St. Andrew’s Welcomes you to this online service

November 14 2021

 

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Thank you Rev. Shirley Cochrane for leading our worship today; may it be a blessing to all and bring glory to God.
We continue to pray for Rev. Ena van Zoeren as she prepares for surgery this Wednesday (17th) and her road to recovery over the next 8 weeks. May God bless and be with you Ena and the medical team who deliver your care.
We remember Deborah James as she settles in for the winter at her home in the southern USA.

 

CALL TO WORSHIP

The God of Wisdom calls us to worship;

in humility, we gather to offer our thanks and praise.

The God of Peace calls us to let go of our cares and worries;

in faith, we turn to God for hope and guidance.

The God of Past, Present and Future welcomes us into this moment.

in joy, we celebrate life in God’s presence!

Let us worship God together.

Hallelujah! Let us praise the Lord!

 

HYMN                414   God reveal your presence

 

 

God, reveal your presence:
gladly we adore you,
and with awe appear before you.
Holy is your temple:
all within keep silence,
humbly bow with deepest reverence.
You alone now we own,
as our God and Saviour:
praise your name forever!2. In God’s holy presence:
hear the harps resounding;
see the crowds the throne surrounding;
“Holy, holy, holy!”
hear the hymn ascending,
angels, saints, their voices blending.
Turn your ear to us here;
hear, O Christ, the praises
that your church now raises.3. Fountain of all blessing,
purify my spirit;
all my trust is in your merit.
Like the holy angels
on your glory gazing,
we adore, hosannas raising.
Let your will ever still
rule your church terrestrial,
as the hosts celestial.

CCLI  11394548

 

OPENING PRAYER

Lord of Light and Life,  we come before you in wonder and awe, eager to praise your name and enjoy in your presence. You are the source of all that is good and true,  the essence of love. You bring gifts of peace and healing into troubled lives. You show us the way to love friend and enemy alike, to build a better world together. In this time of worship, inspire us to believe our work in Jesus’ name makes a difference. So may we live to bring you glory, O God, now and always.

 

UNISON PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God of justice and mercy,

you call us to take a part in our community,

loving our neighbours and serving your purposes.

We confess that this is easier said than done.

We often sit in judgment on those who serve in public life,

criticizing any who fall short of our expectations.

Yet we confess we, too, fall short of your loving purpose for us.

Forgive us when we have been too quick to criticize

and too slow to join in what needs to be done.

 

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

Hear the good news! Who is in a position to condemn? Only Christ—and Christ died for us; Christ rose for us; Christ reigns in power for us; Christ prays for us. Friends, believe the good news of the gospel. In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and set free by God’s generous grace. Share that forgiveness with others in his name.

 

THE PEACE

In a world that cries out for peace, may we always remember that  Christ is the source of peace – Peace be with you -and also with you

 

HYMN                670  Amazing grace

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
was blind, but now I see.2. ‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
and grace my fears relieved;
how precious did that grace appear
the hour I first beIieved.3. Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
’tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home.4. The Lord has promised good to me:
His word my hope secures;
God will my shield and portion be,
as long as life endures.5. What thanks I owe you, and what love
a boundless, endless store
shall echo through the realms above
when time shall be no more.6. When we’ve been there a thousand years,
bright shining as the sun,
we’ve no less days to sing God’s praise than
when we’d first begun. CCLI 11394548

 

 

SCRIPTURE READINGS

Psalm 16

1 Keep me safe, my God,
for in you I take refuge.

2 I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing.”
3 I say of the holy people who are in the land,
“They are the noble ones in whom is all my delight.”
4 Those who run after other gods will suffer more and more.
I will not pour out libations of blood to such gods
or take up their names on my lips.

5 Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup;
you make my lot secure.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.
7 I will praise the Lord, who counsels me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
8 I keep my eyes always on the Lord.
With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
my body also will rest secure,
10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead,
nor will you let your faithful[b] one see decay.
11 You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

 

Hebrews  10: 11-18

1 Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 and since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool. 14 For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.

