WELCOME TO WORSHIP
In the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we welcome you to St. Paul’s. We especially welcome our guests who have joined us today. We pray that your soul will be strengthened by the good news of God’s forgiveness through Jesus.
THE SEASON OF LENT
The word Lent comes from an Old English word for Spring (“lengten,” the time of the year when the days grow longer). For the last 1700 years, the Church has set aside the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter as a time of special preparation. It is a time of repentance and renewal. During Lent, our rejoicing is muted as we remember our Lord’s suffering and death. But it is with a purpose: we know that the Lord who died took up his life again on Easter Sunday morning. So our 40 days of Lent are ones lived in the certain hope of the resurrection. The color of the season is purple. Purple is the ancient color of royalty. We have this kind of king: he wore a crown of thorns and carried a cross for us.
PRAYER IN PREPARATION FOR TODAY’S WORSHIP
Gracious God, I do not deserve to be called your child. I have rebelled against your holy will and made myself an enemy of your goodness countless times. Reveal to me once again your mercy, grace, and faithful love. Let me follow in the footsteps of Jesus tonight as he went willingly to his enemies in order to save them and me. In his name I pray. Amen.
OPENING HYMN Sweet the Moments, Rich in Blessing | 111
INVOCATION
CONFESSION OF SINS
ABSOLUTION
PSALM Psalm 118, p.108 5
PSALM PRAYER
THE PASSION HISTORY Lesson Three
HYMN OF THE DAY He Stood Before the Court | 115
SERMON Luke 20:9-19 His Final Steps Led to His Enemies
OFFERING
HYMN In the Hour of Trial | 116
PRAYER
LORD’S PRAYER
BLESSING
CLOSING HYMN Not All the Blood of Beasts | 128