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January 19, 2025 – Second Sunday after Epiphany
The Sundays after Epiphany continue to celebrate the revelation of God’s glory to us as it was made known to the magi and to those on Jordan’s banks at Jesus’ baptism—today using wedding imagery. Our God rejoices over God’s people as those being married rejoice over one another. By the power of the Spirit there are gifts galore for everyone. In Christ Jesus the best wine is saved for last. Taste and see.
PRELUDE
PROCESSIONAL Halle, Halle Redeemer Choir
CALL TO WORSHIP Bond of Love Redeemer Choir
Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.
The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.
CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, our creator, our protector, our wellspring of life.
C: Amen.
P: Trusting that God receives our words and the meditations of our hearts, let us confess our sin.
Silence is kept for reflection.
P: Merciful God,
C: you speak blessing and compassion into the world. Forgive us for the ways we act with judgment, cruelty, or indifference. We ignore the needs of our neighbors; we resist your call to oppose injustice; we give in to scarcity and fear; we assume the worst about one another. Cleanse us from our faults and release us from their grasp. Show us your lovingkindness. Restore our hearts and repair your world, that we may live in Christ’s ways. Amen.
P: God proclaims these words of assurance: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by name. You are mine.” In Christ, you are forgiven. In the Spirit, you are made free. Refreshed by the waters of mercy, live anew as beloved children of God.
C: Amen.
GATHERING HYMN What Feast of Love ELW 487
SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY
P: The Lord be with you.
C: And also with you.
P: Lord God, source of every blessing, you showed forth your glory and led many to faith by the works of your Son, who brought gladness and salvation to his people. Transform us by the Spirit of his love, that we may find our life together in him, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
C: Amen.
Please be seated.
Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.
God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song
from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.
FIRST READING Isaiah 62:1-5
The people’s return to Judah after the exile was marred by economic and political troubles. Nevertheless, the prophet declares, Jerusalem and Judah will be restored. God will rejoice over Jerusalem as a bridegroom rejoices over the bride, and the people are called to the celebration.
1 For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,
and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest,
until her vindication shines out like the dawn,
and her salvation like a burning torch.
2 The nations shall see your vindication,
and all the kings your glory;
and you shall be called by a new name
that the mouth of the Lord will give.
3 You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord,
and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.
4 You shall no more be termed Forsaken,
and your land shall no more be termed Desolate;
but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her,
and your land Married;
for the Lord delights in you,
and your land shall be married.
5 For as a young man marries a young woman,
so shall your builder marry you,
and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride,
so shall your God rejoice over you.
The reader concludes: The Word of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God.
PSALM (responsively) Psalm 35:5-10
5 Your love, O Lord, reaches | to the heavens,
and your faithfulness | to the clouds.
6 Your righteousness is like the strong mountains, your justice like | the great deep;
you save humankind and ani- | mals, O Lord.
7 How priceless is your | love, O God!
All people take refuge under the shadow | of your wings.
8 They feast upon the abundance | of your house;
you give them drink from the river of | your delights.
9 For with you is the | well of life,
and in your light | we see light.
10 Continue your lovingkindness to | those who know you,
and your favor to those who are | true of heart.
SECOND READING 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
The congregation at Corinth experienced division as people were comparing their spiritual gifts, thinking some to be superior to others. Paul invites this fractured community to trust that God’s Holy Spirit has gifted them all perfectly for their mission together.
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray to idols that could not speak. 3 Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says “Let Jesus be cursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit.
4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.
The reader concludes: The Word of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God.
Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION Celtic Alleluia ELW 174
P: The Holy Gospel according to St. John, the second chapter.
GOSPEL John 2:1-11
Turning water to wine at the wedding at Cana is described as the first of Jesus’ signs. Through many such epiphanies, Jesus reveals that he bears God’s creative power and joyful presence into the world.
1 On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” 4 And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.” 5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to them, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. 8 He said to them, “Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward.” So they took it. 9 When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now.” 11 Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.
P: The Gospel of the Lord.
Please be seated.
MESSAGE David Allman, Pastor
HYMN Come Join us in Cana’s Feast sheet
Please stand, if able, for the Apostles’ Creed.
APOSTLES’ CREED
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.
Prayers on behalf of others.
With the Spirit of Christ shining upon us, let us boldly pray for the church, the world, and all of creation.