15 The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. First he says:

16 “This is the covenant I will make with them
after that time, says the Lord.
I will put my laws in their hearts,
and I will write them on their minds.”[a]

17 Then he adds:

“Their sins and lawless acts
I will remember no more.”[b]

18 And where these have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary.

SERMON

 

I speak in the name of the Father ,Son and Holy Spirit

 

How quickly the season of Advent and Christmas is approaching . Today we are concluding our look at the letter to the Hebrews although  the text  has a couple more  chapters  Back in the first to third centuries, uncountable discussions  took place  as to  which writings  would be chosen  for what became the Bible and Hebrews  became a “should it – or should it not”  be included .  Of outstanding importance was held that the true authorship was unknown.

Eventually  the Letter to the Hebrews was considered  an important document in the New Testament, It speaks to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ. His one Sacrifice redeemed mankind and established God’s New Covenant. He took on flesh and blood to save humanity (2:14-17). The Letter emphasizes the everlasting priesthood of Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (7:1-8:12), and that he sacrificed himself once for our sins

In the first part of Hebrews 10, the author again highlights the effectiveness of  Jesus’ offering. In verse:11, he returns to a contrast between the offering of Jesus and the offerings of the Levitical priests.

The Levitical offerings were not insufficient because they were repeated; they were repeated because they were insufficient.  The offering by Jesus is effective, and as a result, can be offered just once (10:12), and now he waits for all things to be put under his feet (10:13).

The perfection of humanity likely takes place at the culmination of the ages as a tension between what is “already” and what remains “not yet” might be the most simple explanation.

Though the author never explicitly says anything like, “Here’s a list of reasons that the offering of Jesus is superior…,” at various points, these aspects of his offering are highlighted:

Christ was perfect.;  Christ was willing.;  Christ offered himself.

In verse 24 of chapter 10 the author continues: “And let us consider how we may spur  one another on toward love and good deeds, let us not give up meeting together not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”. God has “called forth,” has given each of us a “calling,” a “vocation” to serve him and one another in love. Agape love, that is not self-serving, but focussed on Christ’s servanthood to all manner of people, without conditions or reservations—a freely shared, self-giving love, embracing all people. This is our calling and vocation as followers of Jesus.

Three words in Hebrews 11: summarize what true Bible faith is: substance, evidence, and witness. The word translated “substance” means literally “to stand under, to support.” Faith is to a Christian what a foundation is to a house: It gives us confidence and assurance that we will stand, surrounded  and supported by God, Christ and the Holy Spirit

Our reading from Hebrews states that the Holy Spirit tells us how the game changes, and how confidence is restored.

16 “This is the covenant I will make with them
after that time, says the Lord.
I will put my laws in their hearts,
and I will write them on their minds.”

17 Then he adds: “Their sins and lawless acts
I will remember no more.”

He further describes it as the reason we can draw near to God, 22  let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water

No adversary can remove us from His presence, no one can block our access to the Father. For Christ Himself is the way, and has opened the way for us, by being our immunity from condemnation.

It’s said another way in verse 14, because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.  I love that phrase, He has perfected – its already happened, – the effect is continual – for all time. He is still working on us – sanctifying us – making us Holy, fitting us with the gifts and abilities by which we work with God and each other.

God is faithful. He will follow through on what he has promised, and as Hebrews makes quite clear, for those who persevere, God’s trustworthiness is wonderful news; for those who do not persevere, God’s trustworthiness is harrowing news, indeed.

Church is a place where we learn and worship, where we need to go for our own personal growth. And yet, the picture here in Hebrews is of service. Gather together for the sake of others. The new and living way…  thus we  can enter with confidence  The confession is “ours”—corporate—and the next exhortation reinforces a portrait of communal responsibility. They are to encourage one another towards “love and good deeds” (10:24), continuing to gather so that they can keep each other on the path of faithfulness.

