A Series of Special Services for LENT

JONAHThe Sign Of

A S

erie

s o

f S

pec

ial

Ser

vice

s fo

r L

EN

T

B y D r. R e e d L e s s i n gJH-U

CREATIVE JONAH

CREATIVE JONAHThe Sign Of

CREATIVE The Sign Of

CREATIVE

COMMUNICATIONS

COMMUNICATIONS

COMMUNICATIONS

COMMUNICATIONS

JONAH

COMMUNICATIONS

JONAHThe Sign Of

COMMUNICATIONS

The Sign Of

JONAHThe Sign Of

JONAH

COMMUNICATIONS

JONAHThe Sign Of

JONAH

COMMUNICATIONS

The Sign Of

COMMUNICATIONS

The Sign Of

COMMUNICATIONS

A S

erie

s o

f S

pec

ial

Ser

vice

s fo

r L

EN

T

COMMUNICATIONS

A S

erie

s o

f S

pec

ial

Ser

vice

s fo

r L

EN

T

SAMPLESJONAH

SAMPLESJONAHThe Sign Of

SAMPLESThe Sign Of

JONAHThe Sign Of

JONAH


JONAHJONAH

SAMPLESJONAHJONAHThe Sign Of

JONAH


JONAH

SAMPLESThe Sign Of

SAMPLESThe Sign Of

SAMPLES

A S

erie

s o

f S

pec

ial

Ser

vice

s fo

r L

EN

T

SAMPLES

A S

erie

s o

f S

pec

ial

Ser

vice

s fo

r L

EN

T

3 JH-U

JONAHThe Sign Of

A Series of Special Services for LENTby Dr. Reed Lessing

By Dr. Reed Lessing. Art by Sally Beck. © 2010 by Creative Communications for the Parish. 800-325-9414. creativecommunications.com. JH-U

Index

About The Sign Of Jonah .................................................................................................. 4-6

Ash Wednesday • God Is Calling ....................................................................................7-27

First Week Of Lent • Saved In The Storm ............................................................. 28-49

Second Week Of Lent • Our Providing God ........................................................ 50-69

Third Week Of Lent • Praying In The Belly Of The Great Big Fish ................70-89

Fourth Week Of Lent • The God Of The Second Chance ...........................90-109

Fifth Week Of Lent • About Face! .......................................................................... 110-131

Music Guide ....................................................................................................................132-160

CREATIVE

CREATIVE

Index

CREATIVE

Index

.................................................................................................. 4-6

CREATIVE .................................................................................................. 4-6

....................................................................................7-27

CREATIVE ....................................................................................7-27

............................................................. 28-49

CREATIVE ............................................................. 28-49

COMMUNICATIONS

COMMUNICATIONS

Index

COMMUNICATIONS

Index

.................................................................................................. 4-6

COMMUNICATIONS

.................................................................................................. 4-6

....................................................................................7-27

COMMUNICATIONS

....................................................................................7-27

............................................................. 28-49

COMMUNICATIONS

............................................................. 28-49

........................................................ 50-69

COMMUNICATIONS

........................................................ 50-69

hird Week Of Lent • Praying In The Belly Of The Great Big Fish

COMMUNICATIONS hird Week Of Lent • Praying In The Belly Of The Great Big Fish ................70-89

COMMUNICATIONS ................70-89

...........................90-109

COMMUNICATIONS ...........................90-109

.......................................................................... 110-131

COMMUNICATIONS .......................................................................... 110-131

SAMPLES

About The Sign Of Jonah

SAMPLES

About The Sign Of Jonah.................................................................................................. 4-6

SAMPLES

.................................................................................................. 4-6

h Wednesday • God Is Calling

SAMPLES

h Wednesday • God Is Calling

irst Week Of Lent • Saved In The Storm

SAMPLESirst Week Of Lent • Saved In The Storm

eek Of Lent • Our Providing God

SAMPLESeek Of Lent • Our Providing God ........................................................ 50-69

SAMPLES........................................................ 50-69

hird Week Of Lent • Praying In The Belly Of The Great Big Fish

SAMPLEShird Week Of Lent • Praying In The Belly Of The Great Big Fish

ourth Week Of Lent • The God Of The Second Chance

SAMPLESourth Week Of Lent • The God Of The Second Chance

4 JH-U


Jonah … for Lent? Sounds fishy, but it’s a natural fit. When the Jews asked Jesus for a sign, he said, “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.” After three days in the belly of the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace. This series of special services explores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey … and Jesus on his way to the cross. Written by seminary professor Dr. Reed Lessing.

Ash Wednesday • God Is Calling (Jonah 1:1-3)

First Week of Lent • Saved in the Storm (Jonah 1:4-16)

Second Week of Lent • Our Providing God (Jonah 1:1-17)

Third Week of Lent • Praying from the Belly of the Great Big Fish (Jonah 2:1-10)

Fourth Week of Lent • The God of the Second Chance (Jonah 3:1-4)

Fifth Week of Lent • About Face (Jonah 3:5-10)

For each service the kit contains: sample bulletins with complete orders of service • sermons • prayers • music for the accompanist.

JONAHThe Sign Of

A Series of Special Services for LENTby Dr. Reed Lessing

CREATIVE


CREATIVE


Jonah … for Lent? Sounds fishy, but it’s a natural fit. When the Jews asked Jesus for

CREATIVE Jonah … for Lent? Sounds fishy, but it’s a natural fit. When the Jews asked Jesus for a sign, he said, “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.” After three days in the belly of

CREATIVE a sign, he said, “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.” After three days in the belly of the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace. This series of special services

CREATIVE the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace. This series of special services explores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey … and

CREATIVE explores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey … and Jesus on his way to the cross. Written by seminary professor Dr. Reed Lessing.

CREATIVE Jesus on his way to the cross. Written by seminary professor Dr. Reed Lessing.

CREATIVE

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS

Jonah … for Lent? Sounds fishy, but it’s a natural fit. When the Jews asked Jesus for a sign, he said, “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.” After three days in the belly of

COMMUNICATIONS

a sign, he said, “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.” After three days in the belly of the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace. This series of special services

COMMUNICATIONS

the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace. This series of special services explores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey … and

COMMUNICATIONS

explores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey … and Jesus on his way to the cross. Written by seminary professor Dr. Reed Lessing.

COMMUNICATIONS

Jesus on his way to the cross. Written by seminary professor Dr. Reed Lessing.

• God Is Calling (Jonah 1:1-3)

COMMUNICATIONS

• God Is Calling (Jonah 1:1-3)

Saved in the Storm (Jonah 1:4-16)

COMMUNICATIONS


Our Providing God (Jonah 1:1-17)

COMMUNICATIONS Our Providing God (Jonah 1:1-17)

Praying from the Belly of the Great Big Fish (Jonah 2:1-10)

COMMUNICATIONS Praying from the Belly of the Great Big Fish (Jonah 2:1-10)

The God of the Second Chance (Jonah 3:1-4)

COMMUNICATIONS The God of the Second Chance (Jonah 3:1-4)

For each service the kit contains: sample bulletins with complete orders of service •

COMMUNICATIONS For each service the kit contains: sample bulletins with complete orders of service •

COMMUNICATIONS

SAMPLES


SAMPLES

Jonah … for Lent? Sounds fishy, but it’s a natural fit. When the Jews asked Jesus for a sign, he said, “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.” After three days in the belly of

SAMPLES

a sign, he said, “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.” After three days in the belly of the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace. This series of special services

SAMPLES

the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace. This series of special services explores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey … and

SAMPLESexplores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey … and Jesus on his way to the cross. Written by seminary professor Dr. Reed Lessing.

SAMPLESJesus on his way to the cross. Written by seminary professor Dr. Reed Lessing.

Ash Wednesday

SAMPLESAsh Wednesday • God Is Calling (Jonah 1:1-3)

SAMPLES • God Is Calling (Jonah 1:1-3)


SAMPLESSaved in the Storm (Jonah 1:4-16)

Our Providing God (Jonah 1:1-17)

SAMPLESOur Providing God (Jonah 1:1-17)

Praying from the Belly of the Great Big Fish (Jonah 2:1-10)

SAMPLESPraying from the Belly of the Great Big Fish (Jonah 2:1-10)

5 JH-U

Ordering Information

Additional resources are available from Creative Communications for the Parish. Contact us for current pricing and availability. Call us at 1-800-325-9414. Or visit our website: www.creativecommunications.com.

Bulletins For This Kit:

Code JH-P • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Code JH-2 • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11” Code JH-T • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

Add These Holy Week Services To Complete The Series:

Those who desire may supplement this series with other services that continue the series format and theme. Each is ordered separately and includes all the Leader’s Guide features described above. Orders for all three kits include a CD-ROM (Mac/PC) in RTF format with text of services and of bulletins, plus PDF files of the kit.

Maundy Thursday • On The Same Page (Jonah 4:1-2)Code JH-4 • Maundy Thursday Kit

Code JH-F • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Code JH-G • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11” Code JH-H • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

Good Friday • The Answer! (Jonah 4:3-11)Code JH-5 • Good Friday Kit

Code JH-J • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Code JH-K • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11” Code JH-M • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

Easter Sunday • The Sign Of Life! (Matthew 12:41)Code JH-6 • Easter Sunday Kit

Code JH-O • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Code JH-R • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11” Code JH-S • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

Code JH-9 • Kit Of All Three Services

CREATIVE

JH-2 • CREATIVE

JH-2 • Code CREATIVE

Code JH-TCREATIVE

JH-T • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”CREATIVE

• Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”


CREATIVE


Those who desire may supplement this series with other services that continue the

CREATIVE

Those who desire may supplement this series with other services that continue the series format and theme. Each is ordered separately and includes all the Leader’s Guide

CREATIVE

series format and theme. Each is ordered separately and includes all the Leader’s Guide features described above. Orders for all three kits include a CD-ROM (Mac/PC) in

CREATIVE

features described above. Orders for all three kits include a CD-ROM (Mac/PC) in RTF format with text of services and of bulletins, plus PDF files of the kit.

CREATIVE

RTF format with text of services and of bulletins, plus PDF files of the kit.

