Third Sunday after the Epiphany (Year C, Luke)
Liturgy for the Third Sunday After the Epiphany
Scripture Passages: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; Psalm 19; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a; Luke 4:14-21
Like you, I’m in ministry. What a calling! I like to help others who serve God and the church by sharing what I create. I hope it helps.
Feel free to leave a comment below or find me on social (Twitter + Threads + FB). I post links there, so you’ll get a weekly reminder.
Call to Worship
One: The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of God’s hands.
All: The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. Let us rejoice in God’s Word!
One: Today, God’s good Word will be proclaimed as good news.. Let us gather with gratitude to worship the Lord.
All: With hearts open to God’s Spirit, we come to receive his truth and live in his love!
Prayer of Confession
God of mercy, we confess that we have not always lived as one body in Christ. We have ignored the needs of others, sought our own way, and neglected the gifts you have given us. Forgive us for our divisions, and open our hearts to your Spirit. Help us to live as your people, united in purpose and love, that we may bring glory to your name. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon (Nehemiah 8:10)
Beloved, hear the good news: “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” In Christ, we are forgiven, restored, and made whole. Rejoice and be glad, for God’s grace is at work in you. Thanks be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Holy Spirit, as we hear your Word today, may it come alive in our hearts. Open our eyes to see your truth, our ears to hear your call, and our lives to reflect your love. Transform us through your living Word, that we may be faithful witnesses to your glory. Amen.
Prayer of Dedication
Generous God, we dedicate these gifts and our lives to you. May they be used to proclaim your good news, build up the body of Christ, and bring healing to your world. Let our offerings reflect your love and your mission, that all may know your grace. Amen.
Bible Passages for the Third Sunday After the Epiphany
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10: The Joy of the Lord
This passage recounts a moment of communal worship as Ezra reads the law to the people of Israel. As the people hear and understand God’s Word, they weep, but Ezra encourages them to rejoice. The passage reminds us that God’s Word brings renewal, joy, and strength, even in times of repentance and reflection.
Psalm 19: The Heavens Declare
Psalm 19 celebrates the beauty of God’s creation and the perfection of his law. The heavens proclaim his glory, and his statutes revive the soul, bringing wisdom and joy. This psalm invites us to reflect on how God’s Word reveals his character and calls us to live in alignment with his will.
Read More
Psalm 19 The Heavens Declare the Glory of God
Psalm 19: 1-6 The Heavens Declare the Glory of God Verse by Verse Commentary
Stages of Knowing: From Creation to Christ (Psalm 19; Mark 8:27-30)
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a: One Body, Many Parts
Paul uses the metaphor of the body to describe the church, emphasizing the importance of unity and diversity within the community of faith. Every member is essential, and each gift contributes to the flourishing of the whole. This passage reminds us that we are called to work together as one body, with Christ as the head.
Luke 4:14-21: Jesus Announces His Mission
In this passage, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, declaring, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me.” He announces his mission to bring good news to the poor, release to captives, sight to the blind, and freedom to the oppressed. Jesus’ words fulfill prophecy and reveal the heart of his ministry, inviting us to join him in the work of restoration and liberation.
Read More
Themes for the Third Sunday After the Epiphany
The Power of God’s Word
Both Nehemiah 8:1-10 and Psalm 19 emphasize the life-giving and transformative power of God’s Word. These passages call us to listen, understand, and respond with joy and gratitude.
Unity in the Body of Christ
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a reminds us of the essential role each believer plays in the body of Christ. This theme encourages us to embrace our unique gifts while working together for God’s purposes.
Jesus’ Mission of Liberation
Luke 4:14-21 highlights Jesus’ mission to bring good news to the marginalized and hope to the broken. This theme challenges us to live out the gospel by participating in acts of justice, compassion, and restoration.
