A Note before you begin:

 

Welcome to Gold Avenue Church’s At home Worship Liturgy; we’re so grateful to join together in Spirit as we worship! We want to give special thanks to our worship leaders: Kayleen Jasperse, Derek Sterenberg, and Marissa Walters who have been prayerfully discerning our Orders of Worship and Kayleen in particular who prepared this week’s order. While we would love to be together in person and  it may be somewhat difficult or even a little bit uncomfortable to worship from home, we’re reminded of the many believers around the world and throughout time that have worshiped from their homes in the wake of political and religious opposition. Our prayer is that despite the circumstances you’re able to be fully present to the Lord and that he meets with each of you richly.

 

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him.

 

Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

 

From Psalm 8:

 

Lord, our Lord,
    how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
    in the heavens.
Through the praise of children and infants
    you have established a stronghold against your enemies,
    to silence the foe and the avenger.
When I consider your heavens,
    the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
    which you have set in place,
what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
    human beings that you care for them?
You have made them[d] a little lower than the angels
    and crowned them with glory and honor.
You made them rulers over the works of your hands;
    you put everything under their feet:
all flocks and herds,
    and the animals of the wild,
the birds in the sky,
    and the fish in the sea,
    all that swim the paths of the seas.
Lord, our Lord,
    how majestic is your name in all the earth!

 

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite him to stir up worship and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

 

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. We invite you to turn up the volume and to participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

 

Build Your Kingdom Here

Build Your kingdom here

Let the darkness fear

Show Your mighty hand

Heal our streets and land

Set Your church on fire

Win this nation back

Change the atmosphere

Build Your kingdom here

We pray

Come set Your rule and reign

In our hearts again

Increase in us we pray

Unveil why we’re made

Come set our hearts ablaze with hope

Like wildfire in our very souls

Holy Spirit come invade us now

We are Your Church

And we need Your power

In us

We seek Your kingdom first

We hunger and we thirst

Refuse to waste our lives

For You’re our joy and prize

To see the captive hearts released

The hurt, the sick, the poor at peace

We lay down our lives for Heaven’s cause

We are Your church

And we pray revive

This earth

Build Your kingdom here

Let the darkness fear

Show Your mighty hand

Heal our streets and land

Set Your church on fire

Win this nation back

Change the atmosphere

Build Your kingdom here

We pray 

Unleash Your kingdom’s power

Reaching the near and far

No force of hell can stop

Your beauty changing hearts

You made us for much more than this

Awake the kingdom seed in us

Fill us with the strength and love of Christ

We are Your church

Oh, and we are the hope

On earth

Build Your kingdom here

Let the darkness fear

Show Your mighty hand

Heal our streets and land

Set Your church on fire

Win this nation back

Change the atmosphere

Build Your kingdom here

We pray

Build Your kingdom here

Let the darkness fear

Show Your mighty hand

Heal our streets and land

Set Your church on fire

Win this nation back

Change the atmosphere

Build Your kingdom here

We pray

 

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all and who is present with us as our loving heavenly father!

 

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

 

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

 

“The Lord be with you!” and in response:  “and also with you!”
And if you’re alone: “The Lord is with me!”

 

My Hope is Built

On Christ the Solid Rock

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;

I dare not trust the sweetest frame,

But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

On Christ the solid rock I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

On Christ the solid rock I stand,

All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils His lovely face,

I rest on His unchanging grace;

In every high and stormy gale

My anchor holds within the veil.

On Christ the solid rock I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

On Christ the solid rock I stand,

All other ground is sinking sand.

His oath His covenant and His blood

Support me in the ‘whelming flood:

When all around my soul gives way,

He then is all my hope and stay.

On Christ the solid rock I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

On Christ the solid rock I stand,

All other ground is sinking sand.

When He shall come with trumpet sound,

O may I then in him be found.

Dressed in His righteousness alone,

Faultless we stand before His throne.

On Christ the solid rock I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

On Christ the solid rock I stand,

All other ground is sinking sand.

On Christ the solid rock I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

On Christ the solid rock I stand,

All other ground is sinking sand.

Jesus There’s No One Like You

VERSE 1

There is no song we could sing

To honor the weight of Your glory

There are no words we could speak

To capture the depth of Your beauty

CHORUS

Jesus, there’s no one like You

Jesus, we love You, ever adore You

There’s no one like You

Jesus, we love You, ever adore You, Lord

VERSE 2

There is no sinner beyond

The infinite stretch of Your mercy

How can we thank You enough

For how You have loved us completely?

BRIDGE

All we have

All we need

All we want is You

Do It Again

If this is a newer song for you, feel free to listen and soak in the lyrics; join along as you feel comfortable. 

Walking around these walls

I thought by now they’d fall

But You have never failed me yet

Waiting for change to come

Knowing the battle’s won

For You have never failed me yet

Your promise still stands

Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness

I’m still in Your hands

This is my confidence, You’ve never failed me yet

I know the night won’t last

Your Word will come to pass

My heart will sing Your praise again

Jesus, You’re still enough

Keep me within Your love

My heart will sing Your praise again

Your promise still stands

Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness

I’m still in Your hands

This is my confidence, You never failed

Your promise still stands

Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness

I’m still in Your hands

This is my confidence, You never failed me yet

I’ve seen You move, come move the mountains

And I believe, I’ll see You do it again

You made a way, where there was no way

And I believe, I’ll see You do it again

I’ve seen You move, come move the mountains

And I believe, I’ll see You do it again

You made a way, where there was no way

And I believe, I’ll see You do it again

I’ve seen You move, come move the mountains

And I believe, I’ll see You do it again

You made a way, where there was no way

And I believe, I’ll see You do it again

I’ll see You do it again

Oh-oh

Your promise still stands

Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness

I’m still in Your hands

This is my confidence, You never failed

Your promise still stands

Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness

I’m still in Your hands

This is my confidence, You never failed me yet

And You never failed me yet

I never will forget

You never failed me yet

And I never will forget

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

 

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

 

Take a few minutes to pray for your church family, neighborhood, and the world as the Lord leads. 

 

Song of Preparation: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

Regular offering:

Support ministry at Gold Avenue Church by giving to the general fund (Click the picture for more giving options):

  1. Text:  send amount (number only, no extra symbols) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online at https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online or https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
  3. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 

 

As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.

 

Lord Reign in Me

[Verse 1]

Over all the earth, You reign on high

Every mountain stream, every sunset sky

But my one request, Lord, my only aim

Is that You’d reign in me again

[Chorus]

Lord, reign in me, reign in Your power

Over all my dreams, in my darkest hour

‘Cause You are the Lord of all I am

So won’t You reign in me again

[Verse 2]

And over every thought, over every word

May my life reflect the beauty of my Lord

‘Cause You mean more to me than any earthly thing

So won’t You reign in me again

[Chorus]

Lord, reign in me, reign in Your power

Over all my dreams, in my darkest hour

‘Cause You are the Lord of all I am

So won’t You reign in me again

The Preaching of the Word:

Access the audio of the sermon here: Sermon Audio Recording

 

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly. You’re welcome to sing along, to listen and reflect, to pray or journal, etc. 

 

Way Maker

You are here, moving in our midst

I worship You

I worship You

You are here, working in this place

I worship You

I worship You

You are here, moving in our midst

I worship You

I worship You

You are here, working in this place

I worship You

I worship You

You are

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

You are

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

You are here, touching every heart

I worship You

I worship You

You are here, healing every heart

Healing every heart

Oh, I worship You

Jesus, I worship You

You’re turning lives around

You are here, oh, turning lives around

I worship You

I worship You

You mended every heart

You are here, and You are mending every heart

I worship You, yeah

I worship You

And You are

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Yeah You’re the way maker

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Yeah sing it again You are, yeah

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Oh it’s who You are, Jesus, yeah

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Sing that is who You are

Oh, that is who You are

And that is who You are

Oh, and that is who You are

That is who You are

Lord Jesus, that is who You are

That is who You are (oh, He lifts you up)

That is who You are

That is who You are

My Jesus, yeah

Miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Yes it is yeah, it’s who You are

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness (hey)

My God, that is who You are

Let’s sing this together

Even when I don’t see it, come on, even when

Even when I don’t see it, You’re working

Even when I don’t feel it, You’re working

You never stop, You never stop working

You never stop, You never stop working (come on)

Even when I don’t see it, You’re working

Even when I don’t feel it, You’re working

You never stop, You never stop working

You never stop, You never stop working (oh)

Even when I don’t see it, You’re working

Even when I don’t feel it, You’re working

You never stop, You never stop working

You never stop (yeah oh), You never stop working

Even when I don’t see it, You’re working

Even when I don’t feel it (yeah), You’re working

You never stop, You never stop working

You never stop, You never stop working (You’re the way maker, yeah)

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Yeah, yeah

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Sing that is who You are

Oh, that is who You are

That is who You are

Oh and, that is who You are

That is who You are

Yeah, and that is who You are, yeah

That is who You are

Oh, that is who You are

That is who You are

Oh it’s who You are, now Jesus

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

You are

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God, that is who You are

Oh, His name is above

His name is above depression

his name is above loneliness

Oh, His name is above disease

His name is above cancer

His name is above every other name

Yes it is

That is who You are

(That is who You are)

That is who You are

(That is who You are) Jesus

And that is who You are

(That is who You are)

Oh I know that is who You are

That is who You are

 

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Blessing serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From Numbers 6:24-26

 

The Lord bless you
    and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you
    and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you
    and give you peace

 

Closing Song

 

Step By Step

Oh God, You are my God

And I will ever praise You

Oh God, You are my God

And I will ever praise You

I will seek You in the morning

And I will learn to walk in Your ways

And step by step You’ll lead me

And I will follow You all of my days

 

Children’s Worship Lesson:

We are entering into a new sermon series. It is truly exciting what the Lord has for us as we seek Him in “Preparing to Build” as we study the books of Ezra and Nehemiah as a congregation!

