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SEASON AFTER EPIPHANY 2018 RISE UP!

SERIES OVERVIEW

It’s the Season after Epiphany. Midway through, it’s also Black History Month. The historic and ecumenical purpose of the Season after Epiphany is to help your congregation “rise up” and get ready for its work of accompanying people on their journey to baptism or restoration in the life of the church during the Season of Lent. There are two primary ways the readings for the Season after Epiphany seek to prepare congregations for this core task. One of them is by treating this as a season of evangelism, inviting newcomers to “come and see.” The gospel readings each year are the primary texts for that work. If you need a plan for this season that focuses on that, consider using our 2017 series, “Come and See.” This year, we’re following the other major track, which focuses more on the kinds of internal work the church needs to do to get ready. We need to be reminded that it is God speaking to us and among us. We need to listen to God’s voice. We need to be ready to move when and where the Spirit says move. We need to answer God’s call in the varieties of contexts we and those we’ll prepare during Lent will experience it. We need to stay focused on our work and God’s call-- the core work of discipling, not just fellowship or friendship. And we need to hear and help those we’ll accompany during Lent hear God’s call to go deeper, following Jesus where he leads. Week 1: God is speaking! Week 2: Listen Week 3: Move Week 4: Answer Week 5: Focus Week 6: God is speaking! Each week this year features preaching notes from Kevin B. Smalls and “spoken word” elements in addition to the reading of Scripture, some from Kevin, some from our staff. We also encourage you throughout this season, as an aid to hearing the word, to think carefully about casting the readers in the “readers’ theater” approach we’re taking counter to stereotype. Voice God as a child. Voice Samuel as an older-adult female. Voice familiar voices in tones and accents that may be less familiar for you. And see what you may learn about hearing God’s word by building this as a practice during the six weeks of this series. And then, Rise up! The light is come. Let the light of God made known through this series prepare you to share that light with those preparing to know it for the first time during Lent, and be fully immersed into it at Easter.

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RISE UP! Week 1: God Is Speaking

(Epiphany/Baptism of the Lord) January 7, 2018

FULL SERVICE

Abbreviations W & S= Worship & Song UMH=United Methodist Hymnal TFWS=The Faith We Sing ENTRANCE Begin in darkness and silence, or with a low and discordant ambient sound loop or choral/ensemble humming or ahhs. No percussion or rhythmic accompaniment of any kind. The feeling should be of floating and uncertainty. A singer enters from behind the congregation holding a single candle and begins to process toward the Paschal candle and font, front and center. Solo, quietly at first, the singer, alone begins: Arise, shine for your light has come. (Insert music) OR “God Is Speaking” (Child Solo-- see music notes), W&S 3025 Singing more boldly the second time, the singer then turns to the congregation and gestures all to rise. The third time, a whole choir joins, processing to follow the singer to the stage. After the choir sings, all join and keep repeating until the choir is all in place near the front. Then all lights on. Percussion begins to accompany Spoken Word (B. Kevin Smalls) Seemingly, the darkness has been so thick not quick to trust anything resembling light Might be a trick...and tricks don't always lead to a treat, so I retreat in the darkness hoping, slightly, ever so lightly that my deepest fears will submit to the changing of dark gears leading to light years of praise and adoration. Then, the light is not found, seemingly, in the measure of the day but the Way the voice appeared...it was the light and life to all people and there was no equal to its clear and present demand. I can, I believed. I can rise

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right along with the sun. Darkness is for lying down, laying down, hanging around, pretending to be asleep. All the while the light slowly creeps between the cracks in the blinds...which are unsuccessful in stopping the invitation...to liberation... arise, shine, the light has come... arise, shine the light has come… WORD The Word of God Isaiah 60:1, 2, 4;; Mark 1:4-5, 9-11 Translation by Taylor Burton-Edwards Reader 1 Rise up, shine, O shine out, Jerusalem! Your light has come! The glory of the Lord has risen upon you! Reader 2 Behold, I will send my messenger where you will all see her, and my road builder, and he will prepare the way. She will cry out in the desert, her voice resounding in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord. Make every byway a highway!” Reader 1 Yes, darkness and gloom will form a veil over the earth and all nations, but over you, wherever you are, the Lord shall appear, and God’s glory shall be seen upon you. Reader 2 John appeared, baptizing in the desert, and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from all of Judea and every neighborhood of Jerusalem were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the Jordan, calling their sins out loud as they were plunged beneath the river. Reader 1 Lift up your eyes, look all around you, and see! All your descendants are gathered together again: your sons from far away, your daughters upon their nurses’ arms. Reader 2 And in those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And as soon as he rose up from the water, he lifted up his eyes and looked around. The sky was split, and the Spirit alighted upon him like a dove. Readers: And there was a voice from the sky:

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All: You are my beloved child. I am delighted in you! Reader 1 God was speaking in those days, through prophets, preachers, and voices from the sky. Glory! Reader 2 God is still speaking today, through Christ in us, the hope of glory. Readers: And so in these days, we will not fail to rise up, and shine, and say: All: I am a child of God. Song: “Child of God” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDmrS3ts0B0 Score: https://www.choristersguild.org/store/cga1425-child-of-god/5677/ Sermon God Is Speaking RESPONSE AND THANKSGIVING Reaffirmation of the Baptismal Covenant Introduction All standing in body and/or spirit.

Sisters and brothers in Christ: through the sacrament of baptism God's Spirit has been poured out upon water, water poured over and immersing us, water that flows freely for all who will receive it, water from the streams of God's saving power and justice, water that brings hope to all who thirst for righteousness, water that refreshes life, nurtures growth, and offers new birth.

Today we come to the waters, to renew our commitments in each other's presence to Christ who has raised us, the Spirit who has birthed us, and the Creator who is making all things new.

Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith And so I ask you, will you turn away from the powers of sin and death? We renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, and repent of our sin.

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Will you let the Spirit use you as prophets to the powers that be? We accept the freedom and power God gives us to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.

Will you proclaim the good news and live as disciples of Jesus Christ, members of his body on earth? We confess Jesus Christ as our Savior, put our whole trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as our Lord, in union with the church which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races.

Will you be living witnesses to the gospel, individually and together, wherever you are, and in all that you do? We will remain faithful members of Christ's holy church and serve as Christ's representatives in the world.

Will you receive and profess the Christian faith as contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments? We affirm and teach the faith of the whole church as we put our trust in God, the Father Almighty, in Jesus Christ, his only Son, and in the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever.

Thanksgiving Over the Water The Spirit of the Lord is with us. Even so, come Lord Jesus!

Let us pray. Almighty God, the life you birthed in us by baptism into Jesus Christ will never die. Your justice never fails. Your mercy is everlasting.

Your healing river flows. Your Spirit blows where you will. We cannot stop you, God!

But sometimes we try.

We try to block the flow, or redirect the winds of the Spirit, We lose hope, or take hope away from others. We let the world tell us who we are,

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or even let the church limit what you would make of us. We walk so far away from the life-giving Stream that we do not hear its sound, and we forget your power.

We parch ourselves.

We are dry and thirsty, O God. Come, refresh us! Speak to us once more your great good news of life, and pour into us afresh your love, stronger than death, until we can all rise, and each in our own voice proclaim, I am a child of God.

The pastor offers gestures of calling the Holy Spirit to come upon the people and the water. The people offer the same gestures as they respond. Even so, come upon us, Holy Spirit! Come upon us, Holy Spirit!

Come upon these waters. Come upon these waters.

Let these waters be to us drops of your mercy. Let these waters remind us of your righteousness and justice.

Let these waters renew in us the resurrection power of Jesus. Let these waters fill us with hope for your now and coming reign. Most Holy God, Abba, Father! Glory to you!

Jesus Christ, Savior, Lord! Glory to you!

Spirit of fire, Spirit over the waters, Spirit of holiness! Glory to you!

Eternal God, One in Three and Three in One! All glory is yours, now and forever. Amen!

All who are baptized and have renewed their vows are invited to come to the font to use the water as a sign of refreshing. Gifts for the offering may also be placed near the font at this time. As each uses the water, another says to her or him:

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Remember that you are baptized, and rejoice! I am a child of God. Thanks be to God!

Music during Reaffirmation and Offering “Water Flowing Free” Africana Hymnal 4043 “Take Me to the Water” Africana Hymnal 4045 OR W&S 3165 “Come, Let Us Use the Grace Divine” UMH 606 SENDING Reader 1: So you shall see, and stand in awe… at the salvation of the Lord. Reader 2: And immediately, the Spirit drove Jesus out into the barren places:

Pastor: On this day our God has acted. Rise up! Head out to the barren places! Look around and see the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ shining in your hearts for all the world to see. Amen. Song of Sending “Walking in the Light of God” W&S 3163

MUSIC NOTES

God Is Speaking (W&S 3025) This text by Ken Bible is a great opportunity for children to lead the congregation in singing. FRÈRE JACQUES is a well-known simple tune. Begin the singing of it with one child as a solo, and invite a children’s choir, along with the congregation, to join on the second stanza. Another approach to singing would be to sing it as a round, with the congregation divided into two, three, or four sections. After the conclusion of the round at the end of the song, allow a few seconds of silence, and finish by slowly singing the opening measure again (“God is speaking”) in unison. Children can accompany the singing with Orff instruments or ukuleles;; or a piano or organ can accompany. It is very possible to sing this, however, a cappella;; and I recommend this as the best option if it is possible in your setting. Arise and Shine This short, cyclic song allows the Scripture to ring in the ears of the congregation, announcing the coming of the Light of the World. It is intended to be sung repetitively,

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with intensity and dynamics ebbing and flowing throughout its singing. Keep the rhythm steady, but allow the participation and leadership of the Spirit to dictate the volume. Begin with a soloist singing the melody, and invite the congregation to sing at the best time for your worship space. The melody is simple enough to sing without need for sheet music or books, so a processing choir will be able to sing this quite easily as they enter the sanctuary. Accompaniment is simple, but it is in 6/8, which should flow with two primary beats in each measure. Child of God (https://www.choristersguild.org/store/cga1425-child-of-god/5677) Songs of holy boldness also require a certain air of prayerful defiance in order to sing them with a sense of authenticity. This work by Mark Miller builds up both the community and each person singing it. The words draw the congregation into a relationship with a rhythm and pattern of “you” and “I” language, and the later reference to Romans 8:35,37 (“There is nothing, or no one who can separate”) declares that the people of God will not be driven apart from God or one another, regardless of how people interpret “truth.” The accompaniment is in a gospel style, and it requires a slight swing and a fairly slow tempo. The ideal accompaniment is piano or full rhythm section. The choir and congregation can sing the melody in unison, and the choral setting from Choristers Guild also contains vocal parts for choir. To teach the tune to the congregation, enlist a soloist or choir section to sing the first one or two stanzas before inviting the congregation to sing. Water Flowing Free (Africana Hymnal 4043) This modern hymn embodies the nature of flowing water, both in the textual and musical imagery. Offering the congregation a way to experience the characteristics of water in singing creates a deeper space within each person where the Spirit can dwell. The words have a gentle lilt to them when sung at the appropriate tempo, and the piano accompaniment can also be more manageable when not taken too fast. The ideal instrument is piano, although a flute, violin, or other treble instrument doubling the melody can also add a gentle quality to the singing of this hymn. Take Me to the Water (Africana Hymnal 4045 or W&S 3165) Two possible settings of this traditional African American song are listed here, and it is recommended to assess both to determine which would be best sung in your context. The setting in The Africana Hymnal contains an interesting gospel-styled accompaniment that can be very exciting for pianists, and it places the tune in a slow 6/8 meter. The version in Worship & Song is a four-part choral setting in 2/4. The texts are also different as well, with three stanzas shared between the two settings. No matter which version you choose, strongly consider the one that most effectively draws the congregation to the water in a procession within your context. Come, Let Us Use the Grace Divine (UMH 606) Charles Wesley penned this classic hymn to lift up the covenant made between God and God’s people. In the case for worship on this day, it is a vital part of the Reaffirmation of the Baptismal Covenant and serves as a reminder to the church of vows made and the new life found by receiving God’s grace and committing to the

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Christian life. A number of instrumental arrangements of the KINGSFOLD tune can be used, with a particular harmonization of interest found in The United Methodist Hymnal Music Supplement II, no. 103. Do not sing this tune too slowly, as it will lose energy and make the phrases too difficult to sing. To find a good tempo, consider that the musical phrase containing the text, “Come, let us use the grace divine, and all with one accord,” should be comfortably singable in one breath. The ideal accompaniment can vary since E minor is a great key for a number of instruments, including organ, piano, guitar, and wind instruments. History of Hymns Walking in the Light of God (W&S 3163) This freedom song from South Africa arises out of the struggle against apartheid, and it is always important to note this when singing the text. When connected with the Scripture passage from Isaiah 60, it appropriately embraces the spirit of longing, restoration, and reconciliation. The best approach for the singing of this song is SATB choir, a cappella, with percussion (shakers, djembes, other simple drums), and congregation on the melody. If this is not possible in your setting, a simple accompaniment on piano or guitar would also work. I would not recommend, however, playing the parts on piano as written. Do not subdivide the rhythms into units any smaller than eighth notes. In other words, when there are multiple sixteenth notes (as in measure four), only play a quarter note or two eighth notes instead of the sixteenth notes. This will make the accompaniment more musical and less apt to drag the tempo. The spoken “‘Hamba” section needs to be spoken with rhythmic energy--quite percussively--to embody the dancing or marching nature of the tune. The phonetic translation of the text in Worship & Song serves as an appropriate guide for pronunciation. Hymn Study