On The Same Page (Jonah 4:1-2)

CREATIVE On The Same Page (Jonah 4:1-2)

• Maundy Thursday Kit

CREATIVE • Maundy Thursday Kit

• Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

CREATIVE • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

CREATIVE Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


Those who desire may supplement this series with other services that continue the

COMMUNICATIONS

Those who desire may supplement this series with other services that continue the series format and theme. Each is ordered separately and includes all the Leader’s Guide

COMMUNICATIONS

series format and theme. Each is ordered separately and includes all the Leader’s Guide features described above. Orders for all three kits include a CD-ROM (Mac/PC) in

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


Maundy Thursday •

COMMUNICATIONS

Maundy Thursday • On The Same Page (Jonah 4:1-2)

COMMUNICATIONS

On The Same Page (Jonah 4:1-2) • Maundy Thursday Kit

COMMUNICATIONS

• Maundy Thursday Kit

COMMUNICATIONS

• Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

COMMUNICATIONS

• Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

COMMUNICATIONS

Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11” • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

The Answer! (Jonah 4:3-11)

COMMUNICATIONS

The Answer! (Jonah 4:3-11) • Good Friday Kit

COMMUNICATIONS

• Good Friday Kit • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

COMMUNICATIONS

• Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

COMMUNICATIONS Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”


COMMUNICATIONS • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

The Sign Of Life! (Matthew 12:41)

COMMUNICATIONS The Sign Of Life! (Matthew 12:41)

SAMPLES

series format and theme. Each is ordered separately and includes all the Leader’s Guide SAMPLES

series format and theme. Each is ordered separately and includes all the Leader’s Guide features described above. Orders for all three kits include a CD-ROM (Mac/PC) in SAMPLES


SAMPLES


Maundy Thursday •

SAMPLES

Maundy Thursday • Code

SAMPLES

Code JH-4

SAMPLES

JH-4Code

SAMPLES

Code JH-F

SAMPLES

JH-F • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

SAMPLES

• Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Code

SAMPLESCode JH-G •

SAMPLESJH-G • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

SAMPLESBlank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

Code

SAMPLESCode JH-H

SAMPLESJH-H • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

SAMPLES • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

Good Friday •

SAMPLESGood Friday •

SAMPLESThe Answer! (Jonah 4:3-11)

SAMPLESThe Answer! (Jonah 4:3-11)

JH-5

SAMPLESJH-5 • Good Friday Kit

SAMPLES • Good Friday Kit • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

SAMPLES • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

SAMPLESBlank bulletins • 8.5” x 11”

SAMPLESBlank bulletins • 8.5” x 11” • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

SAMPLES • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

The Sign Of Life! (Matthew 12:41)

SAMPLESThe Sign Of Life! (Matthew 12:41)

6 JH-U

The Ash Wednesday Kit Can Be Ordered Independently:

Ash Wednesday • God Is Calling (Jonah 1:1-3)Code JH-3 • Ash Wednesday Kit

Code JH-B • Pre-printed bulletins • 8.5” x 11”Code JH-D • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 11” Code JH-E • Blank bulletins • 8.5” x 14”

Take Home Prayer Cards:

A set of Prayer Cards incorporatse bulletin art and prayers from the series. Hand them out at each service, or before them to publicize the services.

Code JH-A • Prayer Cards For Six-Service KitCode JA-3 • Maundy Thursday Prayer Card

Code JA-4 • Good Friday Prayer CardCode JA-5 • Easter Sunday Prayer Card

Code JA-2 • Ash Wednesday Prayer Card

Other Resources:

Code JH-7 • Promotional Bulletin InsertCode JH-8 • A Display Poster • 11” x 17”

Code PHA-X • Cloth Banner Suitable For Worship

Bible Study Resources:

Code JB-S • The Sign Of Jonah Student GuideCode JB-L • The Sign Of Jonah Leader Guide

Devotional Resources:

Code SJ-1 • Daily Devotional Prayers For LentCode ST-M • Children’s Daily Sticker Activity For Lent

CREATIVE

Take Home Prayer Cards:CREATIVE

Take Home Prayer Cards:

A set of Prayer Cards incorporatse bulletin art and prayers from the series. Hand them CREATIVE


CREATIVE

out at each service, or before them to publicize the services.

Prayer Cards For Six-Service Kit

CREATIVE

Prayer Cards For Six-Service KitMaundy Thursday Prayer Card

CREATIVE

Maundy Thursday Prayer CardGood Friday Prayer Card

CREATIVE

Good Friday Prayer CardEaster Sunday Prayer Card

CREATIVE

Easter Sunday Prayer Card

CREATIVE

• Ash Wednesday Prayer Card

CREATIVE


• Promotional Bulletin Insert

CREATIVE • Promotional Bulletin Insert

• A Display Poster • 11” x 17”

CREATIVE • A Display Poster • 11” x 17” • Cloth Banner Suitable For Worship

CREATIVE • Cloth Banner Suitable For Worship

COMMUNICATIONS

A set of Prayer Cards incorporatse bulletin art and prayers from the series. Hand them

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

out at each service, or before them to publicize the services.

Code

COMMUNICATIONS

Code JH-A •

COMMUNICATIONS

JH-A • Code

COMMUNICATIONS

Code JA-3 •

COMMUNICATIONS

JA-3 • Code

COMMUNICATIONS

Code JA-4 •

COMMUNICATIONS

JA-4 • Code

COMMUNICATIONS

Code JA-5 •

COMMUNICATIONS

JA-5 • Easter Sunday Prayer Card

COMMUNICATIONS

Easter Sunday Prayer Card

COMMUNICATIONS

JA-2

COMMUNICATIONS

JA-2 • Ash Wednesday Prayer Card

COMMUNICATIONS


Other Resources:

COMMUNICATIONS

Other Resources:


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

• A Display Poster • 11” x 17”

COMMUNICATIONS

• A Display Poster • 11” x 17” • Cloth Banner Suitable For Worship

COMMUNICATIONS

• Cloth Banner Suitable For Worship

• The Sign Of Jonah Student Guide

COMMUNICATIONS • The Sign Of Jonah Student Guide • The Sign Of Jonah Leader Guide

COMMUNICATIONS • The Sign Of Jonah Leader Guide

SAMPLES

CodeSAMPLES

Code

Code

SAMPLES

Code JH-7

SAMPLES

JH-7 • Promotional Bulletin Insert

SAMPLES

• Promotional Bulletin InsertCode

SAMPLESCode JH-8

SAMPLESJH-8

SAMPLES • A Display Poster • 11” x 17”

SAMPLES • A Display Poster • 11” x 17”

PHA-X

SAMPLESPHA-X • Cloth Banner Suitable For Worship

SAMPLES • Cloth Banner Suitable For WorshipPHA-X • Cloth Banner Suitable For WorshipPHA-X

SAMPLESPHA-X • Cloth Banner Suitable For WorshipPHA-X

Bible Study Resources:

SAMPLESBible Study Resources:

SAMPLES • The Sign Of Jonah Student Guide

SAMPLES • The Sign Of Jonah Student Guide • The Sign Of Jonah Leader Guide

SAMPLES • The Sign Of Jonah Leader Guide

7 JH-U

JONAHThe Sign Of

Ash Wednesday: God Is Calling

Order Of Service ..................................................................................................................8-11

Complete Script For Worship Leaders .....................................................................12-20

Scripture Readings ...................................................................................................................21

Homily: God Is Calling ....................................................................................................22-25

Prayers ..........................................................................................................................................26

Study Prompts ..........................................................................................................................27

CREATIVE

JONAHCREATIVE

JONAHJONAHCREATIVE

JONAHCREATIVE Ash Wednesday: God Is Calling

CREATIVE Ash Wednesday: God Is Calling

..................................................................................................................8-11

CREATIVE ..................................................................................................................8-11

.....................................................................12-20

CREATIVE .....................................................................12-20

COMMUNICATIONS

JONAHCOMMUNICATIONS

JONAHCOMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


..................................................................................................................8-11

COMMUNICATIONS

..................................................................................................................8-11

.....................................................................12-20

COMMUNICATIONS

.....................................................................12-20

COMMUNICATIONS

...................................................................................................................21

COMMUNICATIONS

...................................................................................................................21

....................................................................................................22-25

COMMUNICATIONS ....................................................................................................22-25

..........................................................................................................................................

COMMUNICATIONS ..........................................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................27

COMMUNICATIONS ..........................................................................................................................27

SAMPLES


SAMPLES


..................................................................................................................8-11

SAMPLES

..................................................................................................................8-11

ript For Worship Leaders

SAMPLESript For Worship Leaders .....................................................................12-20

SAMPLES.....................................................................12-20

SAMPLES...................................................................................................................21

SAMPLES...................................................................................................................21

....................................................................................................22-25

SAMPLES....................................................................................................22-25

8 JH-U

JONAHThe Sign Of


Order Of Service

+++P For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you

have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations. You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

C The appointed time has come. (Psalm 102:9-13)

Hymn ................................................................ Jesus, I Will Ponder Now

Jesus, I will ponder now on your holy Passion;Let your Spirit now endow me for meditation.

Grant that I in love and faith may the image cherishOf your suff’ring, pain, and death, that I may not perish.

Make me see your great distress, anguish, and affliction,Bonds and stripes and wretchedness and your crucifixion;

Make me see how scourge and rod, spear and nails did wound you,How you died for those, O God, who with thorns had crowned you.

Yet, O Lord, not thus alone make me see your Passion,But its cause to me make known and its termination.For I also and my sin wrought your deep affliction;

This the shameful cause has been of your crucifixion.

CREATIVE

Ash Wednesday: God Is CallingCREATIVE


Order Of ServiceCREATIVE

Order Of Service

+++

CREATIVE

+++For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you

CREATIVE

For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like

CREATIVE

have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations.

CREATIVE

grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations. You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

CREATIVE

You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

us, I Will Ponder Now

CREATIVE us, I Will Ponder Now

Jesus, I will ponder now on your holy Passion;

CREATIVE Jesus, I will ponder now on your holy Passion;

COMMUNICATIONS

For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.(Psalm 102:9-13)

COMMUNICATIONS

(Psalm 102:9-13)

................................................................ Jes

COMMUNICATIONS

................................................................ Jes


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Let your Spirit now endow me for meditation.Grant that I in love and faith may the image cherish

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Of your suff’ring, pain, and death, that I may not perish.

Make me see your great distress, anguish, and affliction,

COMMUNICATIONS Make me see your great distress, anguish, and affliction,

Bonds and stripes and wretchedness and your crucifixion;

COMMUNICATIONS Bonds and stripes and wretchedness and your crucifixion;

Make me see how scourge and rod, spear and nails did wound you,

COMMUNICATIONS Make me see how scourge and rod, spear and nails did wound you,How you died for those, O God, who with thorns had crowned you.

COMMUNICATIONS How you died for those, O God, who with thorns had crowned you.

SAMPLES

For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you SAMPLES

For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like SAMPLES

have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations. SAMPLES


SAMPLES

You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.The appointed time has come.

SAMPLES

The appointed time has come.

................................................................ Jes

SAMPLES

................................................................ Jes


SAMPLESJesus, I will ponder now on your holy Passion;Let your Spirit now endow me for meditation.

SAMPLESLet your Spirit now endow me for meditation.

Grant that I in love and faith may the image cherish

SAMPLESGrant that I in love and faith may the image cherish

Of your suff’ring, pain, and death, that I may not perish.

SAMPLESOf your suff’ring, pain, and death, that I may not perish.

Make me see your great distress, anguish, and affliction,

SAMPLESMake me see your great distress, anguish, and affliction,

SAMPLESBonds and stripes and wretchedness and your crucifixion;

SAMPLESBonds and stripes and wretchedness and your crucifixion;

Make me see how scourge and rod, spear and nails did wound you,

SAMPLESMake me see how scourge and rod, spear and nails did wound you,

9 JH-U

P The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

C And with you also.

Prayer of the Day

Confession

P Gracious Lord, ashes remind us of our human frailty and mortality. You are eternal, but we are limited in our days. Someday we will return to dust and ashes. You remind us of this in your Word:

C Dust we are and to dust we shall return. (Genesis 3:19; Psalm 90:3) P Ashes speak of condemnation for sin. When Adam fell into sin, judgment and death came to all.

Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes. C Dust we are and to dust we shall return. P Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must

rely upon you, dear Father. We think we are capable of taking care of ourselves and make our own plans for greatness. However, so often these plans fail and crumble into ashes.

C Dust we are and to dust we shall return.P Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and

expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As we repent we put on dust and ashes.

C Dust we are and to dust we shall return.P People of God, as we see the meaning of ashes and dust for us as Christians, we now make our

earnest confession unto the Lord.C Almighty God, you have always warned your people against trusting in false gods.

We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and things we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve nothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment, but for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive and renew us. Amen.

+++P You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus

began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore, as you have made repentance, now hear the gospel. I, as a called and ordained servant of Christ, announce to you the grace of God. Your sins are forgiven, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

CREATIVE

Gracious Lord, ashes remind us of our human frailty and mortality. You are eternal, but we CREATIVE

Gracious Lord, ashes remind us of our human frailty and mortality. You are eternal, but we are limited in our days. Someday we will return to dust and ashes. You remind us of this in your CREATIVE

are limited in our days. Someday we will return to dust and ashes. You remind us of this in your

Dust we are and to dust we shall return.

CREATIVE

Dust we are and to dust we shall return. Ashes speak of condemnation for sin. When Adam fell into sin, judgment and death came to all.

CREATIVE

Ashes speak of condemnation for sin. When Adam fell into sin, judgment and death came to all. Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes.

CREATIVE

Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes. Dust we are and to dust we shall return.

CREATIVE

Dust we are and to dust we shall return. Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must

CREATIVE

Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must rely upon you, dear Father. We think we are capable of taking care of ourselves and make our own

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

plans for greatness. However, so often these plans fail and crumble into ashes.

Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and

CREATIVE Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble

CREATIVE expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

CREATIVE ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

CREATIVE People of God, as we see the meaning of ashes and dust for us as Christians, we now make our

CREATIVE People of God, as we see the meaning of ashes and dust for us as Christians, we now make our

COMMUNICATIONS

Gracious Lord, ashes remind us of our human frailty and mortality. You are eternal, but we

COMMUNICATIONS

Gracious Lord, ashes remind us of our human frailty and mortality. You are eternal, but we are limited in our days. Someday we will return to dust and ashes. You remind us of this in your

COMMUNICATIONS

are limited in our days. Someday we will return to dust and ashes. You remind us of this in your Word:

COMMUNICATIONS

Word: Dust we are and to dust we shall return.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes. Dust we are and to dust we shall return.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

plans for greatness. However, so often these plans fail and crumble into ashes. Dust we are and to dust we shall return.

COMMUNICATIONS

Dust we are and to dust we shall return.Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and

COMMUNICATIONS

Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble

COMMUNICATIONS

expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

COMMUNICATIONS

ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

COMMUNICATIONS

People of God, as we see the meaning of ashes and dust for us as Christians, we now make our

COMMUNICATIONS


Almighty God, you have always warned your people against trusting in false gods.

COMMUNICATIONS

Almighty God, you have always warned your people against trusting in false gods. We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and

COMMUNICATIONS

We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and things we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve

COMMUNICATIONS things we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve nothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment,

COMMUNICATIONS nothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment, but for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive and renew us

COMMUNICATIONS but for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive and renew us. Amen.

COMMUNICATIONS . Amen.

You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus

COMMUNICATIONS You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore,

COMMUNICATIONS began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore,

SAMPLES

Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must SAMPLES

Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must rely upon you, dear Father. We think we are capable of taking care of ourselves and make our own SAMPLES

rely upon you, dear Father. We think we are capable of taking care of ourselves and make our own plans for greatness. However, so often these plans fail and crumble into ashes. SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As we repent we put on dust and ashes.

SAMPLESwe repent we put on dust and ashes. Dust we are and to dust we shall return.

SAMPLESDust we are and to dust we shall return.

SAMPLESPeople of God, as we see the meaning of ashes and dust for us as Christians, we now make our



SAMPLESAlmighty God, you have always warned your people against trusting in false gods. We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and

SAMPLESWe are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and things we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve

SAMPLESthings we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve nothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment,

SAMPLESnothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment, but for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive and renew us

SAMPLESbut for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive and renew us

10 JH-U

Hymn ................................................................ Jesus, I Will Ponder Now

Grant that I your Passion view with repentant grievingNor you crucify anew by unholy living.

How could I refuse to shun ev’ry sinful pleasureSince for me God’s only Son suffered without measure?

If my sins give me alarm and my conscience grieve me,Let your cross my fear disarm, peace of conscience give me.

Grant that I may faithfully lean upon your Passion.If his only Son loves me, God must have compassion.

Grant that I may willingly bear with you my crosses,Learning humbleness of you, peace mid pain and losses.

May I give you love for love! Hear me, O my Savior,That I may in heav’n above sing your praise forever.

First Reading .............................................................................. Jonah 1:1-3

Holy Gospel ..........................................................Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

The Creed

Hymn ............................................... Hark, The Voice Of Jesus Calling

Hark, the voice of Jesus calling, “Who will go and work today?Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaves away?”

Loud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.Who will answer, gladly saying, “Here am I. Send me, send me”?

Let none hear you idly saying, “There is nothing I can do,”While the multitudes are dying and the master calls for you.

Take the task he gives you gladly; let his work your pleasure be.Answer quickly when he calls you, “Here am I. Send me, send me!”

The Sign Of Jonah: “God is Calling!”

CREATIVE

Grant that I may faithfully lean upon your Passion.CREATIVE

Grant that I may faithfully lean upon your Passion.If his only Son loves me, God must have compassion.CREATIVE

If his only Son loves me, God must have compassion.

Grant that I may willingly bear with you my crosses,

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

Learning humbleness of you, peace mid pain and losses.May I give you love for love! Hear me, O my Savior,

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

That I may in heav’n above sing your praise forever.

.............................................................................. Jonah 1:1-3

CREATIVE

.............................................................................. Jonah 1:1-3

..........................................................Ma

CREATIVE ..........................................................Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

CREATIVE tthew 6:1-6, 16-21

, The Voice Of Jesus Calling

CREATIVE , The Voice Of Jesus Calling

COMMUNICATIONS

Let your cross my fear disarm, peace of conscience give me.

COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Learning humbleness of you, peace mid pain and losses.May I give you love for love! Hear me, O my Savior,

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

That I may in heav’n above sing your praise forever.

.............................................................................. Jonah 1:1-3

COMMUNICATIONS

.............................................................................. Jonah 1:1-3

..........................................................Ma

COMMUNICATIONS

..........................................................Ma

The Creed

COMMUNICATIONS

The Creed


COMMUNICATIONS


Hark, the voice of Jesus calling, “Who will go and work today?

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheave

COMMUNICATIONS

Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaves away?”

COMMUNICATIONS

s away?”Loud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.

COMMUNICATIONS Loud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.

Who will answer, gladly saying, “Here am I. Send me, send me”?

COMMUNICATIONS Who will answer, gladly saying, “Here am I. Send me, send me”?

Let none hear you idly saying, “There is nothing I can do,”

COMMUNICATIONS Let none hear you idly saying, “There is nothing I can do,”

While the multitudes are dying and the master calls for you.

COMMUNICATIONS While the multitudes are dying and the master calls for you.

SAMPLES

First ReadingSAMPLES

First Reading .............................................................................. Jonah 1:1-3SAMPLES

.............................................................................. Jonah 1:1-3

y Gospel

SAMPLES

y Gospel ..........................................................Ma

SAMPLES

..........................................................Ma

The Creed

SAMPLES

The Creed

............................................... Hark

SAMPLES............................................... Hark


SAMPLESHark, the voice of Jesus calling, “Who will go and work today?

SAMPLESFields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheave

SAMPLESFields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaveLoud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.

SAMPLESLoud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.Who will answer, gladly saying, “Here am I. Send me, send me”?

SAMPLESWho will answer, gladly saying, “Here am I. Send me, send me”?


SAMPLESLet none hear you idly saying, “There is nothing I can do,”

11 JH-U

Offering and Prayers

The Lord’s Prayer (If Holy Communion is celebrated, it may take place here.)

The Blessing

Closing Hymn ................................................................. Abide With Me

Abide with me, fast falls the eventide,The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.When other helpers fail and comforts flee,

Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me.

Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes,Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;

Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

For Next Week

Read Jonah 1:4-16.

1. Even when God, in his grace, has sought me, how have I dug in my heels, refusing to hearken to him?

2. How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?3. How was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of

Christ’s sacrifice on the cross?

CREATIVE

................................................................. ACREATIVE

................................................................. A

Abide with me, fast falls the eventide,CREATIVE

Abide with me, fast falls the eventide,The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.

CREATIVE

The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.When other helpers fail and comforts flee,

CREATIVE

When other helpers fail and comforts flee,Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me.

CREATIVE


Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes,

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

when God, in his grace, has sought me, how have I dug in my heels,

CREATIVE when God, in his grace, has sought me, how have I dug in my heels,

COMMUNICATIONS

Closing HymnCOMMUNICATIONS

Closing Hymn

The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.

COMMUNICATIONS

The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.When other helpers fail and comforts flee,

COMMUNICATIONS

When other helpers fail and comforts flee,Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me.

COMMUNICATIONS


Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes,

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


For Next Week

COMMUNICATIONS

For Next Week

Read Jonah 1:4-16.

COMMUNICATIONS

Read Jonah 1:4-16.


COMMUNICATIONS


How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?

COMMUNICATIONS

How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of

COMMUNICATIONS

was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of

SAMPLES

Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;SAMPLES

Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;SAMPLES


SAMPLES


Read Jonah 1:4-16.

SAMPLESRead Jonah 1:4-16.


SAMPLESwhen God, in his grace, has sought me, how have I dug in my heels,

refusing to hearken to him?

SAMPLESrefusing to hearken to him?How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?

SAMPLESHow has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of

SAMPLESwas Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of

12 JH-U

JONAHThe Sign Of


Complete Script For Worship Leaders

• You may consider creating a Lenten Cross to light. It would be analogous to an Advent Wreath. It could be made out of two logs forming a cross with six candles in it. Light the whole cross on Ash Wednesday and then each week extinguish a candle as a reminder that Holy Week is coming.

• If you are using a Lenten Cross, all six candles may be lit at this time.

• This Call To Worship is offered by the pastor and the congregation:

P For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations. You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

C The appointed time has come. (Psalm 102:9-13)

• The Hymn Jesus, I Will Ponder Now, is sung by the congregation to the tune Jesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 D:



Make me see your great distress, anguish, and affliction,Bonds and stripes and wretchedness and your crucifixion;

Make me see how scourge and rod, spear and nails did wound you,How you died for those, O God, who with thorns had crowned you.

CREATIVE

Ash Wednesday: God Is CallingCREATIVE


Complete Script For Worship LeadersCREATIVE


Lenten Cross

CREATIVE

Lenten Cross to light. It would be analogous to an

CREATIVE

to light. It would be analogous to an Advent Wreath. It could be made out of two logs forming a cross with six candles in

CREATIVE

Advent Wreath. It could be made out of two logs forming a cross with six candles in it. Light the whole cross on Ash Wednesday and then each week extinguish a candle

CREATIVE

it. Light the whole cross on Ash Wednesday and then each week extinguish a candle as a reminder that Holy Week is coming.

