March 11, 2011

Opening Hymns:
It’s Time to Praise the Lord Red 125
Beloved Red 62

Scripture Reading:
Romans Joel 2: 1-2, 12-17

Message: Praise the Lord
Often in the Old Testament there are times of repentance and fasting. The prophets tell the people to turn from their ways that God might forgive them. As we enter into the Lenten season we too go into a time of fasting and reflection. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifice that our God made for us. During the time of the Old Testament they were in fear for their physical lives if they sinned. There are many stories in which people and nations were brought down, destroyed, and put into slavery because they had turned from God.

However, because of this sacrifice we needn’t fear. God has forgiven us of all our sins. We can take comfort that our God is a forgiving and loving God. Thus we have a lot to praise God about, and we have a lot that we can pray about and contemplate during this season of lent. For while we were sinners Christ died for us. We are forgiven. Christ paid the price. Thanks Be to God.

Time of Prayer
Lord, thank you for keeping our souls safe by Your holy sacrifice. Thank You for the love that you have given to each of us. As we enter into a time of fasting let us humble ourselves and focus our minds on You and the wonders that Christ has done for us. Thank you for the sacrifice, and thank you for the forgiveness. Amen

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
I Will Celebrate Red 61

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God