PREACHING NOTES

Our guest writer for the Season after Epiphany is Rev. Dr. B. Kevin Smalls. Dr. Smalls is a native of Washington D.C., and an elder in full connection with the Baltimore-Washington Conference. He currently serves as the senior pastor of Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield, Michigan. Dr. Smalls holds a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Claflin University, a Master of Divinity from Interdenominational Theological Center, and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, where he focused on postmodern preaching to contemporary audiences with an emphasis on hip hop culture. During his twenty years in service to the United Methodist Church, Dr. Smalls has served in a variety of appointments. He is the founder of the Young Adult Christian Cafe and the Off the Hook Bible Study. He is an author who has published a book and a number of articles in periodicals, and he is a contributor to the Africana Worship Book. Dr. Smalls is married to Lisa Karen Smalls. They share parenting responsibilities for

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their six children. We are pleased to share Dr. Smalls’s unique voice, poetry, and insights into the Scriptures with the wider church during this season. Spoken Word (Note that we recommend presenting the spoken word as part of the liturgy. See Worship Order for ideas on how to present this as part of the worship service.) Seemingly, the darkness has been so thick not quick to trust anything resembling light Might be a trick...and tricks don't always lead to a treat, so I retreat in the darkness, hoping, slightly, ever so lightly that my deepest fears will submit to the changing of dark gears leading to light years of praise and adoration. Then, the light is not found, seemingly, in the measure of the day but the Way the voice appeared...it was the light and life to all people and there was no equal to its clear and present demand. I can, I believed. I can rise right along with the sun. Darkness is for lying down, laying down, hanging around, pretending to be asleep. All the while the light slowly creeps between the cracks in the blinds...which are unsuccessful in stopping the invitation...to liberation... arise, shine, the light has come... arise, shine the light has come… Social Justice Imagination For congregations that are struggling with complexities around justice issues, the Isaiah text speaks vividly about a people whose light leads to building community. In the first three verses, we read how the light to the Israelite community will not be just for them, but for the Gentiles as well. This is a great time to preach toward a vision of a light that unifies God's people, even those different from us. Is our light bright enough to encompass the justice of inclusion of all God's creation? Preaching that names the real suffering in the world is a way of engaging that suffering as well as the systems that enable it. In this text, we encounter a God who alleviates this suffering with the shining of light on those who were so deeply in need of it. This light is so powerful that it is

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inviting to all who reach for its warmth. Thanks be to God! The light shines, and the darkness does not overcome it. Pastoral Care Imagination Preaching to the vulnerability of congregations and communities takes an extra dose of love and care homiletically. Congregations struggle, often with depression, as members age, and congregations shrink in membership or attendance. The congregation can become swamped in change—neighborhood shifts, financial worries, questions of long-term stability. And then there are those congregations grieving the loss of a child, an elderly leader, or someone violently killed. All these congregations stand in need of a sermon that cares for the mental psyche of the flock. This text conveys a God who nurtures a people that have been depressed for years, and in some cases, have given up on the notion of being delivered. It wouldn't hurt to take a peek at Isaiah 59:9-10 to get a brief sense of the struggle. Remind the people that God's light appears after disaster, along with the invitation to wake up, rise, and face the light with acceptance and renewal. Youth/Young Adult Imagination Youth and young adults may initially feel that the language of light and darkness might be a little too abstract and even sappy. An interesting angle is to create a message with a bit of believable tension that will grab their imagination. One path might be to explore the ways the light is refused. This opens the path to encountering a resistible God who has to wake up those who are in a deep enough sleep where even God's light isn't bright enough to wake them without God's voice. God's light is gentle, not always demanding, overbearing. It is strong enough to chase away the darkness, but gentle enough not to disturb a deep sleep. Once we awaken to the gift of a new day, we then must choose whether to walk into it or not. Help your younger crowds navigate through the difficult path of decision making.

PLANNING NOTES

EPIPHANY and BAPTISM OF THE LORD: GOD IS SPEAKING! Reading Notes NRSV texts, artwork and Revised Common Lectionary Prayers for this service (Epiphany) are available at the Vanderbilt Divinity Library (Baptism of the Lord) Leccionario en Español, Leccionario Común Revisado: Consulta Sobre Textos Comunes.

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Lectionnaire en français, Le Lectionnaire Œcuménique Révisé Calendar Notes EPIPHANY and BAPTISM OF THE LORD: GOD IS SPEAKING Colors today and on February 11 (Transfiguration) are white and gold. From January 14-February 4, the color is green. Beginning Ash Wednesday (February 14), the color is purple. January 7 Epiphany Sunday AND Baptism of the Lord Season after Epiphany Series Begins: RISE UP! January 11 Human Trafficking Awareness Day January 14 Human Relations Day (Special Sunday with Offering) January 15 Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday January 18-25 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity January 21 Ecumenical Sunday

February All Month Black History Month February 11 Transfiguration of the Lord Scouting Sunday

February 14 Ash Wednesday Lent Series Begins: REHAB February 19 Presidents Day March March 2 World Day of Prayer March 11 UMCOR Sunday Daylight Saving Time Change Song (Spring) (USA) March 25 Passion/Palm Sunday Holy Week Series Begins March 29 Maundy/Holy Thursday March 30 Good Friday March 31 Holy Saturday (until Sundown) Easter Eve/Easter Vigil (after Sundown) April April 1 Easter Day Easter Series Begins April 15 Native American Ministries Sunday April 22 Festival of God’s Creation April 25 World Malaria Day

May All Month Christian Home Month (2018 Theme: Families Called to Peace, forthcoming)

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Asian Pacific American Heritage Month May 3 National Day of Prayer May 4 May Friendship Day (UMW/CWU) May 7-13 Christian Family Week (2018 resources forthcoming) May 10 Ascension Day May 13 Ascension Sunday Festival of the Christian Home/Mother’s Day (USA) May 19-20 Change the World Weekend May 20 Day of Pentecost Heritage Sunday (forthcoming) May 24 Aldersgate Day May 27 Trinity Sunday Peace with Justice Sunday May 28 Memorial Day (USA)

June Pray for annual conferences convening throughout the month, for all receiving new appointments or assignments, for those leaving existing appointments or assignments, and for congregations and other ministries receiving new leadership.

For Your Planning Team: EPIPHANY/BAPTISM OF THE LORD: RISE UP! GOD IS SPEAKING! Series Outline for Rise Up! (Epiphany through Transfiguration) January 7 God Is Speaking! (Epiphany and Baptism of the Lord) Isaiah 60:1-6;; Mark 1:4-11 January 14 Listen I Samuel 3:1-10 January 21 Move Jonah 3:1-5, 10 January 28 Answer Deuteronomy 18:15-20 February 4 Focus Isaiah 40:21-31 February 11: God is Speaking! (Transfiguration) 2 Kings 2:1-12;; Mark 9:2-9 Planning the Series Remember the keys to an effective series launch. 1. Treat the opening movement and the service as a whole as a series overture.

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The opening movement in our full service order can be an effective overture for this service and series. It announces the series theme (Rise up!) and introduces a recurring feature of this series, the spoken word contributions of The Rev. B. Kevin Smalls. Be sure–through visual, print, and/or aural announcements–to point to where this series is heading in more than one way today as well. The sermon may also point the way. 2. Underscore the series promise. The purpose of the Season after Epiphany is to get the church ready for its work of accompanying seekers to learn the way of Christ and prepare for baptism during Lent. Last year’s series did this by focusing on evangelism. This year’s series focuses on the inner work the church needs to do and be reminded of as it gets ready. Help your congregation want to get ready by what you say and do in worship today, and be sure to help them see how this series can help them do that work. 3. Start strong. Starting strong today means especially making the opening sequence flow smoothly, powerfully, confidently. Be sure to rehearse the lighting cues, the singing, the movement, the spoken word elements and the reading so each is top quality and each flows seamlessly into the next as we move from entrance to sermon. Baptismal reaffirmation requires considerable logistical planning as well. Don’t create bottlenecks or long lines! If you have more than fifty people in your congregation, plan for multiple stations (at least one per fifty congregants, if possible) set up around your worship space with ushers or others stationed to help people move to their nearest station and back to their seats smoothly. And be sure to provide ways for people who cannot get to a station to use the water as well. Since baptismal reaffirmation may be a new or relatively infrequent practice in many of our congregations, be sure to rehearse the stationing and deployment of people directing congregants to stations and station hosts. They should all be in place, ready to go, as the rite of baptismal reaffirmation begins. If you’ve done the physical prep work well, you won’t need to say more than “The ushers will guide you to the nearest station” at the time you invite people to go. Additional Resources for this Service 2014 Planning Helps for these readings (Baptism of the Lord) Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: (Click link to find countries for this week when they are posted)

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RISE UP! Week 2: LISTEN

Human Relations Day January 14, 2018 Listen Abbreviations CCLI=Christian Copyright Licensing International TFWS=The Faith We Sing W & S= Worship & Song UMH=United Methodist Hymnal

FULL SERVICE

ENTRANCE The service begins with subdued lighting and silence. Acolytes or others may light a candle (the paschal candle by the font, if you have a paschal candle). Spotlight on a solo guitarist who sings stanza 1 of “Speak, O Lord” (CCLI # 4615235, suggested tempo around 60 bpm) as the candle is lit and the choir or rest of the musical ensemble arrives or processes in and takes their places. Choir/ensemble sings stanza 2. Lights come up a bit and all are invited to stand to sing stanza 3. Spoken word artist then offers this as prayer of illumination: Nothing more frightening Than heightening the expectation That God will speak. Hearing these days is rare. I don’t have any more risks To spare. No need in hanging around Taking the chance of being let down By the One who always lifts. Better take matters in my own hands This time. If God is quiet…certainly others aren’t Buy here, pay here, sale here Try it here, go there, sit, stand Sand, slipping through fingers of hope Trying to scope any voice I can…but There is No voice. No choice.

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When the Word is rare No one could dare Suggest I just wait. No one would care If I pick my own blessings Or if I seek my own dressings To my own arrangements. I’d rather do that…than Trust. Trusting leaves The possibility for disappointment. Acting on my own, Will help me to clone my own Similar to the one in my mind. Except, it never works. Listening Is always the best way. Listening. Listening to, “yes.” Listening to “no more distress” But also listening to “no” Listening to “follow me… Trust me…hope in me” Shhhhh, everyone, hush, I’m listening this time… I’m taking the bold leap I’ll sit in suspense listening even at the expense of my disappointment. I’d rather hear a “no” From God Than a shallow “yes” from the mess Of this world. Shhhh, ya’ll. I’m listening. Speak God…

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You got me. WORD AND RESPONSE I Samuel 3:1-20 (NRSV, alt.) Spotlight to center. Samuel lies on the ground to the (congregation) left of the Lord’s table. Eli stands to the right. Narrator and voice of the Lord remain unseen. Samuel moves on narrator cues. Narrator: Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the Lord under Eli. The word of the Lord was rare in those days;; visions were not widespread. At that time Eli, whose eyesight had begun to grow dim so that he could not see, was lying down in his room;; the lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was. Then the Lord called, The Lord: Samuel! Samuel! Samuel: Here I am! Narrator: Samuel ran to Eli. Samuel: Here I am, for you called me. Eli: I did not call;; lie down again. Narrator: So he went and lay down. The Lord called again. The Lord: Samuel! Narrator: Samuel got up and went to Eli. Samuel Here I am, for you called me. Eli: “I did not call, my son;; lie down again.”

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Narrator: Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him. The Lord called Samuel again, a third time. And he got up and went to Eli. Samuel: Here I am, for you called me. Narrator: Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. Eli: Go, lie down;; and if the voice calls you again, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’ Narrator: So Samuel went and lay down in his place. Now the Lord came and stood there, calling as before, The Lord: Samuel! Samuel! Samuel: Speak, for your servant is listening. Silence The Lord: Behold, I am about to do something in Israel that will make both ears of anyone who hears of it tingle. On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. For I have told him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them. Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be expiated by sacrifice or offering forever. Silence Narrator: Samuel lay there until morning;; then he opened the doors of the house of the Lord. Samuel was afraid to tell the vision to Eli. But Eli called Samuel. Eli: Samuel, my son.

Samuel: Here I am.

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Eli: What did God say to you? Do not hide it from me. May God do so to you and more also, if you hide anything from me of all that he told you. Narrator: Samuel told him everything and hid nothing from him. Eli: It is the Lord;; let him do what seems good to him.

Narrator: As Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground. And all Israel from Dan to Beer-sheba knew that Samuel was a trustworthy prophet of the Lord.

Silence Acoustic accompaniment to “Speak, O Lord” may play in the background while the readers return to their places and the preacher takes center attention.