CREATIVE

as a reminder that Holy Week is coming.

, all six candles may be lit at this time.

CREATIVE


is offered by the pastor and the congregation:

CREATIVE is offered by the pastor and the congregation:


CREATIVE For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears because of your great wrath, for you have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like

CREATIVE have taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations.

CREATIVE grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations. You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

CREATIVE You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


ou may consider creating a

COMMUNICATIONS

ou may consider creating a Advent Wreath. It could be made out of two logs forming a cross with six candles in

COMMUNICATIONS

Advent Wreath. It could be made out of two logs forming a cross with six candles in it. Light the whole cross on Ash Wednesday and then each week extinguish a candle

COMMUNICATIONS

it. Light the whole cross on Ash Wednesday and then each week extinguish a candle as a reminder that Holy Week is coming.

COMMUNICATIONS


Lenten Cross

COMMUNICATIONS

Lenten Cross, all six candles may be lit at this time.

COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


is sung by the congregation to the tune

COMMUNICATIONS


SAMPLES

it. Light the whole cross on Ash Wednesday and then each week extinguish a candle SAMPLES

it. Light the whole cross on Ash Wednesday and then each week extinguish a candle as a reminder that Holy Week is coming. SAMPLES


If you are using a

SAMPLES

If you are using a Lenten Cross

SAMPLES

Lenten Cross

Call To Worship

SAMPLES

Call To Worship is offered by the pastor and the congregation:

SAMPLES



SAMPLES


SAMPLEShave taken me up and thrown me aside. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations.

SAMPLESgrass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations.

SAMPLESYou will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

SAMPLESYou will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her.

(Psalm 102:9-13)

SAMPLES(Psalm 102:9-13)


SAMPLES is sung by the congregation to the tune


SAMPLESJesus, I will ponder now on your holy Passion;

13 JH-U

Yet, O Lord, not thus alone make me see your Passion,But its cause to me make known and its termination.For I also and my sin wrought your deep affliction;

This the shameful cause has been of your crucifixion.

P The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

C And with you also.

• The Prayer Of The Day may be offered from your own liturgical tradition.

• This Confession Of Sins is offered by the congregation and the pastor:

P Gracious Lord, ashes remind us of our human frailty and mortality. You are eternal, but we are limited in our days. Someday we will return to dust and ashes. You remind us of this in your Word:

C Dust we are and to dust we shall return. (Genesis 3:19; Psalm 90:3) P Ashes speak of condemnation for sin. When Adam fell into sin, judgment and death came to all.

Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes. C Dust we are and to dust we shall return. P Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must


C Dust we are and to dust we shall return.P Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and

expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As we repent we put on dust and ashes.

C Dust we are and to dust we shall return.P People of God, as we see the meaning of ashes and dust for us as Christians, we now make our

earnest confession unto the Lord.C Almighty God, you have always warned your people against trusting in false gods.

We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and things we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve nothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment, but for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive and renew us. Amen.

CREATIVE

may be offered from your own liturgical tradition.CREATIVE

may be offered from your own liturgical tradition.

Confession Of SinsCREATIVE

Confession Of Sins is offered by the congregation and the pastor:CREATIVE

is offered by the congregation and the pastor:


CREATIVE


CREATIVE



CREATIVE

Dust we are and to dust we shall return. (Genesis 3:19; Psalm 90:3)

CREATIVE

(Genesis 3:19; Psalm 90:3)

Ashes speak of condemnation for sin. When Adam fell into sin, judgment and death came to all.

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes.

CREATIVE Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must

CREATIVE Ashes speak of our total dependence upon you, O God. We are but frail human beings who must rely upon you, dear Father. We think we are capable of taking care of ourselves and make our own

CREATIVE rely upon you, dear Father. We think we are capable of taking care of ourselves and make our own plans for greatness. However, so often these plans fail and crumble into ashes.

CREATIVE plans for greatness. However, so often these plans fail and crumble into ashes.

Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and

CREATIVE Ashes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble

CREATIVE expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

CREATIVE ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

COMMUNICATIONS

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with COMMUNICATIONS

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. COMMUNICATIONS

you all. CCOMMUNICATIONS

C And with you also. COMMUNICATIONS

And with you also.

The

COMMUNICATIONS

The Prayer Of The Day

COMMUNICATIONS

Prayer Of The Day

This

COMMUNICATIONS

This Confession Of Sins

COMMUNICATIONS

Confession Of Sins


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS Almighty God, you have always warned your people against trusting in false gods. We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and

COMMUNICATIONS We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and

COMMUNICATIONS things we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve

COMMUNICATIONS things we have left undone. We are but dust and ash of the ground and we deserve nothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment,

COMMUNICATIONS nothing more than to return to the dust. Though we deserve your stern judgment,

SAMPLES

Dust we are and to dust we shall return. SAMPLES

Dust we are and to dust we shall return. Ashes speak of condemnation for sin. When Adam fell into sin, judgment and death came to all. SAMPLES

Ashes speak of condemnation for sin. When Adam fell into sin, judgment and death came to all. Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes. SAMPLES

Since we all are born into sin, we are marked for death and ashes. SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLESAshes speak of our humiliation and repentance. As people in the Bible humbled themselves and expressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble

SAMPLESexpressed their repentance and mourning in the signs of sackcloth and ashes, we also humble ourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

SAMPLESourselves before you, O God, as we ask you to forgive our sins through Jesus Christ, our Lord. As

SAMPLESDust we are and to dust we shall return.

SAMPLESDust we are and to dust we shall return.People of God, as we see the meaning of ashes and dust for us as Christians, we now make our



SAMPLESAlmighty God, you have always warned your people against trusting in false gods. We are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and

SAMPLESWe are sinful and this nature has given birth to sinful deeds: things we have done and

14 JH-U

• If your congregation observes an Imposition Of Ashes on Ash Wednesday, you may perform the rite at this time. Worshipers are invited to come up quietly to the front of the church and receive ashes on their foreheads with the words from Mark 1:15: “Repent and believe the gospel,” as a token of their repentance in the Lord. Worshipers who choose not to come up for the ashes are invited to meditate quietly in their seat. During the rite, special music may be presented.

• After a moment of silent reflection, this Absolution Of Sins is proclaimed by the pastor:

P You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore, as you have made repentance, now hear the gospel. I, as a called and ordained servant of Christ, announce to you the grace of God. Your sins are forgiven, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

• The final three verses of the Hymn Jesus, I Will Ponder Now, are sung by the congregation to the tune Jesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 D:







• The First Reading, Jonah 1:1-3, is read:

P Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai, saying, “Go at once to Nineveh, that great city, and cry out against it; for their wickedness has come up before me.” But Jonah set out to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish; so he paid his fare and went on board, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord.

CREATIVE

You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus CREATIVE

You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore,

CREATIVE

began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore, as you have made repentance, now hear the gospel. I, as a called and ordained servant of Christ,

CREATIVE

as you have made repentance, now hear the gospel. I, as a called and ordained servant of Christ, announce to you the grace of God. Your sins are forgiven, in the name of the Father, and of the

CREATIVE

announce to you the grace of God. Your sins are forgiven, in the name of the Father, and of the

Jesus, I Will Ponder Now,

CREATIVE

Jesus, I Will Ponder Now,Jesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 D

CREATIVE

Jesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 D:

CREATIVE

:

CREATIVE

Grant that I your Passion view with repentant grieving

CREATIVE


CREATIVE Nor you crucify anew by unholy living.

How could I refuse to shun ev’ry sinful pleasure

CREATIVE How could I refuse to shun ev’ry sinful pleasure

Since for me God’s only Son suffered without measure?

CREATIVE Since for me God’s only Son suffered without measure?

If my sins give me alarm and my conscience grieve me,

CREATIVE If my sins give me alarm and my conscience grieve me,Let your cross my fear disarm, peace of conscience give me.

CREATIVE Let your cross my fear disarm, peace of conscience give me.

COMMUNICATIONS

in their seat. During the rite, special music may be presented.COMMUNICATIONS

in their seat. During the rite, special music may be presented.

•COMMUNICATIONS

• After COMMUNICATIONS

After a moment of silent reflection, this COMMUNICATIONS

a moment of silent reflection, this pastor:

COMMUNICATIONS

pastor:

You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus

COMMUNICATIONS

You have heard the Word of the Lord, “Repent, and believe the gospel.” With these words, Jesus began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore,

COMMUNICATIONS

began his ministry and now directs us to make repentance and hear his good news. Therefore, as you have made repentance, now hear the gospel. I, as a called and ordained servant of Christ,

COMMUNICATIONS

as you have made repentance, now hear the gospel. I, as a called and ordained servant of Christ, announce to you the grace of God. Your sins are forgiven, in the name of the Father, and of the

COMMUNICATIONS

announce to you the grace of God. Your sins are forgiven, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

COMMUNICATIONS

Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

final three verses of the

COMMUNICATIONS

final three verses of the Hymn

COMMUNICATIONS

HymnJesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 D

COMMUNICATIONS

Jesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 D

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Nor you crucify anew by unholy living.How could I refuse to shun ev’ry sinful pleasure

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Let your cross my fear disarm, peace of conscience give me.Grant that I may faithfully lean upon your Passion.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS Learning humbleness of you, peace mid pain and losses.

May I give you love for love! Hear me, O my Savior,

COMMUNICATIONS May I give you love for love! Hear me, O my Savior,That I may in heav’n above sing your praise forever.

COMMUNICATIONS That I may in heav’n above sing your praise forever.

Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai, saying, “Go at once to Nineveh, that

COMMUNICATIONS Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai, saying, “Go at once to Nineveh, that

SAMPLES

final three verses of the SAMPLES

final three verses of the to the tune SAMPLES

to the tune Jesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 DSAMPLES

Jesu Kreuz, Leiden Und Pein 76 76 DSAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

Nor you crucify anew by unholy living.How could I refuse to shun ev’ry sinful pleasure

SAMPLES


SAMPLES



SAMPLESIf my sins give me alarm and my conscience grieve me,


SAMPLESLet your cross my fear disarm, peace of conscience give me.

Grant that I may faithfully lean upon your Passion.

SAMPLESGrant that I may faithfully lean upon your Passion.


SAMPLESIf his only Son loves me, God must have compassion.

SAMPLESGrant that I may willingly bear with you my crosses,

SAMPLESGrant that I may willingly bear with you my crosses,Learning humbleness of you, peace mid pain and losses.

SAMPLESLearning humbleness of you, peace mid pain and losses.May I give you love for love! Hear me, O my Savior,

SAMPLESMay I give you love for love! Hear me, O my Savior,That I may in heav’n above sing your praise forever.

SAMPLESThat I may in heav’n above sing your praise forever.

15 JH-U

• The Holy Gospel, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, is read:

P “Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

• The Creed is offered according to local custom.

• The Hymn, Hark, The Voice Of Jesus Calling, is sung by the congregation to the tune Galilean 87 87 D:

Hark, the voice of Jesus calling, “Who will go and work today?Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaves away?”



Take the task he gives you gladly; let his work your pleasure be.Answer quickly when he calls you, “Here am I. Send me, send me!”

