Time of Preparation
Begin by taking inventory of your surroundings. Are things in your vicinity conducive to a time of personal worship? Are there any changes or adjustments (turning off tech, making yourself comfortable) you need to make before you begin?
When you are ready, take some time to sit in silence and prepare your heart for worship. Ask God to clear away any distractions that might keep you from being truly present in this moment.
Assurance
In this third movement, we receive the good news of the gospel: we are forgiven.
“From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”
—John 1:16-17 (NRSV)
The song for today is typically used during the Advent and Christmas season, but it has something to say to us all year long. For this movement of worship, where we ponder the grace and mercy of God that brings forgiveness for sin, why not spend a moment or two reflecting on Bethlehem? As Paul reminds us:
“The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance: that Christ Jesus came into the world to save
sinners—of whom I am the foremost.”
—1 Timothy 1:15 (NRSV)
As we remember and celebrate God’s grace, the language of the incarnation is perfectly appropriate. Mercy and forgiveness are why Jesus came. He is the grace of God with us.
SONG OF ASSURANCE: Grace of God With Us (lyrics here)