 

Introduction Video to the Ezra Nehemiah Series

Please watch this introduction video to the summer sermon series as we prepare to enter into this season together.

 

Reading Plan Calendars

There are calendars with a reading plan that will accompany this series. Below are the first 2 calendars in this reading plan. You can save them to your desktop, camera roll, or print them out. This reading plan has a manageable weekly reading that prepares us for Sunday’s sermon. We are recommending you read the passages 1- 2 times throughout the week ahead of Sunday’s sermon. These readings will be part of the sermons so we hope you’ll be able to join us as we read through the books of Ezra and Nehemiah together!

Note: if you’d like to print the plan, click on the image, right click and save to your downloads, then open the file from there to print.

 

Introduction Framework to the Series

Below is a one-page introduction to the Ezra Nehemiah series. This is on the reading plan for the first week. It’ll help us all to begin with some framework as we begin this new sermon series!

 

Summer Preaching Series- 1 page Introduction

A Note before you begin:

 

Welcome to Gold Avenue Church’s At home Worship Liturgy; we’re so grateful to join together in Spirit as we worship! We want to give special thanks to our worship leaders: Kayleen Jasperse, Derek Sterenberg, and Marissa Walters who have been prayerfully discerning our Orders of Worship and Marissa in particular who prepared this week’s order. While we would love to be together in person and  it may be somewhat difficult or even a little bit uncomfortable to worship from home, we’re reminded of the many believers around the world and throughout time that have worshiped from their homes in the wake of political and religious opposition. Our prayer is that despite the circumstances you’re able to be fully present to the Lord and that he meets with each of you richly.

Also, make sure you check out the video at the end of this liturgy to hear a little bit about where we are headed with our sermons!

 

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him.

 

Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

 

From Psalm 90:1-2

 

Lord, you have been our dwelling place

    throughout all generations.

Before the mountains were born

    or you brought forth the whole world,

    from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

 

Let us worship our everlasting God!

 

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

 

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. We invite you to turn up the volume and to participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

 

Everlasting God

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord

We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord

We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord

Our God, You reign forever

Our hope, our Strong Deliverer

You are the everlasting God

The everlasting God

You do not faint

You won’t grow weary

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord

We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord

We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord

Our God, You reign forever

Our hope, our Strong Deliverer

You are the everlasting God

The everlasting God

You do not faint

You won’t grow weary

You’re the defender of the weak

You comfort those in need

You lift us up on the wings

Like eagles

Our God, You reign forever

Our hope, our Strong Deliverer

‘Cause You are, You are the everlasting God

The everlasting God

You do not faint

You won’t grow weary

You’re the defender of the weak

You comfort those in need

You lift us up on the wings

Like eagles

From everlasting to everlasting

God, You are everlasting

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all and who is present with us as our loving heavenly father!

 

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

 

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

 

“The Lord be with you!” and in response:  “and also with you!”

 

And if you’re alone: “The Lord is with me!”

 

Our God

Water You turned into wine

Opened the eyes of the blind

There’s no one like you

None like you

Into the darkness You shine

Out of the ashes we rise

There’s No one like you

None like you

Our God is greater, our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is Healer, awesome in power

Our God, Our God

Into the darkness you shining

Out of the ashes we Rise

No one like you

None like you

Our God is greater, our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is Healer, awesome in power

Our God, Our God

Our God is greater, our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is Healer, awesome in power

Our God, Our God

And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

Then what can stand against?

Our God is greater, our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is Healer, awesome in power

Our God, Our God

Our God is greater, our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is Healer, awesome in power

Our God, Our God

And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

And if Our God is for us, then who can ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

Then what can stand against?

Then what can stand against?

Stronger

There is Love

That came for us

Humbled to a sinner’s cross

You broke my shame and sinfulness

You rose again victorious

Faithfulness none can deny

Through the storm

And through the fire

There is truth that sets me free

Jesus Christ who lives in me

You are stronger

You are stronger

Sin is broken

You have saved me

It is written

Christ is risen

Jesus You are Lord of all

No beginning and no end

You’re my hope and my defense

You came to seek and save the lost

You paid it all upon the cross

So let Your Name be lifted higher

Be lifted higher

Be lifted higher

A Mighty Fortress

Our God is, a consuming fire

A burning holy Flame, with glory and freedom

Our God is, the only righteous judge

Ruling over us with kindness and wisdom

We will keep our eyes on You

We will keep our eyes on You

A mighty fortress is our God

A sacred refuge is Your Name

Your Kingdom is unshakable

With You forever we will reign

Our God is, jealous for His own

None could comprehend, His love and His mercy

Our God is exalted on His throne

High above the heavens

Forever He’s worthy…

We will keep our eyes on You

We will keep our eyes on You

We will keep our eyes on You

We will keep our eyes on You

So we can set our hearts on You

Lord we will set our hearts on You!

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

 

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

 

Take a few minutes to pray for your church family, neighborhood, and the world as the Lord leads. 

 

Song of Preparation: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

Regular offering:

Support ministry at Gold Avenue Church by giving to the general fund (Click the picture for more giving options):

  1. Text:  send amount (number only, no extra symbols) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online at https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online or https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
  3. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 

Special Offering: BSM (Bridge Street Ministries)

Once a month we take a special offering to support special causes that the Deacons have prayerfully discerned.  This month’s special offering is for Bridge Street Ministries (BSM), formerly known as Bridge Street House of Prayer. BSM’s mission is ‘Building a bridge between the streets and the church;’ they minister to families and youth in the neighborhood with after school programs and neighborhood support. You can give to the special offering by:

  1. Text:  send amount space special (ex: 50 special) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely

  2. Give online: select special from dropdown menu or type “special” in memo line

  3. Check: write “special: BSM” in memo line

 

As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.

 

Holy Spirit Living Breath of God

Holy Spirit, living Breath of God

Breathe new life into my willing soul.

Bring the presence of the risen Lord

To renew my heart and make me whole.

Cause Your Word to come alive in me

Give me faith for what I cannot see

Give me passion for Your purity.

Holy Spirit, breathe new life in me.

Holy Spirit, come abide within

May Your joy be seen in all I do—

Love enough to cover ev’ry sin

In each thought and deed and attitude

Kindness to the greatest and the least

Gentleness that sows the path of peace.

Turn my striving into works of grace.

Breath of God, show Christ in all I do.

Holy Spirit, from creation’s birth

Giving life to all that God has made

Show Your power once again on earth

Cause Your church to hunger for Your ways.

Let the fragrance of our prayers arise.

Lead us on the road of sacrifice

That in unity the face of Christ

Will be clear for all the world to see.

The Preaching of the Word:

Access the audio of the sermon here: Sermon Audio Recording

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly. You’re welcome to sing along, to listen and reflect, to pray or journal, etc. 

 

We Look to You

VERSE 1

Deliver us from evil, Lord;

We sojourn in a broken world

Though evil hands give rise to war,

Remind us this is not our home

We look to You, we look to You,

Sovereign King of all the earth

We look to You, we look to You;

In Your strength we will endure

In Your strength we will endure

VERSE 2

Deliver us from evil, Lord;

Our hearts so quickly run astray

Temptation crouching at the door

To turn us from the narrow way

We look to You, we look to You,

Christ the conquering Son of God

We look to You, we look to You;

Lord, complete what You’ve begun

Lord, complete what You’ve begun

VERSE 3

Deliver us from evil, Lord;

The devil’s seeking to devour

With trembling hearts we hear his roar,

But Your strong arm will crush his pow’r

We look to You, we look to You,

Come and end his earthly reign

We look to You, we look to You;

Lord, deliver us, we pray

TAG

We look to You, we look to You

You will come again to reign

We look to You, we look to You

All the earth will bow in praise

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Blessing serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From Numbers 6:24-26

 

The Lord bless you

    and keep you;

the Lord make his face shine on you

    and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn his face toward you

    and give you peace

 

Closing Song

 

He Will Hold Me Fast

When I fear my faith will fail, Christ will hold me fast;

When the tempter would prevail, He will hold me fast.

