BUCKHORN PASTORAL (NM) CHARGE
"FIFTH SUNDAY"
AUGUST 30, 2015
Minister – all of the Congregation
With Patricia McLeod, student minister
Church email: [email protected]
Cell phone number: 705-933-4265
Email: [email protected]
Wesley – 10:00 a.m. Curve Lake – 11:30 a.m.
Leader of Music Secretary
Ethelene Irwin Delma Foster
As you enter today: A warm welcome is extended to everyone worshiping with us today. We hope that you enjoy meeting friends, whether long-standing or for the first time. May the joy you experience in worship be with you throughout this coming week.
Leader reads plain text; congregation responds in bold text.
WELCOMING, GATHERING, SHARING, CARING,
MINUTE FOR MISSIONS
LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
CALL TO WORSHIP
People of God we are here; in this sacred space, in this sacred moment;
Be with us, Lord, as we gather to recall the stories and sing the songs of faith.
Today, there is so much happening to us, and around us,
that we feel weary and overwhelmed.
We feel as though we are caught up in a swirling sea, pummelled by relentless waves.
Listen! Jesus is calling to each one of us.
[Vs. 1 of VU # 562 Jesus Calls Us Lyrics by Cecil Frances Alexander:]
Jesus calls us; o'er the tumult
of our life's wild restless sea,
day by day his clear voice sounding,
saying, 'Christian, follow me.
We come this day, seeking a closer relationship with our Creator.
We wait, preparing our hearts to hear the good news.
What do you need this day?
We need to learn to focus our lives on Jesus the Christ.
[Vs. 4 of VU # 562 Jesus Calls Us:]
In our joys and in our sorrows,
days of toil and hours of ease,
still he calls, in cares and pleasures,
'Christian, love me more than these.'
During this sacred time of worship, we are called to open our hearts and spirits;
to seek a new direction in our lives.
We commit to faithfully and confidently following Jesus.
2nd TESTAMENT READING: Revelation 4:1-3, 6-8 [NIV]
After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said,“Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” 2 At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it.3 And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and ruby. A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne.
Also in front of the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass,clear as crystal.
In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. 7 The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. 8 Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings. Day and night they never stop saying:
“‘Holy, holy, holy
is the Lord God Almighty,’[b]
who was, and is, and is to come.”
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Our first hymn was written by Reginald Heber. He was born April 21, 1783, in a small English village where his father was the minister. Eventually he attended Oxford university, where he became good friends with Sir Walter Scott, with whom he shared an interest in poetry. Following his graduation, he took over from his father as vicar in his family’s parish where he served for 16 years.
His interest in poetry was expressed in the writing of hymns. In all Heber wrote 57 hymns. After his untimely death at age 43, his wife found a copy of this hymn. Originally written in 1826, it was intended for use in a Trinity Sunday celebration.
OPENING HYMN “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty” VU # 315 (vs1, 3 & 4) 1
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee;
holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
3 Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,
though the eye made blind by sin thy glory may not see,
only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,
perfect in power, in love, and purity.
4 Holy, holy, holy! Lord God almighty!
All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea;
holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
OPENING PRAYER
GOSPEL READING: John 15: 7-8 [NRSV]
7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.8 My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become[a] my disciples.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Henry Francis Lyte (1793-1847) and his wife Ann were faithful pastors of a little fishing village of Lower Brixham, in Devonshire England, for 23 years. Although a humble couple, they lived on an estate, Berry Head that had reportedly been given to them by King William IV, who had been impressed with Henry’s ministry. Despite ill health, Henry worked tirelessly ministering to his parish, taking care of his family, and writing poems and hymns.
In 1844, Henry was diagnosed with Tuberculosis. Over the next three years his physical condition deteriorated until finally on September 4, 1847, at the age of 54, he stood in the pulpit for the last time to deliver his farewell message.
That same afternoon, after taking a walk on the beach, Henry retired to his room. He emerged about an hour later with a written copy of Abide With Me. Some accounts indicate he wrote the poem during that hour; while others say that he discovered it in the bottom of his desk as he packed for a trip to Italy, to get away from the cold, damp coastal weather and that it had been written long before. Probably both stories are true. It is likely that, finding the outline of a poem he had previously started, he revised it and finished it that evening.
