CREATIVE While Shepherds Watched€¦ · About While Shepherds Watched Watched While Shepherds...

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WatchedA Series of Special Services for Advent

By Arden W. Mead

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A Series of Special Services for Advent

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A Series of Special Services for Advent 3WE-2

Index

About While Shepherds Watched ............................4-5

Service One: The Shepherd Abraham ....................6-24

Service Two: The Shepherd Moses .......................25-43

Service Three: The Shepherd David .....................44-62

Service Four: The Bethlehem Shepherds .............63-81

Music Guide ..........................................................82-126

By Arden W. Mead. Art by Sally Beck. © 1999 by Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026.

1-800-325-9414. creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.


By Arden W. Mead

WatchedWatchedWatchedWhile Shepherds

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....................6-24

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Index

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Index

About While Shepherds Watched

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About While Shepherds Watched ............................4-5

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............................4-5

d Abraham

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d Abraham....................6-24

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....................6-24

.......................25-43

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.......................25-43

.....................44-62

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.............63-81

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SAMPLESAbout While Shepherds Watched

SAMPLESAbout While Shepherds Watched

Service One: The Shepher

SAMPLESService One: The Shepherd Abraham

SAMPLESd Abraham

wo: The Shepherd Moses

SAMPLESwo: The Shepherd Moses

ee: The Shepherd David

SAMPLESee: The Shepherd David

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“A shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise and believed. His name was Abraham ...”

So begins WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED, a series of special services for Ad-vent—a new, insightful twist on what we often consider the traditional “Christmas Shepherds.”

WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED considers, week by week, the great biblical shep-herds who led, in their way, to the miracle of Jesus’ birth:

Service One • The Shepherd Abraham

Service Two • The Shepherd Moses

Service Three • The Shepherd David

Service Four • The Bethlehem Shepherds

Following the opening liturgy (employing biblical “shepherd” verses along with hymn stanzas) and scripture readings (three for each week), each service features a three-character drama. The main reader represents the title character (Abraham, Moses, David, an old Bethlehem shepherd). The second reader responds directly to the main character (Sarah, Joshua, Solomon, the Bethlehem shepherd’s grandson). The third voice, reading from the balcony or the back of the church, represents the voice of the Lord.

About While Shepherds Watched


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“A shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise and believed.

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His name was Abraham ...”

So begins WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED, a series of special services for Ad-

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So begins WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED, a series of special services for Ad-vent—a new, insightful twist on what we often consider the traditional “Christmas

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vent—a new, insightful twist on what we often consider the traditional “Christmas

WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED considers, week by week, the great biblical shep-

CREATIVE WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED considers, week by week, the great biblical shep-herds who led, in their way, to the miracle of Jesus’ birth:

CREATIVE herds who led, in their way, to the miracle of Jesus’ birth:


CREATIVE Service One • The Shepherd Abraham

About CREATIVE

About While Shepherds WatchedCREATIVE

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“A shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise and believed.

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His name was Abraham ...”

So begins WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED, a series of special services for Ad-

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So begins WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED, a series of special services for Ad-vent—a new, insightful twist on what we often consider the traditional “Christmas

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vent—a new, insightful twist on what we often consider the traditional “Christmas


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herds who led, in their way, to the miracle of Jesus’ birth:


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COMMUNICATIONS Service Four • The Bethlehem Shepherds

Following the opening liturgy (employing biblical “shepherd” verses along with

COMMUNICATIONS Following the opening liturgy (employing biblical “shepherd” verses along with hymn stanzas) and scripture readings (three for each week), each service features

COMMUNICATIONS hymn stanzas) and scripture readings (three for each week), each service features

. The main reader represents the title character (Abraham,

COMMUNICATIONS . The main reader represents the title character (Abraham, Moses, David, an old Bethlehem shepherd). The second reader responds directly to

COMMUNICATIONS Moses, David, an old Bethlehem shepherd). The second reader responds directly to the main character (Sarah, Joshua, Solomon, the Bethlehem shepherd’s grandson).

COMMUNICATIONS the main character (Sarah, Joshua, Solomon, the Bethlehem shepherd’s grandson).

About

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About

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So begins WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED, a series of special services for Ad-SAMPLES

So begins WHILE SHEPHERDS WATCHED, a series of special services for Ad-vent—a new, insightful twist on what we often consider the traditional “Christmas SAMPLES

vent—a new, insightful twist on what we often consider the traditional “Christmas Shepherds.”

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Shepherds.”


SAMPLES


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herds who led, in their way, to the miracle of Jesus’ birth:


SAMPLESService One • The Shepherd Abraham


SAMPLESService Two • The Shepherd Moses


SAMPLESService Three • The Shepherd David


SAMPLESService Four • The Bethlehem Shepherds

Following the opening liturgy (employing biblical “shepherd” verses along with

SAMPLESFollowing the opening liturgy (employing biblical “shepherd” verses along with


The congregation participates in the dramas by singing successive hymn stanzas (which are printed in the worship folder). At the conclusion of the drama, the pastor delivers a brief homily, which is included in this book and on the accompanying CD-ROM, along with children’s sermons for each service, prayers, and music for the organist.

The fourth service can be used by your congregation during the fourth week of Advent, or on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

CD-ROMA CD-ROM is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF form (for reprinting) and text files for the services and dramas (for revising, if you wish). Also included are PDF files for bulletins, set up and ready for reproduction. Purchase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community.

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CD-ROMCREATIVE

CD-ROMA CD-ROM is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF

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A CD-ROM is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF CREATIVE

form (for reprinting) and text files for the services and dramas (for revising, if you

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form (for reprinting) and text files for the services and dramas (for revising, if you wish). Also included are PDF files for bulletins, set up and ready for reproduction.

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wish). Also included are PDF files for bulletins, set up and ready for reproduction.

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Purchase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community.

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The fourth service can be used by your congregation during the fourth week of COMMUNICATIONS

The fourth service can be used by your congregation during the fourth week of Advent, or on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.COMMUNICATIONS

Advent, or on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

A CD-ROM is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF

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A CD-ROM is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF

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form (for reprinting) and text files for the services and dramas (for revising, if you

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form (for reprinting) and text files for the services and dramas (for revising, if you wish). Also included are PDF files for bulletins, set up and ready for reproduction.

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wish). Also included are PDF files for bulletins, set up and ready for reproduction.

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Service One: The Shepherd Abraham

An Order Of Service .................................................7-10

Scripture Readings ................................................. 11-12

Children’s Sermon ..................................................13-14

Script .........................................................................15-19

Concluding Homily ................................................20-22

Prayers ......................................................................23-24


By Arden W. Mead


CREATIVE Service One: The Shepherd Abraham

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An Order Of Service

SAMPLESAn Order Of Service.................................................7-10

SAMPLES.................................................7-10

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.........................................................................15-19

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An Order Of Service

—The Shepherd Abraham—Gathering..................................................... Quem.Pastores..

He whom shepherds came beholding,In the arms of faith enfolding,He, the universe upholding,

Our Good Shepherd, Christ draws near.

Lift your eyes, God’s mercy knowing;Like the stars in heaven glowing,

Count God’s blessings overflowing.Look, O shepherds, God is here!

PO Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock.CAll who believe, as Abraham did, receive your promised righteousness.PWe are the people you care for, the flock for which you provide.CYou make us lie down in green pastures; you lead us beside the still waters;

you restore our souls.PAll of us were like sheep who had gone astray, turning to our own ways.CYou lead us in the paths of righteousness for your name’s sake.PFrom death you raised our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep.CEven in the valley of darkest shadows, your rod and staff provide comfort.P“Have no fear, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom.”CAt your table we are secure; our heads are anointed, our cups overflow.PThe Lamb at the center of the throne will be our Shepherd, to wipe away every tear from

our eyes.


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An Order Of ServiceCREATIVE

An Order Of Service

—The Shepherd Abraham—

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—The Shepherd Abraham—Gathering..................................................... Quem

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Gathering..................................................... Quem

He whom shepherds came beholding,

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He whom shepherds came beholding,In the arms of faith enfolding,

CREATIVE In the arms of faith enfolding,He, the universe upholding,

CREATIVE He, the universe upholding,


CREATIVE Our Good Shepherd, Christ draws near.

Lift your eyes, God’s mercy knowing;

CREATIVE Lift your eyes, God’s mercy knowing;

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—The Shepherd Abraham—Gathering..................................................... Quem

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Gathering..................................................... Quem

He whom shepherds came beholding,

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In the arms of faith enfolding,He, the universe upholding,

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He, the universe upholding,Our Good Shepherd, Christ draws near.

