Liturgy for the Second Sunday of Lent
Introduction
The Second Sunday in Lent moves from wilderness testing toward promise and trust. God’s call comes not with certainty, but with an invitation to step forward without seeing the whole path. The readings for this day center on faith that ventures beyond what is visible, on trust that rests in God’s promise rather than human effort. Lent deepens here, not through withdrawal alone, but through attentive listening and courageous response.
This liturgy follows the Revised Common Lectionary for the Second Sunday in Lent (Year A) and is shaped by themes of calling, promise, faith, and new life.
The Lectionary Readings at a Glance
The readings for the Second Sunday in Lent focus on faith as trust in God’s promise and movement toward new life.
In Genesis 12:1–4a, God calls Abram to leave what is familiar and journey toward an unknown future. The promise comes first, before clarity or proof, inviting faith that moves forward in trust.
Psalm 121 speaks to those on the road. God is named as keeper and protector, attentive by day and night, offering assurance that the journey is held within God’s care.
In Romans 4:1–5, 13–17, Paul reflects on Abraham’s faith, emphasizing that righteousness comes not through works, but through trusting God’s promise. Faith rests on grace, not achievement.
John 3:1–17 tells of Nicodemus, who comes by night seeking understanding. Jesus speaks of being born from above, a new life shaped by the Spirit rather than certainty or control.
Alternatively, Matthew 17:1–9 recalls the transfiguration, where God’s glory strengthens trust and calls the disciples to listen as the path toward the cross unfolds.
Together, these readings invite the church to trust God’s promise, to step forward in faith, and to receive the new life God gives.
Call to Worship
One: God calls us to leave what is familiar and follow where grace leads.
All: We come, trusting the promise we cannot yet see.
One: God keeps watch over all who journey by faith.
All: Our help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth.
One: God offers new life, born of Spirit and truth.
All: Let us worship the God who calls us forward in faith.
Opening Prayer
Calling God,
You invite us into futures we cannot yet imagine. As we gather in worship, steady our hearts and strengthen our trust. Loosen our grip on what feels safe and familiar, and open us to the life you promise. Shape us by your grace, that we may walk faithfully with you through this Lenten journey. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Prayer of Confession
Faithful God,
We confess that we struggle to trust what we cannot control. We hesitate when you call us to move, and we cling to certainty rather than promise. We doubt your grace and rely on our own efforts instead. Forgive us, O God. Renew our faith, release our fear, and lead us again into the life you offer. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
Hear the good news: “Those who believe in the one who justifies the ungodly, their faith is reckoned as righteousness.”(Romans 4:5)
In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven, restored, and invited to live by grace.
Thanks be to God!
Prayer for Illumination
God of promise,
As your Word is read and proclaimed, open our hearts to trust you more deeply. Give us courage to follow where you lead and grace to receive the new life you offer. By your Spirit, shape us into people who live by faith. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Prayers of the People
God of mercy and promise,
We thank you for calling us into life shaped by faith and hope. We pray for your church, that it may follow your leading with trust and humility. We pray for those standing at crossroads, facing uncertainty or fear, that they may know your presence and care. We pray for a world longing for renewal, that your promises may bring justice and peace. Guide us on the path you set before us, and strengthen us to walk it by faith. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Closing Prayer
Eternal God,
You call us into journeys of trust and transformation. As we continue this Lenten season, keep us attentive to your promise and faithful in following your way. Lead us from fear into faith, from uncertainty into hope, and from old life into the new life you give in Christ. Amen.