While en route to his destination, he mailed a revised copy of Abide With Me to his wife. A few days later while resting in a hotel on the French Riviera, Henry died. A fellow clergyman who was with Henry during his final hours reported that Henry's last words were Peace! Joy!
The poem, Abide With Me was put to music by William H. Monk (1823-1889), and made its debut at Henry's memorial service.
The hymn has since been popular within many Christian denominations. It was reported to have been a favorite of King George V, and of Mahatma Gandhi. It was sung at the weddings of King George VI and of Queen Elizabeth II.
HYMN “Abide In Me” VU # 436 (vs1, 3 & 4, 5)
1 Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide;
when other helpers fail, and comforts flee,
help of the helpless, O abide with me.
3 I need your presence every passing hour;
what but your grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who like yourself my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me.
4 I have no fear with you at hand to bless;
ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness;
where is death's sting? Where, grave, your victory?
I triumph still, if you abide with me.
5 Hold now your cross before my closing eyes;
shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;
heaven's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
2ND TESTAMENT READINGS: Ephesians 3: 17-19 [Good News]
and I pray that Christ will make his home in your hearts through faith. I pray that you may have your roots and foundation in love, 18 so that you, together with all God's people, may have the power to understand how broad and long, how high and deep, is Christ's love.19 Yes, may you come to know his love—although it can never be fully known—and so be completely filled with the very nature of God.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Philip Bliss was born in a log cabin where his father taught the family to pray daily and where music was the primary entertainment. When he was ten, Philip had a job, selling vegetables door to door. The story is told that as he approached one elegant home, he heard a sort of music he had never heard before. Dropping his vegetables, he scaled the fence and slipped into the parlor. A woman was playing a strange instrument to Philip – a piano. When she stopped, he exclaimed: “O lady, please play some more!”
Spinning on her stool, the woman was alarmed to the a boy in ragged clothing standing there. “Get out of here with your dirty bare feet!” she cried. Philip quickly fled, but the desire to become a musician grew and deepened.
At age 11, he left home to make his own living. He worked in timber camps and sawmills. While working, he irregularly went to school to further his education. At 17, Bliss finished his requirements to teach. The next year, in 1856, he became a schoolmaster at Hartsville, New York. In 1859 he married Lucy Young who encouraged his dreams of becoming a musician and the following year, he became an itinerant music teacher. Mounted On horseback, he went from community to community accompanied by a melodeon.
By 1864 he had sold his first song and within a relatively short time had was recognized as one of the foremost gospel hymn composers. In 1870 after meditating on the scripture from Romans, he began writing: “I am so glad that my Father in heaven, tells of his love in the book he has given……..to be sung as a the children’s anthem in worship.
HYMN “Jesus Loves Even Me” Lyrics by Philip P Bliss
I am so glad that our Father in heav’n
Tells of His love in the Book He has giv’n;
Wonderful things in the Bible I see:
This is the dearest, that Jesus loves me.
Refrain: I am so glad that Jesus loves me,
Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me;
I am so glad that Jesus loves me,
Jesus loves even me.
Though I forget Him and wander away,
Still He doth love me whenever I stray;
Back to His dear loving arms would I flee,
When I remember that Jesus loves me.
Oh, if there’s only one song I can sing,
When in His beauty I see the great King,
This shall my song in eternity be:
“Oh, what a wonder that Jesus loves me.”
GOSPEL READING: John 3:16 -17 [NIV]
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
George Bennard (1873-1958) was born in Youngstown, Ohio, but his family moved to Iowa, where he became a Christian after attending a revival meeting sponsored by the Salvation Army.
George's coal-miner father died when George was sixteen. George had hoped to become an evangelist, but instead went to work as a coal-miner to support his mother and sisters.
Some years later, Bennard moved to Chicago, married, and began an evangelistic ministry with the Salvation Army. Later still, he was ordained as an evangelist by the Methodist Church, and traveled through the northern states carrying out his ministry.
In December, 1912, he was struggling with some sort of personal problem, which led him to reflect on Christ's suffering on the cross. He later wrote, "I saw the Christ of the cross as if I were seeing John 3:16 leave the printed page, take form, and act out the meaning of redemption."