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Lift your eyes, God’s mercy knowing;Like the stars in heaven glowing,

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Like the stars in heaven glowing,Count God’s blessings overflowing.

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Count God’s blessings overflowing.Look, O shepherds, God is here!

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Look, O shepherds, God is here!

All who believe, as Abraham did, receive your promised righteousness.

COMMUNICATIONS All who believe, as Abraham did, receive your promised righteousness.

You make us lie down in green pastures; you lead us beside the still waters;

COMMUNICATIONS You make us lie down in green pastures; you lead us beside the still waters;

Even in the valley of darkest shadows, your rod and staff provide comfort.

COMMUNICATIONS Even in the valley of darkest shadows, your rod and staff provide comfort.

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Gathering..................................................... QuemSAMPLES

Gathering..................................................... Quem

He whom shepherds came beholding,SAMPLES


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In the arms of faith enfolding,He, the universe upholding,

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He, the universe upholding,Our Good Shepherd, Christ draws near.

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SAMPLESLift your eyes, God’s mercy knowing;

Like the stars in heaven glowing,

SAMPLESLike the stars in heaven glowing,

Count God’s blessings overflowing.

SAMPLESCount God’s blessings overflowing.

Look, O shepherds, God is here!

SAMPLESLook, O shepherds, God is here!

O Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock.

SAMPLESO Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock.All who believe, as Abraham did, receive your promised righteousness.

SAMPLESAll who believe, as Abraham did, receive your promised righteousness.We are the people you care for, the flock for which you provide.

SAMPLESWe are the people you care for, the flock for which you provide.You make us lie down in green pastures; you lead us beside the still waters;

SAMPLESYou make us lie down in green pastures; you lead us beside the still waters;


CAnd we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.PAll who believe, as Abraham did, receive the Lord’s promised righteousness.

Where the sheep are safely grazing,Shepherds, sing, your Shepherd praising,

Grateful hearts and voices raisingTo the Lord who cares for all.

See, in answer to our yearning,God’s great love so brightly burning.

To our need the Lord is turning,For God hears our plaintive call.

The.Prayer.of.the.Day

Christians, come; the blessing ponder:Though like sheep we all did wander,

Still our Shepherd seeks us yonder,For we have been sought and found.

Gracious Shepherd, stand beside us;To green pastures gently guide us;With your rod and staff provide us;

Let your blessings still abound.

The.First.Lesson............................................. Genesis.15:1-6

Oh, come, oh, come, Emmanuel,And ransom captive Israel,

That mourns in lonely exile hereUntil the Son of God appear.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.

The.Second.Lesson..................................... Romans.4:17-25

Oh, come, blest Dayspring, come and cheerOur spirits by your advent here;

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,And death’s dark shadows put to flight.


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God’s great love so brightly burning.CREATIVE

God’s great love so brightly burning.To our need the Lord is turning,CREATIVE

To our need the Lord is turning,For God hears our plaintive call.CREATIVE

For God hears our plaintive call.

Prayer

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Prayer of

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of

Christians, come; the blessing ponder:

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Though like sheep we all did wander,Still our Shepherd seeks us yonder,

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For we have been sought and found.

Gracious Shepherd, stand beside us;

CREATIVE Gracious Shepherd, stand beside us;

To green pastures gently guide us;

CREATIVE To green pastures gently guide us;With your rod and staff provide us;

CREATIVE With your rod and staff provide us;

Lesson............................................. Genesis

CREATIVE Lesson............................................. Genesis

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The

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The

Christians, come; the blessing ponder:

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Though like sheep we all did wander,Still our Shepherd seeks us yonder,

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Gracious Shepherd, stand beside us;To green pastures gently guide us;

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To green pastures gently guide us;With your rod and staff provide us;

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With your rod and staff provide us;Let your blessings still abound.

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Let your blessings still abound.

Lesson............................................. Genesis

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Lesson............................................. Genesis

Oh, come, oh, come, Emmanuel,

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COMMUNICATIONS Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.

COMMUNICATIONS omans

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For we have been sought and found.SAMPLES



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Gracious Shepherd, stand beside us;To green pastures gently guide us;

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To green pastures gently guide us;With your rod and staff provide us;

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With your rod and staff provide us;Let your blessings still abound.

SAMPLESLet your blessings still abound.

Lesson............................................. Genesis

SAMPLESLesson............................................. Genesis


SAMPLESOh, come, oh, come, Emmanuel,

SAMPLESAnd ransom captive Israel,

SAMPLESAnd ransom captive Israel,That mourns in lonely exile here

SAMPLESThat mourns in lonely exile hereUntil the Son of God appear.

SAMPLESUntil the Son of God appear.


SAMPLESRejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.


The.Gospel............................................ John.8:31-47,.56-58

THE.SHEPHERD.ABRAHAMThese hymn stanzas are sung, one at a time, during the drama:

While Abram watched his flocks, the Lord of hosts drew nighTo offer precious promises beneath a star-filled sky.

Our God in love provides a wonderful surprise:A child of hope the future holds—O shepherd, lift your eyes!

A sacrifice awaits, a gracious God’s reward.With faithful Abraham behold the mountain of the Lord!

To pastures rich and green, through valleys dark and deep,In grace God chooses, calls, directs; the Shepherd leads his sheep.

The.Homily

A.Hymn.................................... The.God.of.Abraham.Praise

The God of Abr’ham praise, who reigns enthroned above,Ancient of everlasting days, and God of love.

Jehovah, great I Am! By earth and heav’n confessed;I bow and bless the sacred name forever blest.

The God of Abr’ham praise, whose all-sufficient grace Shall guide me all my pilgrim days in all my ways.

He deigns to call me friend; he calls himself my God!And he shall save me to the end through Jesus’ blood.

God by himself has sworn; I on his oath depend.I shall, on eagle wings upborne, to heav’n ascend.

I shall behold his face; I shall his pow’r adore,And sing the wonders of his grace forevermore.

The.Prayers

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Our God in love provides a wonderful surprise:CREATIVE

Our God in love provides a wonderful surprise:A child of hope the future holds—O shepherd, lift your eyes!CREATIVE

A child of hope the future holds—O shepherd, lift your eyes!

A sacrifice awaits, a gracious God’s reward.CREATIVE


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With faithful Abraham behold the mountain of the Lord!

To pastures rich and green, through valleys dark and deep,

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In grace God chooses, calls, directs; the Shepherd leads his sheep.

Homily

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Homily

God

CREATIVE God of

CREATIVE of Abraham

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The God of Abr’ham praise, who reigns enthroned above,

CREATIVE The God of Abr’ham praise, who reigns enthroned above,

Ancient of everlasting days, and God of love.

CREATIVE Ancient of everlasting days, and God of love.Jehovah, great I Am! By earth and heav’n confessed;

CREATIVE Jehovah, great I Am! By earth and heav’n confessed;I bow and bless the sacred name forever blest.

CREATIVE I bow and bless the sacred name forever blest.

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A sacrifice awaits, a gracious God’s reward.

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With faithful Abraham behold the mountain of the Lord!

To pastures rich and green, through valleys dark and deep,

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The

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The Homily

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Homily

Hymn.................................... The

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Hymn.................................... The


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Ancient of everlasting days, and God of love.Jehovah, great I Am! By earth and heav’n confessed;

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Jehovah, great I Am! By earth and heav’n confessed;I bow and bless the sacred name forever blest.

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I bow and bless the sacred name forever blest.

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The God of Abr’ham praise, whose all-sufficient grace

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The God of Abr’ham praise, whose all-sufficient grace Shall guide me all my pilgrim days in all my ways.

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Shall guide me all my pilgrim days in all my ways.He deigns to call me friend; he calls himself my God!

COMMUNICATIONS He deigns to call me friend; he calls himself my God!And he shall save me to the end through Jesus’ blood.

COMMUNICATIONS And he shall save me to the end through Jesus’ blood.

God by himself has sworn; I on his oath depend.

COMMUNICATIONS God by himself has sworn; I on his oath depend.

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In grace God chooses, calls, directs; the Shepherd leads his sheep.SAMPLES


Hymn.................................... The

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Hymn.................................... The


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SAMPLESAncient of everlasting days, and God of love.

Jehovah, great I Am! By earth and heav’n confessed;

SAMPLESJehovah, great I Am! By earth and heav’n confessed;

I bow and bless the sacred name forever blest.

SAMPLESI bow and bless the sacred name forever blest.

SAMPLESThe God of Abr’ham praise, whose all-sufficient grace

SAMPLESThe God of Abr’ham praise, whose all-sufficient grace Shall guide me all my pilgrim days in all my ways.

SAMPLESShall guide me all my pilgrim days in all my ways.He deigns to call me friend; he calls himself my God!

