Order of Worship for Sunday, July 23rd 2023

Prelude

Welcome

Call to Worship

Leader: Let go of your hesitations, trust in God's provision.
People: We surrender to God's providing presence.

Leader: In Christ, all things hold together, and we are called to participate.
People: We respond eagerly, joining God's creative work in the world.

Opening Hymn

How Firm A Foundation UMH 529

Prayer of Confession

Compassionate God, we acknowledge the times when we have mistakenly thought that surrendering to your will meant abdicating our responsibility to make a positive impact in the world. We have allowed apathy and complacency to hinder us from actively participating in your mission of justice, mercy, and love. Forgive us, Lord, for our indifference and inspire us to let go of our self-centeredness. Fill us with a renewed passion to partner with you in building a world that reflects your kingdom values. Amen.

Words of Assurance

Leader: Trust in God's transforming power and know that you are forgiven.

People: In His mercy, we can be a part of God's work in the world bringing light and love to those in need.

Passing of the Peace

First Reading:

Isaiah 43:1-3,5-7, 18-19

Second Reading:

Colossians 1:21-29

Sermon:

Let Go, Let God by Pastor Kevin Rutledge

Hymn of Response

O Jesus, I Have Promised UMH 396

Tithes and Offerings

Give Now

Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 94

Offertory Prayer

Heavenly Father, we gather in this place with grateful hearts, acknowledging the blessings you have bestowed upon us. You have redeemed us through Christ, reconciling us to yourself and granting us new life. We are thankful for the forgiveness and transformation we have experienced in your presence. As we bring our offerings today, we offer them as a gesture of gratitude and surrender, recognizing that all we have comes from your generous hand. Use these gifts to further your purposes and to bring hope and healing to a broken world. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer

Announcements

Closing Hymn

I'm Gonna Live So God Can Use Me TFWS 2153

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

This Week's Reading Plan

Day:	Reading:
Monday	God's Perfect Creation: Genesis 1:1-31
Tuesday	God's Sovereign Purpose: Jeremiah 1:4-10
Wednesday	Embracing Our Uniqueness: Psalm 139:1-16
Thursday	Christ's Inclusive Love: Galatians 3:15-29
Friday	Embracing Our Purpose: Ephesians 2:1-10
Saturday	Loving One Another: 1 John 4:7-16
Sunday	The Freedom of God's Love: Galatians 5:1-14

Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

Morning Prayer: Gracious God, As we begin this new day, we surrender our lives to your loving presence. May your guidance be our compass and your strength be our anchor. In the midst of challenges, help us remember that you are always with us. Empower us to let go of control and trust in your will. May our thoughts, words, and actions reflect your love and grace to those we encounter. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Evening Prayer: Gracious God, As we prepare to rest and restore, we turn our hearts to you. We thank you for the blessings of this day and for your constant presence. As we reflect on the ways we have let go and allowed your will to prevail, help us find peace and assurance in your faithfulness. Grant us a restful night's sleep and rejuvenate our spirits for the journey ahead. In your grace, we find rest and renewal. Amen.
Reflection Question: In what areas of my life do I struggle to let go of control and surrender to God's guidance?
Reflection Question: What are some specific ways I can actively partner with God in the work of justice, mercy, and love?
Reflection Question: In what ways has God's presence been evident to me in difficult circumstances, offering guidance and support?

Featured Upcoming Events:

Monthly Food Distribution at Trinity House

on 6/23/2025 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Volunteers are needed to help unload food, divide bulk produce, and prepare it for distribution to the residents. This month, we will serve approximately 65 people, providing them with essential canned goods and fresh produce.Whether you can lift heavy objects or simply offer a friendly smile, your assistance is invaluable. This is a great opportunity to experience the joy of serving and make a tangible impact on the lives of those in need.

Learn More

Next Steps

on 7/6/2025 from 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM

"Join us at 'Next Steps,' our recurring gathering where we explore the future of our church's ministry and your role within it. Discover how you can make a meaningful impact by plugging into our diverse ministries."