• The Homily, entitled The Sign Of Jonah: “God is Calling!” is delivered by the pastor. Please note that page numbers appear occasionally in the text. These are references to Lessing, Jonah [St. Louis, CPH, 2007]. If you wish, you may refer to this Bible commentary for additional background material for the homily:

P ((Pantomiming telephone conversation:) “Hello?” (Pause for other end to answer.)

“You’re kidding! It can’t be!” (Hold phone to your chest as though to keep the person on the other end from hearing and whisper to the congregation ...) “It’s God!”

CREATIVE

they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so CREATIVE

they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father CREATIVE

that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

CREATIVE

who sees in secret will reward you. Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth CREATIVE

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in

CREATIVE

consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust

CREATIVE

heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For

CREATIVE

consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

CREATIVE

where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

is offered according to local custom.

CREATIVE


, is sung by the congregation to the tune

CREATIVE

, is sung by the congregation to the tune


CREATIVE Hark, the voice of Jesus calling, “Who will go and work today?

Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheave

CREATIVE Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaves away?”

CREATIVE s away?”

Loud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.

CREATIVE Loud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.


CREATIVE Who will answer, gladly saying, “Here am I. Send me, send me”?


CREATIVE Let none hear you idly saying, “There is nothing I can do,”

COMMUNICATIONS

others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your COMMUNICATIONS

others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your COMMUNICATIONS

left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.COMMUNICATIONS

Father who sees in secret will reward you.hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you,

COMMUNICATIONS

hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so

COMMUNICATIONS

they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father

COMMUNICATIONS

that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

COMMUNICATIONS

who sees in secret will reward you.and rust

COMMUNICATIONS

and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in

COMMUNICATIONS

consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust

COMMUNICATIONS

heaven, where neither moth nor rustwhere your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

COMMUNICATIONS

where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”


COMMUNICATIONS


Hark, The Voice Of Jesus Calling

COMMUNICATIONS

Hark, The Voice Of Jesus Calling


COMMUNICATIONS

Hark, the voice of Jesus calling, “Who will go and work today?Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheave

COMMUNICATIONS

Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaveLoud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

While the multitudes are dying and the master calls for you.Take the task he gives you gladly; let his work your pleasure be.

COMMUNICATIONS

Take the task he gives you gladly; let his work your pleasure be.Answer quickly when he calls you, “Here am I. Send me, send me!

COMMUNICATIONS

Answer quickly when he calls you, “Here am I. Send me, send me!

is delivered by the pastor.

COMMUNICATIONS is delivered by the pastor.

COMMUNICATIONS Please note that page numbers appear occasionally in the text. These are references

COMMUNICATIONS Please note that page numbers appear occasionally in the text. These are references to Lessing, Jonah [St. Louis, CPH, 2007]. If you wish, you may refer to this Bible

COMMUNICATIONS to Lessing, Jonah [St. Louis, CPH, 2007]. If you wish, you may refer to this Bible

SAMPLES

is offered according to local custom.SAMPLES


HymnSAMPLES

Hymn, SAMPLES

, Hark, The Voice Of Jesus CallingSAMPLES

Hark, The Voice Of Jesus CallingGalilean 87 87 D

SAMPLES

Galilean 87 87 D:

SAMPLES

:


SAMPLES

Hark, the voice of Jesus calling, “Who will go and work today?Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheave

SAMPLES

Fields are white and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaveLoud and long the master calls you; rich reward he offers free.

SAMPLES


SAMPLESWho will answer, gladly saying, “Here am I. Send me, send me”?


SAMPLESLet none hear you idly saying, “There is nothing I can do,”

While the multitudes are dying and the master calls for you.

SAMPLESWhile the multitudes are dying and the master calls for you.

Take the task he gives you gladly; let his work your pleasure be.

SAMPLESTake the task he gives you gladly; let his work your pleasure be.Answer quickly when he calls you, “Here am I. Send me, send me!

SAMPLESAnswer quickly when he calls you, “Here am I. Send me, send me!

The Sign Of Jonah: “God is Calling!”

SAMPLESThe Sign Of Jonah: “God is Calling!”

Please note that page numbers appear occasionally in the text. These are references

SAMPLESPlease note that page numbers appear occasionally in the text. These are references

16 JH-U

Now wouldn’t it be something if God actually did call?

I don’t know how it is at your house, but I find one of the most irritating sentences in the English language to be, “The phone is ringing!” This infuriating announcement usually comes from someone in my home who prefers that I attend to the task of answering the phone. I’ve actually had the experience of hearing three voices call out at once, “The phone’s ringing!”

The idea is that we don’t want to waste our energy if the call is not for us, and there are even times when we don’t want to answer calls that are for us!

Continuing on with this little “fun with the phone” routine, have you ever answered the phone and then said to your mom or dad or son or daughter or husband or wife, “It’s for you.” Then the reply comes, “Who is it?” Amazing how many people simply want to avoid responsibility for their calls!

Welcome to the world of Jonah! Let’s begin at the beginning! The narrative of Jonah actually begins in 2 Kings 14:23-27 (pp. 64-65):

“In the fifteenth year of King Amaziah son of Joash of Judah, King Jeroboam son of Joash of Israel began to reign in Samaria; he reigned forty-one years. He did what was evil in the sight of the Lord; he did not depart from all the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he caused Israel to sin. He restored the border of Israel from Lebo-hamath as far as the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah son of Amittai, the prophet, who was from Gath-hepher. For the Lord saw that the distress of Israel was very bitter; there was no one left, bond or free, and no one to help Israel. But the Lord had not said that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam son of Joash.”

From this passage, we find that even in Israel, a sinful nation in the sight of God—a nation under the reign of an unfaithful king, Jeroboam, who “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord”—the prophet Jonah was successful: God did not destroy unfaithful Israel while his prophet Jonah was speaking the word of God.

In the book bearing his name, Jonah was also a successful prophet: the people of Nineveh heard and heeded the word of God. They repented.

Yet Jonah, son of Amittai (a name that means “faithful,” or “truth”—Jonah was “the son of faithfulness ... the child of truth”), while successful, proves to be anything but faithful. He turns tail and runs when God calls him. And even when he does tell the truth—proclaiming the true word of God to the Ninevites—he does so begrudgingly. Deep down he doesn’t want those nasty outsiders to know God’s truth. Even so, God’s faithful and true word succeeds!

CREATIVE

on with this little “fun with the phone” routine, have you ever answered the phone and CREATIVE

on with this little “fun with the phone” routine, have you ever answered the phone and then said to your mom or dad or son or daughter or husband or wife, “It’s for you.”

CREATIVE

then said to your mom or dad or son or daughter or husband or wife, “It’s for you.”comes, “Who is it?” Amazing how many people simply want to avoid responsibility for their calls!

CREATIVE

comes, “Who is it?” Amazing how many people simply want to avoid responsibility for their calls!

elcome to the world of Jonah! Let’s begin at the beginning! The narrative of Jonah actually

CREATIVE


the fifteenth year of King Amaziah son of Joash of Judah, King Jeroboam son of Joash of

CREATIVE

the fifteenth year of King Amaziah son of Joash of Judah, King Jeroboam son of Joash of Israel began to reign in Samaria; he reigned forty-one years. He did what was evil in the sight of

CREATIVE

Israel began to reign in Samaria; he reigned forty-one years. He did what was evil in the sight of the Lord; he did not depart from all the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he caused Israel to

CREATIVE

the Lord; he did not depart from all the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he caused Israel to sin. He restored the border of Israel from Lebo-hamath as far as the Sea of the Arabah, according

CREATIVE sin. He restored the border of Israel from Lebo-hamath as far as the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah son of Amittai, the

CREATIVE to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah son of Amittai, the prophet, who was from Gath-hepher. For the Lord saw that the distress of Israel was very bitter;

CREATIVE prophet, who was from Gath-hepher. For the Lord saw that the distress of Israel was very bitter;

CREATIVE there was no one left, bond or free, and no one to help Israel. But the Lord had not said that he

CREATIVE there was no one left, bond or free, and no one to help Israel. But the Lord had not said that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam

CREATIVE would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam

COMMUNICATIONS

had the experience of hearing three voices call out at once, “The phone’s ringing!”COMMUNICATIONS

had the experience of hearing three voices call out at once, “The phone’s ringing!”

The COMMUNICATIONS

The idea is that we don’t want to waste our energy if the call is not for us, and there are even times COMMUNICATIONS

idea is that we don’t want to waste our energy if the call is not for us, and there are even times when we don’t want to answer calls that are for us!

COMMUNICATIONS

when we don’t want to answer calls that are for us!

Continuing

COMMUNICATIONS

Continuing on with this little “fun with the phone” routine, have you ever answered the phone and

COMMUNICATIONS

on with this little “fun with the phone” routine, have you ever answered the phone and then said to your mom or dad or son or daughter or husband or wife, “It’s for you.”

COMMUNICATIONS

then said to your mom or dad or son or daughter or husband or wife, “It’s for you.”comes, “Who is it?” Amazing how many people simply want to avoid responsibility for their calls!

COMMUNICATIONS

comes, “Who is it?” Amazing how many people simply want to avoid responsibility for their calls!


COMMUNICATIONS

elcome to the world of Jonah! Let’s begin at the beginning! The narrative of Jonah actually begins in 2 Kings 14:23-27 (pp. 64-65):

COMMUNICATIONS

begins in 2 Kings 14:23-27 (pp. 64-65):

the fifteenth year of King Amaziah son of Joash of Judah, King Jeroboam son of Joash of

COMMUNICATIONS

the fifteenth year of King Amaziah son of Joash of Judah, King Jeroboam son of Joash of Israel began to reign in Samaria; he reigned forty-one years. He did what was evil in the sight of

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

sin. He restored the border of Israel from Lebo-hamath as far as the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah son of Amittai, the

COMMUNICATIONS

to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah son of Amittai, the prophet, who was from Gath-hepher. For the Lord saw that the distress of Israel was very bitter;

COMMUNICATIONS

prophet, who was from Gath-hepher. For the Lord saw that the distress of Israel was very bitter;

COMMUNICATIONS

there was no one left, bond or free, and no one to help Israel. But the Lord had not said that he

COMMUNICATIONS

there was no one left, bond or free, and no one to help Israel. But the Lord had not said that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam

COMMUNICATIONS

would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam

this passage, we find that even in Israel, a sinful nation in the sight of God—a nation under

COMMUNICATIONS

this passage, we find that even in Israel, a sinful nation in the sight of God—a nation under the reign of an unfaithful king, Jeroboam, who “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord”—the

COMMUNICATIONS

the reign of an unfaithful king, Jeroboam, who “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord”—the prophet Jonah was successful: God did not destroy unfaithful Israel while his prophet Jonah was

COMMUNICATIONS

prophet Jonah was successful: God did not destroy unfaithful Israel while his prophet Jonah was

the book bearing his name, Jonah was also a successful prophet: the people of Nineveh heard

COMMUNICATIONS the book bearing his name, Jonah was also a successful prophet: the people of Nineveh heard

et Jonah, son of Amittai (a name that means “faithful,” or “truth”—Jonah was “the son of

COMMUNICATIONS et Jonah, son of Amittai (a name that means “faithful,” or “truth”—Jonah was “the son of faithfulness ... the child of truth”), while successful, proves to be anything but faithful. He turns

