Liturgy for the 25th Sunday after Pentecost (Year B, Mark)
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Passages for the 25th Sunday after Pentecost
Ruth 3:1–5, 4:13–17 recounts Naomi advising Ruth to seek security by approaching Boaz for marriage. Ruth faithfully follows Naomi’s instructions, leading Boaz to redeem and marry her. Later, Ruth gives birth to Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David.
Psalm 127 emphasizes that all efforts and labors are in vain unless the Lord is involved. It highlights that true prosperity, security, and blessings come from God. Children are listed as a blessing, who are described as a heritage and reward from the Lord.
Hebrews 9:24–28 explains that Christ entered heaven itself, not a human-made sanctuary, to appear before God on our behalf. Unlike the repeated sacrifices of the high priests, Christ offered himself once to take away sin. His return will not be to deal with sin again but to bring salvation.
Mark 12:38–44 warns against religious leaders who seek attention, status, and wealth at the expense of others, particularly the vulnerable. Jesus contrasts this with the humble offering of a poor widow.
Overlapping Themes
Faithful Devotion: In Ruth 3:1–5, 4:13–17, Ruth’s loyalty and trust in Naomi’s guidance lead to God’s blessings. Similarly, Mark 12:38–44 highlights the widow’s sacrificial giving, showing her deep faith and trust in God despite her poverty. Both examples demonstrate that genuine devotion is valued by God.
God’s providence and sovereignty: In Psalm 127, the emphasis is on how human efforts are futile without God’s involvement, mirroring the way God orchestrates Ruth’s redemption and the birth of Obed.
Sacrifice: Ruth’s selfless actions lead to her becoming part of God’s plan for Israel’s future king. Likewise, the widow’s humble sacrifice in Mark is praised by Jesus, while Hebrews portrays Christ’s singular sacrifice for humanity’s redemption. Both show that true sacrifice, whether small or great, is honored by God.
Preaching Ideas for Ruth 3, Psalm 127, and Mark 12
Ruth 3:1–5, 4:13–17 – “Faithful Risk, Divine Reward”
Preach how Ruth’s willingness to step out in faith by following Naomi’s risky advice led to unexpected blessings. Focus on how God works through our bold yet faithful actions to bring about his greater purposes, even when the future is unclear.
Psalm 127 – “Unless the Lord Builds the House”
This sermon would center on how human efforts are futile without God’s guidance and blessing. Highlight how Psalm 127 teaches the importance of placing trust in God for all aspects of life—work, family, and security. Since we are undertaking a huge bell tower project in 2025, I tend toward this option.
Mark 12:38–44 – “True Giving: The Heart Behind the Gift”
Preach on Jesus’ praise of the widow’s offering, emphasizing how true generosity is not measured by the amount, but by the heart and sacrifice behind it. Contrast the pride and selfishness of the religious leaders with the widow’s humble devotion.
Call to Worship
One: Come, let us gather in this sacred space, ready to seek the presence of the Lord among us.
All: We come with open hearts, eager to trust in the goodness of God.
One: In a world filled with worry and self-reliance, we pause to remember that true strength comes from faith.
All: We seek to embrace a spirit of humility and devotion, ready to respond to the call to love and serve.
One: As we lift our voices in praise, may we offer our gifts with sincerity, knowing that even the smallest act of kindness matters.
All: We bring our whole selves, ready to contribute to the beauty of this community.
One: Together, let us worship the One who calls us to live boldly and generously, inviting us to share in the unfolding story of grace.
All: We lift our voices in gratitude, proclaiming thanks for the unbounded mercy of God.
Prayer of Confession
Holy and Gracious God, though we strive to be faithful and to rely on you, so often we believe it is only up to us. Therefore, we are often stressed and strained beyond what we can bear. We confess that we have allowed our worries to overshadow our trust in your provision. Empower us to entrust our efforts and ourselves into your very capable hands, Lord. (pause for personal prayer)
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.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon - Psalm 136
We experience ups and downs, good days and bad, but God’s love is constant. With the songwriter long ago in the book of Psalms we rejoice, “Give thanks to the Lord, for the Lord is good. The love of the Lord never ever ends!”
One: Friends, this is the good news!
All: Thanks be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Gracious God, open our hearts and minds to your Word this day. Shine your light upon the scriptures, revealing your truth and wisdom. As we seek understanding, may your Spirit ignite our faith and inspire our actions. Transform us through your message, and empower us to live as reflections of your love. Amen.
Prayer of Dedication
Holy Lord, we dedicate these gifts and offerings to you, acknowledging that all we have comes from your abundant grace. May they be used to further your work in the world, bringing hope, healing, and love to those in need. In your name, we commit these offerings and ourselves. Amen.