I could never keep my hold through life’s fearful path;

For my love is often cold; He must hold me fast.

He will hold me fast, He will hold me fast;

For my Savior loves me so, He will hold me fast.

Those He saves are His delight, Christ will hold me fast;

Precious in his holy sight, He will hold me fast.

He’ll not let my soul be lost; His promises shall last;

Bought by Him at such a cost, He will hold me fast.

He will hold me fast, He will hold me fast;

For my Savior loves me so, He will hold me fast.

For my life He bled and died, Christ will hold me fast;

Justice has been satisfied; He will hold me fast.

Raised with Him to endless life, He will hold me fast

‘Till our faith is turned to sight, When He comes at last!

He will hold me fast, He will hold me fast;

For my Savior loves me so, He will hold me fast.

Click the photo below to learn more about tithes and offerings:

Children’s Worship Lesson:

 

This week we’ll be hearing about when Jesus walked on water: LINK HERE. Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and even if you don’t have kids you might find yourself blessed by the teachings in this lesson!!!  While you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us!  You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or send by email to goldavechurch@gmail.com

Where are We Headed with our Sermons?

Check out the video below from Pastor Gina:

A Note before you begin:

 

Welcome to Gold Avenue Church’s At home Worship Liturgy; we’re so grateful to join together in Spirit as we worship! We want to give special thanks to our worship leaders: Kayleen Jasperse, Derek Sterenberg, and Marissa Walters who have been prayerfully discerning our Orders of Worship and Derek in particular who prepared this week’s order. While we would love to be together in person and  it may be somewhat difficult or even a little bit uncomfortable to worship from home, we’re reminded of the many believers around the world and throughout time that have worshiped from their homes in the wake of religious and political opposition. Our prayer is that despite the circumstances you’re able to be fully present to the Lord and that he meets with each of you richly. 

 

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him. Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

From Hebrews 4:14-16

 

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

 

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led to turn your heart toward worship.

 

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. We invite you to turn up the volume and to participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

 

How Great is Our God

The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty

Let all the Earth rejoice

All the Earth rejoice

He wraps himself in light

And darkness tries to hide

And trembles at His voice

Trembles at His voice

How great is our God, sing with me

How great is our God, and all will see

How great, how great is our God

Age to age He stands

And time is in His hands

Beginning and the end

The Godhead Three in One

Father Spirit Son

The Lion and the Lamb

The Lion and the Lamb

How great is our God, sing with me

How great is our God, and all will see

How great, how great is our God

Name above all names

Worthy of our praise

My heart will sing

How great is our God

You’re the name above all names

You are worthy of our praise

And my heart will sing

How great is our God

How great is our God, sing with me

How great is our God, and all will see

How great, how great is our God

How great is our God, sing with me

How great is our God, and all will see

How great, how great is our God

The whole world sings, the whole world sings

How great is our God

How great is our God

How great, how great is our God

 

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all and who is present with us as our loving heavenly father!

 

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

 

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

 

“The Lord be with you!” and in response:  “and also with you!”

 

If worshiping alone: “Lord, thank you that you’re with me!”

 

Jesus

There is a truth older than the ages

There is a promise of things yet to come

There is one born for our salvation

Jesus

There is a light that overwhelms the darkness

There is a kingdom that forever reigns

There is freedom from the chains that bind us

Jesus, Jesus

Who walks on the waters

Who speaks to the sea

Who stands in the fire beside me

He roars like a lion

He bled as the Lamb

He carries my healing in His hands

Jesus

There is a name I call in times of trouble

There is a song that comforts in the night

There is a voice that calms the storm that rages

He is Jesus, Jesus

Who walks on the waters

Who speaks to the sea

Who stands in the fire beside me

He roars like a lion

He bled as the Lamb

He carries my healing in His hands

Messiah

My Savior

There is power in Your name

You’re my rock and my Redeemer

There is power in Your name

In Your name

You walks on the waters

You speaks to the sea

You stands in the fire beside me

You roars like a lion

You bled as the Lamb

You carries my healing in Your hands

Jesus, there is no one like You

Jesus, there is no one like You

This is Amazing Grace

Who breaks the power of sin and darkness

Whose love is mighty and so much stronger

The King of Glory, the King above all kings

Who shakes the whole earth with holy thunder

And leaves us breathless in awe and wonder

The King of Glory, the King above all kings

This is amazing grace

This is unfailing love

That You would take my place

That You would bear my cross

You lay down Your life

That I would be set free

Oh, Jesus, I sing for

All that You’ve done for me

Who brings our chaos back into order

Who makes the orphan a son and daughter

The King of Glory, the King of Glory

Who rules the nations with truth and justice

Shines like the sun in all of its brilliance

The King of Glory, the King above all kings

This is amazing grace

This is unfailing love

That You would take my place

That You would bear my cross

You lay down Your life

That I would be set free

Oh, Jesus, I sing for

All that You’ve done for me

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy is the King who conquered the grave

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy is the King who conquered the grave

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy is the King who conquered the grave

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy, worthy, worthy

This is amazing grace

This is unfailing love

That You would take my place

That You would bear my cross

You lay down Your life

That I would be set free

Oh, Jesus, I sing for

All that You’ve done for me

All that You’ve done for me

High and Lifted Up

Lord of all the earth

And all of heaven

I come and seek Your face

Worship You with all I have within me

Humbled by Your grace

Every heart every nation

Every tribe all creation

Will bow before Your presence and sing

You are high and lifted up

You are high and lifted up

And my soul sings hallelujah

To the Lamb

The Lamb of God

Lord of righteousness

You come in glory

Bright and morning star

All my days I?ll worship and adore You

Healer of my heart

Every prayer every cry

You alone satisfy

We will lift Your praise

Again and again

Majesty

Majesty

Jesus Lamb of God

Majesty

Majesty

Holy are You Lord

Testimony and Family Prayer Time:

 

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

 

For Family Prayer Time:  Take some time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads for our church family, our neighborhood, and the world. 

 

Song of Preparation and Receiving of the Offering: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

 


You are invited to continue support ministry at Gold Avenue Church by giving to the general fund (Click the picture for more giving options):

  1. Text:  send amount (number only, no extra symbols) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online at https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online or https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
  3. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

 

Goodness of God

Verse 1

I love You Lord

Oh Your mercy never fails me

All my days

I’ve been held in Your hands

From the moment that I wake up

Until I lay my head

I will sing of the goodness of God

Chorus

All my life You have been faithful

All my life You have been so, so good

With every breath that I am able

I will sing of the goodness of God

Verse 2

I love Your voice

You have led me through the fire

In darkest nights

You are close like no other

I’ve known You as a father

I’ve known You as a friend

I have lived in the goodness of God

Bridge

Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me

Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me

With my life laid down, I’m surrendered now, I give You everything

Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me

The Preaching of the Word:

Access the audio of the sermon here: Sermon Audio Recording

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly. You’re welcome to sing along, to listen and reflect, to pray or journal, etc. 

 

Yes and Amen

Father of kindness
You have poured out of grace
You brought me out of darkness
You have filled me with peace
Giver of mercy
You’re my help in time of need
Lord I can’t help but sing
Faithful you are
Faithful forever you will be
Faithful you are
All your promises are yes and Amen
All your promises are yes and Amen
Beautiful Savior
You have brought me near
You pulled me from the ashes
You have broken every curse
Blessed redeemer
You have set this captive free
Lord I can’t help but sing
Faithful you are
Faithful forever you will be
Faithful you are
All your promises are yes and Amen
All your promises are yes and Amen
Faithful you are
Faithful forever you will be
Faithful yes you are
All your promises are yes and Amen
I will rest in your promises
My confidence is your faithfulness
I will rest in your promises
My confidence is your faithfulness
I will rest in your promises
My confidence is your faithfulness
I will rest in your promises
My confidence is your faithfulness
Faithful you are
Faithful forever you will be
Faithful yes you are
All your promises are yes and Amen
All your promises are yes and Amen
All your promises are yes and Amen

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Blessing serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From Numbers 6:24-26

 

The Lord bless you

    and keep you;

the Lord make his face shine on you

    and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn his face toward you

    and give you peace.