Bennard had already composed a tune, and his reflections on the cross led him to pen words to go with the tune. This took place in Albion, Michigan, where Bennard kept an apartment as a home base while conducting his evangelistic work. After completing the words, Bennard went to the home of his friends, Rev. and Mrs. Bostwick, where he sang the song for them, accompanied by his guitar. The Bostwicks were so taken by the song that they offered to pay the costs of printing it.
HYMN “The Old Rugged Cross” Lyrics by George Bennard
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suff’ring and shame;
And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.
Refrain:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.
Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me someday to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.
INTRODUCTION
George Shuler and Ira Wilson were roommates at Moody Bible Institute in 1924.
At the Institute, they combined their talents and wrote the beautiful hymn, “Make Me A Blessing.” Wilson wrote the lyrics and Shuler the music.
At first the song was rejected by music publishers, so Shuler had one thousand copies printed to distribute on his own.
One fell into the hands of George Dibble, an outstanding singer who was at that time music director for the International Sunday School Convention in Cleveland, Ohio. Dibble asked for permission to use the song and it was granted. Soon people everywhere were singing the song, and publishers were wanting to distribute copies.
SPECIAL MUSIC by Cheryl Willoughby “Make Me A Blessing” Lyrics by Ira Bishop Wilson
2ND TESTAMENT READING: 2 Corinthians 1: 20-21a [NIV]
For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Russell Kelso Carter (1849-1928) had a varied career, first as an athlete, educator, and rancher. He spent several years as an ordained Methodist minister, after which he went to medical school. He spent the last of his professional years as a doctor of medicine. Carter was also a musician and songwriter. In 1886, he co-edited Songs of Perfect Love with John Sweney (1837-1899), who wrote the music for such beloved songs as Beulah Land and Fill Me Now.
Although Carter attended church and would have labeled himself as a Christian for most of his life, it wasn't until a crisis with his natural heart that he began to understand the reality and power of Bible promises. At age 30, his health was in critical condition and the physicians could do no more for him. Carter turned to God.
He prayed and made a promise that healing or no, his life was finally and forever, fully consecrated to the service of the Lord. It was from that moment that the Word of God became alive to Carter. He began to stand upon the promises, determined to believe no matter what his physical condition, no matter how he felt. Over the course of the next several months his strength returned, and his heart was completely healed! Carter lived another healthy 49 years.
The hymn Carter had written became more than words and music to him. Standing on the Promises became an integral part of his life.
HYMN “Standing on the Promises” (vs1, 2 & 5) Lyrics by R. Kelso Carter
Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Thro’ eternal ages let His praises ring;
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.
Refrain: Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.
Refrain:
Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
List’ning every moment to the Spirits call,
Resting in my Savior, as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God.
Refrain:
PRAYERS OF THE COMMUNITY
THE LORD'S PRAYER
1ST TESTAMENT READING: Psalm 34: 17-19 [NRSV]
When the righteous cry for help, theLord hears,
and rescues them from all their troubles.
18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted,
and saves the crushed in spirit.
19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
but the Lord rescues them from them all.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Horatio Spafford (was a wealthy Chicago lawyer with a thriving legal practice, a beautiful home, a wife, four daughters and a son. He was also a devout Christian. His circle of friends included Dwight L. Moody, Ira Sankey and various other well-known Christians of the day.
At the very height of his financial and professional success, Horatio and his wife Anna suffered the tragic loss of their young son. Shortly after this, on October 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed almost every real estate investment that Spafford had.
In 1873, Spafford scheduled a boat trip to Europe in order to give his wife and daughters a much needed vacation and time to recover from the tragedy. His intention, while there, was also to join Moody on an evangelistic campaign in England.
Some unexpected, business kept Spafford in Chicago, but his wife and daughters went on ahead of him. Several days later he received notice that his family's ship had encountered a collision. There were only 47 survivors. The 226 fatalities included all four of his daughters. He is said to have learned of that his wife survived when she sent him a telegram with the words: ‘Saved alone.’” .
With a heavy heart, Spafford boarded a boat that would take him to his grieving Anna in England. It was on this trip that he penned those now famous words, When sorrow like sea billows roll; it is well, it is well with my soul..