A brief silence.
Giver of gifts, you form each member of the church to serve. Inspire us to boldly use gifts of welcome and healing, service and teaching, leading and preaching, for the sake of your work in the world. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Refuge of creatures, you place all the living under the shadow of your wings. Lead us in ways that tend to the needs of wild and domestic animals, creatures threatened by extinction, and the environment we share. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Voice of the oppressed, you call prophets throughout time. We remember the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a voice for racial and economic justice and for peace. Guide our nation in continuing to heed your prophetic call. God of grace, hear our prayer.
God of steadfast love, as Jesus celebrated at Cana, nurture marriages and relationships in mutual care; in times of separation or divorce hold tenderly broken hearts and broken dreams. Be present to all who are sick, grieving or in any need. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Spirit of peace, celebrating this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, we pray for neighboring congregations and ministry sites. Nurture our shared commitment to embody Jesus’ love, justice, and healing. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Here other intercessions may be offered.
Wellspring of life, in living and dying we trust in you. We give thanks for the saints. Guide us in our living until, at last, we rest in you. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Loving God, prepare the people of Redeemer as a bride adorned for your glory. Help us be full of joy when we hear the bridegroom’s voice. Guide us with your Holy Spirit to live faithful lives that bring honor to your name. God of grace, hear our prayer.
We pray that you remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually. Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, hear our prayer.
We pray that you watch over our first responders and military personnel and keep them safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us. God of grace,
hear our prayer.
P: We entrust our prayers to you, O God, in the sure and certain hope that your promise is revealed among the people.
C: Amen.
Please be seated.
OFFERING/ ANTHEM Christ Comes To Us Redeemer Choir
Please join in singing the offertory response.
OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create In Me a Clean Heart
OFFERING PRAYER
P: God of grace, your love reaches to the heavens, and your abundance to the depths of the seas. Bless what we offer to your service: our gifts, our abilities, and our hearts. Let us overflow with gratitude and generosity, now and always.
C: Amen.
The Meal
God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. Communion Assistants, Ushers, and the choir will receive Holy Communion first. If you are unable to come to the altar for Holy Communion, please let an usher know and Holy Communion will be brought to you.
INVITATION TO COMMUNION
Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you. There are both wine and purple grape juice available. Tell the Communion Assistant if you prefer juice.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
Please be seated.
DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNION– Lamb of God & Jesus, Remember Me
Please stand, if able.
P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.
C: Amen.
SENDING OF COMMUNION
P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned. May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.
C: Amen.
BENEDICTION
P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
C: Choral Amen.
SENDING HYMN Song of Thankfulness ELW 310
Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.
P: Go in peace. Live in Hope.
C: Thanks be to God.
January 12, 2025 – Baptism of Our Lord
Today’s festival rejoices in God’s blessings. We recall and celebrate our adoption as God’s children, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the promised company of almighty God when we “pass through the waters … the rivers … fire.” On this day the heavens open again for this assembly, and we receive the gift of God’s Beloved, Jesus, in bread and wine.
PRELUDE
PROCESSIONAL This Little Light of Mine! Redeemer Choir
TEMPLE TALK Rummage Sale Judy Buskirk
GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
CALL TO WORSHIP Arise, Your Light Has Come! Redeemer Choir
Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.
The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.
CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, our creator, our protector, our wellspring of life.
C: Amen.
P: Trusting that God receives our words and the meditations of our hearts, let us confess our sin.
Silence is kept for reflection.
P: Merciful God,
C: you speak blessing and compassion into the world. Forgive us for the ways we act with judgment, cruelty, or indifference. We ignore the needs of our neighbors; we resist your call to oppose injustice; we give in to scarcity and fear; we assume the worst about one another. Cleanse us from our faults and release us from their grasp. Show us your lovingkindness. Restore our hearts and repair your world, that we may live in Christ’s ways. Amen.
P: God proclaims these words of assurance: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by name. You are mine.” In Christ, you are forgiven. In the Spirit, you are made free. Refreshed by the waters of mercy, live anew as beloved children of God.
C: Amen.
GATHERING HYMN We Are Baptized ELW 451
SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY
P: The Lord be with you.
C: And also with you.
P: Almighty God, you anointed Jesus at his baptism with the Holy Spirit and revealed him as your beloved Son. Keep all who are born of water and the Spirit faithful in your service, that we may rejoice to be called children of God, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
C: Amen.