 

Closing Song

 

Doxology

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBBnOJpclMQ

Praise God from whom all blessings flow

Praise Him all creatures here below

Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

 

Click the photo below to learn more about tithes and offerings:

Children’s Worship Lesson:

This week we’ll be learning about how Jesus calmed the storm, which is very applicable for the times we’re in now: LINK HERE. Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and even if you don’t have kids you might find yourself blessed by the teachings in this lesson!!!  While you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us!  You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or send by email to goldavechurch@gmail.com

A Note before you begin:

 

Welcome to Gold Avenue Church’s At home Worship Liturgy; we’re so grateful to join together in Spirit as we worship! We want to give special thanks to our worship leaders: Kayleen Jasperse, Derek Sterenberg, and Marissa Walters who have been prayerfully discerning our Orders of Worship and Kayleen in particular who prepared this week’s order. While we would love to be together in person and  it may be somewhat difficult or even a little bit uncomfortable to worship from home, we’re reminded of the many believers around the world and throughout time that have worshiped from their homes in the wake of political opposition. Our prayer is that despite the circumstances you’re able to be fully present to the Lord and that he meets with each of you richly. We will also be celebrating Communion during this At Home Liturgy, so please make sure you’ve got some wine/juice and bread/crackers on hand so that we can join in together. 

 

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him.

 

Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

 

From Psalm 33:18-22

 

But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him,

    on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,

to deliver them from death

    and keep them alive in famine.

 

We wait in hope for the Lord;

    he is our help and our shield.

In him our hearts rejoice,

    for we trust in his holy name.

May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,

    even as we put our hope in you.

 

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

 

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. We invite you to turn up the volume and to participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

 

Come Thou Fount Come Thou King

Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, tune my heart to sing Thy grace

Streams of mercy, never ceasing call for songs of loudest praise

Teach me some melodious sonnet sung by flaming tongues above

Praise the mount, I’m fixed up, on it

Mount of Thy re- deeming love

I was lost in utter darkness ’til You came and rescued me

I was bound by all my sin when Your love came and set me free

Now my soul can sing a new song, now my heart has found a home

Now Your grace is always with me

And I’ll never be a- lone

Come, Thou Fount, come, Thou King; Come, Thou precious Prince of Peace

Hear Your bride, to You we sing, come, Thou Fount of our bless- ing

Come, Thou Fount, come, Thou King; Come, Thou precious Prince of Peace

Hear Your bride, to You we sing, come, Thou Fount of our bless- ing

O, to grace, how great a debtor daily I’m constrained to be

Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, bind my wandering heart to Thee

Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, prone to leave the God I love

Here’s my heart, Lord, take and seal it

Seal it for Thy courts a- bove

Come, Thou Fount, come, Thou King; Come, Thou precious Prince of Peace

Hear Your bride, to You we sing, come, Thou Fount of our bless- ing

Come, Thou Fount, come, Thou King; Come, Thou precious Prince of Peace

Hear Your bride, to You we sing, come, Thou Fount of our bless- ing

 

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all and who is present with us as our loving heavenly father!

 

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with me/us in truth and love.

 

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

 

“The Lord be with you!” and in response:  “and also with you!”

 

If worshiping as one: “Lord, thank you that you are with me!”

 

On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness

I dare not trust the sweetest frame

But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

All other ground is sinking sand

Whoa-oh, The Solid Rock

On Christ the solid rock I stand

Whoa-oh, The Solid Rock

All other ground is sinking sand

When darkness veils his lovely face

I rest on His unchanging grace

In every high and stormy gale

My anchor holds within the veil

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

All other ground is sinking sand

Whoa-oh, The Solid Rock

On Christ the solid rock I stand

Whoa-oh, The Solid Rock

All other ground is sinking sand

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness

When He shall come with trumpet sound

O may I then in Him be found

Dressed in His righteousness alone

Faultless to stand before the throne

On Christ the solid rock I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

All other ground is sinking sand

Whoa-oh, The Solid Rock

On Christ the solid rock I stand

Whoa-oh, The Solid Rock

All other ground is sinking sand

Mighty to Save

Well, everyone needs compassion

A love that’s never failing

But let mercy fall on me

Well everyone needs forgiveness

The kindness of a Savior

The hope of nations

My Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is Mighty to save

He is Mighty to save

Forever

Author of salvation

He rose and conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

So take me as You find me

All my fears and failures

And fill my life again

I give my life to follow

Everything I believe in

And now I surrender

(I surrender)

Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is Mighty to save

He is Mighty to save

Forever

Author of salvation

He rose and conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is Mighty to save

He is Mighty to save

Forever

Author of salvation

He rose and conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Jesus

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is Mighty to save

He is Mighty to save

Forever

Author of salvation

He rose and conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is Mighty to save

He is Mighty to save

Forever

Author of salvation

He rose and conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Jesus

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Jesus

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Jesus

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Jesus

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Jesus

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We’re singing for the glory of the risen King

Our God is mighty to save. He is our risen King who deserves all our praise and all the glory, and he is also with us all the time and in all things. The next song may be a new one, so feel free to listen and soak in the rich lyrics or sing along as you feel led. 

Christ is Mine Forevermore

Mine are days that God has numbered

I was made to walk with Him

Yet I look for worldly treasure

And forsake the King of kings

But mine is hope in my Redeemer

Though I fall, his love is sure

For Christ has paid for every failing

I am His forevermore

Mine are tears in times of sorrow

Darkness not yet understood

Through the valley I must travel

Where I see no earthly good

But mine is peace that flows from heaven

And the strength in times of need

I know my pain will not be wasted

Christ completes his work in me

Mine are days here as a stranger

Pilgrim on a narrow way

One with Christ I will encounter

Harm and hatred for his name

But mine is armour for this battle

Strong enough to last the war

And he has said he will deliver

Safely to the golden shore

And mine are keys to Zion city

Where beside the King I walk

For there my heart has found its treasure

Christ is mine forevermore

Come rejoice now, O my soul

For his love is my reward

Fear is gone and hope is sure

Christ is mine forevermore!

Come rejoice now, O my soul

For his love is my reward

Fear is gone and hope is sure

Christ is mine forevermore!

Come rejoice now, O my soul

For his love is my reward

Fear is gone and hope is sure

Christ is mine forevermore!

And mine are keys to Zion city

Where beside the King I walk

For there my heart has found its treasure

Christ is mine forevermore

Christ is mine forevermore

Christ is mine forevermore

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

 

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

 

For Family Prayer Time:  Take some time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads for our church family, our neighborhood, and the world. 

 

Offering: 

This time serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving we are are invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us.


You are invited to continue support ministry at Gold Avenue Church by giving to the general fund (Click the picture for more giving options):

  1. Text:  send amount (number only, no extra symbols) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online at https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online or https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
  3. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Celebration of the Lord’s Supper:

Gather your wine/juice and bread/crackers and join in with the video below. Again, communion from home may feel a little bit awkward, but we’re reminded of so many of our brothers and sisters who throughout the world and throughout history have celebrated communion with great joy from their own homes and in difficult circumstances. May the Lord bless you richly through this meal. 

All baptized followers of Jesus Christ are invited to participate in Communion. Parents, we welcome you to discern when your children are ready to participate, as we welcome them to join in this family meal where God seals his covenant love for each of us.

 

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone my hope is found,

He is my light, my strength, my song

This Cornerstone, this solid Ground

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.

What heights of love, what depths of peace

When fears are stilled, when strivings cease

My Comforter, my All in All

Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone! – who took on flesh,

Fullness of God in helpless babe.

This gift of love and righteousness,

Scorned by the ones He came to save

Till on that cross as Jesus died,

The wrath of God was satisfied

For every sin on Him was laid

Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay,

Light of the world by darkness slain:

Then bursting forth in glorious day

Up from the grave He rose again

And as He stands in victory

Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me,

For I am His and He is mine

Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death,

This is the power of Christ in me

From life’s first cry to final breath,

Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man,

Can ever pluck me from His hand

Till He returns or calls me home

Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.

 

The Preaching of the Word:

Click on the play button below the picture to listen, or click here to go to the stand-alone sermons page.

 

Response:

If this sermon has brought some difficult things for you and if you’d like to talk or pray with someone, please do contact Pastor Jaleesa at pastorjaleesa.gold@gmail.com so that she can speak with you or refer you to a Care Elder. We’d love to pray with you! 

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly. You’re welcome to sing along, to listen and reflect, to pray or journal, etc. 