SAMPLESHe deigns to call me friend; he calls himself my God!And he shall save me to the end through Jesus’ blood.

SAMPLESAnd he shall save me to the end through Jesus’ blood.

God by himself has sworn; I on his oath depend.

SAMPLESGod by himself has sworn; I on his oath depend.


The.OfferingThe Lord’s Prayer or the celebration of Holy Communion

A.Benediction............................................Hebrews.13:20-21

PFrom death God has raised our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep.CHis sacrificial death guarantees the eternal covenant.PMay the God of peace provide you with every good thing you need in order to do his will.CAnd may God, through Jesus Christ, do in us what pleases him.PAnd to Christ be the glory forever and ever.CAmen.

A.Closing.Stanza......................................... Quem.Pastores

God’s dear flock, rich blessing reaping,Guided waking, guarded sleeping,

Safe within the Shepherd’s keeping,Keep the faith of Abraham!

CREATIVE

May the God of peace provide you with every good thing you need in order to do his will.CREATIVE

May the God of peace provide you with every good thing you need in order to do his will.And may God, through Jesus Christ, do in us what pleases him.CREATIVE

And may God, through Jesus Christ, do in us what pleases him.And to Christ be the glory forever and ever.CREATIVE

And to Christ be the glory forever and ever.CREATIVE

Stanza......................................... Quem

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Stanza......................................... Quem

God’s dear flock, rich blessing reaping,

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Guided waking, guarded sleeping,

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Safe within the Shepherd’s keeping,

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Keep the faith of Abraham!

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PCOMMUNICATIONS

PFrom death God has raised our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep.COMMUNICATIONS

From death God has raised our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep.CCOMMUNICATIONS

CHis sacrificial death guarantees the eternal covenant.COMMUNICATIONS

His sacrificial death guarantees the eternal covenant.P

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PMay the God of peace provide you with every good thing you need in order to do his will.

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May the God of peace provide you with every good thing you need in order to do his will.And may God, through Jesus Christ, do in us what pleases him.

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And may God, through Jesus Christ, do in us what pleases him.And to Christ be the glory forever and ever.

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And to Christ be the glory forever and ever.

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Stanza......................................... Quem

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Stanza......................................... Quem

God’s dear flock, rich blessing reaping,

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Guided waking, guarded sleeping,

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Safe within the Shepherd’s keeping,

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Keep the faith of Abraham!

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Scripture Readings

—The Shepherd Abraham—The.First.Lesson............................................. Genesis.15:1-6L After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid,

Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lord reckoned it to him as righteousness.

The.Second.Lesson..................................... Romans.4:17-25L (As it is written, “I have made you, Abraham, the father of many nations”)—in the pres-

ence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. Hoping against hope, Abraham believed that he would become “the father of many nations,” according to what was said, “So numerous shall your de-scendants be.” He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was already as good as dead (for he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah’s womb. No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. Therefore his faith “was reckoned to him as righteousness.” Now the words, “it was reckoned to him,” were written not for his sake


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Scripture ReadingsCREATIVE

Scripture Readings

—The Shepherd Abraham—CREATIVE

—The Shepherd Abraham—Lesson............................................. Genesis

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Lesson............................................. Genesisthese things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid,

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these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord

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Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer

CREATIVE God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer

And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born

CREATIVE And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born

in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not

CREATIVE in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside

CREATIVE be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then

CREATIVE and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lord

CREATIVE he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lord

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—The Shepherd Abraham—Lesson............................................. Genesis

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Lesson............................................. Genesisthese things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid,

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God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born

COMMUNICATIONS

And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not

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in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside

COMMUNICATIONS

be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then

COMMUNICATIONS

and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lord

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he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lord

Lesson..................................... R

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Lesson..................................... Romans

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omansLesson..................................... RomansLesson..................................... R

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Lesson..................................... RomansLesson..................................... R

COMMUNICATIONS As it is written, “I have made you, Abraham, the father of many nations”)—in the pres-

COMMUNICATIONS As it is written, “I have made you, Abraham, the father of many nations”)—in the pres-

ence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the

COMMUNICATIONS ence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. Hoping against hope, Abraham believed that he would become

COMMUNICATIONS things that do not exist. Hoping against hope, Abraham believed that he would become “the father of many nations,” according to what was said, “So numerous shall your de-

COMMUNICATIONS “the father of many nations,” according to what was said, “So numerous shall your de-scendants be.” He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was

COMMUNICATIONS scendants be.” He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (for he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered

COMMUNICATIONS as good as dead (for he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah’s womb. No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of

COMMUNICATIONS the barrenness of Sarah’s womb. No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of

SAMPLES

Lesson............................................. GenesisSAMPLES

Lesson............................................. Genesisthese things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid, SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?”

SAMPLES

of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born

SAMPLES

And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not

SAMPLES

in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside

SAMPLES

be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then

SAMPLESand said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lord

SAMPLEShe said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lordeckoned it to him as righteousness.

SAMPLESeckoned it to him as righteousness.

Lesson..................................... R

SAMPLESLesson..................................... R

SAMPLESAs it is written, “I have made you, Abraham, the father of many nations”)—in the pres-

SAMPLESAs it is written, “I have made you, Abraham, the father of many nations”)—in the pres-ence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the

SAMPLESence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. Hoping against hope, Abraham believed that he would become

SAMPLESthings that do not exist. Hoping against hope, Abraham believed that he would become


alone, but for ours also. It will be reckoned to us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was handed over to death for our trespasses and was raised for our justification.

The.Gospel............................................ John.8:31-47,.56-58

LThen Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are descendants of Abraham; yet you look for an opportunity to kill me, because there is no place in you for my word. I declare what I have seen in the Father’s presence; as for you, you should do what you have heard from the Father.” They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing what Abraham did, but now you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did. You are indeed doing what your father does.” They said to him, “We are not illegitimate children; we have one father, God himself.” Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Who-ever is from God hears the words of God. The reason you do not hear them is that you are not from God. Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and was glad.” Then the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.”

CREATIVE

They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to CREATIVE

They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, CREATIVE

anyone. What do you mean by saying, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not CREATIVE

“Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. So if the Son

CREATIVE

have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are descendants of Abraham;

CREATIVE

makes you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are descendants of Abraham; yet you look for an opportunity to kill me, because there is no place in you for my word.

CREATIVE

yet you look for an opportunity to kill me, because there is no place in you for my word. I declare what I have seen in the Father’s presence; as for you, you should do what you

CREATIVE

I declare what I have seen in the Father’s presence; as for you, you should do what you They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to

CREATIVE

They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing

CREATIVE

them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doingyou are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is

CREATIVE

you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did. You are indeed doing what your father does.” They said to him,

CREATIVE

not what Abraham did. You are indeed doing what your father does.” They said to him, “We are not illegitimate children; we have one father, God himself.” Jesus said to them,

CREATIVE “We are not illegitimate children; we have one father, God himself.” Jesus said to them,

CREATIVE “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I

CREATIVE “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is

CREATIVE did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose

CREATIVE because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in

CREATIVE to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own

CREATIVE the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe

CREATIVE nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Who-

CREATIVE me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Who-

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LCOMMUNICATIONS

LThen Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you COMMUNICATIONS

Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” COMMUNICATIONS

are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to

COMMUNICATIONS

They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them,

COMMUNICATIONS

anyone. What do you mean by saying, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not

COMMUNICATIONS

“Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. So if the Son

COMMUNICATIONS

have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are descendants of Abraham;

COMMUNICATIONS

makes you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are descendants of Abraham; yet you look for an opportunity to kill me, because there is no place in you for my word.

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yet you look for an opportunity to kill me, because there is no place in you for my word. I declare what I have seen in the Father’s presence; as for you, you should do what you

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I declare what I have seen in the Father’s presence; as for you, you should do what you have heard from the Father.”

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have heard from the Father.” They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to

COMMUNICATIONS

They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing

COMMUNICATIONS

them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doingyou are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is

COMMUNICATIONS

you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did. You are indeed doing what your father does.” They said to him,

COMMUNICATIONS


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“We are not illegitimate children; we have one father, God himself.” Jesus said to them,

COMMUNICATIONS

“If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I

COMMUNICATIONS

“If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is

COMMUNICATIONS

did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose

COMMUNICATIONS

because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in

COMMUNICATIONS

to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own

COMMUNICATIONS

the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe

COMMUNICATIONS

nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Who-

COMMUNICATIONS

me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Who-ever is from God hears the words of God. The reason you do not hear them is that you are

COMMUNICATIONS

ever is from God hears the words of God. The reason you do not hear them is that you are

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not from God. Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and

COMMUNICATIONS

not from God. Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and was glad.” Then the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen

COMMUNICATIONS was glad.” Then the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen

COMMUNICATIONS ery truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.”