Philip Bliss (1838-1876), composer of many songs Jesus Loves Even Me, was so impressed with Spafford's life and the words he wrote in response to this tragedy that he composed a beautiful piece of music to accompany the lyrics. The song was published by Bliss and Sankey, in 1876.
For more than a century, the tragic story of one man has given hope to countless thousands who have lifted their voices to sing, It Is Well With My Soul.
HYMN “It is Well with My Soul” (vs1, 3 & 4) Lyrics by Horatio G. Spafford
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well with my soul,
it is well, it is well with my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
Refrain:
And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
even so, it is well with my soul.
Refrain:
INVITATION TO OFFERING
DEDICATION HYMN
Wesley:
For the gift of creation, the gift of your love
And the gift of the Spirit by which we live
We thank you and give you the fruit of our hands
May your grace be proclaimed by the gifts that we give
Curve Lake:
Mah mwih yuh wuh mah dah mah buh
Wain je shuh wain dah go ze yung
Wa yoo se mind wa gwe se mind
Kuh ya pah ne zid O Je Chog
PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Compassionate Creator, may these gifts represent our willingness to offer ourselves; our time, our talents and our money, so others might be blessed by your peace, and your hope, in every moment of their lives. This we pray in the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
We all say the familiar, “goodbye,” so often that we may not realize we are using a shortened form of the phrase, “God be with you.” Dr. J.E. Rankin, then a pastor in Washington, D.C., thought it too bad that we should lose the really beautiful meaning underlying the simple words. His melodious song, “God Be with You,” was wrought out of this idea to form a Christian benediction hymn.
The impact of this hymn is found in a story published by the Paynesville Lutheran Church in their bulletin on June 15, 2014.
“On September 19, 1945, missionary Darlene Deibler was liberated from a Japanese Prison Camp. She was in bad shape, having been subjected to years of physical suffering and mental torture. As a 28-year-old widow, she was returning home without a single possession.
All her mementos and private keepsakes were gone, her loved ones dead, and her body was debilitated by exhaustion, starvation, malaria, beriberi, and dysentery. As the boat carried her from her island prison, she prayed a bitter prayer: “Lord, I’ll never come to these islands again. They’ve robbed me of everything that was most dear to me.”
Suddenly she heard voices, Indonesian voices ringing from the distance. There on the shore were those who had come to know the lord through her mission, raising their voices, singing: “God be with you till we meet again./ By his counsels guide, uphold you,/With His sheep securely fold you; / God be with you till we meet again.”
Darlene later wrote, “This song released the waters of bitterness that had flooded my soul, and the hurt began to drain from me as my tears flowed in a steady stream. The healing had begun. I know then that some day, God only knew when, I would come back to these my people and my island home.”
In that moment, she was united all who shared her faith and belief. As we sing this hymn of benediction, we too are united with all who share our faith and belief.
COMMISSIONING : 2ND TESTAMENT READING: 2 John 3 [the Message]
Let grace, mercy, and peace be with us in truth and love from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, Son of the Father!
CLOSING HYMN “God Be with You till We Meet Again” VU 422 (vs1, 2 & 4)
1 God be with you till we meet again;
loving counsels guide, uphold you,
with a shepherd's care enfold you;
God be with you till we meet again.
Refrain: Till we meet, till we meet,
till we meet at Jesus' feet;
till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.
2 God be with you till we meet again;
unseen wings protecting hide you,
daily manna still provide you;
God be with you till we meet again. R
4 God be with you till we meet again;
keep love's banner floating o'er you,
smite death's threatening wave before you;
God be with you till we meet again. R
BENEDICTION
CHORAL BLESSING
Wesley:
Go now in peace. Never be afraid.
God will go with you each hour of every day.
Go now in faith, steadfast, strong and true.
Know God will guide you in all you do.
Go now in love, and show you believe.
Reach out to others so all the world can see.
God will be there watching all the while.
Go now in peace, in faith and in love. Amen, Amen, Amen
Curve Lake:
May the Lord, Mighty God, Bless and keep you forever
Grant you peace, perfect peace, courage in every endeavour.
Lift up your eyes and see God’s face, take his grace forever.
May the Lord, Mighty God bless and keep you forever.