Please be seated.
Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.
God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song
from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.
FIRST READNG Isaiah 43:1-7
Near the end of Israel’s exile in Babylon, God promises to bring the people home. They need no longer be afraid, because the one who formed, created, and called them by name now redeems them from all their enemies. God declares them precious and honored, and God loves them.
1 But now thus says the Lord,
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
I give Egypt as your ransom,
Ethiopia and Seba in exchange for you.
4 Because you are precious in my sight,
and honored, and I love you,
I give people in return for you,
nations in exchange for your life.
5 Do not fear, for I am with you;
I will bring your offspring from the east,
and from the west I will gather you;
6 I will say to the north, “Give them up,”
and to the south, “Do not withhold;
bring my sons from far away
and my daughters from the end of the earth—
7 everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made.”
The reader concludes: The Word of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God.
PSALM (responsively) Psalm 29
1 Ascribe to the | Lord, you gods,
ascribe to the Lord glo- | ry and strength.
2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory | due God’s name;
worship the Lord in the beau- | ty of holiness.
3 The voice of the Lord is upon the waters; the God of | glory thunders;
the Lord is upon the | mighty waters.
4 The voice of the Lord is a pow- | erful voice;
the voice of the Lord is a | voice of splendor.
5 The voice of the Lord breaks the | cedar trees;
the Lord breaks the ce- | dars of Lebanon;
6 the Lord makes Lebanon skip | like a calf,
and Mount Hermon like a | young wild ox.
7 The voice | of the Lord
bursts forth in | lightning flashes.
8 The voice of the Lord | shakes the wilderness;
the Lord shakes the wilder- | ness of Kadesh.
9 The voice of the Lord makes the oak trees writhe and strips the | forests bare.
And in the temple of the Lord all are | crying, “Glory!”
10 The Lord sits enthroned a- | bove the flood;
the Lord sits enthroned as king for- | evermore.
11 O Lord, give strength | to your people;
give them, O Lord, the bless- | ings of peace.
SECOND READING Acts 8:14-17
Peter and John are sent to support the new Christians in Samaria, a group that was recently baptized after hearing the good news of Christ through the preaching of Philip. Here the Samaritans receive the gift of the Holy Spirit in the laying on of hands.
14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. 15 The two went down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit 16 (for as yet the Spirit had not come upon any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus). 17 Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
The reader concludes: The Word of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God.
Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION Celtic Alleluia ELW 174
P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke, the third chapter.
GOSPEL Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
The reading opens with questions about the identity of the Messiah. John the Baptist insists that he is not the Messiah; instead he points ahead to one who is coming. And whether the voice of God was heard by all or only by Jesus, God settles the matter: Jesus is God’s beloved Son.
15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, 16 John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
21 Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
P: The Gospel of the Lord.
Please be seated.
MESSAGE David Allman, Pastor
HYMN OF THE DAY Christ, Your Footprints through the Desert sheet
Please stand, if able, for the Apostles’ Creed.
APOSTLES’ CREED
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
OFFERING/ ANTHEM Down By the Riverside Redeemer Choir
Please join in singing the offertory response.
OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create In Me a Clean Heart
OFFERING PRAYER
P: Blessed are you, Holy One, for all good things come from you. In bread and cup you open heaven to us. Meet us at this table, that we receive what we seek and follow your Son, Jesus, in whose name we pray.
C: Amen.
Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.
Prayers on behalf of others.
With the Spirit of Christ shining upon us, let us boldly pray for the church, the world, and all of creation.
A brief silence.
You call us by name and form us. We give thanks for the gift of baptism. Nurture the baptized and equip people sent to proclaim the good news, especially Young Adults in Global Mission and international congregations. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Your voice sounds over the waters. Speak words of healing over the rivers and lakes, seas and oceans. Heeding your voice, lead us to care for water, and the land and creatures it nourishes. God of grace, hear our prayer.
You give strength to your people. Uphold all who serve the common good. Guide federal and state legislators, city and county officials, judges and juries. Strengthen our resolve to serve all in need. God of grace, hear our prayer.
You are with us in challenging times. Draw near to all who are ill, undergoing treatment, or recovering from surgery. Accompany individuals and families affected by addiction or mental health challenges. Uphold each person as your beloved. God of grace, hear our prayer.