COMMUNICATIONS ery truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.”

SAMPLES

have heard from the Father.”SAMPLES

have heard from the Father.”them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doingSAMPLES

them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doingyou are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is SAMPLES

you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did. You are indeed doing what your father does.” They said to him, SAMPLES


SAMPLES

“We are not illegitimate children; we have one father, God himself.” Jesus said to them,

SAMPLES

“If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I

SAMPLES

“If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is

SAMPLES

did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose

SAMPLES

because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in

SAMPLESto do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own

SAMPLESthe truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe

SAMPLESnature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Who-

SAMPLESme. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Who-ever is from God hears the words of God. The reason you do not hear them is that you are

SAMPLESever is from God hears the words of God. The reason you do not hear them is that you are

SAMPLESnot from God. Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and

SAMPLESnot from God. Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and was glad.” Then the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen

SAMPLESwas glad.” Then the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen

SAMPLESery truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.”

SAMPLESery truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.”


Children’s Sermon

—The Shepherd Abraham—I’d like to ask you to use your imagination. Let’s all look up, as straight as we can look.

What do you see? The ceiling of course. But this is where your imagination comes in. Pretend that the ceiling isn’t there. Pretend we can look beyond it, into the sky. Straight up.

Imagine it is nighttime, and we’re going to be looking for stars. That’s what God once told the shepherd Abraham to do, remember? “Look at the stars.”

Right now all we see is one star—the first star of the evening. If someone said, “Count the stars,” this would be easy, wouldn’t it? “ONE!”

Remember that. The counting started with “one.”

Now more stars are becoming visible. Can we count them? “Two, three, four, five ...” Oh oh! So many stars are becoming visible that it may take a long time to count them.

I bet there are more than a hundred there. More than a thousand. More than a mil-lion! And still counting.


CREATIVE

Children’s SermonCREATIVE

Children’s Sermon


—The Shepherd Abraham—I’d like to ask you to use your imagination. Let’s all look up, as straight as we can

CREATIVE

I’d like to ask you to use your imagination. Let’s all look up, as straight as we can

What do you see? The ceiling of course. But this is where your imagination comes

CREATIVE What do you see? The ceiling of course. But this is where your imagination comes in. Pretend that the ceiling isn’t there. Pretend we can look beyond it, into the sky.

CREATIVE in. Pretend that the ceiling isn’t there. Pretend we can look beyond it, into the sky.

Imagine it is nighttime, and we’re going to be looking for stars. That’s what God

CREATIVE Imagine it is nighttime, and we’re going to be looking for stars. That’s what God once told the shepherd Abraham to do, remember? “Look at the stars.”

CREATIVE once told the shepherd Abraham to do, remember? “Look at the stars.”

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—The Shepherd Abraham—I’d like to ask you to use your imagination. Let’s all look up, as straight as we can

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COMMUNICATIONS

What do you see? The ceiling of course. But this is where your imagination comes in. Pretend that the ceiling isn’t there. Pretend we can look beyond it, into the sky.

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in. Pretend that the ceiling isn’t there. Pretend we can look beyond it, into the sky.


COMMUNICATIONS

Imagine it is nighttime, and we’re going to be looking for stars. That’s what God once told the shepherd Abraham to do, remember? “Look at the stars.”

COMMUNICATIONS

once told the shepherd Abraham to do, remember? “Look at the stars.”

Right now all we see is one star—the first star of the evening. If someone said,

COMMUNICATIONS

Right now all we see is one star—the first star of the evening. If someone said, “Count the stars,” this would be easy, wouldn’t it? “ONE!”

COMMUNICATIONS

“Count the stars,” this would be easy, wouldn’t it? “ONE!”

Now more stars are becoming visible. Can we count them? “Two, three, four, five

COMMUNICATIONS Now more stars are becoming visible. Can we count them? “Two, three, four, five ...” Oh oh! So many stars are becoming visible that it may take a long time to count

COMMUNICATIONS ...” Oh oh! So many stars are becoming visible that it may take a long time to count

I bet there are more than a hundred there. More than a thousand. More than a mil-

COMMUNICATIONS I bet there are more than a hundred there. More than a thousand. More than a mil-

SAMPLES

I’d like to ask you to use your imagination. Let’s all look up, as straight as we can SAMPLES



SAMPLES

What do you see? The ceiling of course. But this is where your imagination comes in. Pretend that the ceiling isn’t there. Pretend we can look beyond it, into the sky.

SAMPLES

in. Pretend that the ceiling isn’t there. Pretend we can look beyond it, into the sky.


SAMPLESImagine it is nighttime, and we’re going to be looking for stars. That’s what God once told the shepherd Abraham to do, remember? “Look at the stars.”

SAMPLESonce told the shepherd Abraham to do, remember? “Look at the stars.”

Right now all we see is one star—the first star of the evening. If someone said,

SAMPLESRight now all we see is one star—the first star of the evening. If someone said, “Count the stars,” this would be easy, wouldn’t it? “ONE!”

SAMPLES“Count the stars,” this would be easy, wouldn’t it? “ONE!”

Remember that. The counting started with “one.”

SAMPLESRemember that. The counting started with “one.”

Now more stars are becoming visible. Can we count them? “Two, three, four, five

SAMPLESNow more stars are becoming visible. Can we count them? “Two, three, four, five


That’s what God told the old shepherd Abraham: “Try to count the stars. That’s how many children I will give you. That’s how many blessings I will give you, because you trust in me.”

One day, we know, there would be a special star in the sky—a star to let people know that a special child of Abraham had been born. You know who that is, don’t you?

If you were counting, Jesus’ star would be a long way from where we began. But for today, we’re looking with Abraham at the beginning. The counting begins with “one”—with Abraham and Sarah’s baby, Isaac.

“ONE!”

But once the counting begins, well, it’s like counting stars.

One baby—baby Isaac—will eventually lead to another baby. Baby Jesus is coming soon. Which is good, because we’re counting on him.

CREATIVE

“one”—with Abraham and Sarah’s baby, Isaac.CREATIVE

“one”—with Abraham and Sarah’s baby, Isaac.


CREATIVE


One baby—baby Isaac—will eventually lead to another baby. Baby Jesus is coming

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

soon. Which is good, because we’re counting on him.

COMMUNICATIONS

that a special child of Abraham had been born. You know who that is, don’t you?COMMUNICATIONS

that a special child of Abraham had been born. You know who that is, don’t you?

If you were counting, Jesus’ star would be a long way from where we began. But COMMUNICATIONS

If you were counting, Jesus’ star would be a long way from where we began. But for today, we’re looking with Abraham at the beginning. The counting begins with COMMUNICATIONS

for today, we’re looking with Abraham at the beginning. The counting begins with “one”—with Abraham and Sarah’s baby, Isaac.

COMMUNICATIONS

“one”—with Abraham and Sarah’s baby, Isaac.

“ONE!”

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“ONE!”


COMMUNICATIONS


One baby—baby Isaac—will eventually lead to another baby. Baby Jesus is coming

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

soon. Which is good, because we’re counting on him.SAMPLES

soon. Which is good, because we’re counting on him.SAMPLES

soon. Which is good, because we’re counting on him.


Script

—The Shepherd Abraham—This dialog homily includes three characters: Abraham, Sarah, and a Voice that represents the Word of the Lord.

Abraham and Sarah may speak from the front of the congregation—perhaps from the pulpit and the lectern. Costuming of these two characters is at your discretion, remembering that, when church dramas are concerned, less is often more.

The Voice speaks from the back of the church or the balcony.

The drama begins with a hymn stanza sung by the congregation. At points in the drama, successive stanzas will be sung. (Hymn stanzas to Potsdam SM.)

While Abram watched his flocks,The Lord of hosts drew nighTo offer precious promises

Beneath a star-filled sky.

Abraham: What is it about shepherding that makes a person look to the sky? Is it just that sheep are so close to the ground, that a person needs an oc-casional change of view? Or is there more to it than that?

Voice: Abram, Abram, look to the sky.

Sarah: Have you been out looking at the sky again, Abraham?


CREATIVE


—The Shepherd Abraham—This dialog homily includes three characters: Abraham, Sarah, and a Voice

CREATIVE

This dialog homily includes three characters: Abraham, Sarah, and a Voice

Abraham and Sarah may speak from the front of the congregation—perhaps

CREATIVE

Abraham and Sarah may speak from the front of the congregation—perhaps from the pulpit and the lectern. Costuming of these two characters is at your

CREATIVE from the pulpit and the lectern. Costuming of these two characters is at your discretion, remembering that, when church dramas are concerned, less is often

CREATIVE discretion, remembering that, when church dramas are concerned, less is often


CREATIVE The Voice speaks from the back of the church or the balcony.

