Liturgy for the Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year C (Luke)

Texts: Jeremiah 31:27–34; Psalm 119:97–104; 2 Timothy 3:14–4:5; Luke 18:1–8

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What Is Liturgy? A Quick Guide for Worshippers

Liturgy simply means “the work of the people.” It refers to the shared rhythms, prayers, Scriptures, and actions we use in worship to glorify God and shape our hearts. Whether ancient or modern, liturgy invites us to participate—not just observe. Through liturgy, we rehearse the gospel and remember who we are in Christ. If you’re new to liturgy, this weekly resource will help you follow along and enter more deeply into worship.

Summary for Liturgy and Worship

Jeremiah 31:27–34 proclaims God’s promise of a new covenant written not on stone but on human hearts—an intimate renewal of relationship and forgiveness.

Psalm 119:97–104 rejoices in God’s law, delighting in divine wisdom that gives understanding and keeps one from falsehood.

2 Timothy 3:14–4:5 urges faithfulness to the Scriptures that equip believers for every good work. Paul exhorts Timothy to persist in teaching and endurance amid distraction and resistance.

Luke 18:1–8 tells the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge, calling us to steadfast prayer and trust in God’s justice.

Together, these readings invite us to perseverance—holding fast to the Word of God, trusting in divine justice, and carrying the law of love written upon our hearts.

Read More: What is the Hope of Our Prayer?

Call to Worship

One: Praise the Lord, whose steadfast love endures forever!

All: God’s Word is our delight and our wisdom.

One: The Lord is faithful to every promise and just in every way.

All: God’s truth is written on our hearts.

One: Let us worship the God who hears our cries and answers with mercy.

All: With joy and persistence, we lift our voices in praise!

See also: 22 Biblical Calls to Worship and 28 Modern (and Biblical) Calls to Worship.

Opening Prayer

Faithful God, you hear the cries of your people and you write your covenant upon our hearts. You call us to persist in prayer, to delight in your Word, and to live in steadfast hope. Yet we confess that our prayers fade, our focus wavers, and our trust falters. In this time of worship, renew our strength. Write your truth deep within us, and let your Spirit lead us in righteousness and peace. Through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray, Amen.

Call to Confession

God’s mercy is new every morning. With confidence in that promise, let us confess our sin and seek the renewal of our hearts.

Prayer of Confession

Merciful God, we confess that we often lose heart. We grow weary in prayer and impatient in waiting. We cling to our own understanding and forget the wisdom of your Word. We fail to trust your justice and neglect to live by your truth. Forgive us, Lord. Renew your covenant within us and restore our faith. Teach us to pray with perseverance and to live as your people, steadfast in hope and rich in love. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

Assurance of Pardon

Hear the good news: “For I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more.” In Jesus Christ, the new covenant is fulfilled, and we are made whole. Rejoice, for in him you are forgiven and set free. Thanks be to God!(Jeremiah 31:34)

See also: Assurance of Pardon: Meaning, Scripture.

Prayer for Illumination

God of wisdom and grace, your Word is living and true. As the Scriptures are read and proclaimed, open our hearts to receive your teaching. Make us attentive to your Spirit, steadfast in prayer, and faithful in every good work. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

See also: 24 Prayers of Illumination.

Benediction Prayer

Go forth as people of prayer and perseverance.

Hold fast to God’s Word and trust in his steadfast love.

And may the blessing of God—

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—

be with you now and always. Amen.

See also: 22 Benedictions and Blessings in the Bible, Biblical Blessings: Meaning, Examples, and Relevance Today, and Final Greeting and Benediction (Philippians 4:21–23).

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Opening Prayer for Church Service - December 2025

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Liturgy for the 18th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C (Luke)