Estes Park United Methodist Church
January 24, 2021
Order of Worship
Prelude – Softly and Tenderly
Greeting/Welcome
Call to Worship
Leader: Let us start this service well, by reminding ourselves: That it is not we who chose Christ,
People: but Christ who chose us,
Leader: That we are not here because of our goodness
People: but because of Christ’s grace,
Leader: That we are not here to enlighten ourselves,
People: but to allow Christ to enlighten us,
Leader: That we have not come to be entertained
People: but to worship God with heart, soul, mind and strength.
Opening Prayer (Unison)
Holy One, God of all Creation, you call us to be your people, to carry your vision in this time and place, to go where you send us to help welcome your amazing good news. As we gather in the presence of the risen Christ to spread the news that your realm is near, fill us with your Holy Spirit, O God of all Creation. Fill us with your glorious Spirit, that we may share your good news with a world in need. Amen.
Opening Hymn – God of Grace and God of Glory
Prayer of Confession
Leader: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just. He will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. In humility and faith let us confess our sin to God.
All: Loving Jesus, compassionate friend and gentle guide, you call us in all the seasons of life. In darkness and in light, in joy and in sorrow, you beckon us to follow you. Yet we hold back. We question how we know your voice, we make excuses of things we have to do or skills we lack. We look for the grand task, and you give us the common work of loving and caring for those near at hand. We look for recognition, and you want others to see you more. Loving Jesus, gentle friend and compassionate teacher, take us by the hand and lead us into your future, assured of your presence and encouragement. Amen.
Silent Prayer
Assurance of Pardon
Leader: May the God of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us in his image, to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
People: Thanks be to God! Amen!
Offering
Prayer of Blessing
Offertory
Pastoral Prayer
Lord’s Prayer
Scripture Lesson – Mark 1:14-20
Sermon – The Time is Now
Closing Hymn – Softly and Tenderly
Benediction
Postlude – Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us
Service Participants:
Pastor: Rev. Ann Steiner Lantz
Liturgist: Cay Lacey
Director of Music: Jim Flanigan
Pianist: Nancy Gunter
Videographer: Jim Ecklund