"FIFTH SUNDAY"
AUGUST 30, 2015
Minister – all of the Congregation
With Patricia McLeod, student minister
Church email: [email protected]
Cell phone number: 705-933-4265
Email: [email protected]
Wesley – 10:00 a.m. Curve Lake – 11:30 a.m.
Leader of Music Secretary
Ethelene Irwin Delma Foster
As you enter today: A warm welcome is extended to everyone worshiping with us today. We hope that you enjoy meeting friends, whether long-standing or for the first time. May the joy you experience in worship be with you throughout this coming week.
Leader reads plain text; congregation responds in bold text.
WELCOMING, GATHERING, SHARING, CARING,
MINUTE FOR MISSIONS
LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
CALL TO WORSHIP
People of God we are here; in this sacred space, in this sacred moment;
Be with us, Lord, as we gather to recall the stories and sing the songs of faith.
Today, there is so much happening to us, and around us,
that we feel weary and overwhelmed.
We feel as though we are caught up in a swirling sea, pummelled by relentless waves.
Listen! Jesus is calling to each one of us.
[Vs. 1 of VU # 562 Jesus Calls Us Lyrics by Cecil Frances Alexander:]
Jesus calls us; o'er the tumult
of our life's wild restless sea,
day by day his clear voice sounding,
saying, 'Christian, follow me.
We come this day, seeking a closer relationship with our Creator.
We wait, preparing our hearts to hear the good news.
What do you need this day?
We need to learn to focus our lives on Jesus the Christ.
[Vs. 4 of VU # 562 Jesus Calls Us:]
In our joys and in our sorrows,
days of toil and hours of ease,
still he calls, in cares and pleasures,
'Christian, love me more than these.'
During this sacred time of worship, we are called to open our hearts and spirits;
to seek a new direction in our lives.
We commit to faithfully and confidently following Jesus.
2nd TESTAMENT READING: Revelation 4:1-3, 6-8 [NIV]
After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said,“Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” 2 At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it.3 And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and ruby. A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne.
Also in front of the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass,clear as crystal.
In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. 7 The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. 8 Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings. Day and night they never stop saying:
“‘Holy, holy, holy
is the Lord God Almighty,’[b]
who was, and is, and is to come.”
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Our first hymn was written by Reginald Heber. He was born April 21, 1783, in a small English village where his father was the minister. Eventually he attended Oxford university, where he became good friends with Sir Walter Scott, with whom he shared an interest in poetry. Following his graduation, he took over from his father as vicar in his family’s parish where he served for 16 years.
His interest in poetry was expressed in the writing of hymns. In all Heber wrote 57 hymns. After his untimely death at age 43, his wife found a copy of this hymn. Originally written in 1826, it was intended for use in a Trinity Sunday celebration.
OPENING HYMN “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty” VU # 315 (vs1, 3 & 4) 1
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee;
holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
3 Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,
though the eye made blind by sin thy glory may not see,
only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,
perfect in power, in love, and purity.
4 Holy, holy, holy! Lord God almighty!
All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea;
holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
OPENING PRAYER
GOSPEL READING: John 15: 7-8 [NRSV]
7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.8 My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become[a] my disciples.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Henry Francis Lyte (1793-1847) and his wife Ann were faithful pastors of a little fishing village of Lower Brixham, in Devonshire England, for 23 years. Although a humble couple, they lived on an estate, Berry Head that had reportedly been given to them by King William IV, who had been impressed with Henry’s ministry. Despite ill health, Henry worked tirelessly ministering to his parish, taking care of his family, and writing poems and hymns.
In 1844, Henry was diagnosed with Tuberculosis. Over the next three years his physical condition deteriorated until finally on September 4, 1847, at the age of 54, he stood in the pulpit for the last time to deliver his farewell message.
That same afternoon, after taking a walk on the beach, Henry retired to his room. He emerged about an hour later with a written copy of Abide With Me. Some accounts indicate he wrote the poem during that hour; while others say that he discovered it in the bottom of his desk as he packed for a trip to Italy, to get away from the cold, damp coastal weather and that it had been written long before. Probably both stories are true. It is likely that, finding the outline of a poem he had previously started, he revised it and finished it that evening.
