WE GATHER TO WORSHIP GOD (Psalm 97:1-7)Let the earth shout with joy at the sovereignty of the LORD:sun-drenched beaches, reefs and distant islands, rejoice!Clouds of deep mystery surround the LORD,whose throne stands firm on justice         and God’s actions to put things right.The spirit of the LORD rises up,transforming and dispelling the surrounding powers and principalities.

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Lightning shone in the dark of the world,and the earth writhed as though in childbirth.Ageless mountains melted like wax before the LORD,from the presence of the LORD of all the earthThe heavens proclaimed God’s actionsto put things right,and all the people saw the glory of the LORD.

For use in worship, with acknowledgement. © Jeff Shrowder 2000, 2013

CONFESSION (Psalm 97:8-12)Those who went after other gods were put to shame -even the gods bowed down.Rejoicing and acclamation rise upbecause of your judgements, O LORD.For you, O LORD, are the Most High, over all the earth;you are greatly exalted over the gods.There are times we follow other gods, to our own shame...

(silence)You who love the LORD, despise evil,for the LORD protects the lives of the faithful,and will rescue them from the hand of the wicked.There are times turn from the protection of your hand.

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Light shines out for those who live justly;        it rejoices for the honest heart.Rejoice, in the LORD, you whose lives express God’s justice,and give thanks to the holy name of your God.There are times when our living does not express your justice

(silence)Comfort us, heal us, and re-create us, O God,so that in wholeness we may live to your glory,and the greatness of your holy name. Amen.

For use in worship, with acknowledgement. © Jeff Shrowder 2000, 2013

OFFERINGThe heavens proclaim your acting to put things right, O God,and the mountains melt like wax before you.We bring our love, life and substance of our world and work.Grant us, by your Spirit, the love to use our lives and our giftsto the glory of your name. Amen.

For use in worship, with acknowledgement. © Jeff Shrowder 2013