Dear friends,
THIS SUNDAY the Rev. Linda Faith Chalk will be leading us in worship.
OUR NEW TESTAMENT READING continues in the gospel according to Mark 13: 1-8, “Jesus Foretells Destruction of the Temple” and “Signs of the End of the Age”. We often reflect on the prophecy Christ gave about the terrible destruction of the temple, which was fulfilled in 70 A.D. by Titus, the Roman general (later emperor). It was unimaginable that the Jewish place of worship – such a grand structure built with massive white stones and adorned with marble and gold – would come crashing down, marking the end of an age. Yet Jesus says these are only “the beginning of birth pains”, inviting us to strengthen our faith and put our trust in God’s eternal, sovereign plan, not in the temporary things of this world. Our Lord reminds us, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” – Matthew 5: 17. Who are we putting our trust in? May we with the Psalmist say confidently together, “My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” – Psalm 121: 2.
Order of Service
Prelude
Welcome
Call to Worship
Hymn 776: Holy God we praise your name (vs 3 en français)
Prayer of Adoration
Prayer of Confession
Declaration of Grace
The Lord’s Prayer
Children’s Time
Hymn 787: The kingdom of God is justice and joy
Responsive Reading: Psalm 16
Gloria Patri
Hebrews 10: 11-14, 19-25 (en français BPC – English on the screen)
Mark 13: 1-8
Sermon: “Setting the temple aside!”
Confession of Faith – The Apostles’ Creed
Hymn 773: Jesus bids us shine
Offering and Offertory
Prayer of Thanksgiving and Intercession
Hymn 376: Lord, the light of your love is shining
Benediction
Go now in peace
Postlude