Liturgy for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost, Year C (Luke)
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Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
Isaiah 1:1, 10–20 – The prophet delivers a strong word of judgment: God is weary of hollow worship divorced from justice. True repentance is seen in action—seeking good, rescuing the oppressed, and doing right. Yet even in judgment, God offers forgiveness: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be like snow.”
Psalm 50:1–8, 22–23 – God calls heaven and earth as witnesses, reminding Israel that worship without thanksgiving and obedience is empty. The true sacrifice is a life of gratitude and trust in God’s way.
Genesis 15:1–6 – God reassures Abram of a future and a legacy, despite his childlessness. Abram’s faith is counted to him as righteousness, anchoring the biblical theme of trusting in God’s promises even when the outcome is unseen.
Psalm 33:12–22 – A psalm of national and personal trust: God’s eye is on those who hope in his steadfast love. Salvation is not found in strength, but in waiting on the Lord.
Hebrews 11:1–3, 8–16 – The famous “faith” chapter opens with a poetic affirmation: faith is the assurance of things hoped for. It recounts how Abraham and others lived by faith, longing for a better country—a heavenly one.
Luke 12:32–40 – Jesus urges his followers not to fear, for the kingdom is theirs. Instead of storing up treasure on earth, they are to give generously and remain alert, like servants awaiting their master’s return.
Liturgy for Worship
Call to Worship
One: The God who creates all things calls us to trust—not in what we see, but in who God is.
All: God is faithful, even when the path is unfamiliar.
One: The Lord leads us, as God led Abraham, toward promises not yet fulfilled but fully secure in God’s hands.
All: Our hope is anchored not in outcomes, but in God’s steadfast nature.
One: Come, worship the One who speaks worlds into being, prepares a home for the faithful, and is not ashamed to be called our God.
All: We worship with reverence and joy, trusting the God who calls and keeps covenant.
Opening Prayer
Faithful God, you call us to walk by faith and not by sight. In a world of quick rewards and instant answers, teach us to trust your timing. As we worship today, shape our hearts to long for your kingdom above all else. Make us generous in spirit, watchful in hope, and grounded in your promises. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Prayer of Confession
God of mercy, you call us to lives of justice, mercy, and humility. Yet we confess that we often offer you hollow worship and distracted prayers. We have turned away from those in need and pursued our own comfort. You desire righteousness and not routine, love and not mere liturgy. Forgive us, Lord. Wash us clean. Teach us again to do good, seek justice, and walk in your ways. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who lived your love perfectly.
Assurance of Pardon
Hear this good news from Isaiah 1:18: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be like snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.”
Friends, in Jesus Christ, you are forgiven, loved, and set free to live by faith.
Thanks be to God!
Prayer for Illumination
God of light and truth, send your Spirit to awaken our ears and open our hearts. Let your Word take root in us and grow into lives of faith, generosity, and hope. Speak, Lord, for we are listening. Amen.