The drama begins with a hymn stanza sung by the congregation. At points in

CREATIVE The drama begins with a hymn stanza sung by the congregation. At points in

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

—The Shepherd Abraham—This dialog homily includes three characters: Abraham, Sarah, and a Voice

COMMUNICATIONS

This dialog homily includes three characters: Abraham, Sarah, and a Voice that represents the Word of the Lord.

COMMUNICATIONS

that represents the Word of the Lord.


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

from the pulpit and the lectern. Costuming of these two characters is at your discretion, remembering that, when church dramas are concerned, less is often

COMMUNICATIONS

discretion, remembering that, when church dramas are concerned, less is often


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS

The drama begins with a hymn stanza sung by the congregation. At points in the drama, successive stanzas will be sung. (Hymn stanzas to Potsdam SM.)

COMMUNICATIONS

the drama, successive stanzas will be sung. (Hymn stanzas to Potsdam SM.)

is it about shepherding that makes a person look to the sky? Is

COMMUNICATIONS is it about shepherding that makes a person look to the sky? Is it just that sheep are so close to the ground, that a person needs an oc-

COMMUNICATIONS it just that sheep are so close to the ground, that a person needs an oc-

SAMPLES

This dialog homily includes three characters: Abraham, Sarah, and a Voice SAMPLES

This dialog homily includes three characters: Abraham, Sarah, and a Voice that represents the Word of the Lord. SAMPLES

that represents the Word of the Lord.


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

from the pulpit and the lectern. Costuming of these two characters is at your discretion, remembering that, when church dramas are concerned, less is often

SAMPLES

discretion, remembering that, when church dramas are concerned, less is often


SAMPLESThe Voice speaks from the back of the church or the balcony.


SAMPLESThe drama begins with a hymn stanza sung by the congregation. At points in the drama, successive stanzas will be sung. (Hymn stanzas to Potsdam SM.)

SAMPLESthe drama, successive stanzas will be sung. (Hymn stanzas to Potsdam SM.)

While Abram watched his flocks,

SAMPLESWhile Abram watched his flocks,The Lord of hosts drew nigh

SAMPLESThe Lord of hosts drew nighTo offer precious promises

SAMPLESTo offer precious promises


Abraham: And have YOU been standing by the tent flap watching me, Sarah?

Sarah: One can learn a lot by standing at the tent flap, I have learned.

Voice: Next spring your wife Sarah will bear a son, Abraham.

Abraham: And you laughed.

Sarah: Yes, I did, you silly old man. Do you remember how old I was when I heard that prediction?

Abraham: It was more than a prediction, my dear. It was a promise. And yes, I do remember how old you were ... because I remember how old I was. And how often I would cast my eyes to the heavens, especially at night. And I would wonder—wonder at the stars.

Voice: Count the stars if you can, Abram. So will be the descendants with which I will bless you. As many as the stars of heaven.

Sarah: And you believed, didn’t you, Abraham? You believed.

Voice: Abraham believed, and it was counted to him as righteousness.

Abraham: Yes, I believed .... And you laughed.

Sarah: Look at the sky and anticipate a baby. That was the essence of the Lord’s promise.

Abraham: Look at the sky and anticipate a baby.

Sarah: It was a wonderful message, Abraham.

Abraham: It still is.

Sarah: Look at the sky and anticipate a baby.

Abraham: A message for the ages.

Sarah: I was still laughing when the baby was born.

Abraham: Isaac, you named him.

Sarah: Laughter.

Abraham: Laughter.

Sarah: Isaac, the song of a shepherd.

Abraham: A very old shepherd.

CREATIVE

was more than a prediction, my dear. It was a promise. And yes, I CREATIVE

was more than a prediction, my dear. It was a promise. And yes, I do remember how old you were ... because I remember how old I was. CREATIVE

do remember how old you were ... because I remember how old I was. And how often I would cast my eyes to the heavens, especially at night. CREATIVE

And how often I would cast my eyes to the heavens, especially at night. And I would wonder—wonder at the stars.

CREATIVE

And I would wonder—wonder at the stars.

the stars if you can, Abram. So will be the descendants with

CREATIVE

the stars if you can, Abram. So will be the descendants with which I will bless you. As many as the stars of heaven.

CREATIVE

which I will bless you. As many as the stars of heaven.

And you believed, didn’t you,

CREATIVE

And you believed, didn’t you, Abraham? You believed.

CREATIVE

Abraham? You believed.

Abraham believed, and it was counted to him as righteousness.

CREATIVE


es, I believed .... And you laughed.

CREATIVE es, I believed .... And you laughed.

CREATIVE ook at the sky and anticipate a baby. That was the essence of the Lord’s

CREATIVE ook at the sky and anticipate a baby. That was the essence of the Lord’s

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Sarah:COMMUNICATIONS

Sarah:

Abraham:

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Abraham: It

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It was more than a prediction, my dear. It was a promise. And yes, I

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was more than a prediction, my dear. It was a promise. And yes, I do remember how old you were ... because I remember how old I was.

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do remember how old you were ... because I remember how old I was. And how often I would cast my eyes to the heavens, especially at night.

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And how often I would cast my eyes to the heavens, especially at night. And I would wonder—wonder at the stars.

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And I would wonder—wonder at the stars.

Count

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Count the stars if you can, Abram. So will be the descendants with

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the stars if you can, Abram. So will be the descendants with which I will bless you. As many as the stars of heaven.

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which I will bless you. As many as the stars of heaven.


COMMUNICATIONS



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ook at the sky and anticipate a baby. That was the essence of the Lord’s

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Look at the sky and anticipate a baby

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Look at the sky and anticipate a baby.

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.Look at the sky and anticipate a baby.Look at the sky and anticipate a baby

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Look at the sky and anticipate a baby.Look at the sky and anticipate a baby

Abraham.

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Abraham.

SAMPLES

And you believed, didn’t you, SAMPLES


oice:SAMPLES

oice: Abraham believed, and it was counted to him as righteousness.SAMPLES


Y

SAMPLES

Yes, I believed .... And you laughed.

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es, I believed .... And you laughed.Yes, I believed .... And you laughed.Y

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Yes, I believed .... And you laughed.Y

SAMPLES


SAMPLES

ook at the sky and anticipate a baby. That was the essence of the Lord’s promise.

SAMPLES

promise.


SAMPLESLook at the sky and anticipate a baby

It was a wonderful message,

SAMPLESIt was a wonderful message,


SAMPLESLook at the sky and anticipate a baby

I was still laughing when the baby was born.

SAMPLESI was still laughing when the baby was born.


Sarah: And his very old wife. Don’t tell me you didn’t laugh too, Abraham.

Abraham: I guess I haven’t stopped laughing, Sarah. The promise of the Lord was just so great, so beyond anything one could even imagine ... so impossible ...

Sarah: And we named him Isaac.

Abraham: Laughter.

Our God in love providesA wonderful surprise:


Sarah: Have you been looking at the sky again, Abraham? What is it about shepherding that makes you look up like that? It seems you’re always looking at the sky.

Abraham: Not the sky this time, my dear Sarah. This time my vision is lower than the sky. I find myself looking toward the horizon.

Sarah: So you intend to do it, then? Even though Isaac is our only son—the only hope we have for God’s great promise to come true?

Abraham: I have no choice, Sarah, for the Lord God has spoken.

Voice: Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love. Take him to the land of Moriah, and I will show you a mountain where you must sac-rifice your son.

Sarah: Your only son Isaac!

Abraham: Whom I love.

Voice: And I will show you a mountain.

The sacrifice awaits,A gracious God’s reward.

With faithful Abraham beholdThe mountain of the Lord!

CREATIVE

Our God in love providesCREATIVE

Our God in love providesA wonderful surprise:CREATIVE

A wonderful surprise:A child of hope the future holds—

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

O shepherd, lift your eyes!

you been looking at the sky again, Abraham? What is it about

CREATIVE

you been looking at the sky again, Abraham? What is it about shepherding that makes you look up like that? It seems you’re always

CREATIVE

shepherding that makes you look up like that? It seems you’re always

ot the sky this time, my dear Sarah. This time my vision is lower than

CREATIVE

ot the sky this time, my dear Sarah. This time my vision is lower than the sky. I find myself looking toward the horizon.

CREATIVE the sky. I find myself looking toward the horizon.

you intend to do it, then? Even though Isaac is our only son—the

CREATIVE you intend to do it, then? Even though Isaac is our only son—the

only hope we have for God’s great promise to come true?

CREATIVE only hope we have for God’s great promise to come true?

d God has spoken.