Sermon Listen Prayers of the People Deacon or Lay Prayer Leader: Shhhh, O my soul. Shhhh. Listen. God will speak and guide our prayers. God’s got us. God will show us the way. In this confidence we pray: for the people of this congregation… (silence) for those who suffer and those in trouble… (silence, then “O Lord, Hear My Prayer,” TFWS 2200) for the concerns of this local community… (silence) for the world, its peoples, and its leaders… (silence, then “O Lord, Hear My Prayer,” TFWS 2200) for the earth you have given to our care… (silence) for the Church universal—its leaders, its members, and its mission... in communion with the saints… (silence, then “O Lord, Hear My Prayer,” TFWS 2200)

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in the words our Lord Jesus has taught us: The Lord’s Prayer THANKSGIVING Praise and Thanksgiving Medley “You Inhabit the Praises “(3x) Africana Hymnal 4024 “Thank You, Lord “(3x) UMH 84 “I Thank You, Jesus” W&S 3037 The offering may be collected during the singing. SENDING Deacon or Pastor The word of the Lord may be rare in these days, and visions may not be widespread But our God is never without a witness. God is still speaking. Go, and listen. Listen, and speak all that the Lord reveals. Amen. Hymn “Here I Am, Lord” UMH 593 Postlude

MUSIC NOTES Speak, O Lord (CCLI # 4615235) Keith Getty and Stuart Townend have crafted a beautiful song that may be used in many places in worship. Today, we recommend using it as the entrance to worship. The staggered entrances recommended in the rubrics will help the congregation sing this if it is unfamiliar. The ideal key is C, and it may be accompanied in a number of ways, whether guitar, piano, organ, band, or other ensemble. The melody is very lyrical and could also be highlighted by a string instrument such as a violin or cello. An ideal tempo would be quarter note = 64-68, as this will allow the melody to soar, but keep the pace where the congregation can easily navigate breathing through the phrases. O Lord, Hear My Prayer (TFWS 2200) As with many songs from the Taizé Community in France, this work is short and cyclic and is written to be sung repetitively. Because the written vocal parts are so simple, it is very tempting for a pianist, organist, or guitarist to play an accompaniment that is too florid and complex. Less is more with these simple songs! Do not make the accompaniment overpower the choral harmony. If possible in your context, sing in four parts, supported by a choir. The melody alone can also suffice, however, and is very accessible for congregations to sing softly and meditatively. You Inhabit the Praises of Your People (Africana Hymnal 4024) This short song of praise is a perfect way to open a medley of thanksgiving to

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God. The rhythms are slightly syncopated, but the melody is very motivic and easily learned and can be led by a soloist, choir, praise team, or other vocal ensemble. The suggested tempo is quarter note = 50, and the accompaniment can vary from piano to rhythm section or full band. An organ will also work, but it will require some slight improvisation from what is found within the accompaniment score. Before transitioning to “Thank You, Lord,” a modulation to the key of G will also be needed. Here is a simple example that can be played as the word “you” is sung in the final measure (singing the final note as a half note instead of a dotted half note):

Thank You, Lord (UMH 84) This gospel chorus must be sung passionately at a slow pace. If able, allow a choir to sing in four-part harmony to accompany the congregation, and be sure to put space between “thank” and “you,” as written by William Farley Smith, in measure 7. If you have a soloist who is confident with improvisation alongside the congregational singing, encourage her/him to sing a very short introduction every time before the congregation begins singing. On the last repetition of the song, repeat the penultimate measure multiple times and allow a soloist to improvise over the singing before transitioning to the last measure and the next song. Don’t be afraid to use piano, organ, bass, and drums all at the same time to make the singing of this brief chorus authentic and full. This song is very accessible, however, to congregations of all sizes and abilities and will make a great middle piece of this thanksgiving medley. Lead Sheet I Thank You, Jesus (W&S 3037) This rousing hymn from Worship & Song has quickly become a favorite in many congregations and serves as an effective expression of thanksgiving. The repeated text, “You brought me from a mighty long way,” is a sung Ebenezer of sorts and echoes to numerous Scriptures of God’s deliverance, including 1 Samuel 7:12 and 2 Samuel 7:18. Be sure not to sing this hymn too fast. Allow the music to swing, which can easily be done in this 12/8 meter. Any number of instruments may accompany this selection, including organ, piano, drums, bass, and electric guitar. Hymn Study Here I Am, Lord (UMH 593) This classic from Dan Schutte is a hymn many United Methodists know by heart. It is a favorite of many from The United Methodist Hymnal, 1989, and it is often sung in gatherings and worship services in churches of all sizes across the United Methodist connection. The hymn serves as a call to discipleship and mission, and singing it requires a willingness to answer the call of God by saying, “Here I am, Lord.” The hymn

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can easily be accompanied by organ, piano, or band and is best supported when sung as suggested, with the stanzas in unison and the refrain in four-part harmony. History of Hymns

PREACHING NOTES

Our guest writer for the Season after Epiphany is Rev. Dr. B. Kevin Smalls. Dr. Smalls is a native of Washington D.C., and an elder in full connection with the Baltimore-Washington Conference. He currently serves as the senior pastor of Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield, Michigan. Dr. Smalls holds a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Claflin University, a Master of Divinity from Interdenominational Theological Center, and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, where he focused on postmodern preaching to contemporary audiences with an emphasis on hip hop culture. During his twenty years in service to the United Methodist Church, Dr. Smalls has served in a variety of appointments. He is the founder of the Young Adult Christian Cafe and the Off the Hook Bible Study. He is an author who has published a book and a number of articles in periodicals, and he is a contributor to the Africana Worship Book. Dr. Smalls is married to Lisa Karen Smalls. They share parenting responsibilities for their six children. We are pleased to share Dr. Smalls’s unique voice, poetry and insights into the scriptures with the wider church during this season. Spoken Word (Note that we recommend presenting the spoken word as part of the liturgy. See Worship Order for ideas on how to present this as part of the worship service.) Nothing more frightening Than heightening the expectation That God will speak. Hearing these days is rare. I don’t have any more risks To spare. No need in hanging around Taking the chance of being let down By the One who always lifts. Better take matters in my own hands This time. If God is quiet…certainly others aren’t Buy here, pay here, sale here

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Try it here, go there, sit, stand Sand, slipping through fingers of hope Trying to scope any voice I can…but There is No voice. No choice. When the Word is rare No one could dare Suggest I just wait. No one would care If I pick my own blessings Or if I seek my own dressings To my own arrangements. I’d rather do that…than Trust. Trusting leaves The possibility for disappointment. Acting on my own, Will help me to clone my own Similar to the one in my mind. Except, it never works. Listening Is always the best way. Listening. Listening to, “yes.” Listening to “no more distress” But also listening to “no” Listening to “follow me… Trust me…hope in me” Shhhhh, everyone, hush, I’m listening this time… I’m taking the bold leap I’ll sit in suspense listening even at the expense of my disappointment. I’d rather hear a “no” From God Than a shallow

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“yes” from the mess Of this world. Shhhh, ya’ll. I’m listening. Speak God… You got me. Preaching Ideas The second week of this epiphany series leads us to the theme of listening. Listening, of course, is a critical part of the Christian path. This week, we encounter a text where the Word of the Lord is rare, but God’s voice emerges as God attempts to get Samuel’s attention. Samuel is initially confused by this and assumes that his mentor, Eli, is calling him. There are many angles in which to approach this theme of listening. Typically, Samuel is the lead in the story, but it is also worth paying attention to Eli. Sociological/Psychological Imagination It is very much worth exploring this unique relationship of a mentor who has taken young Samuel on to guide him spiritually. Eli raised Samuel, but Eli was also slightly accountable for some of the silence of God. You could also explore Eli’s life, and how God used him in developing Samuel’s spiritual formation. Emotionally, what was it like for Eli to be in the place that ushered his student to a God that was speaking to him as he once spoke to Eli? How do we address the challenge of meeting that day when God gives our job to another? Are we willing to listen and trust? Are we willing to pray our own covenant prayer, “Let me be employed by thee or laid aside by thee?” Listening sometimes includes being informed that our ministry is now that of making room for the next to come along. Social Justice Imagination There are times when it is hard to figure out which way is the right way. We are bombarded daily with news about safety, yet we want to be faithful disciples who offer hospitality. We are hearing that there are wars and rumors of wars, yet we want to be people of peace. We want to be bold and destroy the barriers that divide people and communities. How do we speak to this dangerous, difficult, and challenging time of unrest? The path could very well be that of seeking God’s voice, as opposed to just our own. Who is calling us anyway? Is it those who are close to us, or even kin? Or is God calling us to radical action? Samuel had to figure out where the voice was coming from. Fortunately, he had assistance from his own village to point him to the way. How do we point our people to the ultimate voice? To be prophetic is to echo the voice of the one who demands justice, peace, and love. Pastoral Care Imagination How well do the young and old co-exist? There has been a lot of talk about how the young and the old don’t see eye-to-eye. Yet, we learn all throughout the Bible that both the young and the old are sacred gifts. Joel prophesied that the old will dream dreams and the young will see visions. It is a sacred gift to know that the greatest miracles may

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be born out of interaction between the young and the old: Ruth and Naomi, Mary and Elizabeth, and of course Samuel and Eli. The one link that is possible to bridge these generational gaps is that of listening. What narratives can be used to illustrate the power of two generations sitting together at the same table, bound by the voice of God, who finds a way to make community among them? Youth/Young-Adult Imagination Here is a good place to imagine what it’s like to be frustrated as we learn to distinguish God’s voice among all the other voices out there. Here you might take a life application approach and find a way to weave God’s voice throughout all the unique challenges in youth and young-adult culture: Youth who struggle to get their locker open;; young adults who are trying to figure out whether to leave home or not;; youth who are battered by bullying;; and young adults who may be having the biggest break-up in their lives. God’s voice enters these scenarios as well. What a joy to know that God is a God who speaks to everyday life, even theirs.

PLANNING NOTES

EPIPHANY and BAPTISM OF THE LORD: GOD IS SPEAKING! Reading Notes NRSV texts, artwork and Revised Common Lectionary Prayers for this service are available at the Vanderbilt Divinity Library. Leccionario en Español, Leccionario Común Revisado: Consulta Sobre Textos Comunes. Lectionnaire en français, Le Lectionnaire Œcuménique Révisé Calendar Notes EPIPHANY and BAPTISM OF THE LORD: GOD IS SPEAKING Color today through February 4 is green. February 11 (Transfiguration) is white and gold. Beginning Ash Wednesday (February 14), the color is purple. January 14 Human Relations Day (Special Sunday with Offering) January 15 Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday January 18-25 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity January 21 Ecumenical Sunday


February 14 Ash Wednesday Lent Series Begins: REHAB February 19 Presidents Day

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March March 2 World Day of Prayer March 11 UMCOR Sunday Daylight Saving Time Change Song (Spring) (USA) March 25 Passion/Palm Sunday Holy Week Series Begins March 29 Maundy/Holy Thursday March 30 Good Friday March 31 Holy Saturday (until Sundown) Easter Eve/Easter Vigil (after Sundown) April April 1 Easter Day Easter Series Begins April 15 Native American Ministries Sunday April 22 Festival of God’s Creation April 25 World Malaria Day

May All Month Christian Home Month (2018 Theme: Families Called to Peace, forthcoming) Asian Pacific American Heritage Month May 3 National Day of Prayer May 4 May Friendship Day (UMW/CWU) May 7-13 Christian Family Week (2018 resources forthcoming) May 10 Ascension Day May 13 Ascension Sunday Festival of the Christian Home/Mother’s Day (USA) May 19-20 Change the World Weekend May 20 Day of Pentecost Heritage Sunday (forthcoming) May 24 Aldersgate Day May 27 Trinity Sunday Peace with Justice Sunday May 28 Memorial Day (USA)


For Your Planning Team: SECOND SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! LISTEN Series Outline for Rise Up! (Epiphany through Transfiguration)

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January 7 God Is Speaking! (Epiphany and Baptism of the Lord) Isaiah 60:1-6;; Mark 1:4-11 January 14 Listen I Samuel 3:1-10 January 21 Move Jonah 3:1-5, 10 January 28 Answer Deuteronomy 18:15-20 February 4 Focus Isaiah 40:21-31 February 11: God is Speaking! (Transfiguration) 2 Kings 2:1-12;; Mark 9:2-9 Planning This Service It’s week two in this six-week series. The core task for week two in any series is to pick up the energy and the thematic thread (in that order) of the series launch and take them both to the next level. This service picks up on the energy of last week’s service by again beginning in near darkness and quiet, leading into a spoken word piece before a dramatic reading of the Scripture. The way this service takes the energy of the series launch to the next level may not seem obvious. Overall, this one seems quieter, more contemplative, at least through the prayers of the people. It may seem as if the energy is taken down a notch rather than up. What we’re going for here is taking the energy of the first service deeper, to a more profound level of listening. And then, once we’ve prayed, starting to amp up the energy from Thanksgiving through Sending forth.

This follows the advancement of the thematic thread from “God Is Speaking” (last week) to our response to that in this week’s service, “Listen,” reflected dramatically in the spoken word prayer for illumination, the Scripture, the sermon, and the prayers. This service seeks to help us embody the energy we need to listen for God’s direction in our lives and in the lives of those we’ll be accompanying in their discipleship journey during Lent.

Then the spike in kinetic energy of the music and prayers toward the end of the service provides a bit of a segue into next week’s service, “Move.” Additional Resources for this Service 2014 Planning Helps for these readings

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Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: (Click link to find countries for this week when they are posted)

RISE UP! Week 3: MOVE

Ecumenical Sunday

January 21, 2018 Move Abbreviations UMH=United Methodist Hymnal CCLI=Christian Copyright Licensing International TFWS=The Faith We Sing W & S= Worship & Song SOZ=Songs of Zion

FULL SERVICE

ENTRANCE All lights on, all candles lit before the service begins. Prelude or other instrumental introduction to the service might be on “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” (UMH 127). Then the choir or ensemble gets up, moves into a ring around the congregation, and starts to clap and sing, joined by the congregation after singing stanza 1 the first time. “You’ve Got to Move” (st 1-2) Africana Hymnal 4077 WORD AND RESPONSE Clapping continues at a more subdued level during the reading of Scripture and becomes more pronounced during the singing. Narrator and The Lord are unseen voices. Jonah appears at the front, stage right, lying down, gets up when he hears the word coming to him, and moves briskly to stage left on the narrator’s cue. Scripture Jonah 3:1-3a, 10 (NRSV), 4-9 (Paraphrase Taylor Burton-Edwards) Narrator: The word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time.

The Lord: Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you. Narrator So Jonah set out and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD.