COMMUNICATIONS faithfulness ... the child of truth”), while successful, proves to be anything but faithful. He turns

SAMPLES

the fifteenth year of King Amaziah son of Joash of Judah, King Jeroboam son of Joash of SAMPLES

the fifteenth year of King Amaziah son of Joash of Judah, King Jeroboam son of Joash of Israel began to reign in Samaria; he reigned forty-one years. He did what was evil in the sight of SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

sin. He restored the border of Israel from Lebo-hamath as far as the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah son of Amittai, the

SAMPLES

to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah son of Amittai, the prophet, who was from Gath-hepher. For the Lord saw that the distress of Israel was very bitter;

SAMPLES

prophet, who was from Gath-hepher. For the Lord saw that the distress of Israel was very bitter;

SAMPLES

there was no one left, bond or free, and no one to help Israel. But the Lord had not said that he

SAMPLES

there was no one left, bond or free, and no one to help Israel. But the Lord had not said that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam

SAMPLESwould blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam

this passage, we find that even in Israel, a sinful nation in the sight of God—a nation under

SAMPLESthis passage, we find that even in Israel, a sinful nation in the sight of God—a nation under

the reign of an unfaithful king, Jeroboam, who “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord”—the

SAMPLESthe reign of an unfaithful king, Jeroboam, who “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord”—the prophet Jonah was successful: God did not destroy unfaithful Israel while his prophet Jonah was

SAMPLESprophet Jonah was successful: God did not destroy unfaithful Israel while his prophet Jonah was

the book bearing his name, Jonah was also a successful prophet: the people of Nineveh heard

SAMPLESthe book bearing his name, Jonah was also a successful prophet: the people of Nineveh heard

17 JH-U

Jonah must have been successful as a prophet in his native Israel. We can figure that out because he was able to hire the sailors and pay for the use of the ship (pp. 76-77). The opening sentences of Jonah’s book have him not only paying a fare for his passage, but in fact financing the entire ship and its crew—an expensive endeavor, especially considering all of this money is being spent to disobey the command of the Lord. The last call Jonah wants to answer is that one from the LORD!

Just like other Israelites, Jonah is called to go beyond his borders (p. 82). Abram was sent from his homeland. Moses led God’s people from their homes. Balaam was sent to prophesy to Moab. Elijah had been sent to the Gentile town of Zarephath. God’s prophets had a history of speaking God’s word beyond traditional borders.

But this call was to Nineveh, “the chief of sinners” (pp. 85-89). The very word “Nineveh” would cause a prophet to blanch—such was the city’s reputation! Isaiah wrote about it. So did Nahum and Zephaniah. A place of deceit and moral degredation, the nation was also renowned for its bloody and inhumane warfare. When the armies of Nineveh arose (and they arose OFTEN!) the wake of their destruction was utterly complete.

When Assyrians took over a town in battle, they would take any survivors and impale them on stakes in front of the town. After a battle they would pile up the skulls of their enemies making pillars out of them. Their leaders would often remove the heads of their enemies and wear them around their necks. This is not a friendly nation or a friendly city, not exactly on the top ten holiday destinations of the day! In fact this is the nation that eventually invades and destroys Israel in 722 BC (cf. 2 Kings 17). And it’s to this group of people, to this great enemy nation, to this enemy city that God calls Jonah to go. That’s right, it’s an overseas assignment to Kabul in Afghanistan or Tehran in Iran or to Mogadishu in Somalia.

Jonah received a call that he would rather not get! You know the feeling. The phone rings and you just know it is your aging aunt who wants to come over and check her mailbox for the third time today. Or maybe you’ve had the experience of being “between jobs” and both the car payment and the mortgage are a few days late. You screen your calls with an answering machine; or if you are fortunate you have caller ID!

Calling Jonah to go to the Ninevites was like asking a Jew in 1942 to go from New York to Hitler, and tell him that God loved him, and that everything he did would be forgiven if he would but repent. So the Jew got on a train, all right, and went to San Francisco, then got on a ship to Antarctica! He wanted nothing to do with it.

So Jonah actually hung up on God! Have you ever had someone hang up on you? It doesn’t feel very good, and you likely experience a bit of anger. Who in the world would want to hang up on God and make God angry?

CREATIVE

Elijah had been sent to the Gentile town of Zarephath. God’s prophets had a history of speaking CREATIVE

Elijah had been sent to the Gentile town of Zarephath. God’s prophets had a history of speaking God’s word beyond traditional borders.CREATIVE

God’s word beyond traditional borders.

this call was to Nineveh, “the chief of sinners” (pp. 85-89). The very word “Nineveh” would

CREATIVE

this call was to Nineveh, “the chief of sinners” (pp. 85-89). The very word “Nineveh” would cause a prophet to blanch—such was the city’s reputation! Isaiah wrote about it. So did Nahum

CREATIVE

cause a prophet to blanch—such was the city’s reputation! Isaiah wrote about it. So did Nahum and Zephaniah. A place of deceit and moral degredation, the nation was also renowned for its

CREATIVE

and Zephaniah. A place of deceit and moral degredation, the nation was also renowned for its bloody and inhumane warfare. When the armies of Nineveh arose (and they arose OFTEN!) the

CREATIVE

bloody and inhumane warfare. When the armies of Nineveh arose (and they arose OFTEN!) the wake of their destruction was utterly complete.

CREATIVE

wake of their destruction was utterly complete.

Assyrians took over a town in battle, they would take any survivors and impale them on

CREATIVE

Assyrians took over a town in battle, they would take any survivors and impale them on stakes in front of the town. After a battle they would pile up the skulls of their enemies making

CREATIVE

stakes in front of the town. After a battle they would pile up the skulls of their enemies making pillars out of them. Their leaders would often remove the heads of their enemies and wear them

CREATIVE pillars out of them. Their leaders would often remove the heads of their enemies and wear them around their necks. This is not a friendly nation or a friendly city, not exactly on the top ten

CREATIVE around their necks. This is not a friendly nation or a friendly city, not exactly on the top ten holiday destinations of the day! In fact this is the nation that eventually invades and destroys

CREATIVE holiday destinations of the day! In fact this is the nation that eventually invades and destroys Israel in 722 BC (cf. 2 Kings 17). And it’s to this group of people, to this great enemy nation, to

CREATIVE Israel in 722 BC (cf. 2 Kings 17). And it’s to this group of people, to this great enemy nation, to

CREATIVE this enemy city that God calls Jonah to go. That’s right, it’s an overseas assignment to Kabul in

CREATIVE this enemy city that God calls Jonah to go. That’s right, it’s an overseas assignment to Kabul in

COMMUNICATIONS

Just COMMUNICATIONS

Just like other Israelites, Jonah is called to go beyond his borders (p. 82). Abram was sent from COMMUNICATIONS

like other Israelites, Jonah is called to go beyond his borders (p. 82). Abram was sent from his homeland. Moses led God’s people from their homes. Balaam was sent to prophesy to Moab.

COMMUNICATIONS

his homeland. Moses led God’s people from their homes. Balaam was sent to prophesy to Moab. Elijah had been sent to the Gentile town of Zarephath. God’s prophets had a history of speaking

COMMUNICATIONS

Elijah had been sent to the Gentile town of Zarephath. God’s prophets had a history of speaking God’s word beyond traditional borders.

COMMUNICATIONS

God’s word beyond traditional borders.

this call was to Nineveh, “the chief of sinners” (pp. 85-89). The very word “Nineveh” would

COMMUNICATIONS

this call was to Nineveh, “the chief of sinners” (pp. 85-89). The very word “Nineveh” would cause a prophet to blanch—such was the city’s reputation! Isaiah wrote about it. So did Nahum

COMMUNICATIONS

cause a prophet to blanch—such was the city’s reputation! Isaiah wrote about it. So did Nahum and Zephaniah. A place of deceit and moral degredation, the nation was also renowned for its

COMMUNICATIONS

and Zephaniah. A place of deceit and moral degredation, the nation was also renowned for its bloody and inhumane warfare. When the armies of Nineveh arose (and they arose OFTEN!) the

COMMUNICATIONS

bloody and inhumane warfare. When the armies of Nineveh arose (and they arose OFTEN!) the wake of their destruction was utterly complete.

COMMUNICATIONS


Assyrians took over a town in battle, they would take any survivors and impale them on

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

pillars out of them. Their leaders would often remove the heads of their enemies and wear them around their necks. This is not a friendly nation or a friendly city, not exactly on the top ten

COMMUNICATIONS

around their necks. This is not a friendly nation or a friendly city, not exactly on the top ten holiday destinations of the day! In fact this is the nation that eventually invades and destroys

COMMUNICATIONS

holiday destinations of the day! In fact this is the nation that eventually invades and destroys Israel in 722 BC (cf. 2 Kings 17). And it’s to this group of people, to this great enemy nation, to

COMMUNICATIONS

Israel in 722 BC (cf. 2 Kings 17). And it’s to this group of people, to this great enemy nation, to

COMMUNICATIONS

this enemy city that God calls Jonah to go. That’s right, it’s an overseas assignment to Kabul in

COMMUNICATIONS

this enemy city that God calls Jonah to go. That’s right, it’s an overseas assignment to Kabul in Afghanistan or Tehran in Iran or to Mogadishu in Somalia.

COMMUNICATIONS

Afghanistan or Tehran in Iran or to Mogadishu in Somalia.

received a call that he would rather not get! You know the feeling. The phone rings and you

COMMUNICATIONS

received a call that he would rather not get! You know the feeling. The phone rings and you just know it is your aging aunt who wants to come over and check her mailbox for the third time

COMMUNICATIONS

just know it is your aging aunt who wants to come over and check her mailbox for the third time Or maybe you’ve had the experience of being “between jobs” and both the car payment and

COMMUNICATIONS

Or maybe you’ve had the experience of being “between jobs” and both the car payment and the mortgage are a few days late. You screen your calls with an answering machine; or if you are

COMMUNICATIONS the mortgage are a few days late. You screen your calls with an answering machine; or if you are

Jonah to go to the Ninevites was like asking a Jew in 1942 to go from New York to

COMMUNICATIONS Jonah to go to the Ninevites was like asking a Jew in 1942 to go from New York to

Hitler, and tell him that God loved him, and that everything he did would be forgiven if he would

COMMUNICATIONS Hitler, and tell him that God loved him, and that everything he did would be forgiven if he would

COMMUNICATIONS but repent. So the Jew got on a train, all right, and went to San Francisco, then got on a ship to

COMMUNICATIONS but repent. So the Jew got on a train, all right, and went to San Francisco, then got on a ship to

SAMPLES

wake of their destruction was utterly complete.SAMPLES


Assyrians took over a town in battle, they would take any survivors and impale them on SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

pillars out of them. Their leaders would often remove the heads of their enemies and wear them around their necks. This is not a friendly nation or a friendly city, not exactly on the top ten

SAMPLES

around their necks. This is not a friendly nation or a friendly city, not exactly on the top ten holiday destinations of the day! In fact this is the nation that eventually invades and destroys

SAMPLES

holiday destinations of the day! In fact this is the nation that eventually invades and destroys Israel in 722 BC (cf. 2 Kings 17). And it’s to this group of people, to this great enemy nation, to

SAMPLES

Israel in 722 BC (cf. 2 Kings 17). And it’s to this group of people, to this great enemy nation, to

SAMPLESthis enemy city that God calls Jonah to go. That’s right, it’s an overseas assignment to Kabul in

SAMPLESthis enemy city that God calls Jonah to go. That’s right, it’s an overseas assignment to Kabul in Afghanistan or Tehran in Iran or to Mogadishu in Somalia.