You draw us into community. Embolden ministries of racial reconciliation, nurture work on behalf of immigrants and refugees, and equip each to use their gifts for the sake of neighbors near and far. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Here other intercessions may be offered.
You grant us peace. Comfort all who grieve. Dwell with us in this life and, at the last, join us with the saints whom you have created, formed, and named. God of grace, hear our prayer.
The people of Redeemer remember our Baptisms, drowning the old, sinful self in your sacramental waters, and rising to new life in Christ each day. Guide us to live each day dedicated to your will, that we may have a positive impact on the world to bring you glory. God of grace, receive our prayer.
We pray that you remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually. Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, receive our prayer.
We pray that you watch over our first responders and military personnel and keep them safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us. God of grace,
receive our prayer.
P: We entrust our prayers to you, O God, in the sure and certain hope that your promise is revealed among the people.
C: Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
GRACE, LOVE, & FELLOWSHIP
To be sung by the congregation
May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us.
May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us, forever and ever for evermore. Amen.
BENEDICTION
P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
C: Choral Amen.
SENDING HYMN Go, My Children, with My Blessing ELW 543
Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.
P: Go in peace. Live in hope.
C: Thanks be to God.
January 5, 2025 – Epiphany of Our Lord
The feast of Epiphany (“manifestation”) concludes the Christmas season with a celebration of God’s glory revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. In Isaiah and Ephesians, that glory is proclaimed for all nations and people. Like the light of the star that guided the magi to Jesus, the light of Christ reveals who we are: children of God who are claimed and washed in the waters of baptism. We are sent out to be beacons of the light of Christ, sharing the good news of God’s love to all people.
PRELUDE
PROCESSIONAL He Came Down Redeemer Choir
CALL TO WORSHIP What Star is This, with Beams so Bright Redeemer Choir
Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.
The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.
CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, whose steadfast love is everlasting.
C: Amen.
P: Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.
Silence is kept for reflection.
P: God-with-us,
C: we confess that we have turned away those seeking shelter, claiming there is no room when we have plenty. We have made power and wealth our idols, while you show us true glory: a baby in a manger. We have overlooked the shepherds, expecting good news in prettier packaging. Too often, we have valued violence instead of your peace. Turn us from our ways to your ways. Grant us the grace to begin again. Free us from all that keeps us bound, and forgive our sin, through Jesus Christ, who gives himself for us. Amen.
P: Hear the good news and rejoice! You are God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, forgiven in Christ, and freed to respond in joy.
C: Amen.
GATHERING HYMN Brightest and Best of the Stars ELW 303
SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY
P: The Lord be with you.
C: And also with you.
P: O God, on this day you revealed your Son to the nations by the leading of a star. Lead us now by faith to know your presence in our lives, and bring us at last to the full vision of your glory, through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
C: Amen.
Please be seated.
SPECIAL MUSIC I Wonder as I Wander Lynn Barrett
Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.
God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song
from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.
FIRST READING Isaiah 60:1-6
Jerusalem is assured that nations will make a pilgrimage to her because the light of God’s presence is in her midst. The bountiful food of the sea and the profits of international trade will come streaming to Jerusalem and thereby declare God’s praise.
1 Arise, shine; for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
2 For darkness shall cover the earth,
and thick darkness the peoples;
but the Lord will arise upon you,
and his glory will appear over you.
3 Nations shall come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
4 Lift up your eyes and look around;
they all gather together, they come to you;
your sons shall come from far away,
and your daughters shall be carried on their nurses’ arms.
5 Then you shall see and be radiant;
your heart shall thrill and rejoice,
because the abundance of the sea shall be brought to you,
the wealth of the nations shall come to you.
6 A multitude of camels shall cover you,
the young camels of Midian and Ephah;
all those from Sheba shall come.
They shall bring gold and frankincense,
and shall proclaim the praise of the Lord.
The reader concludes: The Word of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God.
PSALM (responsively) Psalm 72:1-7,10-14
1 Give the king your jus- | tice, O God,
and your righteousness to | the king’s son;
2 that he may rule your | people righteously
and the | poor with justice;
3 that the mountains may bring prosperity | to the people,
and the | hills, in righteousness.
4 Let him defend the needy a- | mong the people,
rescue the poor, and crush | the oppressor.
5 May he live as long as the sun and | moon endure,
from one generation | to another.