 

Before the Throne of God Above

Before the throne of God above

I have a strong and perfect plea

A great High Priest whose name is love

Who ever lives and pleads for me

My name is graven on His hands

My name is written on His heart

I know that while in heav’n He stands

No tongue can bid me thence depart

No tongue can bid me thence depart

When Satan tempts me to despair

And tells me of the guilt within

Upward I look and see Him there

Who made an end of all my sin

Because the sinless Savior died

My sinful soul is counted free

For God the Just is satisfied

To look on Him and pardon me

To look on Him and pardon me

Behold Him there, the risen Lamb

My perfect, spotless Righteousness

The great unchangeable I AM

The King of glory and of grace

One with Himself, I cannot die

My soul is purchased by His blood

My life is hid with Christ on high

With Christ my Savior and my God

One with Himself, I cannot die

My soul is purchased by His blood

My life is hid with Christ on high

With Christ my Savior and my God

With Christ my Savior and my God

With Christ my Savior and my God

 

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Blessing serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From Romans 15:13

 

May the God of hope fill me/us with all joy and peace as I/we trust in him, so that I/we may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

Closing Song

 

It is Well With my Soul

When peace like a river, attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll

Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say

It is well, it is well, with my soul

It is well

With my soul

It is well, it is well with my soul

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,

Let this blest assurance control,

That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,

And hath shed His own blood for my soul

It is well (it is well)

With my soul (with my soul)

It is well, it is well with my soul

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought

My sin, not in part but the whole,

Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, o my soul

It is well (it is well)

With my soul (with my soul)

It is well, it is well with my soul

It is well (it is well)

With my soul (with my soul)

It is well, it is well with my soul

Children’s Worship Lesson:

This week we’ll be learning about how Jesus calmed the storm, which is very applicable for the times we’re in now: LINK HERE. Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and even if you don’t have kids you might find yourself blessed by the teachings in this lesson!!!  While you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us!  You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or send by email to goldavechurch@gmail.com

A Note before you begin:

 
Welcome to Gold Avenue Church’s At home Worship Liturgy; we’re so grateful to join together in Spirit as we worship! We want to give special thanks to our worship leaders: Kayleen Jasperse, Derek Sterenberg, and Marissa Walters who have been prayerfully discerning our Orders of Worship and Marissa in particular who prepared this week’s order. While we would love to be together in person and  it may be somewhat difficult or even a little bit uncomfortable to worship from home, we’re reminded of the many believers around the world and throughout time that have worshipped from their homes in the wake of political opposition. Our prayer is that despite the circumstances you’re able to be fully present to the Lord and that he meets with each of you richly. 

 

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him.

 

Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

 

From Psalm 145: 17-21

 

The Lord is righteous in all his ways

    and faithful in all he does.

The Lord is near to all who call on him,

    to all who call on him in truth.

He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;

    he hears their cry and saves them.

The Lord watches over all who love him,

    but all the wicked he will destroy.

 

My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord.

    Let every creature praise his holy name

    for ever and ever.

 

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

 

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. We invite you to turn up the volume and to participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

 

High and Lifted Up

Lord of all the earth

And all of heaven

I come and seek Your face

Worship You with all I have within me

Humbled by Your grace

Every heart every nation

Every tribe all creation

Will bow before Your presence and sing

You are high and lifted up

You are high and lifted up

And my soul sings hallelujah

To the Lamb

The Lamb of God

Lord of righteousness

You come in glory

Bright and morning star

All my days I?ll worship and adore You

Healer of my heart

Every prayer every cry

You alone satisfy

We will lift Your praise

Again and again

Majesty

Majesty

Jesus Lamb of God

Majesty

Majesty

Holy are You Lord

 

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all and who is present with us as our loving heavenly father!

 

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

 

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

 

“The Lord be with you!” and in response:  “and also with you!”

 

And if you’re alone: “The Lord is with me!”

 

Jesus

There is a truth older than the ages

There is a promise of things yet to come

There is one born for our salvation

Jesus

There is a light that overwhelms the darkness

There is a kingdom that forever reigns

There is freedom from the chains that bind us

Jesus, Jesus

Who walks on the waters

Who speaks to the sea

Who stands in the fire beside me

He roars like a lion

He bled as the Lamb

He carries my healing in His hands

Jesus

There is a name I call in times of trouble

There is a song that comforts in the night

There is a voice that calms the storm that rages

He is Jesus, Jesus

Who walks on the waters

Who speaks to the sea

Who stands in the fire beside me

He roars like a lion

He bled as the Lamb

He carries my healing in His hands

Messiah

My Savior

There is power in Your name

You’re my rock and my Redeemer

There is power in Your name

In Your name

You walks on the waters

You speaks to the sea

You stands in the fire beside me

You roars like a lion

You bled as the Lamb

You carries my healing in Your hands

Jesus, there is no one like You

Jesus, there is no one like You

Wonderful Merciful Savior

Wonderful merciful savior

Precious redeemer and friend

Who would have thought that a lamb could

Rescue the souls of man

Oh you rescue the souls of man.

Counselor comforter keeper

Spirit we long to embrace

You offer hope when our hearts have

Hopelessly lost our way

Oh we’ve hopelessly lost the way.

You are the one that we praise

You are the one we adore.

You give the healing and grace our

Hearts always hunger for

Oh our hearts always hunger for.

Oh mighty infinite father

Faithfully loving your own

Here in our weakness you find us

Falling before your throne

Oh were falling before your throne

You are the one that we praise

You are the one we adore

You give the healing and grace our

Hearts always hunger for

Oh our hearts always hunger for.

You are the one that we praise

You are the one we adore

You give the healing and grace our

Hearts always hunger for

Oh our hearts always hunger for.

 

If you feel led, take a moment to reflect on our Wonderful Merciful Savior and his tremendous goodness to you before moving on. The next song expresses God’s goodness and also serves as an opportunity to cry out to God for his healing and provision… what might you want to ask of the Lord at this time?

Good to Me

I cry out

For your hand of mercy to heal me

I am weak

I need your love to free me

Oh Lord, my Rock

My strength in weakness

Come rescue me, oh Lord

You are my hope

Your promise never fails me

And my desire

Is to follow You forever

For You are good

For You are good

For You are good to me

For You are good

For You are good

For You are good to me

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

 

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

 

For Family Prayer Time:  Please utilize and add your own requests to this prayer guide and also take time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads. 

 

Song of Preparation: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

Receiving of our Tithes and Offerings:

Support ministry at Gold Avenue Church by giving to the general fund (Click the picture for more giving options):

  1. Text:  send amount (number only, no extra symbols) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online at https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online or https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
  3. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 

 

As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.

 

Power of Your Love

Lord I come to you

Let my heart be changed, renewed

Flowing from the grace

That I’ve found in You

Lord I’ve come to know

The weaknesses I see in me

Will be stripped away

By the power of Your love

Hold me close

Let Your love surround me

Bring me near

Draw me to Your side

And as I wait

I’ll rise up like the eagle

And I will soar with You

Your Spirit leads me on

In the power of Your love

Lord unveil my eyes

Let me see You face to face

The knowledge of Your love

As You live in me

Lord renew my mind

As Your will unfolds in my life

In living every day

By the power of Your love

Hold me close

Let Your love surround me

Bring me near

Draw me to Your side

And as I wait

I’ll rise up like the eagle

And I will soar with You

Your Spirit leads me on

In the power of Your love

Hold me close

Let Your love surround me

Bring me near

Draw me to Your side

And as I wait

I’ll rise up like the eagle

And I will soar with You

Your Spirit leads me on

In the power of Your love

And I will soar with You

Your Spirit leads me on

In the power of Your love

And I will soar with You

Your Spirit leads me on

In the power of Your love

 

The Preaching of the Word:

Click on the play button below the picture to listen, or click here to go to the stand-alone sermons page.

Click on the play button below

 

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly. You’re welcome to sing along, to listen and reflect, to pray or journal, etc. 

 

What a Friend We Have in Jesus

What a friend we have in Jesus

All our sins and griefs to bear

And what a privilege to carry

Everything to God in prayer

Oh, what peace we often forfeit

Oh, what needless pain we bear

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer

Have we trials and temptations?

Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged

Take it to the Lord in prayer

Can we find a friend so faithful

Who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness

Take it to the Lord in prayer

 

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Blessing serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From Numbers 6:24-26

 

The Lord bless you

    and keep you;

the Lord make his face shine on you

    and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn his face toward you

    and give you peace

 

Closing Song

 

Go My Children with my Blessing

Go, my children, with my blessing, Never alone.

Waking, sleeping, I am with you; You are my own.

In my love’s baptismal river

I have made you mine forever.

Go, my children, with my blessing – You are my own.

Go, my children, sins forgiven, At peace and pure.

Here you learned how much I love you, What I can cure.

Here you heard my dear Son’s story;

Here you touched him, saw his glory.

Go, my children, sins forgiven, At peace and pure.

Go, my children, fed and nourished, Closer to me;

Grow in love and love by serving, Joyful and free.

Here my Spirit’s power filled you;

Here his tender comfort stilled you.