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“You’ve Got to Move” (st. 3) Africana Hymnal 4077 Clapping picks up during the singing, then resumes at a more subdued level. Jonah moves toward center stage and into the center aisle at narrator’s cue. Narrator: Jonah spent the day going into the heart of the city, crying out as he walked, Jonah: Forty days more, and Nineveh will be overthrown! “You’ve Got to Move” (st. 1) Africana Hymnal 4077 Clapping picks up during the singing, then stops. Narrator: The people believed God. They proclaimed a fast, and everyone great and small, from the king to the animals of the field, put on sackcloth, turned from their evil ways, and cried out to God. When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God repented from the calamity God had planned to bring upon them;; and did not do it. Sermon “Move” Prayers of the People Deacon or Lay Prayer Leader: With all our hearts, and all our minds, and all our strength, let us pray to our Lord. People: Lord, have mercy. With all who are forced to move by circumstances beyond their control, by weather, war, violence, employment, or need for specialized health care… People: Lord, have mercy. With all whom you call to move, from places of comfort to places of greater challenge, from one form of service to another, or from employment to being laid aside for a time… People: Lord, have mercy. With leaders in the church and leaders in the nations and corporations of the world who constantly call those they lead and serve to move from injustice to greater justice, from poverty toward sustainability, from isolation toward interdependence, from wastefulness toward stewardship of the earth, from conflict toward reconciliation, from fear toward hope…

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People: Lord, have mercy. And for ourselves, for your Spirit to keep striving with us, to turn from our evil ways, to strengthen our resistance to temptation, to increase our resolve to grow in doing good, and to overcome our immaturity until we are perfected in love… Song: “Give Me a Clean Heart” (3x) TFWS 2133 If your congregation has a custom of coming to an altar to kneel and pray, you may wish to invite them to do so during the singing of this song. Otherwise, singing in place, standing or kneeling, would be appropriate. In the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray: The Lord’s Prayer THANKSGIVING Deacon or Pastor: God has heard our cries. We are forgiven and at peace with God through Jesus Christ. The peace of Christ be always with you. People: And also with you. So let us share the peace of Christ with those around us, and our gifts with the church and all the world. The offering is collected while the peace is offered;; and these songs are sung by choir, ensemble, and/or congregation. “Over My Head” TFWS 2148, Africana 4075, SOZ 167 “Now Thank We All Our God” UMH 102 SENDING FORTH Deacon or Pastor: When the Lord gets ready, we’ve all got to move. High or low, rich or poor, we’ve got to move. One or two, me or you, we’ve got to move. So move, church. And keep moving forward as the Spirit leads. Song “Moving Forward” Africana Hymnal 4143 (CCLI# 4992525) OR “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me” TFWS 2153

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Postlude Reprise of “You’ve Got to Move” Africana Hymnal 4077

MUSIC NOTES You’ve Got to Move (Africana Hymnal 4077) This short, rhythmic song is an example of a “ring shout,” which is an African American tradition of singing that involved music, dancing, and shouting, all while standing in a ring. The melody of a song would be sung and improvised upon while drums were played, hands clapped, and feet shuffled to embody the ecstatic nature of the song. It is clear why it was selected for this Sunday, with the theme built upon the imperative, “Move.” If you have the opportunity to consult the recording that comes with The Africana Hymnal, it will be helpful because it helps teach the performance practice of the singing and clapping together. If the clapping as written on the score is too difficult for your congregation, it is also possible to proceed with other options:

1) Clap in a half-note pattern (the slower pattern on the recording) throughout on beats 1 and 3.

2) Have the congregation clap in a half-note pattern on beats 1 and 3 while the choir or a selected group claps the more syncopated pattern from the score.

For more information on a ring shout, be sure to watch the video, Reflect, Reclaim, Rejoice: Preserving the Gift of Black Sacred Music or read the small-group study of the same title. Give Me a Clean Heart (TFWS 2133) For many years, this gospel song of confession has been an effective prayer that asks for God’s perfecting Spirit to be at work. It is a personal prayer, but when sung corporately, it becomes also centered upon the congregation as corporate confession is also offered. Accompaniment can vary from piano or organ to rhythm section or full band. Make sure that the dotted-half notes do not become stagnant;; allow them to grow dynamically as they are sustained. This helps with both musicality and communication as leaders of congregational singing. The tempo can vary, but a steady pulse of 60-72 (per eighth note) is recommended. It will feel quite slow, but allow it to also have a light swing, with possible triplets in the rhythm section on each eighth note. For an idea of performance practice, view this recording from James Cleveland and the Southern California Community Choir. History of Hymns Over My Head (TFWS 2148, Africana 4075, SOZ 167 Many different arrangements of this spiritual exist, and the singing of it appears to also be different, depending on the context. One option would be to sing a cappella, slowly and very sustained, with the rhythm ad lib, while another would be to add the gospel harmony found in either The Africana Hymnal or Songs of Zion and also add a rhythm section with a quicker tempo. If you should choose to pair this with “Now Thank

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We All Our God,” as is listed in this service, I recommend singing slowly, either a cappella or with piano/organ, and segueing into stanza one of the next hymn in a slow, rubato fashion. Now Thank We All Our God (UMH 102) If this chorale is chosen to be paired with “Over My Head,” singing stanza 3 only would serve as a great way to transition into the sending forth. To stay in the same style as the spiritual, sing a cappella or with keyboard accompaniment, but sing rubato. A unison melody with a band and fewer, less frequent chord changes is also possible. History of Hymns Vocal descant for choirs Moving Forward (Africana Hymnal 4143 or CCLI# 4992525) This modern worship song from Ricardo Sanchez and Israel Houghton is a compelling song of transformation in which the singer commits to moving forward in the name of Christ. This statement makes this particular song a great option for confirmation groups as they come forward to make their commitment to God and the church. The melody is a bit syncopated and leaves plenty of room for improvisation, so take the time to prepare adequately. The best accompaniment is a rhythm section or full band, but a youth or adult choir supporting the melody would also be quite helpful. The recommended tempo of eighth note = 126 is also a comfortable suggestion for congregational singing. I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me (TFWS 2153) Church musicians often look for repetitive songs that are easy to teach and use one change of word per stanza as a way to teach and sing without holding a book, bulletin, or other resource. This frees the congregation from being bound to something held in the hands that takes away focus from the song enlivener and directs the voice downward. It might also encourage some clapping! This spiritual is a very singable example of a song of commitment that is especially effective when a choir is available to sing in four-part harmony. If a choir is not available, don’t fret--a pianist, organist, or guitarist can also accompany the singing, but the tempo needs to be steady and not too slow. Keep a pulse that allows the congregation to sing full phrases without discomfort. If the keyboardist is able to improvise on the accompaniment, it will also help it to move ahead during the long, sustained notes. Instruments can vary, from a keyboard instrument to small or large ensemble.

PREACHING NOTES

Spoken Word (Note that we recommend presenting the spoken word as part of the liturgy. See Worship Order for ideas on how to present this as part of the worship service.) (A poem about two brothers, one adopted, attempting to get along. Poem inspired by the TV Show, “This is Us”)

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I never liked my brother Probably too much attention to him From my mother I decided to look the other Way When he suffered Whether he sought me Whether he fought for me I didn’t care…I had a brother to spare. I ignored him most of My life…causing unmeasurable Strife between us On the football field I’d not yield applause when He made a great play At the school dances I went my way And left him to fend for himself Leaving our issues on the shelf I refused to be his brother. We grew up from those years Facing our own individual fears We found a way to connect He was black I was white And in spite of those differences Never recognized by my folks I lived with diff’rent strokes In my own way…adoption Gave me my brother And created this family concoction of Sorts But today, we are older Grown men Families that turn into similes Like love Like support like openness. This time, I needed my brother Not knowing he needed me.

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I remembered his anxiety Growing up I, never having enough piety To reach out… But not this time… I heard his break down Through the distance And I knew at that instance What to do. I went, no, I ran, fast as I can To his office, found him Bottled up in a corner And unlike the former Days I showed up Knelt beside him This time Held him My crime Reversed In those years of deserting him Grabbed him As my father’s voice chimed In On us… With a gentle Loving smother “Never forget, he says, he’s your brother.” I answered The call I answered My new standard For loving. He’s my brother, I’m his No other way…will do… Nineveh will neva’ cause me fear But mere willingness to Answer with the simple declaration He’s my brother…I’m his

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No other way…will do… Youth/Young-Adult Imagination It is easy to talk about how going against God’s call and instruction is a primary behavior of young adults. One could preach this theme, however. Yet, perhaps a further stretch that would actually appeal to young adult/millennial culture could be how God is always “down” for an adventure and ready to make a different move. God is rebellious to Jonah’s prejudices. God overlooks them and demands his adherence. God plans to infiltrate Nineveh, give them an opportunity to move themselves, to turn from their ways, to repent and reconnect with God. This is phenomenal work. This move is one of God’s most radical ones yet! When Jonah finally submits to God’s beckoning, after failed attempts at escaping, he surprisingly encounters an amazing experience. That was the experience of those who were grateful for this servant and his message no matter how discontented Jonah was to give it. Surprises happen when barriers are broken down and doors are opened to possibilities. If there are any young adults in your context seeking a radical God, they find one in the book of Jonah. Social Justice Imagination In many cities across the world, sociological dynamics are changing daily. People across the globe are on the move. As these changes shift, anger often ensues around questions of equality, fairness, gentrification, displacement of the poor, and changing neighborhood dynamics. This is a marvelous time to raise the issue of not being afraid to cross the barriers that are often built around us every day. Congregations, churches, ministry settings are called to travel to their own cities, communities of Nineveh, overlook their hang ups, reach out and call people into the community of God. Homiletic surgery is required to carefully invite those on the outside in, and those on the inside out. Otherwise, a large fish awaits to entrap the religious community until it spits it out upon the grace of God and meets again the demand to say, “Hello Nineveh!”

PLANNING NOTES THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! MOVE

Reading Notes NRSV texts, artwork and Revised Common Lectionary Prayers for this service are available at the Vanderbilt Divinity Library. Leccionario en Español, Leccionario Común Revisado: Consulta Sobre Textos Comunes. Lectionnaire en français, Le Lectionnaire Œcuménique Révisé Calendar Notes THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! MOVE The color today through February 4 is green.

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Colors on February 11 (Transfiguration) are white and gold. Beginning Ash Wednesday (February 14) the color is purple. January 18-25 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity January 21 Ecumenical Sunday



May All Month Christian Home Month (2018 Theme: Families Called to Peace, forthcoming) Asian Pacific American Heritage Month May 3 National Day of Prayer May 4 May Friendship Day (UMW/CWU) May 7-13 Christian Family Week (2018 resources forthcoming) May 10 Ascension Day May 13 Ascension Sunday Festival of the Christian Home/Mother’s Day (USA) May 19-20 Change the World Weekend May 20 Day of Pentecost Heritage Sunday (forthcoming)

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May 24 Aldersgate Day May 27 Trinity Sunday Peace with Justice Sunday May 28 Memorial Day (USA)


For Your Planning Team: EPIPHANY/BAPTISM OF THE LORD: RISE UP! MOVE Series Outline for Rise Up! (Epiphany through Transfiguration) January 7 God Is Speaking! (Epiphany and Baptism of the Lord) Isaiah 60:1-6;; Mark 1:4-11 January 14 Listen I Samuel 3:1-10 January 21 Move Jonah 3:1-5, 10 January 28 Answer Deuteronomy 18:15-20 February 4 Focus Isaiah 40:21-31 February 11: God is Speaking! (Transfiguration) 2 Kings 2:1-12;; Mark 9:2-9 Planning This Service It’s week three in this six-week series. We’re now moving into “mid-series” in this six-week season. The core task mid-series is to sustain the series energy and and continue to develop the thematic thread. Energy always matters, but mid-series, it’s development of the theme that tends to matter more. There are two primary kinds of movement in this week’s Scripture reading from Jonah. One is physical movement. Jonah moves from Spain to Iraq, and then keeps moving a full day’s journey into the heart of Nineveh. The other movement is the dramatic acts of repentance by the people and even the livestock of Nineveh. Instead of facing being overturned, as Jonah’s prophecy announced, they instead turned over a new leaf. In a way, one might propose even a third kind of movement, God’s own movement of intention concerning Nineveh from judgment toward mercy in light of their repentance. The core response to today’s theme is found in the prayers of the people. Prayer

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becomes the primary way we begin to embody the action of “Move” in worship today. We pray with people who must move, or are called to move, or who by their position are involved in moving others. We also pray for ourselves, for the Spirit’s work to move us all from captivity to sin toward perfection in love in this life. We posit this as a possible altar call, a call to come forward to pray, as the response to the bidding prayer shifts from unison spoken response to ensemble and congregational singing. Additional Resources for this Service 2014 Planning Helps for these readings Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: (Click link to find countries for this week when they are posted)

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RISE UP! Week 4: ANSWER January 28, 2018

Answer Abbreviations UMH=United Methodist Hymnal CCLI=Christian Copyright Licensing International TFWS=The Faith We Sing W & S= Worship & Song SOZ=Songs of Zion

FULL SERVICE

ENTRANCE Service starts full lights, band or choir in place. “Rising” CCLI# 4662460 OR “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” UMH 139 After the opening song, lighting shifts quickly toward darkness, with a soundscape of thunder and lightning (https://freesound.org/people/csengeri/sounds/27247/ for a sample you may work with with proper citation). Immediately and briefly, show large images or displays of fire. Then all dark for a few seconds, then lights on band or worship leader: “Too Much” CCLI# 4703848 AND/OR “When We Are Called to Sing Your Praise” TFWS 2216 Prayer for Illumination (Spoken Word by Taylor Burton-Edwards) Sometimes you’re just too much for me, your light, too bright,

eyes burn to see your face, your grace consumes my soul like fire. Don’t blaze, these days darkness is a friend to me, shadows shelter,

make a home for me, God, your gaze is more than I can stand. So turn away, don’t look at me, yet draw near in holy mystery, come, Lord, and release me from this strife. I want to follow where you lead, your prophet’s voice I’ll surely heed, Spirit, speak, disturb my soul to life.