While en route to his destination, he mailed a revised copy of Abide With Me to his wife. A few days later while resting in a hotel on the French Riviera, Henry died. A fellow clergyman who was with Henry during his final hours reported that Henry's last words were Peace! Joy!
The poem, Abide With Me was put to music by William H. Monk (1823-1889), and made its debut at Henry's memorial service.
The hymn has since been popular within many Christian denominations. It was reported to have been a favorite of King George V, and of Mahatma Gandhi. It was sung at the weddings of King George VI and of Queen Elizabeth II.
HYMN “Abide In Me” VU # 436 (vs1, 3 & 4, 5)
1 Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide;
when other helpers fail, and comforts flee,
help of the helpless, O abide with me.
3 I need your presence every passing hour;
what but your grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who like yourself my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me.
4 I have no fear with you at hand to bless;
ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness;
where is death's sting? Where, grave, your victory?
I triumph still, if you abide with me.
5 Hold now your cross before my closing eyes;
shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;
heaven's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
2ND TESTAMENT READINGS: Ephesians 3: 17-19 [Good News]
and I pray that Christ will make his home in your hearts through faith. I pray that you may have your roots and foundation in love, 18 so that you, together with all God's people, may have the power to understand how broad and long, how high and deep, is Christ's love.19 Yes, may you come to know his love—although it can never be fully known—and so be completely filled with the very nature of God.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Philip Bliss was born in a log cabin where his father taught the family to pray daily and where music was the primary entertainment. When he was ten, Philip had a job, selling vegetables door to door. The story is told that as he approached one elegant home, he heard a sort of music he had never heard before. Dropping his vegetables, he scaled the fence and slipped into the parlor. A woman was playing a strange instrument to Philip – a piano. When she stopped, he exclaimed: “O lady, please play some more!”
Spinning on her stool, the woman was alarmed to the a boy in ragged clothing standing there. “Get out of here with your dirty bare feet!” she cried. Philip quickly fled, but the desire to become a musician grew and deepened.
At age 11, he left home to make his own living. He worked in timber camps and sawmills. While working, he irregularly went to school to further his education. At 17, Bliss finished his requirements to teach. The next year, in 1856, he became a schoolmaster at Hartsville, New York. In 1859 he married Lucy Young who encouraged his dreams of becoming a musician and the following year, he became an itinerant music teacher. Mounted On horseback, he went from community to community accompanied by a melodeon.
By 1864 he had sold his first song and within a relatively short time had was recognized as one of the foremost gospel hymn composers. In 1870 after meditating on the scripture from Romans, he began writing: “I am so glad that my Father in heaven, tells of his love in the book he has given……..to be sung as a the children’s anthem in worship.
HYMN “Jesus Loves Even Me” Lyrics by Philip P Bliss
I am so glad that our Father in heav’n
Tells of His love in the Book He has giv’n;
Wonderful things in the Bible I see:
This is the dearest, that Jesus loves me.
Refrain: I am so glad that Jesus loves me,
Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me;
I am so glad that Jesus loves me,
Jesus loves even me.
Though I forget Him and wander away,
Still He doth love me whenever I stray;
Back to His dear loving arms would I flee,
When I remember that Jesus loves me.
Oh, if there’s only one song I can sing,
When in His beauty I see the great King,
This shall my song in eternity be:
“Oh, what a wonder that Jesus loves me.”
GOSPEL READING: John 3:16 -17 [NIV]
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
George Bennard (1873-1958) was born in Youngstown, Ohio, but his family moved to Iowa, where he became a Christian after attending a revival meeting sponsored by the Salvation Army.
George's coal-miner father died when George was sixteen. George had hoped to become an evangelist, but instead went to work as a coal-miner to support his mother and sisters.
Some years later, Bennard moved to Chicago, married, and began an evangelistic ministry with the Salvation Army. Later still, he was ordained as an evangelist by the Methodist Church, and traveled through the northern states carrying out his ministry.
In December, 1912, he was struggling with some sort of personal problem, which led him to reflect on Christ's suffering on the cross. He later wrote, "I saw the Christ of the cross as if I were seeing John 3:16 leave the printed page, take form, and act out the meaning of redemption."