Go, my children, fed and nourished, Joyful and free.

I the Lord will bless and keep you And give you peace;

I the Lord will smile upon you And give you peace;

I the Lord will be your Father,

Savior, Comforter, and Brother.

Go, my children; I will keep you And give you peace.

Children’s Worship Lesson:

This week we’ll be learning about how Jesus chose 12 disciples as part of God’s big plan for the worldLINK HERE Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and even if you don’t have kids you might find yourself blessed by the teachings in this lesson!!!  While you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us!  You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or send by email to goldavechurch@gmail.com

A Word from Pastor Dave about where we’re headed:

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him. Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

 

From Psalm 121

 

1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains—

    where does my help come from?

2 My help comes from the Lord,

    the Maker of heaven and earth.

 

3 He will not let your foot slip—

    he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel

    will neither slumber nor sleep.

 

5 The Lord watches over you—

    the Lord is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,

    nor the moon by night.

 

7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—

    he will watch over your life;

8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going

    both now and forevermore.

 

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

 

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. Participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

 

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone my hope is found,

He is my light, my strength, my song

This Cornerstone, this solid Ground

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.

What heights of love, what depths of peace

When fears are stilled, when strivings cease

My Comforter, my All in All

Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone! – who took on flesh,

Fullness of God in helpless babe.

This gift of love and righteousness,

Scorned by the ones He came to save

Till on that cross as Jesus died,

The wrath of God was satisfied

For every sin on Him was laid

Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay,

Light of the world by darkness slain:

Then bursting forth in glorious day

Up from the grave He rose again

And as He stands in victory

Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me,

For I am His and He is mine

Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death,

This is the power of Christ in me

From life’s first cry to final breath,

Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man,

Can ever pluck me from His hand

Till He returns or calls me home

Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all and who we celebrate as or risen Lord on this Easter morning!

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

“The Lord be with you!” and in response:  “and also with you!”

And if you’re alone: “The Lord is with me!”

Holy Spirit

There is nothing worth more

That will ever come close

No thing can compare

You’re our living hope

Your presence Lord

I’ve tasted and seen

Of the sweetest of love

When my heart becomes free

And my shame is undone

Your presence Lord

Holy spirit, You are welcome here

Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere

Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for

To be overcome by Your presence, Lord

There is nothing worth more

That will ever come close

No thing can compare

You’re our living hope

Your presence Lord

I’ve tasted and seen

Of the sweetest of Love

When my heart becomes free

And my shame is undone

Your presence Lord

Holy spirit, You are welcome here

Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere

Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for

To be overcome by Your presence, Lord

Holy spirit, You are welcome here

Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere

Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for

To be overcome by Your presence, Lord

Let us become more aware of Your presence

Let us experience the glory of Your goodness

Let us become more aware of Your presence

Let us experience the glory of Your goodness

Let us become more aware of Your presence

Let us experience the glory of Your goodness

Holy spirit, You are welcome here

Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere

Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for

To be overcome by Your presence, Lord

Holy spirit, You are welcome here

Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere

Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for

To be overcome by Your presence, Lord

Holy spirit, You are welcome here

Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere

Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for

To be overcome by Your presence, Lord

Hungry

Hungry I come to You

For I know You satisfy

I am empty but I know

Your love does not run dry

So I wait for You

So I wait for You

I’ve fallen on my knees

Offering all my needs

Jesus You’re all

This heart is living for

Broken I run to You

For Your arms are open wide

I am weary but I know Your touch

Restores my life

So I wait for You

So I wait for you

Your Love Never Fails

Nothing can separate

Even if I ran away

Your love never fails

I know I still make mistakes

But You have new mercies for me everyday

Your love never fails

You stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

And may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Your love never fails

The wind is strong and the water’s deep

I’m not alone in these open seas

‘Cause Your love never fails

The chasm is far too wide

I never thought I’d reach the other side

‘Cause Your love never fails

‘Cause you stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

There may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Oh no, love never fails

‘Cause You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

‘Cause you stay

‘Cause you stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

It may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Love never fails

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make, you make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

‘Cause You make all things work together for my good

‘Cause you stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

It may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Never fails

 

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

 

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

 

For Family Prayer Time:  Please utilize and add your own requests to this prayer guide and also take time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads. 

 

Song of Preparation and Receiving of the Offering: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

 

Regular offering:

Support ministry at Gold Avenue Church by giving to the general fund (Click the picture for more giving options):

  1. Text:  send amount (number only, no extra symbols) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online at https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online or https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
  3. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 

Special Offering:

Once a month we take a special offering to support special causes that the Deacons have prayerfully discerned.  This month’s special offering is for the Gold Avenue Church Van Fund. The Gold vans are used throughout the year to transport people to and from church, to transport youth to GoldRush youth group, and for many other uses.  As the vans age, the need for an updated model has become apparent, and so we invite you to sow into the purchase of a replacement van.  You can do this by:

  1. Text:  send amount space van (ex: 50 van) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online: select van fund from dropdown menu or type “van fund” in memo line
  3. Check: write “van fund” in memo line 

 

As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.

 

Turn Your Eyes

VERSE 1

Turn your eyes upon Jesus

Look full in His wonderful face

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim

In the light of His glory and grace

VERSE 2

Turn your eyes to the hillside

Where justice and mercy embraced

There the Son of God gave His life for us

And our measureless debt was erased

CHORUS

Jesus, to You we lift our eyes

Jesus, our glory and our prize

We adore You, behold You, our Savior ever true

Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You

VERSE 3

Turn your eyes to the morning

And see Christ the Lion awake

What a glorious dawn, fear of death is gone

For we carry His life in our veins

VERSE 4

Turn your eyes to the heavens

Our King will return for His own

Every knee will bow, every tongue will shout,

‘All glory to Jesus alone!’

 

The Preaching of the Word:

Access the audio of the sermon here: Sermon Audio Recording

 

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly.

 

Weep With Me

 

Weep with me

Lord will You weep with me?

I don’t need answers, all I need

Is to know that You care for me

Hear my plea

Are You even listening?

Lord I will wrestle with Your heart

But I won’t let You go

You know I believe

Help my unbelief

Yet I will praise You

Yet I will sing of Your name

Here in the shadows

Here I will offer my praise

What’s true in the light

Is still true in the dark

You’re good and You’re kind

And You care for this heart

Lord I believe

You weep with me

Part the seas

Lord make a way for me

Here in the midst of my lament

I have faith, yes I still believe

That You love me

Your plans are to prosper me

You’re working everything for good

Even when I can’t see

You know I believe, yeah

Help my unbelief, oh

Yet I will praise You

Yet I will sing of Your name

Here in the shadows

Here I will offer my praise

What’s true in the light

Is still true in the dark

You’re good and You’re kind

And You care for this heart

Lord I believe

That you weep with me

Turn my lament into a love song

From this lament, raise up an anthem

Oh I’ll sing it in the darkness, oh

Turn my lament into a love song, ’cause I love You Lord

And from this lament, raise up an anthem, oh

Oh I’ll sing it in the darkness

Yet I will praise You

Yet I will sing of Your name

Right here in the shadows

Right here I will offer my praise

What was true in the light

Is still true in the dark

You’re good and You’re kind

And You care for this heart

Lord I believe

That you weep with me

Yeah you weep with me

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Blessing serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

From 1 Peter 5:10-11:

And the God of all grace, who called me/us to his eternal glory in Christ, after I/we have suffered a little while, will himself restore me/us and make me/us strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

Closing Song

Bless the Lord/ 10,000 Reasons

Bless the Lord oh my soul

Oh my soul

Worship His Holy name

Sing like never before

Oh my soul

I’ll worship Your Holy name

The sun comes up

It’s a new day dawning

It’s time to sing Your song again

Whatever may pass

And whatever lies before me

Let me be singing

When the evening comes

Bless the Lord oh my soul

Oh my soul

Worship His Holy name

Sing like never before

Oh my soul

I’ll worship Your Holy name

You’re rich in love

And You’re slow to anger

Your name is great

And Your heart is kind

For all Your goodness

I will keep on singing

Ten thousand reasons

For my heart to find

Bless the Lord oh my soul

Oh my soul

Worship His Holy name

Sing like never before

Oh my soul

I’ll worship Your Holy name

Bless You Lord

And on that day

When my strength is failing

The end draws near

And my time has come

Still my soul will

Sing Your praise unending

Ten thousand years

And then forevermore

Forevermore

Bless the Lord oh my soul

Oh my soul

Worship His Holy name

Sing like never before

Oh my soul

I’ll worship Your Holy name

Bless the Lord oh my soul

Oh my soul

Worship His Holy name

Sing like never before

Oh my soul

I’ll worship Your Holy name

Yes I’ll worship Your Holy name

I’ll worship Your Holy name

Sing like never before

Oh my soul

I’ll worship Your Holy name

Jesus I will worship Your Holy name

Worship Your Holy name

 

Reminder that this month we have our special “Van Fund” offering.  Click the picture or go back to the middle of this liturgy for instructions on how to give.