SAMPLESAfghanistan or Tehran in Iran or to Mogadishu in Somalia.

received a call that he would rather not get! You know the feeling. The phone rings and you

SAMPLESreceived a call that he would rather not get! You know the feeling. The phone rings and you

just know it is your aging aunt who wants to come over and check her mailbox for the third time

SAMPLESjust know it is your aging aunt who wants to come over and check her mailbox for the third time Or maybe you’ve had the experience of being “between jobs” and both the car payment and

SAMPLESOr maybe you’ve had the experience of being “between jobs” and both the car payment and the mortgage are a few days late. You screen your calls with an answering machine; or if you are

SAMPLESthe mortgage are a few days late. You screen your calls with an answering machine; or if you are

18 JH-U

The answer is in Jonah’s name (pp. 80-81). The name “Jonah” means “dove.” When we hear that word we think of peace ... or perhaps an image of the Holy Spirit. That is not what an ancient Hebrew thought when hearing the word “dove.” In that culture a dove was a flighty and brainless creature—something not to be trusted ... unreliable. A dove flies from one place to another, avoiding confrontation ... seeking refuge ... and then moaning and lamenting when in distress. Sound familiar? Like flighty, moaning Jonah, perhaps?

So Jonah, the dove, flies off, boarding a ship going to Tarshish, which is not only Tarsus, the hometown of St. Paul (p. 72), but represents a pleasant place of security, a “distant paradise” (p. 73). Tarshish was on important trade routes, and was recognized as a place of gold and gems. Imagine what the Spaniards thought about the new world—a place of exotic Aztec gold—and you’ll have an idea of Jonah’s image of distant Tarshish.

That having been said, a ship bound for Tarshish is bound to have enormous problems (cf. p. 76). Scripture speaks of the ships of Tarshish being buffeted by winds and shattering. Boarding a ship to Tarshish would be akin to buying a ticket to the Titanic!

Jonah’s “going down” (v. 3) begins a slow decent toward death (p. 74). The author of Jonah uses the term “to go down” several times. Jonah is descending—heading toward the bottom of the sea and the belly of the fish. The foreshadowing is ominous! Jonah is headed for a fall, for “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Lk. 14:11).

And this is what happens when we run from God’s call on our lives. In the Bible, “to stand before the Lord” is equivalent to serving him (e.g., 1 Kings 17:1; 18:15). The opposite, “to be removed or to flee from God’s presence,” is to refuse to serve him. It can also denote the idea of being removed from his service (e.g., Gen. 4:16). The person who therefore “runs away from the LORD” or “flees from the presence of the LORD” is the one who is refusing to serve God in the task he knows he has been called to do. This is what Jonah is doing—he is refusing to serve God, even though he knows what his word says (cf. 73-74). As a prophet, Jonah should have longed to be in God’s presence (as David so often yearned for God’s presence). But Jonah hid from God’s presence. It is like Jonah was on Mission Impossible, and he smashed the message device instead of accepting the mission!

But God’s word will have its way (pp. 77-78). The book of Jonah begins with God’s word. It ENDS with God’s word, as well. In the words of Martin Luther, God’s word forever shall abide!

How will God’s word win the day? The answer is in another prophet’s name – Jesus. He willingly goes beyond his borders (p. 82) for us! Jesus often traveled beyond traditional and expected boundaries—meeting with Samaritan women ... touching lepers illegally. Is that a surprise, considering Jesus traveled past the boundaries of heaven to be born, to live and to die among us, a foreign and rebellious people? In his resurrection from the dead the boundaries between life and

CREATIVE

(p. 73). Tarshish was on important trade routes, and was recognized as a place of gold and gems. CREATIVE

(p. 73). Tarshish was on important trade routes, and was recognized as a place of gold and gems. Imagine what the Spaniards thought about the new world—a place of exotic Aztec gold—and CREATIVE

Imagine what the Spaniards thought about the new world—a place of exotic Aztec gold—and you’ll have an idea of Jonah’s image of distant Tarshish.

CREATIVE

you’ll have an idea of Jonah’s image of distant Tarshish.

having been said, a ship bound for Tarshish is bound to have enormous problems (cf. p. 76).

CREATIVE

having been said, a ship bound for Tarshish is bound to have enormous problems (cf. p. 76). Scripture speaks of the ships of Tarshish being buffeted by winds and shattering. Boarding a ship

CREATIVE

Scripture speaks of the ships of Tarshish being buffeted by winds and shattering. Boarding a ship to Tarshish would be akin to buying a ticket to the Titanic!

CREATIVE

to Tarshish would be akin to buying a ticket to the Titanic!

s “going down” (v. 3) begins a slow decent toward death (p. 74). The author of Jonah uses

CREATIVE

s “going down” (v. 3) begins a slow decent toward death (p. 74). The author of Jonah uses the term “to go down” several times. Jonah is descending—heading toward the bottom of the sea

CREATIVE

the term “to go down” several times. Jonah is descending—heading toward the bottom of the sea and the belly of the fish. The foreshadowing is ominous! Jonah is headed for a fall, for “everyone

CREATIVE

and the belly of the fish. The foreshadowing is ominous! Jonah is headed for a fall, for “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Lk. 14:11).

CREATIVE who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Lk. 14:11).

this is what happens when we run from God’s call on our lives. In the Bible, “to stand before

CREATIVE this is what happens when we run from God’s call on our lives. In the Bible, “to stand before

the Lord” is equivalent to serving him (e.g., 1 Kings 17:1; 18:15). The opposite, “to be removed or

CREATIVE the Lord” is equivalent to serving him (e.g., 1 Kings 17:1; 18:15). The opposite, “to be removed or

CREATIVE to flee from God’s presence,” is to refuse to serve him. It can also denote the idea of being removed

CREATIVE to flee from God’s presence,” is to refuse to serve him. It can also denote the idea of being removed from his service (e.g., Gen. 4:16). The person who therefore “runs away from the LORD” or “flees

CREATIVE from his service (e.g., Gen. 4:16). The person who therefore “runs away from the LORD” or “flees from the presence of the LORD” is the one who is refusing to serve God in the task he knows he

CREATIVE from the presence of the LORD” is the one who is refusing to serve God in the task he knows he

COMMUNICATIONS

Sound familiar? Like flighty, moaning Jonah, perhaps?COMMUNICATIONS

Sound familiar? Like flighty, moaning Jonah, perhaps?

So COMMUNICATIONS

So Jonah, the dove, flies off, boarding a ship going to Tarshish, which is not only Tarsus, the COMMUNICATIONS

Jonah, the dove, flies off, boarding a ship going to Tarshish, which is not only Tarsus, the hometown of St. Paul (p. 72), but represents a pleasant place of security, a “distant paradise”

COMMUNICATIONS

hometown of St. Paul (p. 72), but represents a pleasant place of security, a “distant paradise” (p. 73). Tarshish was on important trade routes, and was recognized as a place of gold and gems.

COMMUNICATIONS

(p. 73). Tarshish was on important trade routes, and was recognized as a place of gold and gems. Imagine what the Spaniards thought about the new world—a place of exotic Aztec gold—and

COMMUNICATIONS

Imagine what the Spaniards thought about the new world—a place of exotic Aztec gold—and you’ll have an idea of Jonah’s image of distant Tarshish.

COMMUNICATIONS

you’ll have an idea of Jonah’s image of distant Tarshish.

having been said, a ship bound for Tarshish is bound to have enormous problems (cf. p. 76).

COMMUNICATIONS

having been said, a ship bound for Tarshish is bound to have enormous problems (cf. p. 76). Scripture speaks of the ships of Tarshish being buffeted by winds and shattering. Boarding a ship

COMMUNICATIONS

Scripture speaks of the ships of Tarshish being buffeted by winds and shattering. Boarding a ship to Tarshish would be akin to buying a ticket to the Titanic!

COMMUNICATIONS

to Tarshish would be akin to buying a ticket to the Titanic!

s “going down” (v. 3) begins a slow decent toward death (p. 74). The author of Jonah uses

COMMUNICATIONS

s “going down” (v. 3) begins a slow decent toward death (p. 74). The author of Jonah uses the term “to go down” several times. Jonah is descending—heading toward the bottom of the sea

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Lk. 14:11).


COMMUNICATIONS

this is what happens when we run from God’s call on our lives. In the Bible, “to stand before the Lord” is equivalent to serving him (e.g., 1 Kings 17:1; 18:15). The opposite, “to be removed or

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

to flee from God’s presence,” is to refuse to serve him. It can also denote the idea of being removed

COMMUNICATIONS

to flee from God’s presence,” is to refuse to serve him. It can also denote the idea of being removed from his service (e.g., Gen. 4:16). The person who therefore “runs away from the LORD” or “flees

COMMUNICATIONS

from his service (e.g., Gen. 4:16). The person who therefore “runs away from the LORD” or “flees from the presence of the LORD” is the one who is refusing to serve God in the task he knows he

COMMUNICATIONS

from the presence of the LORD” is the one who is refusing to serve God in the task he knows he has been called to do. This is what Jonah is doing—he is refusing to serve God, even though he

COMMUNICATIONS

has been called to do. This is what Jonah is doing—he is refusing to serve God, even though he knows what his word says (cf. 73-74). As a prophet, Jonah should have longed to be in God’s

COMMUNICATIONS

knows what his word says (cf. 73-74). As a prophet, Jonah should have longed to be in God’s presence (as David so often yearned for God’s presence). But Jonah hid from God’s presence. It

COMMUNICATIONS

presence (as David so often yearned for God’s presence). But Jonah hid from God’s presence. It is like Jonah was on Mission Impossible, and he smashed the message device instead of accepting

COMMUNICATIONS is like Jonah was on Mission Impossible, and he smashed the message device instead of accepting

God’s word will have its way (pp. 77-78). The book of Jonah begins with God’s word. It

COMMUNICATIONS God’s word will have its way (pp. 77-78). The book of Jonah begins with God’s word. It

ENDS with God’s word, as well. In the words of Martin Luther, God’s word forever shall abide!

COMMUNICATIONS ENDS with God’s word, as well. In the words of Martin Luther, God’s word forever shall abide!

will God’s word win the day? The answer is in another prophet’s name – Jesus. He willingly

COMMUNICATIONS will God’s word win the day? The answer is in another prophet’s name – Jesus. He willingly

SAMPLES

s “going down” (v. 3) begins a slow decent toward death (p. 74). The author of Jonah uses SAMPLES

s “going down” (v. 3) begins a slow decent toward death (p. 74). The author of Jonah uses the term “to go down” several times. Jonah is descending—heading toward the bottom of the sea SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Lk. 14:11).


