Liturgy for the Third Sunday after Pentecost (Year C), Luke
Introduction
Today’s scriptures revolve around transitions, commitment, and calling. Elijah passes the prophetic mantle to Elisha and ascends in a whirlwind, while Elisha must decide whether to return to the familiar or step into a new role of spiritual leadership. The psalms hold space for lament and memory, teaching us to anchor in God’s faithfulness even when the future is unclear.
In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus “sets his face toward Jerusalem,” beginning the final journey that will lead to the cross. Along the way, he challenges would-be disciples to count the cost of following him. In Galatians, Paul urges us to live into the Spirit’s freedom—not by indulging ourselves, but by loving one another and bearing spiritual fruit. These texts invite us to reflect on the freedom and cost of discipleship, and what it means to say yes to God’s call even when the road ahead is uncertain.
Call to Worship
One: Come, people of God—not because the way is easy, but because Christ walks with us.
All: We come with open hearts and willing spirits.
One: Let us remember God’s mighty deeds, God’s faithfulness in the storm and silence.
All: We come to worship the One who calls us forward in faith.
One: The road may be long, and the cost may be great.
All: But the call is clear, and the Spirit goes with us.
Opening Prayer
God of wind and whisper, we come to you this day with lives full of decisions, souls stretched between comfort and call. Meet us in this time of worship. Give us courage to follow where Jesus leads, wisdom to listen for your Spirit, and strength to bear the fruit of love. Plant us deeply in your presence, and send us out ready to serve. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.
Call to Confession
One: The freedom God gives is not for selfish gain, but for life in the Spirit and love for others. Let us lay down the burdens we carry—and the ones we’ve placed on others—as we confess our need for grace.
Prayer of Confession
Loving God, we confess that we are quick to say we will follow, but slow to let go of what holds us back. You call us to freedom, but we chase after control. You call us to bear fruit, but we nurture resentment and division. Forgive us for when we ignore your voice, when we choose fear over faith, and when we walk away from the needs of others. Teach us again the way of the Spirit—the way of love, joy, peace, and patience. In your mercy, renew us. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
One: Hear these words from Galatians 5:1: “For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” By God’s grace, we are freed from sin and called to live in the Spirit.
All: Thanks be to God!
Summary of the Day’s Passages
2 Kings 2:1–2, 6–14; Psalm 77:1–2, 11–20; 1 Kings 19:15–16, 19–21; Psalm 16; Galatians 5:1, 13–25; Luke 9:51–62
Today’s readings are rich with movement—both literal and spiritual. In 2 Kings, Elijah’s departure and Elisha’s decision to follow symbolize how callings often come during life’s thresholds. Elisha picks up the mantle, not knowing all that lies ahead, but trusting the God who led Elijah.
The psalms offer honesty and hope. Psalm 77 voices deep sorrow yet chooses to remember God’s mighty acts. Psalm 16 holds fast to the assurance that God is a refuge and guide, even in uncertain times.
Paul’s words to the Galatians remind us that Christian freedom is not license—it’s love in action. The Spirit-led life is one marked by visible, lasting fruit: kindness, self-control, joy, and more. Finally, in Luke 9, Jesus turns decisively toward Jerusalem, and along the way he warns would-be disciples that the path is costly. No looking back. No easy way.
These passages challenge us to ask: Are we willing to follow where Jesus leads—even when it means letting go?
