Liturgy for the Sixth Sunday of Easter, Year C (Luke)
Scripture for the Sixth Sunday of Easter
Acts 16:9–15 – Paul receives a vision calling him to Macedonia, and when he follows, the Spirit leads him to Lydia—a worshiper of God—whose heart is opened to receive the gospel. The passage reminds us how God guides through vision, hospitality, and openness.
Psalm 67 – A prayer for God’s blessing that all nations may come to know God’s way. This psalm celebrates God’s global mercy, joy, and justice, lifting up the hope of a world drawn together in praise.
Revelation 21:10, 22–22:5 – John offers a vision of the New Jerusalem where God’s presence replaces the need for temple or sun. It is a place of healing, belonging, and eternal light. God dwells with humanity, and nothing is accursed.
John 14:23–29 (option) – Jesus promises the Holy Spirit and leaves his peace with his followers. Even in his absence, his presence will remain through love, obedience, and the Advocate who teaches and reminds.
John 5:1–9 (alternate option) – Jesus meets a man by the pool who had been ill for 38 years. With compassion and authority, Jesus tells him, “Stand up, take your mat, and walk.” This passage shows Christ’s power to heal and restore.
Call to Worship
One: Come, all who long for peace and healing.
All: We come, seeking the light of God’s face to shine upon us.
One: Come, all who listen for God’s voice in the midst of change.
All: We come, trusting in the Spirit’s guidance and grace.
One: Come, all who hunger for hope, for joy, for a better way.
All: We come to the waters of life, the tree of healing, and the God who makes all things new.
One: Let us worship the Lord who brings peace, presence, and promise.
Opening Prayer
Gracious God, you are the One who calls us in visions and dreams, who opens hearts, and who makes room for all. As we gather, open our ears to your voice, our minds to your truth, and our lives to your transforming Spirit. Plant your peace deep within us, and let your presence move among us. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Prayer of Confession
Merciful God,
You promise peace, yet we cling to fear.
You send visions, but we close our eyes.
You pour out love, and still we hold back.
Forgive us for the ways we resist your movement in our lives.
Forgive us for ignoring your Spirit’s nudge.
Forgive us for building walls where you are creating welcome.
Make our hearts soft and our minds open.
Renew us in your mercy, and lead us in your way.
Amen.
Assurance of Pardon (Scripture) – Revelation 21:5
“The one who was seated on the throne said, ‘See, I am making all things new.’”
Friends, hear the good news:
God is not done with us. The One who makes all things new is at work even now—restoring, renewing, redeeming.
In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and being made new.
All: Thanks be to God!
Prayer for Illumination
Living God,
By your Spirit, open our eyes to see your glory in the pages of Scripture.
Open our ears to hear your truth in ancient words.
Open our hearts to respond with faith, hope, and love.
Let your Word take root in us and bear fruit in our lives.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
