Covenant God, Sometimes, when we can’t see, touch, or hear you, we wonder, “Are you really there?” Then we remember the many ways you have shown us your love and we see the many things that reveal your creative presence in our lives. We feel the love in a hug from our mom, dad, or friend; and we know that this is what your love must feel like. We see the stars shining in the sky above or watch the sunrise, and we are amazed by your beautiful work that makes these things possible.Lord, during this week of our Lenten journey, help us find ways to remember that you are with us. We know that this is big work. Help us practice remembering as we get ready for the mystery of Easter. During this season, help us learn how to trust you, love you, and share your love with others. Lord, thank you for being with our family as we travel together, preparing our hearts and minds to enter into the mystery of Easter. Bless us in our work. It’s in your holy name, we pray. Amen..
PRELUDE (A time to relax and enter the mindset of worship)
WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Leader: Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy;
People: In your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief. Amen.
INTRODUCTION “Into My Heart” (Verse 1) FWS 2160
HYMN OF INVOCATIONUMH 117
“O God, Our Help in Ages Past”
CALL TO WORSHIP
Leader: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
People: And also with you.
Leader: Come to the Eternal One, who will keep you from all evil and preserve your life.
People: God will keep our going out and our coming in from this time on and forevermore.
PRAYER OF INVOCATION
We are drawn to worship you, God of Creation, by the mystery of your power to bring into existence what did not exist. We could be too awestruck to approach you except that the gospel of Jesus Christ assures us of your loving acceptance of our humble homage in faith and in penitence for our sins. Amen
