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
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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.