Service for the Lord’s Day

Sunday 26 February -- 1st Sunday in Lent

The flowers are given by Elizabeth Hester in memory of Tom Hester and to the glory of the Triune God.

We Assemble in the Outer Courts

Prelude

Welcome [Hello’s, Handshakes & Hugs]

Registration [Please sign the Friendship Pad and pass it to your neighbor.]

Announcements

We Enter the Holy Place

Responsive Call to Worship:

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus,

the author and perfecter of our faith,

who for the joy set before him endured the cross,

scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God.

Let us consider him who endured such opposition from sinful people,

so that we will not grow weary and lose heart.

#8:  "Come, Thou Almighty King"

Call to Confession

Responsive Prayer of Confession:

Forgive our doubting, questioning hearts, Lord.

Like the scribes who witnessed Jesus’ miracles of healing

and heard his proclamation, yet spurned belief,

we too have seen wonders, yet have hardened our hearts.

We confess the many times that our pessimism

has caused others to doubt themselves and your Spirit,

the times that our criticism has wounded others,

the times that our dejection has dampened the enthusiasm

of those inspired by your Word and work.

Forgive us, Lord, and in your mercy renew us,

that with open hearts we may believe

and never pose an obstacle to the faith of others.

By the Spirit’s power make our hearts new.

We ask this in the name of Jesus our Redeemer. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon

#813:  "The Gloria Patri"

The Apostles' Creed

Word for Children

#9:  "Glorify Thy Name"

We Open our Hearts and Hands to the Lord

Presentation of Tithes & Offerings

     [Special envelopes are provided for today’s Thornwell Offering.]

Offertory

#815:  "The Doxology"

Prayer of Dedication

#705:  "It Is Well with My Soul"

Pastoral Prayer & the Lord's Prayer

We Hear God’s Word

Anthem

Profession:

     It's all about Jesus.

      It's all about grace.

      I love Jesus.

     And I love him, too.

Scripture:  Matthew 16.5-12

Message:  "En Garde"

We Are Sent Out to Serve

#526:  "The Solid Rock"

Benediction

Dismissal:  "By His Grace"

Postlude