The author goes on the say that this all happens when people gather together for worship and community fellowship. Followers of Jesus encounter him and are strengthened and nurtured by him in worship. Also, Christianity is not a lone ranger kind of faith; the heart and core of our faith is, community, that’s why we confess in our creed that we believe in the communion of saints.

Some people don’t need much of an excuse to stay home from church. If it even looks like it might rain, they don’t want to risk getting a little wet. The hymn writer Frances Havergal gave several reasons for attending church—especially on rainy days.

God has blessed the Lord’s Day, making no exceptions for stormy days. 2. I expect my pastor to be there. I would be surprised if the pastor stayed at home because of the weather. 3. I might lose out on the prayers and the sermon that would have done me great good. 4. For important business, rain doesn’t keep me home; and church is, in God’s sight, very important. 5. Bad weather will prove how much I love Christ. True love rarely fails to keep an appointment. 6. Those who stay home from church because it’s rainy frequently miss on fair Sundays, too. I mustn’t take one step in that direction. 7. Christ said that “where two or three are gathered in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20). 8. I don’t know how many more Sundays God may give me. It would be poor preparation for my first Sunday in heaven to have slighted my last one on earth.

The world around us is in crisis. Institutions we once trusted are crumbling. Shall we consider that the intimacy of community may be in right relationships rather than rituals of prosperity and security?

It has been a strange and upsetting year and three quarters with all the Covid  instability.  Through governmental protocals we have been locked down, allowed back – , masked, directed as to sitting space- locked down – returned – not allowed to sing – allowed to sing ,sanitized  and confused.  And still we wonder when will it all be over  and we can regain a sense of being back to normal – to share the peace with a face to face  handshake or hug – to have coffee and lunch together – to invite others for use of our building . We are indeed blessed to have the Grace congregation sharing with us  at this time

Yet through all this find refuge in God. Neither the promise of the stock markets, stability of governments, nor achievements of science offer signs of prosperity, security, and well-being. These are ways humanity report what is occurring at the moment. However these moments are filled worldwide still with spasms of distress.

Nevertheless we are a people who gather week after week to tell the story of the Lord who has been our refuge;-  the one in which we find all that is good; the promise-keeper whose counsel instructs us when to stand, where to rest, and shows us the path of life. Reminded of this God, we can rise from our prayers confident that the promises of our high pastor-priest is trustworthy because they bear witness to the testimony of the Holy Spirit.  

We all need encouragement, This is one way we live our love by being here for each other. So thank you for coming to worship today, may Christ bless each of you and continue to draw you closer to him as you grow in faith, hope and love.

We gather to receive something from God.  We gather to give something to God. We gather to encourage each other by our shared faith and values.  We gather to bless one another. We gather to work together.

This is what should call us together, into His presence. Whether here on Sunday morning or not , we realize that God has given us His love, and part of that is each other. To come alongside each other, and encourage each other, to help each other deal with life, and to pray for each other.

Luther said it this way,

Not only are we the freest of kings, we are also priests forever, which is far more excellent than being kings, for as priests we are worthy to appear before God to pray for others and to teach one another divine things. These are the functions of priests, and they cannot be granted to any unbeliever. Thus Christ has made it possible for us, provided we believe in him, to be not only his brethren, co-heirs, and fellow-kings, but also his fellow-priests. Therefore we may boldly come into the presence of God in the spirit of faith [Heb. 10:19, 22] and cry “Abba, Father!” pray for one another, and do all things which we see done and foreshadowed in the outer and visible works of priests.

