Jacob Wrestles God

Sunday service: August 2nd, 2020

The above picture shows Jacob wrestling with God.

Preamble / info.

Welcome, Church! In these times we are reminded more than ever, that the church is not a building but the people who come together in Jesus’ name. Therefore, I’m not saying, “Welcome to church,” but, “Welcome Church!”

In the light of the good advice from health authorities that we practice ‘physical distancing’ during the Covid-19 pandemic, we are not worshiping in person at the church building.

However, Jesus promises that where two or three are gathered, He will be there. So, we can gather in spirit, sharing the Word, hymns, and prayers that bind us together as followers of Jesus and people of God.

We may not be in the same room, and we may not even be doing this at the same moment in time; but, along with millions of people around the world in any number of languages, we are worshiping God and caring for one another.

In preparation, you may want to have a candle handy (either a real candle or one of those little battery-operated ones). We always light candles in church because they remind us of the presence and beauty of God.

God be with you!

A Prayer:

All God's children are welcome and wanted here, no matter your need.

God will give you rest from your weariness,

comfort for your pain, ease for your burdens,

balm for your soul, food for your mind,

and hope for your tomorrow.

God's ability to tend and nurture, calm and inspire, knows no boundaries or borders;

it is endless and unending.

In the summer of these extraordinary times, let us open our hearts and minds to God's presence.

Amen.

Maranda Curtis – ‘You are My Strength’

Lighting of your candle.

In the darkest of times, in the deepest shadows, the light of Christ shines brightly. The darkness cannot overcome it. So, we light a candle today, reminding us of the ever-present love of God that illuminates the world. May we be courageous in carrying this light within us, before us, and beyond us. Amen.

Scripture reading: Jacob Wrestles God (Genesis 32:22-30)

Sermon by Opah Ruth Murozoki

Psalm 121: ‘My help’ sung by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

Offering

The beauty of spring has given way to the sultry days of summer. The isolation and cautions of COVID linger like clouds that seem to block the sun, yet give no comforting shade.

In all this, we continue to be the church, to be Jesus' hands and feet in the world, to do what God will have us do to bring about God's kingdom here on earth as it is in Heaven.

Our offering is both a practical and symbolic act of our commitment to serve Christ and build His church. Although we can’t actually ‘pass the plate’ online, you are encouraged to continue your gift to the church, as the work of the St Paul’s and the staff continues.

• Drop your envelope (cheque or cash) at the church.

• Mail your cheque to the church.

• Go on PAR (call Rosie for details).

• Use the Donate button at the top of the page (it will take you to SPUC’s Canada Helps page where you can donate online and get an instant tax receipt).

Song: Jacobs song (Cover)

Closing prayer

Lord, you infuse us with the inner strength we need. By Your power, we are able to endure all things. By trusting in Your Word, and by striving to live as you have commanded, we learn peace and contentment in every circumstance. We find satisfaction whether there is abundance or scarcity. Lord Jesus,

Show us how to apply what we have learned in this service to our daily lives. Help us to make wise choices throughout the week for the glory of your name. May we be able to sift through all that we have learned so that we can walk in your ways. When troubles come, please remind us to always trust You. When difficulties arise, teach us to continually depend on You. When the challenges ahead seem overwhelming, carry us through by Your grace. Father give us wisdom that leads to love and faith. In Jesus’ name, we believe and pray, Amen.

Come O Thou Traveller Unknown