6 Let him come down like rain upon | the mown field,
like showers that wa- | ter the earth.
7 In his time may the | righteous flourish;
and let there be an abundance of peace till the moon shall | be no more.
10 May the kings of Tarshish and of the | isles pay tribute,
and the kings of Sheba and Seba | offer gifts.
11 May all kings bow | down before him,
and all the nations | do him service.
12 For the king delivers the poor who cry out | in distress,
the oppressed, and those who | have no helper.
13 He has compassion on the low- | ly and poor,
and preserves the lives | of the needy.
14 From oppression and violence he re- | deems their lives,
and precious is their blood | in his sight.
SECOND READING Ephesians 3:1-12
What had been hidden from previous generations is now made known through the gospel ministry of Paul and others. In Christ both Jews and Gentiles participate in the richness of God’s promised salvation.
1 This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—2 for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given me for you, 3 and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, 4 a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. 5 In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6 that is, the Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
7 Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given me by the working of his power. 8 Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; 10 so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.
The reader concludes: The Word of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God.
Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION Celtic Alleluia ELW 174
P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew, the second chapter.
GOSPEL Matthew 2:1-12
God’s promise shines bright in the night as magi follow a star to honor a new king. Strangers from a faraway land, they welcome the long-awaited messiah of Israel.
1 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet:
6 ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who is to shepherd my people Israel.’ ”
7 Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. 8 Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.” 9 When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. 11 On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
P: The Gospel of the Lord.
Please be seated.
MESSAGE David Allman, Pastor
HYMN We Three Kings of Orient Are WOV 646
Please stand, if able, for the Apostles’ Creed.
APOSTLES’ CREED
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.
Prayers on behalf of others.
Filled with good news of great joy, let us offer our prayers for the church, the earth, and all people.
A brief silence.
Your glory fills the earth. Bless the work of all who engage in dialogue with people of other traditions and faiths. Bridge our differences with a shared mission of revealing your boundless love to the world. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Restore the glory of creation. Send rain to water-parched lands. Revive ecosystems and habitats threatened by a changing climate, and protect the peoples and creatures who live in them. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Give the rulers your justice and reveal your righteousness to those who govern. Frustrate the plans of tyrants and oppressors. Encourage the work of community organizers and activists who speak out against injustice. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Help those who have no helper. Draw near to those who have no one to advocate for them or those who feel forgotten. Deliver those who call to you. Precious are they in your sight. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Liberate this congregation from a yearning for the past that forgets the future. Fuel in us a passion for discovery. Give us the boldness to dream and to imagine our ministries in new and different ways. God of grace,
receive our prayer.
Here other intercessions may be offered.
We give thanks for your holy ones who now rest in your radiant glory. Make us, with them, sharers in the boundless riches of Christ, our hope and promise. God of grace,
receive our prayer.
Thank you for this past year and your many blessings and help Redeemer plan for the year ahead, always looking to light that has come into the world and bringing you the glory. God of grace, receive our prayer.
We pray that you remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually. Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, receive our prayer.
We pray that you watch over our first responders and military personnel and keep them safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us. God of grace,
receive our prayer.
P: We commend these prayers to you, O God, trusting your grace made known to all, through the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
C: Amen.
Please be seated.
OFFERING/ ANTHEM Let Your Light Shine Redeemer Choir
Please join in singing the offertory response.
OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create In Me a Clean Heart
OFFERING PRAYER
P: God of heaven and earth, from the beginning, you have called forth life, in which you take delight. The trees, the fields, and the seas sing for joy. Bless now these gifts, received from your bounty, that we may join the chorus of creation to tell of your salvation from day to day.
C: Amen.
The Meal
God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. Communion Assistants, Ushers, and the choir will receive Holy Communion first. If you are unable to come to the altar for Holy Communion, please let an usher know and Holy Communion will be brought to you.
INVITATION TO COMMUNION
Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you. There are both wine and purple grape juice available. Tell the Communion Assistant if you prefer juice.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
Please be seated.
DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNION– Lamb of God
Please stand, if able.
P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.
C: Amen.
SENDING OF COMMUNION
P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned. May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.
C: Amen.
BENEDICTION
P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
C: Choral Amen.
SENDING HYMN As with Gladness Men of Old ELW 302
Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.
P: Go in peace. The Word of God dwells in you richly.
C: Thanks be to God.