Liturgy for the 19th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B (Mark)
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Passages for the Day
Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22: Esther's bold request before the king exposes Haman's plot against the Jews, leading to Haman's downfall and the institution of a festival celebrating the Jews' deliverance. Never forget, Hamans have always existed, even to this very day. From Pharaoh, to Nebuchadnezzar, to Herod the Great, to the despots and strongmen of today, God is no stranger to the schemes of that ilk.
Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29: The Israelites grumble about their hardships and the lack of food, leading to God's provision of quail and the selection of seventy elders to assist Moses in leading the people. I tell my congregation that any time we have the ordination and/or installation of an elder or deacon to their office it is evidence of an answer to prayer. Leaders and helpers are gifts from God.
Psalm 124: This psalm praises God for rescuing Israel from near destruction, affirming that their help comes from the Lord who is their protector and deliverer. Lest we think Numbers 11 is the only story about Israel, perhaps this psalm shows us what we can do instead of grumbling.
Psalm 19:7-14: This passage celebrates the law of the Lord, describing it as perfect, trustworthy, and more desirable than gold. It prays for forgiveness from hidden faults and protection from willful sins. [Psalm 19: STAGES OF KNOWING: FROM CREATION TO CHRIST ]
James 5:13-20: James instructs the faithful on prayer in times of suffering and joy, emphasizes the power of prayer for healing, and underscores the importance of bringing back those who wander from the truth. Sermon: A Church with a PhD
Mark 9:38-50: Jesus teaches about humility and inclusiveness in the faith, warning against causing others to stumble and stressing the importance of being at peace with one another.
Overlapping Themes
One common theme among the passages is the emphasis on God’s provision and protection. In Esther, God’s deliverance of the Jews from destruction reflects divine protection. In Numbers, God provides quail and appoints leaders to guide the people, showing His ongoing care and provision. Psalms 124 and 19 both highlight God’s role as a protector and guide, reinforcing trust in His provision and law. James speaks to the power of prayer and healing, while Mark underscores the need for humility and peace within the community, reflecting God’s desire for harmonious relationships and support among believers. A great point to make would be that often the people around us are God’s provision and we too can be an answer to prayer through our service and to them.
Another overlapping theme is the call to faithfulness and the consequences of failing to adhere to God’s guidance. Esther’s courage and faith lead to deliverance, whereas the Israelites’ complaints and discontent lead to a need for divine intervention.
Mark's passage warns against actions that could lead others astray, emphasizing the importance of remaining faithful and supportive within the Christian community even in difficulty.
Preaching Ideas
Faithful Leadership and Divine Provision: This sermon could explore how God provides for and guides people through leaders, as seen in Numbers and Esther. It would highlight the importance of trusting God’s provision and being faithful in leadership roles, drawing lessons from both the Old Testament accounts and the Psalms. The sermon could end with Jesus’ call to serve.
Main point: Faithful leadership and divine provision are intertwined, showing how God guides and supports people through challenging times.
The Power of Prayer and Healing: Based on James 5 and the healing miracles in Mark, this sermon will focus on the power of prayer in seeking healing and restoration, both physically and spiritually. It would encourage the congregation to approach prayer with faith and sincerity, emphasizing its transformative power in their lives.
Main point: Prayer is a powerful tool for healing and restoration, reflecting God’s desire for wholeness and spiritual vitality in our lives.
Prayer, Healing, and Deliverance: This sermon will focus on the teachings of James about prayer, healing, and deliverance within the Christian community. It challenges the congregation to foster a spirit of connection through prayer, praise, truth-telling, and encouraging mutual support and accountability. Sermon: A Church with a PhD
Main point: Embracing humility and fostering a supportive community are essential for living out the Christian faith effectively.
Call to Worship
One: As we gather in the spirit of worship, let us open our hearts to the presence of God.
All: We come with gratitude and awe, ready to offer our praise and thanksgiving to such a wise, giving, and loving Lord.
One: Let us lift our voices in unity and our spirits in reverence.
All: Together we celebrate God's enduring love and faithfulness as siblings created in the image of our Creator..
One: May God alone be praised and glorified in all we do and say today.
All: We are thankful and ready to worship our great God!
Call to Confession
We confess our struggles and discontent, forgetting the many ways you provide and guide us, O God. We have often failed to trust in your ability and we have also failed to support one another as we should. We want to be more faithful in our following you, O Christ. We seek the renewal that comes through the Spirit by grace. Hear us as we life our personal prayers up to you now.
One: Lord may your name be glorified in us and through us. We ask this through Christ Jesus, your only begotten son. It is he who is our Lord and our Savior, our brother and our friend.
Assurance of Pardon
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)
Friends, this is the good news!
All: Thanks be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Lord, illuminate our hearts and minds as our minister preaches from your Word about The Word, Jesus Christ, and how he is good news for our time and in all times. Guide us to understand your truth and help us live it faithfully. Amen.
Prayer of Dedication
Bless these gifts and offerings, and use them to advance Your kingdom and bring hope to those in need. Amen.