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WORD AND RESPONSE Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV) Moses should be dressed like the rest of the worshipers, no special clothes or makeup. Moses reads or speaks the text from the center. If you have screens, project a crowd image. Moses: The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people;; you shall heed such a prophet. This is what you requested of the LORD your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly when you said: People: "If we hear the voice of the LORD my God any more, or ever again see this great fire, we will die."

Moses: Then the LORD replied to me: "They are right in what they have said. I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their own people;; I will put my words in the mouth of the prophet, who shall speak to them everything that I command. Anyone who does not heed the words that the prophet shall speak in my name, I myself will hold accountable. But any prophet who speaks in the name of other gods, or who presumes to speak in my name a word that I have not commanded the prophet to speak--that prophet shall die." Sermon “Answer” Testimonies of God’s Answers Two or three people from the congregation offer brief, two- or three-minute prepared testimonies, live or via video, of a time when they’ve needed and received an answer from God. Prayers of the People The prayers today will work best in the form of Tongsung Kido, the Korean (and more broadly Asian) Christian practice of everyone praying aloud all at once, guided in a common focus of supplication by a prayer leader. The prayer leader announces a topic of prayer, or the situation of people with whom we are being called to pray, and everyone all at once, out loud, begins praying for or with these people or about the situation. Introduce and perhaps practice this way of praying before the service begins if it is unfamiliar in your setting. Do not try to teach it at this point-- that will badly damage the flow of the service. Deacon or Lay Prayer Leader God we thank you, right now, for the written witness of our ancestors in the Scriptures, and the living witness we have just heard

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that you are the God who answers. You hear us, but more than that, you see us, you truly listen, you understand our situation, our strengths and our limitations, and you give your answer in a way we can receive it. So it is with confidence we offer our prayers before you, knowing you will answer, and your answer will meet us and all with whom we pray right where we are: And so we pray, lifting up our voices before you all at once, praying first of all, as you have taught us through the apostle Paul, for leaders and all in authority in our countries, companies, and other institutions.... (all pray aloud at once) with our congregation, our denomination, our deacons, pastors, bishops, and other ministers, and every congregation, community, denomination, and ministry around the world that bears the name of Jesus... (all pray aloud at once) for the earth, with everything that lives, and moves, and supports life upon it, and for all who work to sustain it… (all pray aloud at once) with our families, our friends, our co-workers, our neighbors, and our enemies… (all pray aloud at once) for all who need your healing, delivering, and saving power in their lives… (all pray aloud at once) in the name of your greatest Answer, Jesus Christ, who taught us all to pray aloud together: The Lord’s Prayer THANKSGIVING Deacon or Pastor: God has heard us, and is answering us even now. We are forgiven and at peace with God through Jesus Christ. The peace of Christ be always with you. People: And also with you. So let us share the peace of Christ with those around us, and our gifts with the church and all the world.

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The offering is collected while the peace is offered and these songs are sung by choir, ensemble, and/or congregation. “Holy Ground” CCLI # 21198 (choir or ensemble) with TFWS 2272 (congregation on refrain) “Praise and Thanksgiving” UMH 604 SENDING FORTH Deacon or Pastor: God has heard us, each one of us, and is answering us today, right now. But God doesn’t answer us to please us. God answers us to help us answer others better, until we love God and neighbor as ourselves. So go from here, in the name of Jesus and the power of Jesus, answered by God, to become God’s answer wherever you go. Amen. Song “God Has Work for Us to Do” (Daw/Miller) https://www.choristersguild.org/store/cga1288-god-has-work-for-us-to-do/3704/ or “Sois la Semilla” UMH 583 Postlude

MUSIC NOTES

Rising (CCLI# 4662460) Gathering songs in opening worship song sets are often quick and energetic, and this work represents the best of what modern songs have to offer. Connecting the work of worship with the work of ministry and mission, Matt Redman and Paul Baloche have incorporated Psalm 113:3 with a driving tune that can be easily accompanied by any number of instruments. They key is knowing what to play. If using piano, do not accompany the vocal sheet as written. The voice, not the piano, needs to lead this tune. Otherwise, it becomes too unwieldy and clunky. Quarter note chords on the piano are enough because the melody is interesting, motivic (easily learned and remembered), and easily supported. The more instruments you add, the simpler the piano part can become. Add guitar, bass, drums, and any other instruments within your congregation. Rest assured in knowing, however, a solo piano or guitar will do! The key of E is

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recommended. Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (UMH 139) A classic and favorite among many church musicians, this hymn commands power in its very singing, and praise is embodied in the nature of the tune. If this hymn and tune are not familiar to your congregation, it is teachable. The first two phrases are exactly the same, and the breath required for both is the same: six-measure phrases. After that, there is a short, two-measure phrase, followed by a three-measure phrase and a four-measure phrase. This illustrates how teaching by rote by “echoing” the melody can work (once you have taught the first phrase, the congregation knows over half of the tune). Another item to note–since there are long, six-measure phrases in the hymn, keep the tempo moving forward enough that the congregation can sing the long phrases in one breath. By the time your congregation reaches the phrase, “Let the amen sound from his people again,” there is likely to be joyous singing, even from those who do not know the hymn. Many organists love this tune as well, and there are plenty of instrumental settings of LOBE DEN HERREN for organ, piano, handbells, or other instrumental ensemble. History of Hymns Too Much (CCLI# 4703848) Leeland Mooring has risen to prominence in the Christian recording industry because of his unique voice and the presence of great songs like this one. However, his voice is pitched quite high, and it is recommended to sing this song at least down a major third (Bb), or maybe even a fifth (G). Singing in a lower range will help your congregation sing more comfortably as they learn the syncopated rhythms throughout. In addition, if you choose to segue into the next hymn, “When We Are Called to Sing Your Praise,” the key of G (relative to E minor) will be a seamless transition. Accompany with piano, guitar, or band, but allow the voice, not the instruments, to lead the song. Within this service, it would also be acceptable to allow this to be a solo that segues into the next song, which is written more to be a congregational song and can serve as a fitting response. When We Are Called to Sing Your Praise (TFWS 2216) The tone of this hymn is almost defiant when paired with the KINGSFOLD tune, and singing it allows for a bit of righteous anger on behalf of those feeling that emotion in the congregation. However, on the second half of each stanza, the hymn turns toward the prayer for God to remind us that God knows our despair. The end of the final stanza even moves toward thankfulness in the midst of “the shadowed way.” Accompany on organ or piano, or even this arrangement of the tune if you would like to accompany with a Celtic ensemble. Holy Ground (CCLI # 21198, choir or ensemble, with TFWS 2272 congregation on refrain) The CCLI number is offered for this song because The Faith We Sing includes the refrain only. With this in mind, it is recommended to have a soloist sing the stanzas of this classic modern worship song and invite the congregation to sing the well-known refrain. The ideal key is Eb, and a transition to the key of F is also included in the

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accompaniment and singer’s editions of The Faith We Sing. However, if you will segue into the next hymn as a part of this time in worship, I recommend the key of D in order to make a seamless transition between songs. In your visual imagery in the sanctuary for this service, I also recommend a picture or visual design that incorporates a pair of empty sandals to connect with Moses’ experience speaking before God and standing on holy ground. Praise and Thanksgiving Be to God (UMH 604) This chorale is a wonderful example of a doxological hymn that addresses all the persons of the Trinity–one at a time, and then all together in the final stanza. The text reminds us that the Trinity is an embodiment of unity and kinship with one another. If you are using this hymn in conjunction with “Holy Ground” as listed in the worship order, you may choose to sing stanzas 1 and 4 rather than the entire hymn. The best accompaniment is the organ, although piano would also be fitting if an organ is not available. God Has Work for Us to Do (www.choristersguild.org/store/cga1288-god-has-work-for-us-to-do/3704/) Though there are other settings of this Carl P. Daw hymn available, the tune composed by Mark Miller is the most ideal. Found in the collection, Roll Down, Justice!, the text calls us to continued work in ministry as a response to God’s calling. The lilting melody is easy to teach and learn, and purchasing the collection allows copying of congregational song sheets to include in the worship bulletin. A choral version of the work, along with a more complex piano accompaniment, is also available here. The ideal accompaniment is piano. Sois la Semilla (You Are the Seed) [UMH 583] Cesareo Gabaraín has created a beautiful song that sings of the presence of Christ in each of us. By using images of the seed, dawn, flame, and life, we sing of the fruits of ministry by working to gather in the harvest. These images are especially rich when sung as a means of spurring us to live what we pray in the world. The imperative is given to “go to the world” and “be a loyal witness,” so sing this song of sending forth confidently, knowing the mission field that lies ahead. The tune itself allows a number of ways to accompany, including piano, organ, guitar, percussion, or a combination of all of the above. The most important part of singing this song is keeping the tempo lively enough to fit four measures in each musical phrase. This is a song of celebration, so don’t turn it into a dirge! History of Hymns

PREACHING NOTES

Our guest writer for the Season after Epiphany is Rev. Dr. B. Kevin Smalls. Dr. Smalls is a native of Washington D.C., and an elder in full connection with the Baltimore-Washington Conference. He currently serves as the senior pastor of Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield, Michigan.

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Dr. Smalls holds a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Claflin University, a Master of Divinity from Interdenominational Theological Center, and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, where he focused on postmodern preaching to contemporary audiences with an emphasis on hip hop culture. During his twenty years in service to the United Methodist Church, Dr. Smalls has served in a variety of appointments. He is the founder of the Young Adult Christian Cafe and the Off the Hook Bible Study. He is an author who has published one book and a number of articles in periodicals. He is also a contributor to the Africana Worship Book. Dr. Smalls is married to Lisa Karen Smalls. They share parenting responsibilities for their six children. We are pleased to share Dr. Smalls’s unique voice, poetry, and insights into the Scriptures with the wider church during this season. Preaching Notes I remember being at annual conference during the session where the bishop "fixes" the appointments. I was sitting next to a colleague, and we both were getting ready to go to very significant assignments in our ministries. When the bishop got to the very end of the service, he said "I declare that the appointments for this year, are now hereby fixed.’ We both wept. It was an exhale of sorts, perhaps because we were both able to recall our individual journeys to get to this place. It's not easy, being raised up as a prophet. You, of course, know this. When you sit between two warring sides of an issue and try to chart the path to unity, you know this. You know this when you introduce an idea that the church has never considered. You know the weight of this when you think of all the weeks of wrestling with a text, casting vision, visiting the sick, marrying those in love, comforting those in disbelief staring at the casket over an open space in the cemetery. You know that this work is tough, painful, exhilarating, joyful, liberating, enslaving, and at the end of any given day, you look in the mirror and are forced to remember that all you are left with is to deal with all of your own stuff, sorrow, grief, dreams, visions, and perplexities. My appointment that year was to return to my home church–the church where I was baptized, the church where I preached my first sermon, the church where I launched a life of discipleship, the church where I went to Sunday school and sang in the choir. I was raised up a prophet, like most of you, right out of the community in which I grew up as a child. I walked in that church where this nourishment was supplied, smelling the holy musk of worn hymnals, rays of sunlight forcing themselves through stained glass windows, creating the dust and aroma that permeates older, still, peaceful congregations. I stood in the back of the church, peering over the empty pews, remembering the voices and seeing the faces of those whose membership has since been transferred to the great church triumphant. This time, I wasn't the youth running around in the giant-sized

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church. I was now the pastor standing in a church that had shrunk to the size of my adult perspective. Moses tells his people that in the same way he was selected, there would be another whose voice would emerge. God would raise him up and anoint him for the work at hand. God would answer the people's longings for a leader. God would provide a leader and would never leave the people abandoned. Never. Wesleyan Imagination While Moses is assuring the people of God’s plan to provide for a new leader, he also gives them guidelines that the leader must follow. These guidelines are now in the people’s awareness as they prepare for a leadership shift. “If a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord but the thing does not take place or prove true, it is a word that the Lord has not spoken. The prophet has spoken it presumptuously;; do not be frightened by it.” Our theological task as United Methodists gives us a similar guideline to discovering the arrival at truth. Our theological task begins with the question, “Is it true?” What things are true and worthy of celebration as we seek answers throughout our life’s journey of faith? Youth/Young-Adult Imagination

You can’t wait to get your new schedule for high school, only to find out that on that schedule is the one teacher that no one likes. The teacher has the reputation of being mean, hard, unforgiving, and tough. You then attempt to change your schedule because you don’t want to be caught in the trap of being in that teacher’s class. Once the principal informs you that a schedule change is not available, you prepare for the worst. How many times, have we imagined the worst, only to discover the best? We must trust God to go with us in scary and uncomfortable places. The best way to find the God of surprises is to look for an answer in the territory that you resist the most. Be careful to not give up too soon, or to reject an answer because it wasn’t what you initially hoped for or imagined.

Congregational Development/Growth Imagination

Many congregations are ambivalent about reaching out to the folks immediately around them. There are some cases where the church has been in a community for over fifty years, and during that span of time, they never engaged the neighborhood in any way. There are many reasons for this. Some could include: fear of rejection, lack of confidence that some won’t like their church, or that their church is not ready for newcomers yet. Some are annoyed by religious fanatics that knock on the doors, and they see themselves as such by doing something similar, so they don’t reach out at all. But, God calls us forward. God calls us to connect. God does not make room for us because we have good reasons to not reach out. In God’s eyes, there is only one reason to reach out: Love.