Bennard had already composed a tune, and his reflections on the cross led him to pen words to go with the tune. This took place in Albion, Michigan, where Bennard kept an apartment as a home base while conducting his evangelistic work. After completing the words, Bennard went to the home of his friends, Rev. and Mrs. Bostwick, where he sang the song for them, accompanied by his guitar. The Bostwicks were so taken by the song that they offered to pay the costs of printing it.
HYMN “The Old Rugged Cross” Lyrics by George Bennard
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suff’ring and shame;
And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.
Refrain:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.
Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me someday to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.
INTRODUCTION
George Shuler and Ira Wilson were roommates at Moody Bible Institute in 1924.
At the Institute, they combined their talents and wrote the beautiful hymn, “Make Me A Blessing.” Wilson wrote the lyrics and Shuler the music.
At first the song was rejected by music publishers, so Shuler had one thousand copies printed to distribute on his own.
One fell into the hands of George Dibble, an outstanding singer who was at that time music director for the International Sunday School Convention in Cleveland, Ohio. Dibble asked for permission to use the song and it was granted. Soon people everywhere were singing the song, and publishers were wanting to distribute copies.
SPECIAL MUSIC by Cheryl Willoughby “Make Me A Blessing” Lyrics by Ira Bishop Wilson
2ND TESTAMENT READING: 2 Corinthians 1: 20-21a [NIV]
For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Russell Kelso Carter (1849-1928) had a varied career, first as an athlete, educator, and rancher. He spent several years as an ordained Methodist minister, after which he went to medical school. He spent the last of his professional years as a doctor of medicine. Carter was also a musician and songwriter. In 1886, he co-edited Songs of Perfect Love with John Sweney (1837-1899), who wrote the music for such beloved songs as Beulah Land and Fill Me Now.
Although Carter attended church and would have labeled himself as a Christian for most of his life, it wasn't until a crisis with his natural heart that he began to understand the reality and power of Bible promises. At age 30, his health was in critical condition and the physicians could do no more for him. Carter turned to God.
He prayed and made a promise that healing or no, his life was finally and forever, fully consecrated to the service of the Lord. It was from that moment that the Word of God became alive to Carter. He began to stand upon the promises, determined to believe no matter what his physical condition, no matter how he felt. Over the course of the next several months his strength returned, and his heart was completely healed! Carter lived another healthy 49 years.
The hymn Carter had written became more than words and music to him. Standing on the Promises became an integral part of his life.
HYMN “Standing on the Promises” (vs1, 2 & 5) Lyrics by R. Kelso Carter
Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Thro’ eternal ages let His praises ring;
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.
Refrain: Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.
Refrain:
Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
List’ning every moment to the Spirits call,
Resting in my Savior, as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God.
Refrain:
PRAYERS OF THE COMMUNITY
THE LORD'S PRAYER
1ST TESTAMENT READING: Psalm 34: 17-19 [NRSV]
When the righteous cry for help, theLord hears,
and rescues them from all their troubles.
18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted,
and saves the crushed in spirit.
19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
but the Lord rescues them from them all.
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
Horatio Spafford (was a wealthy Chicago lawyer with a thriving legal practice, a beautiful home, a wife, four daughters and a son. He was also a devout Christian. His circle of friends included Dwight L. Moody, Ira Sankey and various other well-known Christians of the day.
At the very height of his financial and professional success, Horatio and his wife Anna suffered the tragic loss of their young son. Shortly after this, on October 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed almost every real estate investment that Spafford had.
In 1873, Spafford scheduled a boat trip to Europe in order to give his wife and daughters a much needed vacation and time to recover from the tragedy. His intention, while there, was also to join Moody on an evangelistic campaign in England.
Some unexpected, business kept Spafford in Chicago, but his wife and daughters went on ahead of him. Several days later he received notice that his family's ship had encountered a collision. There were only 47 survivors. The 226 fatalities included all four of his daughters. He is said to have learned of that his wife survived when she sent him a telegram with the words: ‘Saved alone.’” .
With a heavy heart, Spafford boarded a boat that would take him to his grieving Anna in England. It was on this trip that he penned those now famous words, When sorrow like sea billows roll; it is well, it is well with my soul..
