternal life bring solace to their mourning hearts.

Guide us, Holy Spirit, to be agents of Your healing and love in the world. Empower us to act with kindness and mercy, advocating for justice and serving selflessly. Show us how to care for Your creation and foster a spirit of peace and harmony.

Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer. We trust in Your loving-kindness and believe that You are making all things new. We ask all of this in the precious name of Jesus Christ, our savior and healer. Amen.

Song: Oh sing to our God (453)

Sending out with God’s blessing

As we leave this place of worship, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with each of you.

Go forth in peace, knowing that you are deeply loved and blessed by God. May your hearts be filled with hope and joy as you carry His light into the world.

Seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God. In every moment, may you be a witness to His boundless grace and compassion.

Let this community be a beacon of love and understanding, reaching out to all with open hearts.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen.

Response: Gloria in excelsis deo

Music postlude

————————————————————————-

Numbers in brackets after a song/hymn indicate that it is from the 1997 Book of Praise of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. Those and other songs are being used in accordance with the specifications of Dayspring’s licensing with One License (3095377) and CLC (A735555).

The Rev. Brad Childs retains the copyright (© 2024) on all original material in this service. As far as Brad Childs is aware, all of the material that has not been attributed to others is his own creation or is in the public domain. Unacknowledged use of copyrighted material is unintentional and will be corrected immediately upon notification being received.