SAMPLES

this is what happens when we run from God’s call on our lives. In the Bible, “to stand before the Lord” is equivalent to serving him (e.g., 1 Kings 17:1; 18:15). The opposite, “to be removed or

SAMPLES


SAMPLESto flee from God’s presence,” is to refuse to serve him. It can also denote the idea of being removed

SAMPLESto flee from God’s presence,” is to refuse to serve him. It can also denote the idea of being removed from his service (e.g., Gen. 4:16). The person who therefore “runs away from the LORD” or “flees

SAMPLESfrom his service (e.g., Gen. 4:16). The person who therefore “runs away from the LORD” or “flees from the presence of the LORD” is the one who is refusing to serve God in the task he knows he

SAMPLESfrom the presence of the LORD” is the one who is refusing to serve God in the task he knows he has been called to do. This is what Jonah is doing—he is refusing to serve God, even though he

SAMPLEShas been called to do. This is what Jonah is doing—he is refusing to serve God, even though he knows what his word says (cf. 73-74). As a prophet, Jonah should have longed to be in God’s

SAMPLESknows what his word says (cf. 73-74). As a prophet, Jonah should have longed to be in God’s presence (as David so often yearned for God’s presence). But Jonah hid from God’s presence. It

SAMPLESpresence (as David so often yearned for God’s presence). But Jonah hid from God’s presence. It is like Jonah was on Mission Impossible, and he smashed the message device instead of accepting

SAMPLESis like Jonah was on Mission Impossible, and he smashed the message device instead of accepting

19 JH-U

death will be forever broken down. Jesus, the one who saves, is the boundary breaker. He will not flutter away from God’s will. He will heed God’s call, for he IS the living Word of God.

Listen, God is calling again. He is calling us to confess our sin. But all the more he is calling us to confess the name of Jesus. This is our path home from our wandering. He is our hope of survival!

(Here you may wish to have a cell phone begin to ring as a surprise reminder of the beginning of the homily.)

Amen.

• The Offering is gathered, during which time a hymn or other special music of your own choosing may be offered.

• These Prayers are offered by the pastor and an additional voice:

P Dear Lord, Jonah tried to flee from your grace as he said later, “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Jonah 4:2) As we begin this Lenten season, we turn to your Son, Jesus and thank you for your grace for seeking us every time we run from your call on our lives. Together with John the Baptist, we say,

1 “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”! (John 1:29) P Father, we turn to your Son in repentance and sorrow for the countless times we have been deaf to

your call. As we begin this Lenten season with ashes, renew us to focus on Jesus and remember his salvation, for by his holy cross he has redeemed the world. We remember his words, for they are our light. We remember his works, for they are our example. We remember his grace, for it is ours to receive. We remember his glory, for it is the brilliance of you, Father. We remember his pain, for it was not deserved. We remember his sorrow, for it was for our hardness of heart. We remember his life, for it was perfect before you, Father. We remember his death, for it was ours.

1 Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!P Lord, Jesus, as we begin this Lenten season and follow Jonah to Nineveh and follow you to the

cross, help us to devote ourselves to your call. In your name we pray. 1 Amen.

• The Lord’s Prayer is offered. Or, if Holy Communion is celebrated, it may take place here.

• The Blessing is pronounced by the pastor:

P The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. The Lord look upon you with favor and give you his peace. Your God is calling you to spread his word. Amen.

CREATIVE

is gathered, during which time a hymn or other special music of your CREATIVE

is gathered, during which time a hymn or other special music of your own choosing may be offered.

CREATIVE

own choosing may be offered.

are offered by the pastor and an additional voice:

CREATIVE


Dear Lord, Jonah tried to flee from your grace as he said later, “I knew that you are a gracious

CREATIVE

Dear Lord, Jonah tried to flee from your grace as he said later, “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Jonah 4:2) As we begin this

CREATIVE

and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Jonah 4:2) As we begin this Lenten season, we turn to your Son, Jesus and thank you for your grace for seeking us every time

CREATIVE

Lenten season, we turn to your Son, Jesus and thank you for your grace for seeking us every time we run from your call on our lives. Together with John the Baptist, we say,

CREATIVE

we run from your call on our lives. Together with John the Baptist, we say,“Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”!

CREATIVE “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”! (John 1:29)

CREATIVE (John 1:29) “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”! (John 1:29) “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”!

CREATIVE “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”! (John 1:29) “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”!

CREATIVE Father, we turn to your Son in repentance and sorrow for the countless times we have been deaf to

CREATIVE Father, we turn to your Son in repentance and sorrow for the countless times we have been deaf to your call. As we begin this Lenten season with ashes, renew us to focus on Jesus and remember

CREATIVE your call. As we begin this Lenten season with ashes, renew us to focus on Jesus and remember his salvation, for by his holy cross he has redeemed the world. We remember his words, for they

CREATIVE his salvation, for by his holy cross he has redeemed the world. We remember his words, for they are our light. We remember his works, for they are our example. We remember his grace, for it

CREATIVE are our light. We remember his works, for they are our example. We remember his grace, for it is ours to receive. We remember his glory, for it is the brilliance of you, Father. We remember his

CREATIVE is ours to receive. We remember his glory, for it is the brilliance of you, Father. We remember his pain, for it was not deserved. We remember his sorrow, for it was for our hardness of heart. We

CREATIVE pain, for it was not deserved. We remember his sorrow, for it was for our hardness of heart. We

COMMUNICATIONS

(Here COMMUNICATIONS

(Here the homily.)COMMUNICATIONS

the homily.)

Amen.

COMMUNICATIONS

Amen.

Offering

COMMUNICATIONS

Offering is gathered, during which time a hymn or other special music of your

COMMUNICATIONS

is gathered, during which time a hymn or other special music of your own choosing may be offered.

COMMUNICATIONS

own choosing may be offered.

Prayers

COMMUNICATIONS

Prayers are offered by the pastor and an additional voice:

COMMUNICATIONS


Dear Lord, Jonah tried to flee from your grace as he said later, “I knew that you are a gracious

COMMUNICATIONS

Dear Lord, Jonah tried to flee from your grace as he said later, “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Jonah 4:2) As we begin this

COMMUNICATIONS

and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Jonah 4:2) As we begin this Lenten season, we turn to your Son, Jesus and thank you for your grace for seeking us every time

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

“Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”!

COMMUNICATIONS

Father, we turn to your Son in repentance and sorrow for the countless times we have been deaf to

COMMUNICATIONS

Father, we turn to your Son in repentance and sorrow for the countless times we have been deaf to your call. As we begin this Lenten season with ashes, renew us to focus on Jesus and remember

COMMUNICATIONS

your call. As we begin this Lenten season with ashes, renew us to focus on Jesus and remember his salvation, for by his holy cross he has redeemed the world. We remember his words, for they

COMMUNICATIONS

his salvation, for by his holy cross he has redeemed the world. We remember his words, for they are our light. We remember his works, for they are our example. We remember his grace, for it

COMMUNICATIONS

are our light. We remember his works, for they are our example. We remember his grace, for it is ours to receive. We remember his glory, for it is the brilliance of you, Father. We remember his

COMMUNICATIONS

is ours to receive. We remember his glory, for it is the brilliance of you, Father. We remember his pain, for it was not deserved. We remember his sorrow, for it was for our hardness of heart. We

COMMUNICATIONS

pain, for it was not deserved. We remember his sorrow, for it was for our hardness of heart. We remember his life, for it was perfect before you, Father. We remember his death, for it was ours.

COMMUNICATIONS

remember his life, for it was perfect before you, Father. We remember his death, for it was ours.Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

COMMUNICATIONS

Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

COMMUNICATIONS

Lord, Jesus, as we begin this Lenten season and follow Jonah to Nineveh and follow you to the

COMMUNICATIONS

Lord, Jesus, as we begin this Lenten season and follow Jonah to Nineveh and follow you to the

COMMUNICATIONS is celebrated, it may take

COMMUNICATIONS is celebrated, it may take

SAMPLES

Dear Lord, Jonah tried to flee from your grace as he said later, “I knew that you are a gracious SAMPLES

Dear Lord, Jonah tried to flee from your grace as he said later, “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Jonah 4:2) As we begin this SAMPLES

and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Jonah 4:2) As we begin this Lenten season, we turn to your Son, Jesus and thank you for your grace for seeking us every time SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

“Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”!

SAMPLES

Father, we turn to your Son in repentance and sorrow for the countless times we have been deaf to

SAMPLES

Father, we turn to your Son in repentance and sorrow for the countless times we have been deaf to your call. As we begin this Lenten season with ashes, renew us to focus on Jesus and remember

SAMPLES

your call. As we begin this Lenten season with ashes, renew us to focus on Jesus and remember his salvation, for by his holy cross he has redeemed the world. We remember his words, for they

SAMPLES

his salvation, for by his holy cross he has redeemed the world. We remember his words, for they are our light. We remember his works, for they are our example. We remember his grace, for it

SAMPLESare our light. We remember his works, for they are our example. We remember his grace, for it is ours to receive. We remember his glory, for it is the brilliance of you, Father. We remember his

SAMPLESis ours to receive. We remember his glory, for it is the brilliance of you, Father. We remember his pain, for it was not deserved. We remember his sorrow, for it was for our hardness of heart. We

SAMPLESpain, for it was not deserved. We remember his sorrow, for it was for our hardness of heart. We remember his life, for it was perfect before you, Father. We remember his death, for it was ours.

SAMPLESremember his life, for it was perfect before you, Father. We remember his death, for it was ours.Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

SAMPLESBehold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

SAMPLESLord, Jesus, as we begin this Lenten season and follow Jonah to Nineveh and follow you to the

SAMPLESLord, Jesus, as we begin this Lenten season and follow Jonah to Nineveh and follow you to the cross, help us to devote ourselves to your call. In your name we pray.

SAMPLEScross, help us to devote ourselves to your call. In your name we pray.

20 JH-U

• The Closing Hymn, Abide With Me, is sung by the congregation to the tune Eventide 10 10 10 10:

Abide with me, fast falls the eventide,The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.When other helpers fail and comforts flee,




• These Study Prompts may be distributed to the congregation:

Read Jonah 1:4-16.

1. Even when God, in his grace, has sought me, how have I dug in my heels, refusing to hearken to him?

2. How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?3. How was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of


CREATIVE

Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;CREATIVE

Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies;Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;CREATIVE

Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.CREATIVE


may be distributed to the congregation:

CREATIVE


Read Jonah 1:4-16.

CREATIVE

Read Jonah 1:4-16.


CREATIVE


CREATIVE

How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?

CREATIVE


CREATIVE was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of

COMMUNICATIONS

Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;

COMMUNICATIONS

Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;

Study Prompts

COMMUNICATIONS

Study Prompts may be distributed to the congregation:

COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

refusing to hearken to him?

COMMUNICATIONS

refusing to hearken to him?How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of

SAMPLES

Even SAMPLES

Even when God, in his grace, has sought me, how have I dug in my heels, SAMPLES

when God, in his grace, has sought me, how have I dug in my heels, SAMPLES

refusing to hearken to him?SAMPLES

refusing to hearken to him?How has my acting in such a fashion caused trouble for others?

SAMPLES


SAMPLES

was Jonah’s sacrifice similar to, as well as different from, that of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross?

SAMPLES


A Series of Special Services for LENT

Documents

Transcript of A Series of Special Services for LENT