CREATIVE d God has spoken.

ake your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love. Take him to the

CREATIVE ake your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love. Take him to the

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Abraham:COMMUNICATIONS

Abraham:

you been looking at the sky again, Abraham? What is it about

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you been looking at the sky again, Abraham? What is it about shepherding that makes you look up like that? It seems you’re always

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shepherding that makes you look up like that? It seems you’re always looking at the sky.

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looking at the sky.

ot the sky this time, my dear Sarah. This time my vision is lower than

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the sky. I find myself looking toward the horizon.


COMMUNICATIONS

you intend to do it, then? Even though Isaac is our only son—the only hope we have for God’s great promise to come true?

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I have no choice, Sarah, for the Lor

COMMUNICATIONS

I have no choice, Sarah, for the Lord God has spoken.

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d God has spoken.

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ake your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love. Take him to the

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ake your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love. Take him to the land of Moriah, and I will show you a mountain where you must sac-

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land of Moriah, and I will show you a mountain where you must sac-

SAMPLES

shepherding that makes you look up like that? It seems you’re always SAMPLES

shepherding that makes you look up like that? It seems you’re always looking at the sky.SAMPLES

looking at the sky.

N

SAMPLES

Not the sky this time, my dear Sarah. This time my vision is lower than

SAMPLES


SAMPLES

the sky. I find myself looking toward the horizon.


SAMPLES

you intend to do it, then? Even though Isaac is our only son—the only hope we have for God’s great promise to come true?

SAMPLES


I have no choice, Sarah, for the Lor

SAMPLESI have no choice, Sarah, for the Lor

SAMPLESake your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love. Take him to the

SAMPLESake your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love. Take him to the

land of Moriah, and I will show you a mountain where you must sac-

SAMPLESland of Moriah, and I will show you a mountain where you must sac-


Sarah: I will lift my eyes to the hills. From whence shall come my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. I will lift my eyes to the hills.

Abraham: And when the deed was done ...

Sarah: I was standing by the tent flap once again, my laughter drained from my body like moisture from the desert.

Abraham: And your eyes were on the sky?

Sarah: On the horizon, at least. Oh, how I dreaded what I knew I would see at last, and what I would not.

Abraham: And what you saw ...

Sarah: The servants at first, the faithful servants ... and the animals, beginning to become visible there on the horizon. I could count them as they be-gan to come into view. The servants ... and the animals. And then you, Abraham. Yes, it was you. You were returning from the mountain of the Lord, there with the servants and the animals. The deed had been done. But wait! What is that? One more figure there on the horizon. No, it can’t be. One more figure there. Isaac? ... ISAAC!

Voice: Abraham! Abraham!

Abraham: Here I am, Lord.

Voice: Do not hurt the boy, or harm him in any way. For now I know that you trust the Lord, for you were willing to offer your only son.

Sarah: But instead ...

Abraham: Instead? Instead I received a gift that perhaps only a shepherd could truly appreciate.

Sarah: A ram, caught by its horns in a thicket. Look up, Abraham.

Abraham: “The Lord himself will provide the sacrifice,” I had told Isaac.

Sarah: And the Lord did.

Abraham: What is it about shepherding that leads a person to look up? What is it that casts one’s eyes to the skies ... and finds there the message of a child-to-be?

Sarah: To be a sacrifice?

CREATIVE

the horizon, at least. Oh, how I dreaded what I knew I would see CREATIVE

the horizon, at least. Oh, how I dreaded what I knew I would see at last, and what I would not.CREATIVE

at last, and what I would not.

And what you saw ...

CREATIVE


he servants at first, the faithful servants ... and the animals, beginning

CREATIVE

he servants at first, the faithful servants ... and the animals, beginning to become visible there on the horizon. I could count them as they be-

CREATIVE

to become visible there on the horizon. I could count them as they be-gan to come into view. The servants ... and the animals. And then you,

CREATIVE

gan to come into view. The servants ... and the animals. And then you, Abraham. Yes, it was you. You were returning from the mountain of

CREATIVE

Abraham. Yes, it was you. You were returning from the mountain of the Lord, there with the servants and the animals. The deed had been

CREATIVE

the Lord, there with the servants and the animals. The deed had been done. But wait! What is that? One more figure there on the horizon.

CREATIVE

done. But wait! What is that? One more figure there on the horizon. No, it can’t be. One more figure there. Isaac? ... ISAAC!

CREATIVE No, it can’t be. One more figure there. Isaac? ... ISAAC!

CREATIVE not hurt the boy, or harm him in any way. For now I know that you

CREATIVE not hurt the boy, or harm him in any way. For now I know that you trust the Lord, for you were willing to offer your only son.

CREATIVE trust the Lord, for you were willing to offer your only son.

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Abraham:COMMUNICATIONS

Abraham:

Sarah:

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Sarah: On

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On at last, and what I would not.

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at last, and what I would not.

Abraham:

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Abraham: And what you saw ...

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he servants at first, the faithful servants ... and the animals, beginning

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he servants at first, the faithful servants ... and the animals, beginning to become visible there on the horizon. I could count them as they be-

COMMUNICATIONS

to become visible there on the horizon. I could count them as they be-gan to come into view. The servants ... and the animals. And then you,

COMMUNICATIONS

gan to come into view. The servants ... and the animals. And then you, Abraham. Yes, it was you. You were returning from the mountain of

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Abraham. Yes, it was you. You were returning from the mountain of the Lord, there with the servants and the animals. The deed had been

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


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No, it can’t be. One more figure there. Isaac? ... ISAAC!

COMMUNICATIONS

not hurt the boy, or harm him in any way. For now I know that you

COMMUNICATIONS

not hurt the boy, or harm him in any way. For now I know that you trust the Lord, for you were willing to offer your only son.

COMMUNICATIONS

trust the Lord, for you were willing to offer your only son.

Instead I received a gift that perhaps only a shepherd could

COMMUNICATIONS


ram, caught by its horns in a thicket. Look up, Abraham.

COMMUNICATIONS ram, caught by its horns in a thicket. Look up, Abraham.

d himself will provide the sacrifice,” I had told Isaac.

COMMUNICATIONS d himself will provide the sacrifice,” I had told Isaac.

COMMUNICATIONS is it about shepherding that leads a person to look up? What is

COMMUNICATIONS is it about shepherding that leads a person to look up? What is

SAMPLES

gan to come into view. The servants ... and the animals. And then you, SAMPLES

gan to come into view. The servants ... and the animals. And then you, Abraham. Yes, it was you. You were returning from the mountain of SAMPLES

Abraham. Yes, it was you. You were returning from the mountain of the Lord, there with the servants and the animals. The deed had been SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

No, it can’t be. One more figure there. Isaac? ... ISAAC!

Abraham!

SAMPLES

Abraham! Abraham!

SAMPLES

Abraham!

SAMPLES

e I am, Lord.

SAMPLES

e I am, Lord.

not hurt the boy, or harm him in any way. For now I know that you

SAMPLESnot hurt the boy, or harm him in any way. For now I know that you

trust the Lord, for you were willing to offer your only son.

SAMPLEStrust the Lord, for you were willing to offer your only son.


SAMPLESInstead I received a gift that perhaps only a shepherd could

SAMPLES ram, caught by its horns in a thicket. Look up, Abraham.

SAMPLES ram, caught by its horns in a thicket. Look up, Abraham.


Abraham: No, my dear Sarah! To be restored. To be alive at last. To make laughter possible once more. To open the future to the promises of God.

Voice: Abraham, come where I lead you.

Abraham: Ah. The voice of one calling like a shepherd.

Voice: Abraham, come where I lead you. The whole world will be blessed thereby.

Abraham: I will follow, Lord!

To pastures rich and green,Through valleys dark and deep,

In grace God chooses, calls, directs;The Shepherd leads his sheep.

CREATIVE

To pastures rich and green,CREATIVE

To pastures rich and green,CREATIVE

Through valleys dark and deep,

CREATIVE

Through valleys dark and deep,In grace God chooses, calls, directs;

CREATIVE

In grace God chooses, calls, directs;

CREATIVE

The Shepherd leads his sheep.

CREATIVE


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VCOMMUNICATIONS

V

Abraham:

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Abraham: I will follow

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I will follow

Through valleys dark and deep,

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Through valleys dark and deep,In grace God chooses, calls, directs;

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In grace God chooses, calls, directs;The Shepherd leads his sheep.

COMMUNICATIONS


SAMPLES


Homily

—The Shepherd Abraham—A shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise, and believed ...

It’s a message we’re accustomed to hearing during this season. It’s an image that’s easy to envision as we wait for Christmas Day.

