Prelude
Welcome
Call to Worship
Leader: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.
People: On those who dwell in the land of deep shadows, light has dawned.
Leader: The Lord is our light and our salvation—whom shall we fear?
People: We come to worship the Light of the World, Jesus Christ.
Leader: Come, all who are weary, and receive the light of peace.
People: We will walk in the light of Christ.
Opening Hymn
I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light UMH 206
Prayer of Confession
God of light and love, we confess that we often live as though the darkness has the final word. We grow weary from waiting, discouraged by conflict, and uncertain of your presence.
Yet even when our faith flickers, your light never fades. Hear the silent confessions of our hearts as we seek your mercy and your renewal…
(Silent prayer)
Rekindle our hope, O God. Shine through our weariness and fear, that we may reflect your light to a world in need. Amen.
Words of Assurance
Leader: Jesus Christ is the Light of the World. May his light shine in your hearts and give the assurance that you are forgiven.
People: Thanks be to God!
Passing of the Peace
First Reading:
Isaiah 9:1-7
Sermon:
Light for a Weary World by Pastor Kevin Rutledge
Hymn of Response
Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies UMH 173
Tithes and Offerings
Offertory Response
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95
Offertory Prayer
Radiant God, you shine hope into our weary places. Receive these gifts and brighten our community through them. By your Spirit, make our generosity a lamp for those who sit in darkness, so that all may see your gracious light in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer
Announcements
Closing Hymn
What Does the Lord Require of You TFWS 2174
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