​​​​

Midland United

Methodist Church

February 25, 2024

 ^2nd Sunday in Lent

GATHERING MUSIC

Life in our church and in our community:   Announcements

Expression of our Joys and Service to others

GATHERING TO PRAISE GOD

(You may remain seated)

CALL TO WORSHIP:

Let us sing praises, offer quiet prayers, and listen with open minds. 

May the spirit move us, connect us, and guide us to what we find.

So, step forward and join in true fellowship. 

Together, let us worship, for God awaits us.

* 🎶 GATHERING HYMN # 95 

Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow 

* THE APOSTLES’ CREED # 881

WE GIVE OUR GIFTS TO GOD

(Our monetary offerings are placed on the small table found by the altar in the front of the sanctuary with the bulletins)  

 May our gifts and our lives be a blessing.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE 

We come to God in prayer,

Loving God

Loving Others

For the Transformation of the World

Prayers of the People: See Enclosed

   THE LORD’S PRAYER # 895 (In unity)

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.

 Amen.

* 🎶 HYMN # 496  Sweet Hour of Prayer

HEARING GOD’S WORD

PRAYER OF ILLIMUNATION:  (In unity)
Don't let us be mere listeners, Lord. Make us active participants in this dialogue. Spark within us a burning desire to learn, to grow, and to put your teachings into practice. Ignite our hearts with the courage to follow, even when the path seems difficult or uncertain. Amen.

Scripture Reading:  Mark 8:31-38

For the Word of God in Scripture, 

For the Word of God among us,

For the Word of God within us,

Thanks be to God!

Meditation:  The Cost of Discipleship     Pastor Barbara

RESPONDING IN FAITH

🎶 HYMN: # 297 Beneath the Cross of Jesus              

BENEDICTION:  Lenten Candle

We extinguish this second candle, remembering the burdens we carry and the injustices we witness. May we find strength in God's compassion and work for a more just world.

May the blessings of peace, hope, and unwavering faith accompany you on your journey. Go forth, disciples of Christ, and change the world with your love. Amen.

🎶 # 666     Shalom & Postlude & Our Worship Begins