“Easy to envision”? Make that “hard to avoid”! It seems that nearly half of our traditional Christmas hymns mention those heaven-gazing shepherds and the heavenly message they received:

• Take “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,” for example. Who is harking? Why, the shepherds, of course! And the message they receive? “Glory to the newborn King!”

• “Angels from the Realms of Glory.” These are the same angels, winging their flight to Bethlehem’s shepherds, bidding them “come and worship.”

• What more needs to be said of the hymn entitled, “While Shepherds Watched their Flocks by Night”?

• And, lest we forget, the “We” in the title of “Angels WE Have Heard on High” is the ragtag group of sheep herders, repeating the “Glo-o-o-o-o-orious” mes-sage they had received.

A shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise, and believed ...


CREATIVE

HomilyCREATIVE

Homily



CREATIVE


It’s a message we’re accustomed to hearing during this season. It’s an image that’s

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

easy to envision as we wait for Christmas Day.

“Easy to envision”? Make that “hard to avoid”! It seems that nearly half of our

CREATIVE “Easy to envision”? Make that “hard to avoid”! It seems that nearly half of our traditional Christmas hymns mention those heaven-gazing shepherds and the

CREATIVE traditional Christmas hymns mention those heaven-gazing shepherds and the

ake “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,” for example. Who is harking? Why, the

CREATIVE ake “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,” for example. Who is harking? Why, the shepherds, of course! And the message they receive? “Glory to the newborn

CREATIVE shepherds, of course! And the message they receive? “Glory to the newborn

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COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


It’s a message we’re accustomed to hearing during this season. It’s an image that’s

COMMUNICATIONS


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COMMUNICATIONS

“Easy to envision”? Make that “hard to avoid”! It seems that nearly half of our traditional Christmas hymns mention those heaven-gazing shepherds and the

COMMUNICATIONS

traditional Christmas hymns mention those heaven-gazing shepherds and the


COMMUNICATIONS

ake “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,” for example. Who is harking? Why, the shepherds, of course! And the message they receive? “Glory to the newborn

COMMUNICATIONS

shepherds, of course! And the message they receive? “Glory to the newborn

from the Realms of Glory.” These are the same angels, winging their

COMMUNICATIONS

from the Realms of Glory.” These are the same angels, winging their flight to Bethlehem’s shepherds, bidding them “come and worship.”

COMMUNICATIONS flight to Bethlehem’s shepherds, bidding them “come and worship.”

hat more needs to be said of the hymn entitled, “While Shepherds Watched

COMMUNICATIONS hat more needs to be said of the hymn entitled, “While Shepherds Watched

nd, lest we forget, the “We” in the title of “Angels WE Have Heard on High”

COMMUNICATIONS nd, lest we forget, the “We” in the title of “Angels WE Have Heard on High” is the ragtag group of sheep herders, repeating the “Glo-o-o-o-o-orious” mes-

COMMUNICATIONS is the ragtag group of sheep herders, repeating the “Glo-o-o-o-o-orious” mes-

SAMPLES

A shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise, and believed ...SAMPLES


It’s a message we’re accustomed to hearing during this season. It’s an image that’s SAMPLES


SAMPLES



SAMPLES

“Easy to envision”? Make that “hard to avoid”! It seems that nearly half of our traditional Christmas hymns mention those heaven-gazing shepherds and the

SAMPLES

traditional Christmas hymns mention those heaven-gazing shepherds and the heavenly message they received:

SAMPLES

heavenly message they received:


SAMPLESake “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,” for example. Who is harking? Why, the

shepherds, of course! And the message they receive? “Glory to the newborn

SAMPLESshepherds, of course! And the message they receive? “Glory to the newborn

from the Realms of Glory.” These are the same angels, winging their

SAMPLESfrom the Realms of Glory.” These are the same angels, winging their flight to Bethlehem’s shepherds, bidding them “come and worship.”

SAMPLESflight to Bethlehem’s shepherds, bidding them “come and worship.”

hat more needs to be said of the hymn entitled, “While Shepherds Watched

SAMPLEShat more needs to be said of the hymn entitled, “While Shepherds Watched


... his name was ABRAHAM.

Were you surprised? Surprised to hear not the voices of frightened, happy Bethlehem shepherds this first week of Advent ... but the ancient voices of Abraham and Sarah?

Were you surprised?

Perhaps it isn’t so surprising. In fact, in listening to the voices today we may have stumbled upon the notion that all of this—all of this shepherd business—is par for God’s course! Consider the facts:

• A shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise, and believed ...

• The promise had to do with the birth of a baby ...

• The baby is ... an IMPOSSIBLE baby. Keep in mind that, although virgins and barren, elderly women are at opposite ends of the spectrum, the possibility of a baby coming from either source is equally bleak ...

• The promised baby had something significant to do with nothing less than ... GOD’S GREAT PLAN TO SAVE A FALLEN HUMANITY! This, again, is an “opposite ends of the spectrum” idea. Isaac, the first promised baby, sig-nified the beginning of a great nation—the same nation, fed on God’s word and God’s will, that would eventually cradle the Christ Child.

But there is more! There is the SACRIFICE.

And here, again, we find a significant similarity in our heaven-gazing shepherds.

In each case, GOD HIMSELF provides the means of salvation. A ram is sent down—ENTANGLED in a thicket to save Isaac’s life. Isn’t it ironic? Abraham was a shepherd. He certainly could have provided a ram had God asked for one. But no ... GOD provided the ram. GOD provided the sacrifice.

And ... well, you certainly must have figured out where I’m going. Any of you who have seen a baby swaddled (and, yes, they still swaddle babies. Go to any hospital nursery and wait ... and watch ... and you will see a nurse wrap a receiving blanket around a baby with swift, tight proficiency) .... Any of you who have seen a baby swaddled know how ... what? ... ENTANGLED they are ....

CREATIVE

God’s course! Consider the facts:CREATIVE

God’s course! Consider the facts:

shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise, and believed ...CREATIVE

shepherd looked to the sky, received a promise, and believed ...

omise had to do with the birth of a baby ...

CREATIVE


he baby is ... an IMPOSSIBLE baby. Keep in mind that, although virgins and

CREATIVE

he baby is ... an IMPOSSIBLE baby. Keep in mind that, although virgins and barren, elderly women are at opposite ends of the spectrum, the possibility

CREATIVE

barren, elderly women are at opposite ends of the spectrum, the possibility of a baby coming from either source is equally bleak ...

CREATIVE

of a baby coming from either source is equally bleak ...

promised baby had something significant to do with nothing less than

CREATIVE

promised baby had something significant to do with nothing less than ... GOD’S GREAT PLAN TO SAVE A FALLEN HUMANITY! This, again, is

CREATIVE ... GOD’S GREAT PLAN TO SAVE A FALLEN HUMANITY! This, again, is an “opposite ends of the spectrum” idea. Isaac, the first promised baby, sig-

CREATIVE an “opposite ends of the spectrum” idea. Isaac, the first promised baby, sig-nified the beginning of a great nation—the same nation, fed on God’s word

CREATIVE nified the beginning of a great nation—the same nation, fed on God’s word and God’s will, that would eventually cradle the Christ Child.

CREATIVE and God’s will, that would eventually cradle the Christ Child.

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Were you surprised?COMMUNICATIONS

Were you surprised?

Perhaps it isn’t so surprising. In fact, in listening to the voices today we may have COMMUNICATIONS

Perhaps it isn’t so surprising. In fact, in listening to the voices today we may have stumbled upon the notion that all of this—all of this shepherd business—is par for COMMUNICATIONS

stumbled upon the notion that all of this—all of this shepherd business—is par for God’s course! Consider the facts:

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God’s course! Consider the facts:


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


he baby is ... an IMPOSSIBLE baby. Keep in mind that, although virgins and

COMMUNICATIONS

he baby is ... an IMPOSSIBLE baby. Keep in mind that, although virgins and barren, elderly women are at opposite ends of the spectrum, the possibility

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barren, elderly women are at opposite ends of the spectrum, the possibility of a baby coming from either source is equally bleak ...

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COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

... GOD’S GREAT PLAN TO SAVE A FALLEN HUMANITY! This, again, is an “opposite ends of the spectrum” idea. Isaac, the first promised baby, sig-

COMMUNICATIONS

an “opposite ends of the spectrum” idea. Isaac, the first promised baby, sig-nified the beginning of a great nation—the same nation, fed on God’s word

COMMUNICATIONS

nified the beginning of a great nation—the same nation, fed on God’s word and God’s will, that would eventually cradle the Christ Child.

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and God’s will, that would eventually cradle the Christ Child.