Children’s Worship Lesson:

This week we’ll be learning more about Jesus’ ministry as he feeds 5,000 people: LINK HERE Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and even if you don’t have kids you might find yourself blessed by the teachings in this lesson!!!  While you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us!  You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or send by email to goldavechurch@gmail.com

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him. Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

From 1 Peter 1:3-9

3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. Participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

Resurrecting

The head that once was crowned with thorns

Is crowned with glory now

The Savior knelt to wash our feet

Now at His feet we bow

The One who wore our sin and shame

Now robed in majesty

The radiance of perfect love

Now shines for all to see

Your name, Your name

Is victory

All praise, will rise

To Christ, our king

Your name, Your name

Is victory

All praise, will rise

To Christ, our king

The fear that held us now gives way

To Him who is our peace

His final breath upon the cross

Is now alive in me

Your name, Your name

Is victory

All praise, will rise

To Christ, our king

Your name, Your name

Is victory

All praise, will rise

To Christ, our king

By Your spirit I will rise

From the ashes of defeat

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

In Your name I come alive

To declare Your victory

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

By Your spirit I will rise

From the ashes of defeat

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

In Your name I come alive

To declare Your victory (c’mon!)

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

By Your spirit I will rise

From the ashes of defeat

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

In Your name I come alive

To declare Your victory

The resurrected king, is resurrecting me

He’s resurrecting me

Our God is good, oh

The tomb where soldiers watched in vain

Was borrowed for three days

His body there would not remain

Our God has robbed the grave

Our God has robbed the grave (yes He has, yes He has)

Your name, Your name

Is victory

All praise, will rise

To Christ our king

Your name, Your name

Is victory

All praise, will rise

To Christ our king

By Your spirit I will rise

From the ashes of defeat

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

In Your name I come alive

To declare Your victory

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

By Your spirit I will rise

From the ashes of defeat

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

In Your name I come alive

To declare Your victory

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

By Your spirit I will rise

From the ashes of defeat

The resurrected King, is resurrecting me

In Your name I come alive

To declare Your victory

The resurrected king, is resurrecting me

The resurrected king, is resurrecting me, yeah

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all and who we celebrate as or risen Lord on this Easter morning! Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

“He is Risen!” and in response: “He is Risen indeed!”

Christ is Risen

Let no one caught in sin remain

Inside the lie of inward shame

We fix our eyes upon the cross

And run to Him who showed great love

And bled for us

Freely You’ve bled for us

Christ is risen from the dead

Trampling over death by death

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

Christ is risen from the dead

We are one with Him again

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

Beneath the weight of all our sin

You bowed to none but Heaven’s will

No scheme of Hell, no scoffer’s crown

No burden great can hold You down

In strength You reign

Forever let Your church proclaim

Christ is risen from the dead

Trampling over death by death

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

Christ is risen from the dead

We are one with Him again

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

O death, where is your sting?

O hell, where is your victory?

O church, come stand in the light

The glory of God has defeated the night

Sing it, o death, where is your sting?

O hell, where is your victory?

O church, come stand in the light

Our God is not dead, He’s alive, He’s alive

Christ is risen from the dead

Trampling over death by death

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

Christ is risen from the dead

We are one with Him again

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

Christ is risen from the dead

Trampling over death by death

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

Christ is risen from the dead

We are one with Him again

Come awake, come awake

Come and rise up from the grave

Rise up from the grave

O Praise the Name

I cast my mind to Calvary

Where Jesus bled and died for me.

I see His wounds, His hands, His feet.

My Savior on that cursed tree

His body bound and drenched in tears

They laid Him down in Joseph’s tomb.

The entrance sealed by heavy stone

Messiah still and all alone

O praise the name of the Lord our God

O praise His name forever more

For endless days we will sing Your praise

Oh Lord, oh Lord our God

Then on the third at break of dawn,

The Son of heaven rose again.

O trampled death where is your sting?

The angels roar for Christ the King

O praise the name of the Lord our God

O praise His name forever more

For endless days we will sing Your praise

Oh Lord, oh Lord our God

He shall return in robes of white,

The blazing Son shall pierce the night.

And I will rise among the saints,

My gaze transfixed on Jesus’ face

O praise the name of the Lord our God

O praise His name forever more

For endless days we will sing Your praise

Oh Lord, oh Lord our God

O praise the name of the Lord our God

O praise His name forever more

For endless days we will sing Your praise

Oh Lord, oh Lord our God

Oh Lord, oh Lord our God

Behold Our God

Who has held the oceans in his hands?

Who has numbered every grain of sand?

Kings and nations tremble at his voice

All creation rises to rejoice

Behold our God, seated on his throne

Come, let us adore him

Behold our king, nothing can compare

Come, let us adore him

Who has given counsel to the Lord?

Who can question any of his words?

Who can teach, the one who knows all things?

Who can fathom all his wondrous deeds?

Behold our God, seated on his throne

Come, let us adore him

Behold our king, nothing can compare

Come, let us adore him

Who has felt the nails upon his hands?

Bearing all the guilt of sinful man

God eternal, humbled to the grave

Jesus, Savior, risen now to reign

Behold our God, seated on his throne

Come, let us adore him

Behold our king, nothing can compare

Come, let us adore him

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill the Earth)

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill the Earth)

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill the Earth)

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill the Earth)

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill the Earth)

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill the Earth)

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill the Earth)

You will reign forever (let Your glory fill-)

Behold our God, seated on his throne

Come, let us adore him

Behold our king, nothing can compare

Come, let us adore

Behold our God, seated on his throne

Come, let us adore him

Behold our king, nothing can compare

Come, let us adore him

 

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

For Family Prayer Time:  Please utilize and add your own requests to this prayer guide and also take time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads. 

Song of Preparation: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

Ways to give (Click the picture for more giving options):

Online Direct: Give securely and directly through this link, the default fund is general fund, you can choose others in the drop down menu: https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online

Text:  send amount (number only, no extra symbols) to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely, giving without a keyword goes to the general fund, for other fund options click the picture above for instructions

PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/…

Check: Make checks out to “Gold Avenue Church” and mail to: Gold Avenue Church, 49 Gold Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.

Is He Worthy

Do you feel the world is broken? (We do)

Do you feel the shadows deepen? (We do)

But do you know that all the dark won’t stop the light from getting through? (We do)

Do you wish that you could see it all made new? (We do)

Is all creation groaning? (It is)

Is a new creation coming? (It is)

Is the glory of the Lord to be the light within our midst? (It is)

Is it good that we remind ourselves of this? (It is)

Is anyone worthy? Is anyone whole?

Is anyone able to break the seal and open the scroll?

The Lion of Judah who conquered the grave

He is David’s root and the Lamb who died to ransom the slave

Is He worthy? Is He worthy

Of all blessing and honor and glory?

Is He worthy of this?

He is

Does the Father truly love us? (He does)

Does the Spirit move among us? (He does)

And does Jesus, our Messiah, hold forever those He loves? (He does)

Does our God intend to dwell again with us? (He does)

Is anyone worthy? Is anyone whole?

Is anyone able to break the seal and open the scroll?

The Lion of Judah who conquered the grave

He is David’s root and the Lamb who died to ransom the slave

From every people and tribe (People and tribe)

Every nation and tongue (Every nation and tongue)

He has made us a kingdom and priests to God

To reign with the Son

Is He worthy? Is He worthy

Of all blessing and honor and glory?

Is He worthy? Is He worthy?

Is He worthy of this?

He is, He is

Is He worthy? Is He worthy?

He is, He is

He is worthy, He is worthy

He is

The Preaching of the Word:

Listen to the sermon below or access the audio of the sermon here: Sermon Audio Recording

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly.

Living Hope

How great the chasm that lay between us

How high the mountain I could not climb

In desperation, I turned to heaven

And spoke Your name into the night

Then through the darkness, Your loving-kindness

Tore through the shadows of my soul

The work is finished, the end is written

Jesus Christ, my living hope

Who could imagine so great a mercy?

What heart could fathom such boundless grace?

The God of ages stepped down from glory

To wear my sin and bear my shame

The cross has spoken, I am forgiven

The King of kings calls me His own

Beautiful Savior, I’m Yours forever

Jesus Christ, my living hope

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free

Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me

You have broken every chain

There’s salvation in Your name

Jesus Christ, my living hope

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free

Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me

You have broken every chain

There’s salvation in Your name

Jesus Christ, my living hope

Then came the morning that sealed the promise

Your buried body began to breathe

Out of the silence, the Roaring Lion

Declared the grave has no claim on me

Then came the morning that sealed the promise

Your buried body began to breathe

Out of the silence, the Roaring Lion

Declared the grave has no claim on me

Jesus, Yours is the victory, whoa!

