Prelude
Welcome
Call to Worship
Leader: When the wine ran out, the celebration could have ended in shame.
People: We come with our own fears of not having enough.
Leader: Jesus chose generosity even when the timing seemed uncertain.
People: We come open to God’s unexpected grace.
Leader: In quiet obedience, water became wine and joy was restored.
People: We come to worship the God of abundance. Amen.
Opening Hymn
There's a Wideness in God's Mercy UMH 121
Prayer of Confession
Gracious God, we confess that we often tell ourselves, “Not yet.” Not the right time. Not the right resources. Not our responsibility.
We see need around us, but hesitate to step forward, fearing the cost of generosity or the uncertainty of what comes next.
We confess that we sometimes hide our reluctance behind wisdom, planning, or patience, when what is truly needed is trust.
Hear the silent confessions of our hearts…
Silence
Forgive us, O God. Free us from fear that keeps us from love. Open our hearts to your unexpected grace, and lead us into the joy of faithful obedience. Amen.
Words of Assurance
Leader: God does not wait for perfect timing or perfect faith; in Christ, grace comes unexpectedly and abundantly.
People: We receive forgiveness, renewal, and the courage to love. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Passing of the Peace
First Reading:
John 2:1-11
Sermon:
A Miracle at the Edge of a Crisis by Pastor Kevin Rutledge
Hymn of Response
Open My Eyes, That I May See UMH 454
Tithes and Offerings
Offertory Response
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95
Offertory Prayer
God who works quietly and faithfully, you turn simple offerings into signs of grace. As we present our gifts, we do so without seeking recognition or reward, trusting that you will use them in ways we may never see.
Bless what is given here — that it may nurture community, extend hospitality, and allow joy to continue where it might otherwise fade. We offer ourselves along with these gifts, trusting your abundance to do the rest. Amen.
Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer
Announcements
Closing Hymn
Go, Make of All Disciples UMH 571
Benediction
Said Each Week as A Communal Prayer:
Send to us all the people who feel unwanted and unloved in other places, and if they can't come to us, send us to them.
Postlude