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PLANNING NOTES FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! ANSWER

Reading Notes NRSV texts, artwork and Revised Common Lectionary Prayers for this service are available at the Vanderbilt Divinity Library. Leccionario en Español, Leccionario Común Revisado: Consulta Sobre Textos Comunes. Lectionnaire en français, Le Lectionnaire Œcuménique Révisé Calendar Notes FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! ANSWER This week and next, the color is green. Colors on February 11 (Transfiguration) are white and gold. Beginning Ash Wednesday (February 14), the color is purple. February All Month Black History Month February 11 Transfiguration of the Lord Scouting Sunday


May All Month Christian Home Month (2018 Theme: Families Called to Peace,

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forthcoming) Asian Pacific American Heritage Month May 3 National Day of Prayer May 4 May Friendship Day (UMW/CWU) May 7-13 Christian Family Week (2018 resources forthcoming) May 10 Ascension Day May 13 Ascension Sunday Festival of the Christian Home/Mother’s Day (USA) May 19-20 Change the World Weekend May 20 Day of Pentecost Heritage Sunday (forthcoming) May 24 Aldersgate Day May 27 Trinity Sunday Peace with Justice Sunday May 28 Memorial Day (USA)


For Your Planning Team: EPIPHANY/BAPTISM OF THE LORD: RISE UP! GOD IS SPEAKING! Series Outline for Rise Up! (Epiphany through Transfiguration) January 7 God Is Speaking! (Epiphany and Baptism of the Lord) Isaiah 60:1-6;; Mark 1:4-11 January 14 Listen I Samuel 3:1-10 January 21 Move Jonah 3:1-5, 10 January 28 Answer Deuteronomy 18:15-20 February 4 Focus Isaiah 40:21-31 February 11: God is Speaking! (Transfiguration) 2 Kings 2:1-12;; Mark 9:2-9 Planning This Service It’s week four, now thoroughly “mid-series” in this six-week season. The core task mid-series is to sustain the series energy and and continue to develop the thematic thread.

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Energy always matters, but mid-series (last week and today), it’s development of the theme that tends to matter more. Last week’s theme was about us doing something we may often find ourselves called to do-- MOVE-- especially as we think about how we will come alongside people learning the ways of discipleship with us and from us during Lent in their preparation for baptism at Easter. This week, however, focuses not so much on us as on God, and more specifically on reminding us that we have a God who answers us, and answers us profoundly. We need the encounter with God’s answering, regularly. The hope for us is that we may become better answerers to God and toward one another in so doing. But the encounter with the God who answers is primary. That’s why testimony followed by prayer aloud together is the heart of the response movement in this service. It won’t do simply to talk about other people’s experiences of the God who answers in the sermon. You need the living witness of folks among you, from their mouths (or hands, for those who use American Sign Language). Plan for two or three such testimonies as part of today’s service. And assign team members to work with those who will offer them so they are brief (2-3 minutes each, max), clear, and to the point-- not just on the page (if they are written), but in their presentations. This will mean you need to schedule live rehearsals in the worship space for each speaker the night before, and the day of, the service. You may find video to be a better way of helping to capture these stories than live presentation-- and that’s fine. Just be sure the quality of the video, both picture and sound, is consistent from one presenter to another, and that you have run it beforehand so you know the appropriate sound and lighting needed for all to see and hear it well. Additional Resources for this Service 2014 Planning Helps for these readings Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: (Click link to find countries for this week when they are posted)

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RISE UP! Week 5: FOCUS

February 4, 2018 Focus Abbreviations UMH=United Methodist Hymnal CCLI=Christian Copyright Licensing International TFWS=The Faith We Sing W & S= Worship & Song SOZ=Songs of Zion

FULL SERVICE

ENTRANCE All lights on, candles pre-lit. Choir or singing ensemble enters the worship space in procession, or surrounds the worship space, to lead the singing. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” UMH 519 “All the Poor and Powerless” CCLI# 5881130 Prayer for Illumination Deacon or Worship Leader How we long for that day when all creation will join the song, Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! We thank you and praise you for your presence with us, here, now, to strengthen us for our walk and our work with you and one another. But we are so easily distracted from your goodness, the greatness of your power, and the depth of your love. So speak to us now through your word proclaimed among us, and focus our hearts on you. WORD AND RESPONSE Spotlight or center stage or center aisle, a speaker performs the spoken word. | Spoken Word written by B. Kevin Smalls

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The Speaker Somewhere in my past the locusts have destroyed so much of what I know it's hard to FOCUS on just us as we travel through these barren lands. It's easier to focus on poverty you see it is real, deep and depressing no need in suppressing the grief that goes with it... I get it. Focus. On not just us... but on our longing for days gone by when life was on a high when peace and politics were best friends and every conflict found an amends... Being in an oppressive cave for so long it's hard to trust freedom...and then some. It’s hard to trust new beginnings... that may turn sour. It's hard to trust new opportunities they could collapse in an hour. Scripture Isaiah 40:21-31 (NRSV, alt.) The readers of the voice of The Prophet and The Lord are unseen. Consider voicing these roles “against stereotype,” perhaps with a child for the prophet and an accented or female voice for The Lord, and recording both. If you have a screen, consider displaying visuals-- without any words-- to accompany the reading. The Prophet: Have you not known? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is the One who sits above the circle of the earth,

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and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers;; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to live in;; who brings princes to naught, and makes the rulers of the earth as nothing. Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown, scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth, when he blows upon them, and they wither, and the tempest carries them off like stubble. The Holy One says to you... The Lord To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? The Prophet Lift up your eyes on high and see: Who created these? It is the Holy One who brings out their host and numbers them, calling them all by name;; for our God is great in strength, mighty in power, not one is missing. So why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, ALL: "My way is hidden from the LORD, and my right is disregarded by my God"? The Speaker Then, the Voice emerges again. We have been delivered... how we quiver with the good news. We have been rescued no miscued message this time. We have been heard... our walk will no longer be disturbed with fear...our running will no longer be short circuited due to poor gear... The Prophet Have you not known? Have you not heard?

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The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth, who does not faint or grow weary;; whose understanding is unsearchable. The Holy One gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted;; but those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. The Speaker It's time to FOCUS...NOT on any POTUS Not on past locust damage... but FOCUS on Jesus' FOCUS... GOD God self...the one and only Liberator of broken community. Come now, we've been heard, come out of exile now... FOCUS...FOLKS God loves US. FOCUS...God SPOKE us into being FOCUS...God woke us up into dreaming FOCUS...will you...can you...GO THUS and know...this race is designed FOR US! LET'S GO! Sermon “Focus” Sung Affirmation of Faith “Our God” (with Apostles Creed during Instrumental) CCLI# 5677416 OR “We Believe in One True God” UMH 85 THANKSGIVING AND COMMUNION Invitation to the Table Deacon or Pastor: Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin to God.

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Confession and Pardon Deacon or Pastor leads all to pray: Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you, against one another, and against the world and the creatures you have called us to tend. We have broken our covenants. We have lost our passion for your mission. We have ignored the needs of others. We have failed to love you and our neighbors in your creation as we have loved ourselves. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience. Give us the wisdom to focus on you and the courage to abide in your freedom, through Christ our Lord. Amen. Silence Pastor: If we confess our sin, God is faithful and just and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. People: In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Glory to God! Pastor: The peace of Christ be always with you. And also with you. The people may exchange the peace of Christ. The offering may be collected. Music During the Offering “Total Praise” Africana Hymnal 4021 (CCLI# 2110330) The Great Thanksgiving Chord progressions from “God of Wonders” (W&S 3034, CCLI# 3118757) may play in the background as the Great Thanksgiving begins. Pastor: Our Lord Jesus Christ is with us. Yes he is. Hallelujah!

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The Holy Spirit is in this place! Ignite our hearts! Raise your hands! Lift your voices! Father, we are yours! We are yours, all yours, blessed Triune God, all our lives, all our thanks, all our praise, all our hesitations, all our grumbling, all our fears, we give it all to you, with all our bodies, and minds, and voices. Yours, all yours! Yours the blessing, yours the praise, from the unimaginable silence before the big bang, beyond the farthest reaches of time and space our instruments may ever find, from infinity to infinity, everlasting to everlasting, you are God, boundless in love and power. We stand in awe, trembling in the light of your glory! What are we that you should notice us? What are we that you should love us? What are we that you should call us into covenant with you, a covenant we continually broke, and you continuously sustained. Mercy! How full of mercy! How can we but praise you, joining our voices with the song of angels and saints, with seraphim and martyrs, with the elders in heaven and all creatures on the earth, under the earth, and in the rivers, oceans, streams, and skies, with strangers and family in every generation, singing: All sing the refrain to “God of Wonders” (W&S 3034, CCLI # 3118757) followed by these words to the same tune: Jesus Christ who comes in our God's name, you are worthy, worthy! Lamb of God for all creation slain, you are worthy, worthy! Hosanna to our King! Hosanna to our King! Pastor: You are holy, O God!

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Holy! You are worthy, O Christ! Worthy! Worthy in your birth! Worthy in your living! Worthy in your loving! Worthy in your serving! Worthy when you preached good news that God's kingdom has drawn near and gathered disciples, then and now, to learn and show the world what life in God's reign means: healing for the sick. new life for the dead, cleansing for the lepers, deliverance for the oppressed, freedom for the possessed, beauty for the lilies, care for the sparrows, new birth, new life, new creation breaking in for all. Worthy! Worthy! Worthy above all! Worthy too, the night we betrayed you, when you took the bread, blessed it and broke it, and gave it to your disciples. Worthy when you told them, "This is my body broken for you. Remember me." We remember. Worthy when you took the cup, praised God and shared it, and worthy when you said, "This is my blood of the new covenant for you. Remember me." We remember. We remember, and we praise you with our lives and these gifts of bread and wine, proclaiming with one voice the mystery of faith: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. Come upon us, Holy Spirit. Come upon us, Holy Spirit. Come upon these gifts.

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Come upon these gifts. Make them be for us Christ's body, Christ's blood. Make us one body in Christ enlivened by his blood. Pastor: One in heart, one in mind, one in you, Holy Spirit, as you move us to pray for the church and the world: That we may proclaim the gospel boldly: Hear us, Lord. That we may offer your healing for all who are sick, and people who are torn and weary: Hear us, Lord. That we may be channels of your mercy over all your works, in earth, and sky and sea: Hear us, Lord. That many dead and left for dead may be raised, and death itself vanquished: Hear us, Lord. That all who are unclean may receive your cleansing grace: Hear us, Lord. That all who are possessed, oppressed, distressed, depressed and downcast may be set free at last. Hear us, Lord. Even so, come and fill this feast, Holy Spirit, this day, and every day until that day when we eat it new at the marriage supper of the Lamb! All blessing and glory, thanksgiving and power, wisdom and honor and might, be yours, Holy Triune God, now and forever. Amen! BREAKING AND SHARING Music During Communion “Bless His Holy Name” TFWS 2015/ CCLI# 17566 “I Love the Lord” W&S 3142 “Bless That Wonderful Name” Africana Hymnal 4008 Thanksgiving after Communion Deacon or Pastor leads all to pray: Thank you, God, for uniting us with Jesus in this holy mystery. We are no longer our own, but yours. So send us, and put us

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to leading and serving in your mission wherever we go. Amen. SENDING FORTH Deacon and/or Spoken Word Leader Come now, we've been heard, come out of exile now... FOCUS...FOLKS God loves US. FOCUS...God SPOKE us into being FOCUS...God woke us up into dreaming FOCUS...you can...we will...GO THUS and know...this race is designed FOR US! LET'S GO! Hymn “Marching to Zion” UMH 733 Postlude

MUSIC NOTES

Lift Every Voice and Sing (UMH 519) A monumental hymn in African American churches across the country, this hymn by the creator of “God’s Trombones,” James Weldon Johnson, is a rousing call for people to praise the God of hope and freedom. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” recalls the “dark past” (stanza 1) and the power of God to liberate and bring people to victory. In addition to its place in African American history, the hymn is full of narrative imagery, and the music is incredibly dramatic. Singing this hymn takes some time because of the long text and slow tempo required to sing it appropriately. A suggested tempo would be around 132 (per eighth note). Accompany with piano, organ, or rhythm section (piano and/or organ, bass, drums). History of Hymns All the Poor and Powerless (CCLI# 5881130) This work speaks to the transformative, liberating work of God and is a great interactive piece for congregations that can be divided into multiple parts. The modern nature of the song makes it ideal for adults, youth, and children, and all of these groups can be used in leading the song. Just after the singing of the bridge, divide the congregation into two parts (this can be done with the appropriate cueing from appointed song leaders), with one section singing the chorus, and the other section singing the bridge simultaneously. Use the chord progression from the bridge to make this work. If you are able to allow multigenerational leadership with choirs, have all the groups sing together on the chorus every time. When the bridge arrives, have a

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children’s choir sing the bridge melody alone to teach it. Then welcome the congregation to join them on each successive time. Beginning the third time, invite a youth choir to begin singing the chorus simultaneously. Ideal accompaniment would be guitar, piano, or full band. As I say often, however, allow the voice to lead, and do not play the melody with a piano. The best key for congregational singing is G, which will also allow a seamless transition with the previous hymn. Our God (CCLI# 5677416) Echoing the words from Romans 8, this bold song of affirmation lifts up the nature and power of the living God. Within the liturgy this week, it is recommended to invite the congregation to recite the Apostles’ Creed during the instrumental section before the bridge. The repeated statement of the bridge then becomes a musical response and outpouring of the affirmation of faith. The ideal accompaniment is either guitar or full band, although a piano would work if not playing the melody. The ideal key is G, and I recommend a tempo a bit quicker than the one listed on the score on the CCLI site, with a quarter note = 116. We Believe in One True God (UMH 85) This sung creed is very compact and concise in its structure, and it fits within the bounds of appropriate Wesleyan doctrine and theology. Each stanza is focused upon a different person of the Trinity. RATISBON is a beautiful tune and, for the most part, easily singable. If it is unfamiliar to your congregation, don’t hesitate to use the tune DIX (commonly associated with “For the Beauty of the Earth”) instead. Accompany with organ or piano, and keep the tempo somewhere between 104-108. Your congregation will appreciate a slightly brisk tempo on this hymn when working to support the higher notes of the RATISBON tune. View and download a remarkable choral setting of this work by composer Tom Council here. Total Praise (Africana Hymnal 4021 or CCLI# 2110330) Richard Smallwood has created what has become an anthem of modern musical literature with this composition, which largely finds its scriptural basis in Psalm 121. Increasingly popular with churches of all backgrounds, this work both evokes and requires power and confidence in its singing. Accompaniment can range from piano to full band. When using The Africana Hymnal, the key printed (Db) is vocally ideal, but it may prove quite difficult for many pianists and choir vocalists because of the double flats in the final section. Another option would be to access the choral parts on the CCLI website and change the key to C. The time signature also varies depending on the source, so be sure to keep the tempo at a slow place–around 90 (CCLI) or 47 (Africana Hymnal). Bless His Holy Name (TFWS 2015/ CCLI # 17566) This song by Andraé Crouch is a perfect Act of Thanksgiving or general song of praise within any service. “Doing great things” is the business of God, and the text allows each member of the congregation to reflect upon the great things witnessed by each person, but also by the community. Worship is a public act of witness, and the affirmation that God “has done great things” builds unity as a community of faith and

