Call to Celebration
We gather today from near and far, to remember that our God, the God of Creation, has created us in the divine image, expressed in wild diversity.
In this way, we can be creators, too, as we recognize the possibilities of our human diversity.
We remember that ‘In the Beginning…’, God spoke and brought forth light to shine in the midst of darkness.
In this way, we can be creators, too, as we bring light to the challenges we face as individuals and communities.
We remember that God delivered the people of God through times of trial and tribulation from ancient times right up to the present.
In this way, we can be creators, too, as we dare to dream what may seem to be impossible. For with God’s guiding light of Christ, we are led toward a beloved community of infinite possibility and peace.
Amen
Offertory
O God, may these gifts which are given in support of the ministries of this church, be a blessing for the building up of that beloved community that is possible, ‘on Earth as it is in Heaven”, and let the people say… “Amen!”
Service July 3
Scripture Lesson
Matthew 5:1-7:29 NIV
5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them.
He said:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
29 If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.