February 7

It was good to have a week off. This week I've been thinking about the vulnerability that's required for us to truly live in community. We find in our daily lives that it's safer to reveal only small parts of ourselves, but even if this works in our job or personal life (which is arguable), it is a disaster in our church/community life. We simply need to be open with each other and with God.

Marvelous Light

Confession

God,

We confess that we often
run away from risk,
rather than into it.

We build walls around ourselves
and make small openings in them,
controlling what parts of ourselves
we reveal to others;

because it is easier and safer
than being vulnerable.

But it is also destructive.

Forgive us for closing ourselves off
from each other, from you,
and from the community we need.

You know us, God;
let us not be afraid
of being known by each other.

Amen.

Assurance

But now, this is what the LORD says:
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze."

He Knows My Name

Communion Response:

There's A Table

Be Thou My Vision

God Of Wonders