For March 1, 2009

Scripture:
Genesis 9:8-17 (Rainbow Covenant)
Psalm 25:1-10 (Teach me your paths, O God)
1 Peter 3:18-22 (saved through water)
Mark 1: 9-15 (into the wilderness)

Sunday Bulletin Service Theme: God's Loving Paths

I'm going with the rainbow covenant this Sunday. Rainbows, I would guess, have always had that mysterious ability to make us feel good. That sense of well being was interpreted by the tribes of the Hebrew people as an assurance of God's "truce." God's bow is hung on a hook in the sky, no longer are the arrows aimed at us. The rainbow is a reminder, to God, not to take anger to lethal levels ever again. And the rainbow is a reminder to us that God, though capable of lethal force, has chosen not to use it. The rainbow signifies God's unilateral disarmament.

Hymns for Sunday: #31 All Things Bright and Beautiful; #402 De Colores ("in the rainbow's bright colors, God's promise of hope we recall..."); #348 (for communion) Jesus is Here Right Now; and #476 My Life Goes on in Endless Song.

Prayers for Sunday:
Prayer of Confession (It is the season of Lent, after all.)
Leader: Holy One, you have given us the gift of life, and your covenant promises assure that your intentions for us are good. In every age, you send your Holy Spirit to guide us in the pathways of peace; but often we stray from the path, to our own destruction. And so we pray, lifting our voices together in the words written long ago.
People: Be mindful of your mercy, O God, and of your steadfast love, for they have been from of old. Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness' sake, O God.
Leader: Hear our prayers, we pray, and have mercy on us, and lead us back to the pathways of peace, where we might walk in steadfast love and faithfulness all the days of our lives.
People: Amen.

Prayer of Dedication
When we consider the depth and breadth and height of your mercy, O Lord God, when we consider the infinite nature of your steadfast love, what can we do, but rejoice, in awe? We stand in awe and humility, offering such gifts as we are able to give, asking for your blessing upon us, trusting that in our giving, as in our living, we belong to you. Thank you. Amen.