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gives testimony to the power of God. The recommended tempo is around 80, and the ideal accompaniment can range from piano and/or organ to a rhythm section. A recording of Crouch singing this song can be found here. I Love the Lord (W&S 3142) Another Richard Smallwood work somewhat reminiscent of “Total Praise,” this short song offers a statement of love for God for hearing our cries and being an ever-present help in times of despair. Keep the tempo slow, with a quarter note around 50, and if possible, allow a choir to lead in four-part harmony. If a choir is not available, a unison melody accompanied by a piano or organ will also work. Begin softly, and allow the melodic line to gradually crescendo to the climax in measures 10-11. On a note of performance practice for choirs: It is also possible to sing with a brief space between each quarter note (not underneath the sustained melodic notes) and a gentle swell on each note to embody the spirit and character of a gospel choir. Bless That Wonderful Name (Africana Hymnal 4008) For an energetic song to transition from the serving and receiving of Communion toward a movement of departing from the table in praise and celebration, sing this short work featured in The Africana Hymnal. The piano part is quite challenging, but it would also be possible to sing this song a cappella with percussion and hand claps. The piano adds another layer of interest, but singing it without harmonic instrumentation can also work well. If possible, clap on the offbeats and add some stomps on beats 1 and 3. Marching to Zion (UMH 733) There are numerous ways to accompany this classic hymn, which comes from the gospel movement and Sunday school singing of the nineteenth century. Each congregation may be familiar with singing the tune in a different style, so it is important to be aware of the history of the song within your context. Also allow the liturgical framework to determine how you sing it. Since it is the closing hymn this week, make sure it is joyous, regardless of the tempo and style chosen. Accompaniment can vary between organ and/or piano to a rhythm section or full band. Keep the rhythm swinging and encourage the congregation to move or clap (on beats 2,3,5, and 6) if desired. If your congregation has a choir, it might even be appropriate to invite them to begin singing positioned around the sanctuary and lead a procession out of the worship space. Not many hymns can be sung so successfully while outdoors! The pulse and rhythm make this possible with this well-known hymn.

PREACHING NOTES

Our guest writer for the Season after Epiphany is Rev. Dr. B. Kevin Smalls. Dr. Smalls is a native of Washington D.C., and an elder in full connection with the Baltimore-Washington Conference. He currently serves as the senior pastor of Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield, Michigan.

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Dr. Smalls holds a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Claflin University, a Master of Divinity from Interdenominational Theological Center, and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, where he focused on postmodern preaching to contemporary audiences with an emphasis on hip hop culture. During his twenty years in service to the United Methodist Church, Dr. Smalls has served in a variety of appointments. He is the founder of the Young Adult Christian Cafe and the Off the Hook Bible Study. He is an author who has published one book and a number of articles in periodicals, and he is a contributor to the Africana Worship Book. Dr. Smalls is married to Lisa Karen Smalls. They share parenting responsibilities for their six children. We are pleased to share Dr. Smalls’s unique voice, poetry, and insights into the Scriptures with the wider church during this season. The Wesleyan Imagination This may be a great time to review the Ordo Salutis of Wesley/Methodists as we begin to lead people to claim God's desire for restored community. God restores community with promise fulfilled, strength delivered, and hope renewed. God's grace is at work in us when we aren't even aware of it (prevenient grace). "Have you not known, have you not heard?" We respond by giving all we have (justifying grace): “lift up your eyes on high and see!” “He gives power to the faint and strengthens the powerless” (sanctifying grace). We have been saved to run this race! Black History Month Black History Month is a time of remembering the specific struggles of African Americans that began with the enslavement of Africans, captured and brought to the United States, and their journey since. It is an invitation to all preachers, of every color, to heighten awareness and to preach a gospel of love and not hate, as we all seek to renew creation. As opposed to merely recalling the historical significance of individual African Americans, one might consider an individual experience that heightened his or her own sensitivity to the struggles and work of African American people. Perhaps a teacher, a pastor, or a national figure inspired you. Narrative preaching, from personal experience, can often be a great tool to build community and raise awareness. Today's text runs a literary theme of "have you not heard?" and "have you not seen?" This is also how conversation is often started in the grocery stores, church gathering places, shopping centers..."have you heard...did you hear?" Could God not be calling community to initiate conversation one with another? Have we not heard, have we not seen what God is doing? God is doing a marvelous thing with all of creation! Youth/Young-Adult Imagination The social world today thrives off of the speed of news, but it may actually miss news of any kind. Yet, life can be so busy, filled with distractions, so we don't even pay attention to the news circulating around us. In our day and time, we are inundated with various news networks that have different angles out of which they report on current events.

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Reporters speak from a conservative, liberal, general, and even comedic angle. The news we encounter is not just theological, religious, or ritualistic. The news we encounter today is liberating and transforming! It has the power to pull us out of slumps. It has the power to rewrite our stories. The news we encounter today gives us the courage to run toward the goal and not just walk around without destination. Trust this news...it is from God directly to us! We are being empowered to live life boldly. Out of all the news in the world, this story was reported thousands of years ago, and it still stands. Have you not heard? Focus on the real news that brings new life. Congregational Transformation The preacher must find a way continue to encourage the congregation to live into being a vital and faithful community of Jesus Christ. Some congregations go through slumps. Some congregations go through seasons of depression and fear. Today, we are invited to consider something that's not easy. We are invited to trust God no matter how bad it looks. Trust that God has not dozed off on us. Rather, God has spoken and invites us to not just strategize, figure out, contemplate, or plan, but to "lift up our eyes on high and see." Focus on what God is saying and doing. When we focus, things can turn around! Possible Celebrations (Conclusions) to Consider: A. Focus on the word Wait. Spend time with how waiting is hard, difficult, boring, uneventful and laborious. But, while waiting is all those things, it leads to something. We spend our lives waiting on Uber rides, taxis, tax refunds, the promotion, the annual sale, graduation. Waiting for those things is a part of life, for sure. But, they that wait on the Lord, will mount up...Uber comes along, tax refunds arrive once a year, promotions don't come every day;; but when God shows up everything changes, most importantly, we change, and we are empowered to walk and not faint, run and not be weary! This wait is worth every minute! B. Have you not heard, have you not seen? The sermon could very well end on a note of hearing and seeing. We can pull from ways we hear. I heard the rivers split when the people of Israel rushed through. I heard the fall of the giant Goliath when he slammed into earth from the stone of a young kid named David. I heard the poet proclaim that God is an ever-present help in the time of trouble. You can create your own list of what you've heard and what you've seen leading you to proclaim, “I heard God.” One of our writers on this team pointed out that decibels can create enormous biological reactions because hearing is everything! Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. How can they hear, without a preacher? He who has ears, let him hear. To be sensitive to the deaf or hearing impaired, it’s worth speaking of hearing with the soul as opposed to just hearing with the ears (“my soul looks back and wonders” is an idea of referencing the soul doing the hearing and seeing for us). Indeed, what we know now is our eyes do not see and our ears do not hear, not in the ways any of us, hearing or deaf, sighted or blind, usually think of or experience these things. We use ears and eyes to hear or see, but what we experience as hearing and sight is created for us and served up to our perception primarily by our brains, in our minds, and always tempered by our emotional states at the time. So hearing or seeing with the soul is, ultimately, the only way any of us ever hears or sees.

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PLANNING NOTES THE FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! FOCUS

Reading Notes NRSV texts, artwork and Revised Common Lectionary Prayers for this service are available at the Vanderbilt Divinity Library. Leccionario en Español, Leccionario Común Revisado: Consulta Sobre Textos Comunes. Lectionnaire en français, Le Lectionnaire Œcuménique Révisé Calendar Notes FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! FOCUS Color today is green. Colors next Sunday (February 11, Transfiguration) are white and gold. Beginning Ash Wednesday (February 14), the color is purple. February All Month Black History Month February 11 Transfiguration of the Lord Scouting Sunday


May All Month Christian Home Month (2018 Theme: Families Called to Peace,

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forthcoming) Asian Pacific American Heritage Month May 3 National Day of Prayer May 4 May Friendship Day (UMW/CWU) May 7-13 Christian Family Week (2018 resources forthcoming) May 10 Ascension Day May 13 Ascension Sunday Festival of the Christian Home/Mother’s Day (USA) May 19-20 Change the World Weekend May 20 Day of Pentecost Heritage Sunday (forthcoming) May 24 Aldersgate Day May 27 Trinity Sunday Peace with Justice Sunday May 28 Memorial Day (USA)


For Your Planning Team: FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY: RISE UP! FOCUS Series Outline for Rise Up! (Epiphany through Transfiguration) January 7 God Is Speaking! (Epiphany and Baptism of the Lord) Isaiah 60:1-6;; Mark 1:4-11 January 14 Listen I Samuel 3:1-10 January 21 Move Jonah 3:1-5, 10 January 28 Answer Deuteronomy 18:15-20 February 4 Focus Isaiah 40:21-31 February 11: God is Speaking! (Transfiguration) 2 Kings 2:1-12;; Mark 9:2-9 Planning This Service In week five of a six-week series, we’re starting to move toward series wrap. While mid-series is about sustaining energy and advancing development, the movement toward series wrap involves picking up the energy once again so the series starts its closure

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with a rising tide of expectation and excitement. So it may seem we’d want to deploy a lot of high energy songs, upbeat prayers, and a strong, moving sermon today.

Except for one thing. That’s not where the Scriptures are going this week. This week’s text, and the theme we’ve drawn from it, do call for an increase in energy, but not primarily kinetic energy. Instead, this week we are challenged to increase what I might call our “contemplative” energy. This is about focus, about “getting into the zone.” We can listen for God’s voice, get on the move, and develop confidence in God being one who truly answers us. But these processes, whether foregrounded or running in the background of our lives, may not be enough in themselves to lead us or sustain us on “this tedious journey.” We have to stay focused on where we’re heading if we’re going to get there. And we need to stay focused on the one who gives us the power to get there. So the first response to this week’s sermon is a sung affirmation of faith to strengthen our focus, collectively, on the redemptive presence, work, and power of our God. After that, we move straight into confession, pardon, peace, and the offering, where we also begin to kick up the kinetic energy in song, continuing through the Great Thanksgiving and into the sending. Additional Resources for this Service 2014 Planning Helps for these readings Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: (Click link to find countries for this week when they are posted)

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RISE UP! Week 6: GOD IS SPEAKING! Transfiguration of the Lord

Scouting Sunday

FULL SERVICE

Abbreviations UMH=United Methodist Hymnal CCLI=Christian Copyright Licensing International TFWS=The Faith We Sing W & S= Worship & Song SOZ=Songs of Zion

ENTRANCE The service begins with lights on low-- not darkness. Think cloudy day, parallel to the fog atop the mountain where Jesus was transfigured. If you have a fog machine, this is a good time to use it. Choir or ensemble (unseen) sing “We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder” (UMH 418, st 1, 2, 5). After stanza 1: Reader 1 (unseen): Mark 9:2b, NRSV Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. After stanza 5, lights full on, music for Shine (CCLI# 4831485) or “O Wondrous Sight” (UMH 258 or https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/o-wondrous-sight-o-vision-fair-henry) begins, as reader (unseen) reads: Reader 2: (unseen) Mark 9:2c-9:3 (NRSV, alt) And Jesus was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them. Song: “Shine” (CCLI# 4831435) OR “O Wondrous Sight, O Vision Fair,” UMH 258 or https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/o-wondrous-sight-o-vision-fair-henry Reader 3: (unseen) Mark 9:7-8 (NRSV) Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, Reader 4: (unseen) "This is my Son, the Beloved;; listen to him!" Reader 3: (unseen)

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Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus. Song and Prayer for Illumination “Turn Your Eyes upon Jesus” UMH 349 “Prayer for Illumination” UMH 6 “Turn Your Eyes upon Jesus” UMH 349 WORD AND RESPONSE Scripture 2 Kings 2:1-12 Sermon “God Is Speaking” Affirmation of Faith Apostles’ Creed, UMH 882 Prayers of the People Deacon or Prayer Leader: Let us pray, offering our intercessions with the church and the world in the words of the Jesus Prayer, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy.” Lord Jesus Christ, you reveal yourself to your disciples, and to us, in all your glory. We are left speechless. Send us the Holy Spirit to pray in and through us for the church and the world with sighs too deep for words: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy. For the leaders and members of your church throughout the world, that we may not seek to build shrines, but listen to you in simple obedience: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy. For the leaders of nations, corporations, states, cities, and other seats of influence and power, that their hearts and actions may be turned toward justice, peace, and the common good of all people: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy. For the earth-- the land, the rivers, the seas, the skies-- and for all that live with us upon it, that we may sustain it and one another in this life: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy. For all who are sick, hurting, or dying, and for all who accompany them on journeys toward healing or release, especially (names of persons known to your local community): Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy. For all who are abused or oppressed, and all who suffer because of war, or famine, or disaster, or imprisonment, that justice and deliverance may come: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy.