Philip Bliss (1838-1876), composer of many songs Jesus Loves Even Me, was so impressed with Spafford's life and the words he wrote in response to this tragedy that he composed a beautiful piece of music to accompany the lyrics. The song was published by Bliss and Sankey, in 1876.
For more than a century, the tragic story of one man has given hope to countless thousands who have lifted their voices to sing, It Is Well With My Soul.
HYMN “It is Well with My Soul” (vs1, 3 & 4) Lyrics by Horatio G. Spafford
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well with my soul,
it is well, it is well with my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
Refrain:
And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
even so, it is well with my soul.
Refrain:
INVITATION TO OFFERING
DEDICATION HYMN
Wesley:
For the gift of creation, the gift of your love
And the gift of the Spirit by which we live
We thank you and give you the fruit of our hands
May your grace be proclaimed by the gifts that we give
Curve Lake:
Mah mwih yuh wuh mah dah mah buh
Wain je shuh wain dah go ze yung
Wa yoo se mind wa gwe se mind
Kuh ya pah ne zid O Je Chog
PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Compassionate Creator, may these gifts represent our willingness to offer ourselves; our time, our talents and our money, so others might be blessed by your peace, and your hope, in every moment of their lives. This we pray in the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen
INTRODUCTION TO HYMN
We all say the familiar, “goodbye,” so often that we may not realize we are using a shortened form of the phrase, “God be with you.” Dr. J.E. Rankin, then a pastor in Washington, D.C., thought it too bad that we should lose the really beautiful meaning underlying the simple words. His melodious song, “God Be with You,” was wrought out of this idea to form a Christian benediction hymn.
The impact of this hymn is found in a story published by the Paynesville Lutheran Church in their bulletin on June 15, 2014.
“On September 19, 1945, missionary Darlene Deibler was liberated from a Japanese Prison Camp. She was in bad shape, having been subjected to years of physical suffering and mental torture. As a 28-year-old widow, she was returning home without a single possession.
All her mementos and private keepsakes were gone, her loved ones dead, and her body was debilitated by exhaustion, starvation, malaria, beriberi, and dysentery. As the boat carried her from her island prison, she prayed a bitter prayer: “Lord, I’ll never come to these islands again. They’ve robbed me of everything that was most dear to me.”
Suddenly she heard voices, Indonesian voices ringing from the distance. There on the shore were those who had come to know the lord through her mission, raising their voices, singing: “God be with you till we meet again./ By his counsels guide, uphold you,/With His sheep securely fold you; / God be with you till we meet again.”
Darlene later wrote, “This song released the waters of bitterness that had flooded my soul, and the hurt began to drain from me as my tears flowed in a steady stream. The healing had begun. I know then that some day, God only knew when, I would come back to these my people and my island home.”
In that moment, she was united all who shared her faith and belief. As we sing this hymn of benediction, we too are united with all who share our faith and belief.
COMMISSIONING : 2ND TESTAMENT READING: 2 John 3 [the Message]
Let grace, mercy, and peace be with us in truth and love from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, Son of the Father!
CLOSING HYMN “God Be with You till We Meet Again” VU 422 (vs1, 2 & 4)
1 God be with you till we meet again;
loving counsels guide, uphold you,
with a shepherd's care enfold you;
God be with you till we meet again.
Refrain: Till we meet, till we meet,
till we meet at Jesus' feet;
till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.
2 God be with you till we meet again;
unseen wings protecting hide you,
daily manna still provide you;
God be with you till we meet again. R
4 God be with you till we meet again;
keep love's banner floating o'er you,
smite death's threatening wave before you;
God be with you till we meet again. R
BENEDICTION
CHORAL BLESSING
Wesley:
Go now in peace. Never be afraid.
God will go with you each hour of every day.
Go now in faith, steadfast, strong and true.
Know God will guide you in all you do.
Go now in love, and show you believe.
Reach out to others so all the world can see.
God will be there watching all the while.
Go now in peace, in faith and in love. Amen, Amen, Amen
Curve Lake:
May the Lord, Mighty God, Bless and keep you forever
Grant you peace, perfect peace, courage in every endeavour.
Lift up your eyes and see God’s face, take his grace forever.
May the Lord, Mighty God bless and keep you forever.