April 6, 2025
Fifth Sunday in Lent
John 12:1-8 | "Reclining"

Call to Worship (Inspired by Psalm 126)
One: With our ancestors we recall God’s great works 
Many: The Lord has done great things for us, and we rejoiced.
One: With our ancestors we pray
Many: May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.
One: With our ancestors we rejoice
Many: Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.
All: Let us worship God, in this community and in the company of our ancestors.

Invocation
Holy One, whether we are eager to draw near to you, or we are cautious, whether we are certain of your guidance, or we are unsure how you call to us, you are present. Open our senses and open our hearts to experience your fullness. Amen.

Prayer for Transformation and New Life
Holy Jesus, you call us to follow you. We want to respond, but our attention flutters. One day we are steady disciples and another day we are distracted by the clamors of the world or by our own needs. Forgive our wavering commitment and make us more reliable disciples. May we each day respond when you beckon, becoming ever more faithful. Amen.

Words of Grace
God is continually creating, doing a new thing in us. Where we have erred, God brings us back into Gods embrace. In the name of Jesus, your sins are forgiven..

Invitation to Generosity
As we determine how to use our resources, let us consider what we have received and how sharing both supports others and enlarges us. Let us offer our tithes and offerings to God through the work of this church.

Prayer of Thanksgiving and Dedication
Holy One, bless these gifts and our lives, that we and our offerings may serve your purposes. Amen.

Benediction
Friends, as you choose each day to follow Jesus, may each next step be clear. May you trust that the blessings of God are with you this day and always. Amen.

Reclining: Service Prayers for the Fifth Sunday in Lent was written by the Rev. Ruth Garwood, a transitional pastor in the Heartland Conference, a certified facilitator of Sacred Conversations to End Racism, and a certified InterPlay leader.