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For ourselves, for the forgiveness of our sin, and for the courage of Elisha to dare to ask for a double portion of your Spirit that we may boldly follow where Jesus leads: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy upon us, sinners in your sight. Silence Pastor: In the name of Christ, you are forgiven. People: In the name of Christ, you are forgiven. All: Glory to God. Amen. Pastor: The peace of Christ be always with you. People: And also with you. Pastor: Live in love, and Christ loved us, and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:2, NRSV) The peace of Christ is exchanged in the congregation. The offering is collected. Music during the Offering “Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory” TFWS 2102 (Suggested Tune: NETTLETON,UMH 400) THANKSGIVING “Let It Rise” Africana Hymnal 4017 OR CCLI #2240585 “My Tribute” Africana Hymnal 4080 SENDING FORTH Spoken Word (Taylor Burton-Edwards) You’re speaking, God, but am I ready for this, to lis- to go where Jesus leads? That’s a cross, all loss, the dross of the earth, no worth, go there. And that’s where Jesus leads? Where he bleeds, you need me to go?

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Whoa! Just get me ready, Lord. I want to be ready. “I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light” UMH 206 Dismissal with Blessing Jesus shines with glory. We are his body. God speaks the sober truth. We must listen to Jesus, and follow where he leads. You who shine now with Christ’s glory, go now from the mountain into the valley, from rejoicing to suffering, from fellowship to persecution, from a vision of eternal life to the realities of mortality, from Transfiguration to Lent. God has work for us to do. Let’s start getting ourselves and the seekers in our midst ready to do it: in the name of God, Holy Three, Holy One. Amen. Postlude “God Has Work for Us to Do” (Daw/Miller) https://www.choristersguild.org/store/cga1288-god-has-work-for-us-to-do/3704/

MUSIC NOTES

We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder (UMH 418) In addition to being unseen for this week, I recommend a choir sing this where the hymn is muffled (as in backstage or just outside the sanctuary). In other words, do not amplify the choir as they sing. Allow the spiritual to have a foreboding quality to it, inviting the congregation to explore what is found when “climbing higher.” If possible, have the choir sing a cappella. If this is unrealistic in your setting, try to have a small keyboard wherever they are located to accompany, and do not use the instrument in the sanctuary. This will preserve the effect of all music coming from an unseen location. Swinging the quarter notes is an acceptable practice with this spiritual, but there is enough room for interpretation based upon your context. Allow each stanza to build toward the climax in the third phrase and decrescendo back down for the last phrase for a sensitively sung musical arc. For continuity with the songs to follow, I recommend singing in the key of D, which is just up one half-step from the written key of Db. The accompanist could then play the notes as written (imagining a new key signature), with

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only a few accidentals (flats and naturals, in this case) needing to be adjusted. Shine (CCLI# 4831435) Matt Redman has crafted a hymn that radiates light as much as the Scripture does this week with the Transfiguration. We decided to use this as the opening of worship at our first Fusion conference (Fusion: The Future of Worship in The United Methodist Church) in 2016, and it served as a beautiful expression related to this scriptural narrative. The words, “living for your glory,” seem to point to our response to the story of Jesus bathed in light on the mountain. The song in its entirety is singable, but if it is unfamiliar to your congregation, you might want to teach them the refrain and instruct them to sing it only. The worship leader, choir, or soloists can sing the stanzas. Accompaniment can be as simple as piano or guitar, but this song will truly shine when played with a full band. The ideal key is G. O Wondrous Sight! O Vision Fair (UMH 258 or https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/o-wondrous-sight-o-vision-fair-henry) One of the classic hymns on the Transfiguration, this selection recalls the narrative from Matthew 17. Be sure to keep the tempo lively for this tune with strong emphasis on the first beat of each measure, no matter the instrumental accompaniment. It was obviously scored for four-part singing and keyboard, but I have also composed a new setting of this hymn that uses the existing tune, WAREHAM, with a refrain to be sung between stanzas. History of Hymns Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus (UMH 349) Sometimes simpler is better. This hymn illustrates the need for less accompaniment and frills to increase intimacy and poignancy. Sing this one-stanza text and tune with accompaniment as written or lightly arpeggiated on guitar or piano. Choirs often love to sing this hymn a cappella, so if this is possible where you are, make it so! Click here for a full version of the hymn, complete with stanzas. Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory (TFWS 2102) In an interesting hymn that moves us from Transfiguration to Christian perfection, Thomas Troeger gives a vivid recounting of the story from the mountain. The hymn moves us from building our own shrine in worship within the church into the world, where we live day-to-day by following Christ. While there are numerous choices for a hymn tune for this meter (87.87 D), a couple of choices are GENEVA, which is already contained in The Faith We Sing, or NETTLETON (commonly associated with “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing”). Geneva is a fairly traditional hymn tune setting best accompanied by organ or piano, but NETTLETON may open some more possibilities with a band or ensemble. Let It Rise (Africana Hymnal 4017 OR CCLI #2240585) This modern praise chorus is energetic and joyful. Its setting in The Africana Hymnal, while well written for pianists in local church settings, is somewhat reserved compared to the chord progression found on CCLI, which is more band-driven. Keep the tempo moving forward, but with a steady, commanding beat. Accompaniment can

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vary from piano and/or guitar to a full band. The range is quite small, which will assist finding a reasonable key for the transition into the next song. A suggested key for both range and ease of transition would be F. My Tribute (Africana Hymnal 4080) The chorus of this song by Andraé Crouch can be found in The United Methodist Hymnal. However, if you have never encountered the verses, refer to this song in The Africana Hymnal and assign the verse to a soloist, inviting the congregation to sing the chorus only. Your congregation is very likely familiar with Fanny Crosby’s “To God Be the Glory,” but this work presents thankfulness in a slower, thoughtful, and very different way. If your pianist is able to improvise, give him or her the freedom to do so with this selection and fill out the accompaniment. A full band or rhythm section can also make the singing of this hymn memorable. History of Hymns I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light (UMH 206) In The United Methodist Hymnal, this hymn is placed within Advent resources (“Promised Coming”), but it can be used at other times throughout the calendar when the image of the light of Christ is prominent. Transfiguration is one of the days when it is the most appropriate. Kathleen Thomerson wrote this hymn from a folk background, but oftentimes it is sung with a large and magnificent organ accompaniment. Either approach works well, and accompaniment can vary from organ to a guitar or folk ensemble (guitar, bass, flute, etc.). Since the accompaniment is written in Db, it might be advisable in your context to invite the instrumentalist(s) to play in the key of D. They should be able to read it from the page as is (while thinking in the key of D), and just turn the two G naturals (measures 15 and 27) to G sharps. History of Hymns

PREACHING NOTES

I will never forget my deep sadness when I placed my grandmother in hospice care after her doctor informed me that my grandmother was probably dying. I began to wonder if I wanted to be there when she breathed her last, or if Iwould prefer to come after her passing. I decided that I didn't want to be there when she breathed her last breath. I didn't think I could handle it emotionally. It's one thing to watch someone walk out of the room, and it's another to come to the room, once the person has gone. When the nurse called me to inform me that my grandmother had passed, I was angry with the nurse for not calling me to tell me her time was near. Yet, I knew that was grief. I arrived and found that my grandmother had quietly slipped away from us. Elisha made a different choice than I. He chose to be there the entire time. When given opportunities to turn away and pursue his own path, he decided to remain with his mentor, Elijah, even to the time of his earthly death. Elijah's impending death was not a secret. We read that the prophets were aware and even talked this over with Elisha

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(2.7) so he would be fully aware of what he was walking into. Elisha, like these fifty prophets, was aware of the dramatic conclusion centered around Elijah's death. Then this issue appeared, again. Will Elisha stay the entire time, or will he leave early? Elisha remained faithful even when he was asked by Elijah, "what can I do for you before I leave?" Elisha requested a hard thing: a double portion of his spirit. The only way, however, to get it, was to somehow be around when he "is taken from him"(2:10). There is something to be said of this type of relationship. I wasn't there with my grandmother when she left, but she's been there with me before and even since. Losing those who have led us is hard. It hurts. We'll never forget them. And through our own living, their lessons extended to us will continue to come to life with everyone we love beyond measure, touch in spite of resistance, and heal in spite of the injury. Elisha grieved deeply when he saw his mentor being taken up in glory. He ripped his clothes. But he also picked up the mantle to carry on. Black history calls all of us to pick up the mantle and continue the work that ancestors and leaders have begun to ensure freedom for all people. Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Mary McLeod Bethune (all of whom were Methodists) were some who left us with a mantle. Also, the folks in our neighborhoods, schools, communities who have helped us grow in wisdom and grace are worthy of our recall as we call people to remember the struggle for freedom. Youth and young adults also grieve the loss of grandparents and prominent figures who have passed away. Congregations long for those leaders they can't seem to replace. The preached word should require us to pick up the mantle, not as a replacement for grieving, but as a treatment of it. The hope in this message is often found in our affirmation of faith, the Apostles’ Creed, as we believe in the communion of saints. This communion comes alive in us as we do the work that has been left to our hands.

PLANNING NOTES

TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD: RISE UP! GOD IS SPEAKING! Reading Notes NRSV texts, artwork and Revised Common Lectionary Prayers for this service are available at the Vanderbilt Divinity Library. Leccionario en Español, Leccionario Común Revisado: Consulta Sobre Textos Comunes.

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Lectionnaire en français, Le Lectionnaire Œcuménique Révisé Calendar Notes TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD: RISE UP! GOD IS SPEAKING Colors today (Transfiguration) are white and gold. Beginning Ash Wednesday (February 14), the color is purple. February All Month Black History Month February 11 Transfiguration of the Lord Scouting Sunday


May All Month Christian Home Month (2018 Theme: Families Called to Peace, forthcoming) Asian Pacific American Heritage Month May 3 National Day of Prayer May 4 May Friendship Day (UMW/CWU) May 7-13 Christian Family Week (2018 resources forthcoming) May 10 Ascension Day May 13 Ascension Sunday Festival of the Christian Home/Mother’s Day (USA) May 19-20 Change the World Weekend May 20 Day of Pentecost

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Heritage Sunday (forthcoming) May 24 Aldersgate Day May 27 Trinity Sunday Peace with Justice Sunday May 28 Memorial Day (USA)


For Your Planning Team: EPIPHANY/BAPTISM OF THE LORD: RISE UP! GOD IS SPEAKING! Series Outline for Rise Up! (Epiphany through Transfiguration) January 7 God Is Speaking! (Epiphany and Baptism of the Lord) Isaiah 60:1-6;; Mark 1:4-11 January 14 Listen I Samuel 3:1-10 January 21 Move Jonah 3:1-5, 10 January 28 Answer Deuteronomy 18:15-20 February 4 Focus Isaiah 40:21-31 February 11: God is Speaking! (Transfiguration) 2 Kings 2:1-12;; Mark 9:2-9 Planning for This Service and the Upcoming Series The series wrap is always summary and segue. Today’s service order can help you do both. We’ve been on a journey this Season after Epiphany of “getting ready to get ready.” We’ve been reminding ourselves of some key realities about God and ourselves and some key practices we need to undertake so that we can take the next major step-- the Lenten journey of Christians realigning ourselves with the way of Christ and accompanying seekers on the journey to learn how to follow in his way as preparation for baptism at Easter. Today’s two focus texts, the stories of the transfiguration of Jesus and the death of

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Elijah, witnessed and accompanied by Elisha, point us both to where we’ve been and where we need to go next. The season after Epiphany is “bookended” by a voice from heaven declaring Jesus God’s beloved Son. But this time, we hear more: the call to listen to him, which means to follow where he leads. Though we do not read the story that immediately follows in Mark (and the other synoptics) this week, we know what comes next. Jesus takes his disciples from the mountain into the valley, where they find themselves woefully unprepared to undertake the mass of suffering that lay before them. Here Jesus is quite clear what they must do to get ready. They need to go on a “rehab” plan focusing on prayer and fasting. And this is just what the Lenten journey, which begins this week, specializes in! Though we don’t hear the next piece in the Jesus story, we do see something quite similar in the Elijah and Elisha story that follows in today’s service, and provides the primary basis for today’s sermon and sermon notes. Elisha has been Elijah’s disciple. And now Elisha, having been on many glorious journeys with Elijah, must go on a more solemn one: the final journey of Elijah’s life and his passing into death. He does take this journey to its conclusion, and in his mentor’s death, Elisha finds both grief and life. We who follow Jesus follow where he leads. And he most often leads into places of suffering and death, including his and potentially our own death. We’ve been learning what it is to listen, to move, to answer, and to focus in the midst of life. Now we are called to do this far more profoundly in the face of the constant suffering and death into which we are sent by Jesus as signs and witnesses of his death and life. And for that, we need the work of Lent. This year’s theme for our Lenten series is “Rehab.” Each week of the series calls us further into a rehab experience that, we trust, will prepare us for facing Christ’s death during Holy Week and our calling as his resurrection people in the face of death for the rest of our lives. The Sending Forth in today’s service functions as the segue into the next series, which kicks off with Ash Wednesday and begins in earnest next Sunday. In the Series to Come: Rehab Week 1: February 18 Wilderness Mark 1:9-15 Week 2: February 25 Intervention Mark 8:31-38 Week 3: March 4 Program Exodus 20:1-17 Week 4: March 11 Recovery John 3:14-18 Week 5: March 18 Promise

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Jeremiah 31:31-34 Additional Resources for this Service 2014 Planning Helps for these readings Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: (Click link to find countries for this week when they are posted)

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