We are in the presence of God. We don’t have to pretend to have it all together or scheme to get ahead, or come across with some sort of false bravado. Instead, we can share each other’s burdens, and encourage each other, in the midst of the storm, knowing that God is calling to us, protecting us, guiding us. We can rest, confident in His love, assured by the grace He poured out on us in baptism, knowing His peace, which passes all understanding, and protects our hearts and minds in Christ Through his love and grace He is our God and we are His people  AMEN

HYMN                39   God of mercy, God of grace

 

God of mercy, God of grace,
show the brightness of your face.
Shine upon us, Saviour, shine;
fill your world with light divine,
and your saving health extend
unto earth’s remotest end.2. Let the people praise you, Lord;
be by all that live adored.
Let the nations shout and sing
glory to their gracious King;
at your feet their tribute pay,
and your holy will obey.3. Let the people praise you, Lord;
earth shall then its fruits afford.
Unto us your blessing give;
we to you devoted live,
all below and all above,
one in joy and light and love.

CCLI  11394548

 

OFFERING

God’s goodness fills the world, if only we have eyes to see it. God’s goodness fills the world, if only we have hearts to share what God has given us. Know that your gifts come from God’s goodness and pass that goodness along to others in Jesus’ name.

 

DOXOLOGY

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise him all creatures here below

Praise him above ye heavenly host.

Praise Father Son and Holy Ghost

 

OFFERTORY PRAYER

Gracious God, we bring our gifts to you with grateful hearts, aware of all that we enjoy in Christ and in creation. Bless these gifts and the service we offer in Jesus’ name, so that others may share in your goodness and know of the love we have witnessed in Christ, our friend and Saviour.

 

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

God of Our Past and Our Future, God of Healing and Hope,  We come before you with grateful hearts, trusting that you walk with us through all the times of our lives.

 

So, we pray today for those who face danger and despair in these times: We remember before you those living with hunger, communities struggling with the impact of drought, storms and earthquakes,  and all those for whom the pandemic is unrelenting. We remember people caught up in unrest and violence and those whose lives are directed by forces beyond their control.

 

We pray for all those working to relieve suffering in these lives  and those who work to bring justice and peace: God, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

We pray for all those facing fear or frustration, wrestling with sorrow or discouragement in any area of their lives: For those who live with illness or pain…

For those bearing chronic conditions or disability…

For those who know the grief and change of bereavement…

 

And we pray for all those who work to bring healing and comfort  and agencies which offer support and care to those who suffer:

God, in your mercy,

Hear our prayer.

 

We pray for all who feel helpless or hopeless in this present time: For those struggling to make ends meet or trying to find employment… For those caught up in the pain of misunderstanding or broken relationships… and for those working through situations of conflict at home or at work…

(Keep a time of silence)

 

We pray for all who offer guidance and support in the midst of such difficulties

and for those who have skills in reconciliation or mediation:

We remember before you  The Law Courts. Lawyers, judges  and all who  work for justice Guide them with your wisdom

God, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

Almighty God You  have heard our spoken concerns today ………

 

And you also hear the prayers in our hearts ………………

 

God of Our Past and Our Future, God of Healing and Hope, Help our congregation and churches everywhere  as we regroup after months of pandemic isolation to engage each day with faithfulness and creativity. Where we need correction, show us a new way; where we need love and encouragement, draw near. Whatever our challenge, stay with us on our way for we are the followers of Jesus who pray together in his name:

 

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.  Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 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                681  We have heard a joyful sound

 

We have heard a joyful sound,
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the gladness all around:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to every land,
climb the steeps and cross the waves;
onward! ’tis our Lord’s command:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!2. Waft it on the rolling tide,
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Tell to sinners far and wide,
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Sing, ye islands of the sea,
echo back, ye ocean’s caves;
earth shall keep her jubilee:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!3. Sing above the battle’s strife,
Jesus saves, Jesus saves.
By his death and endless life,
Jesus saves. Jesus saves!
Sing it softly through the gloom,
when the heart for mercy craves;
sing in triumph o’er the tomb,
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!4. Give the winds a mighty voice,
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Let the nations now rejoice:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Shout salvation full and free
to every strand that ocean laves;
this our song of victory,
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!

CCLI  11394548

 

BENEDICTION

Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13

 

 

CLOSING SONG