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In each case, GOD HIMSELF provides the means of salvation. A ram is sent

COMMUNICATIONS

In each case, GOD HIMSELF provides the means of salvation. A ram is sent down—ENTANGLED in a thicket to save Isaac’s life. Isn’t it ironic? Abraham was

COMMUNICATIONS down—ENTANGLED in a thicket to save Isaac’s life. Isn’t it ironic? Abraham was a shepherd. He certainly could have provided a ram had God asked for one. But

COMMUNICATIONS a shepherd. He certainly could have provided a ram had God asked for one. But

COMMUNICATIONS And ... well, you certainly must have figured out where I’m going. Any of you who

COMMUNICATIONS And ... well, you certainly must have figured out where I’m going. Any of you who have seen a baby swaddled (and, yes, they still swaddle babies. Go to any hospital

COMMUNICATIONS have seen a baby swaddled (and, yes, they still swaddle babies. Go to any hospital nursery and wait ... and watch ... and you will see a nurse wrap a receiving blanket

COMMUNICATIONS nursery and wait ... and watch ... and you will see a nurse wrap a receiving blanket

SAMPLES

barren, elderly women are at opposite ends of the spectrum, the possibility SAMPLES

barren, elderly women are at opposite ends of the spectrum, the possibility of a baby coming from either source is equally bleak ...SAMPLES



SAMPLES


SAMPLES

... GOD’S GREAT PLAN TO SAVE A FALLEN HUMANITY! This, again, is an “opposite ends of the spectrum” idea. Isaac, the first promised baby, sig-

SAMPLES

an “opposite ends of the spectrum” idea. Isaac, the first promised baby, sig-nified the beginning of a great nation—the same nation, fed on God’s word

SAMPLES

nified the beginning of a great nation—the same nation, fed on God’s word and God’s will, that would eventually cradle the Christ Child.

SAMPLES

and God’s will, that would eventually cradle the Christ Child.

But there is more! There is the SACRIFICE.

SAMPLESBut there is more! There is the SACRIFICE.


SAMPLESAnd here, again, we find a significant similarity in our heaven-gazing shepherds.

SAMPLESIn each case, GOD HIMSELF provides the means of salvation. A ram is sent

SAMPLESIn each case, GOD HIMSELF provides the means of salvation. A ram is sent down—ENTANGLED in a thicket to save Isaac’s life. Isn’t it ironic? Abraham was

SAMPLESdown—ENTANGLED in a thicket to save Isaac’s life. Isn’t it ironic? Abraham was a shepherd. He certainly could have provided a ram had God asked for one. But

SAMPLESa shepherd. He certainly could have provided a ram had God asked for one. But no ... GOD provided the ram. GOD provided the sacrifice.

SAMPLESno ... GOD provided the ram. GOD provided the sacrifice.


Is that what the Bethlehem shepherds saw? That IS what the angel bid them see, after all—”A baby, WRAPPED IN SWADDLING CLOTHES.” How far is that from what Abraham saw when he first gazed at the ram?

A shepherd looked to the heavens, received a promise, and believed ...

He may not be the shepherd we were expecting this Advent season.

But the promise is really the same, isn’t it?

And so is the GOD who made the promise!

And when it comes right down to it ... isn’t SALVATION what this God was up to all along?

CREATIVE

And so is the GOD who made the promise!CREATIVE


And when it comes right down to it ... isn’t SALVATION what this God was up to

CREATIVE


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He may not be the shepherd we were expecting this Advent season.COMMUNICATIONS

He may not be the shepherd we were expecting this Advent season.

But the promise is really the same, isn’t it?COMMUNICATIONS

But the promise is really the same, isn’t it?


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SAMPLES


Prayers

—The Shepherd Abraham—Prayer Of The Day

Stir up, O Lord, your mighty power. Come quickly. Save us. We need protection from the grave dangers of our sins. We require release from the sin-shackles that bind us. You, O Key of David, have the power to forever free us, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

PrayersO Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock. Come and lead us now, we pray.

In order that we may not want, lead us to the green pastures of your gracious Word and to the still waters of your precious promises.

In order that our faith may flourish, lift our eyes, as once you lifted those of Abra-ham, to anticipate the blessings you bestow upon us through the promised seed of Abraham, Jesus Christ our Lord, the perfect sacrifice whom you provided so that we may not perish, but have eternal life.

Within the congregations of your Church, send faithful shepherds to call your people with your own voice and lead them in the paths of righteousness for your name’s sake.


CREATIVE

PrayersCREATIVE

Prayers



CREATIVE

Prayer Of The DayStir up, O Lord, your mighty power. Come quickly. Save us. We need protection

CREATIVE

Stir up, O Lord, your mighty power. Come quickly. Save us. We need protection from the grave dangers of our sins. We require release from the sin-shackles that

CREATIVE from the grave dangers of our sins. We require release from the sin-shackles that bind us. You, O Key of David, have the power to forever free us, for you live and

CREATIVE bind us. You, O Key of David, have the power to forever free us, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

CREATIVE reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

Prayer Of The DayStir up, O Lord, your mighty power. Come quickly. Save us. We need protection

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

from the grave dangers of our sins. We require release from the sin-shackles that bind us. You, O Key of David, have the power to forever free us, for you live and

COMMUNICATIONS

bind us. You, O Key of David, have the power to forever free us, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

COMMUNICATIONS

reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

Prayers

COMMUNICATIONS

PrayersO Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock. Come and lead us now, we

COMMUNICATIONS

O Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock. Come and lead us now, we

In order that we may not want, lead us to the green pastures of your gracious Word

COMMUNICATIONS In order that we may not want, lead us to the green pastures of your gracious Word

In order that our faith may flourish, lift our eyes, as once you lifted those of Abra-

COMMUNICATIONS In order that our faith may flourish, lift our eyes, as once you lifted those of Abra-ham, to anticipate the blessings you bestow upon us through the promised seed of

COMMUNICATIONS ham, to anticipate the blessings you bestow upon us through the promised seed of Abraham, Jesus Christ our Lord, the perfect sacrifice whom you provided so that

COMMUNICATIONS Abraham, Jesus Christ our Lord, the perfect sacrifice whom you provided so that

SAMPLES

Stir up, O Lord, your mighty power. Come quickly. Save us. We need protection

SAMPLES


SAMPLES

from the grave dangers of our sins. We require release from the sin-shackles that bind us. You, O Key of David, have the power to forever free us, for you live and

SAMPLES

bind us. You, O Key of David, have the power to forever free us, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

SAMPLES

reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

Prayers

SAMPLESPrayers

O Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock. Come and lead us now, we

SAMPLESO Shepherd of Israel, you lead your people like a flock. Come and lead us now, we

In order that we may not want, lead us to the green pastures of your gracious Word

SAMPLESIn order that we may not want, lead us to the green pastures of your gracious Word and to the still waters of your precious promises.

SAMPLESand to the still waters of your precious promises.


In the midst of the joy which surrounds us in these days, let your rod and staff com-fort those who walk through dark valleys: the sick and the sorrowing, the needy and the afflicted, the hungry and the homeless, and those who wander like sheep without a shepherd. Anoint them with the oil of your compassion, and let their cups of blessing overflow.

Let there be peace on earth, O God. Wherever there is strife, let good will prevail.

And lift our eyes, as once you lifted Abraham’s, to the joy which awaits when Christ, who came as you had promised, will come again. Unite us then with Abraham and Sarah, with Isaac and Rebekah, with all the faithful saints who heard your Word and did your will, trusting in your wondrous promises.

It is in the name of Jesus Christ we pray, fulfiller of your Word.

Amen.

CREATIVE

who came as you had promised, will come again. Unite us then with Abraham and CREATIVE

who came as you had promised, will come again. Unite us then with Abraham and Sarah, with Isaac and Rebekah, with all the faithful saints who heard your Word CREATIVE

Sarah, with Isaac and Rebekah, with all the faithful saints who heard your Word CREATIVE

and did your will, trusting in your wondrous promises.CREATIVE

and did your will, trusting in your wondrous promises.


CREATIVE


COMMUNICATIONS

Let there be peace on earth, O God. Wherever there is strife, let good will prevail.COMMUNICATIONS

Let there be peace on earth, O God. Wherever there is strife, let good will prevail.

And lift our eyes, as once you lifted Abraham’s, to the joy which awaits when Christ, COMMUNICATIONS

And lift our eyes, as once you lifted Abraham’s, to the joy which awaits when Christ, who came as you had promised, will come again. Unite us then with Abraham and

COMMUNICATIONS

who came as you had promised, will come again. Unite us then with Abraham and Sarah, with Isaac and Rebekah, with all the faithful saints who heard your Word

COMMUNICATIONS

Sarah, with Isaac and Rebekah, with all the faithful saints who heard your Word

COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


SAMPLES

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