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free

Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me

You have broken every chain

There’s salvation in Your name

Jesus Christ, my living hope

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free

Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me

You have broken every chain

There’s salvation in Your name

Jesus Christ, my living hope

Jesus Christ, my living hope

Oh God, You are my living hope

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s blessing serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

From Numbers 6:24-26:

The Lord bless me/us and keep me/us; the Lord make his face shine on me/us and be gracious to me/us; the Lord turn his face toward me/us and give me/us peace.

Closing Song

Christ the Lord is Risen Today

Christ the Lord is ris’n today, Alleluia!

Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!

Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!

Sing, ye heav’ns, and earth, reply, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!

Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!

Once He died our souls to save, Alleluia!

Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!

Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!

Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!

Death in vain forbids His rise, Alleluia!

Christ hath opened paradise, Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ hath led, Alleluia!

Foll’wing our exalted Head, Alleluia!

Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!

Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

Children’s Worship Lesson:

This week the lesson is: Easter of course! Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and even if you don’t have kids you might find yourself blessed by the teachings in this lesson!!!  While you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us!  You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or send by email to goldavechurch@gmail.com

*all scripture notations are from the NIV Bible

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him. Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

From Psalm 118: 1; 5-14

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

    his love endures forever…

When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord;

    he brought me into a spacious place.

The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid.

    What can mere mortals do to me?

The Lord is with me; he is my helper.

    I look in triumph on my enemies.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord

    than to trust in humans.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord

    than to trust in princes.

All the nations surrounded me,

    but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

They surrounded me on every side,

    but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

They swarmed around me like bees,

    but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns;

    in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

I was pushed back and about to fall,

    but the Lord helped me.

The Lord is my strength and my defense;

    he has become my salvation.

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the title. Participate freely and fully as you would at church: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

Hosanna (Praise is Rising)

Praise is rising, eyes are turning to You, we turn to You

Hope is stirring, hearts are yearning for You, we long for You

‘Cause when we see You we find strength to face the day

In Your presence all our fears are washed away, washed away

Hosanna, Hosanna

You are the God who saves us

Worthy of all our praises

Hosanna, Hosanna

Come have Your way among us

We welcome You here, Lord Jesus

Hear the sound of hearts returning to You, we turn to You

In Your Kingdom broken lives are made new, You make us new

‘Cause when we see You we find strength to face the day

In Your presence all our fears are washed away, washed away

Hosanna, Hosanna

You are the God who saves us

Worthy of all our praises

Hosanna, Hosanna

Come have Your way among us

We welcome You here, Lord Jesus

‘Cause when we see You, we find strength to face the day

In Your Presence all our fears are washed away

‘Cause when we see You, we find strength to face the day

In Your Presence all our fears are washed away, washed away

Hosanna, Hosanna

You are the God who saves us

Worthy of all our praises

Hosanna, Hosanna

Come have Your way among us

We welcome You here, Lord Jesus

Hosanna, Hosanna

You are the God who saves us

Worthy of all our praises

Hosanna, Hosanna

Come have Your way among us

We welcome You here, Lord Jesus

Hosanna, Hosanna

Hosanna, Hosanna

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all. Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

“The peace of the Lord be with you.”  (Or if alone, say aloud: The peace of the Lord be with me.”)

 

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

For Family Prayer Time:  Take time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads.  Be sure to pray for those who are sick, for health care workers and and for wisdom for our government leaders.  Pray for people to remain healthy and at peace. Pray about any other needs that come to mind.  

King of Kings

In the darkness, we were waiting

Without hope, without light

‘Til from Heaven You came running

There was mercy in Your eyes

To fulfill the law and prophets

To a virgin came the Word

From a throne of endless glory

To a cradle in the dirt

Praise the Father, praise the Son

Praise the Spirit, three in one

God of glory, Majesty

Praise forever to the King of Kings

To reveal the kingdom coming

And to reconcile the lost

To redeem the whole creation

You did not despise the cross

For even in Your suffering

You saw to the other side

Knowing this was our salvation

Jesus for our sake You died

Praise the Father, praise the Son

Praise the Spirit, three in one

God of glory, Majesty

Praise forever to the King of Kings

And the morning that You rose

All of Heaven held its breath

‘Til that stone was moved for good

For the Lamb had conquered death

And the dead rose from their tombs

And the angels stood in awe

For the souls of all who’d come

To the Father are restored

And the church of Christ was born

Then the Spirit lit the flame

Now this gospel truth of old

Shall not kneel, shall not faint

By His blood and in His name

In His freedom I am free

For the love of Jesus Christ

Who has resurrected me, ohh

Praise the Father, praise the Son

Praise the Spirit, three in one

God of glory, Majesty

Praise forever to the King of Kings

Praise forever to the King of Kings

It is Well

Grander earth has quaked before

Moved by the sound of His voice

Seas that are shaken and stirred

Can be calmed and broken for my regard

And through it all, through it all

My eyes are on You

And through it all, through it all

It is well

And through it all, through it all

My eyes are on You

And it is well with me

And far be it from me to not believe

Even when my eyes can’t see

And this mountain that’s in front of me

Will be thrown into the midst of the sea

And through it all, through it all

My eyes are on You

And through it all, through it all

It is well

And through it all, through it all

My eyes are on You

And it is well

It is well

So let go my soul and trust in Him

The waves and wind still know His name

So let go my soul and trust in Him

The waves and wind still know His name

So let go my soul and trust in Him

The waves and wind still know His name

The waves and wind still know His name

And it is well with my soul (sing it everybody)

It is well with my soul

It is well with my soul

It is well

It is well with my soul

Oh it is well with my soul (’cause of who you are)

Oh it is well with my soul

It is well with my soul

It is well

It is well with my soul

It is well

It is well with my soul

It is well

It is well with my soul

And through it all, through it all

My eyes are on You

And through it all, through it all

It is well Lord

And through it all, through it all

My eyes are on You

And it is well with me

Offering and Song of Preparation: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

Ways to give:

  1. TEXT– send amount to (616) 319-2259, for more options see this link
  2. Give online at here: Direct Online Giving
  3. Give via PayPal: PayPal Giving
  4. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church and send to: 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 

As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.

Oceans

You call me out upon the waters

The great unknown where feet may fail

And there I find You in the mystery

In oceans deep

My faith will stand

And I will call upon Your name

And keep my eyes above the waves

When oceans rise, my soul will rest in Your embrace

For I am Yours and You are mine

Your grace abounds in deepest waters

Your sovereign hand

Will be my guide

Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me

You’ve never failed and You won’t start now

So I will call upon Your name

And keep my eyes above the waves

When oceans rise, my soul will rest in Your embrace

For I am Yours and You are mine

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders

Let me walk upon the waters

Wherever You would call me

Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander

And my faith will be made stronger

In the presence of my Savior

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders

Let me walk upon the waters

Wherever You would call me

Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander

And my faith will be made stronger

In the presence of my Savior

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders

Let me walk upon the waters

Wherever You would call me

Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander

And my faith will be made stronger

In the presence of my Savior

I will call upon Your name

Keep my eyes above the waves

My soul will rest in Your embrace

I am Yours and You are mine

The Preaching of the Word:

Listen to the the sermon below or click here:  Sermon Audio Recording

Communion:

Settle in, grab your communion elements, and partake along with the body of Christ universal as we celebrate the Lord’s Supper together in response to the sermon:

 

Behold the Lamb

 

Behold the Lamb who bears our sins away,

Slain for us – and we remember

The promise made that all who come in faith

Find forgiveness at the cross.

So we share in this bread of life,

And we drink of His sacrifice

As a sign of our bonds of peace

Around the table of the King.

The body of our Saviour Jesus Christ,

Torn for you – eat and remember

The wounds that heal, the death that brings us life

Paid the price to make us one.

So we share in this bread of life,

And we drink of His sacrifice

As a sign of our bonds of love

Around the table of the King.

The blood that cleanses every stain of sin,

Shed for you – drink and remember

He drained death’s cup that all may enter in

To receive the life of God.

So we share in this bread of life,

And we drink of His sacrifice

As a sign of our bonds of grace

Around the table of the King.

And so with thankfulness and faith we rise

To respond, – and to remember

Our call to follow in the steps of Christ

As His body here on earth.

As we share in His suffering

We proclaim Christ will come again!

And we’ll join in the feast of heaven

Around the table of the King

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly.

Jesus

There is a truth older than the ages

There is a promise of things yet to come

There is one born for our salvation

Jesus

There is a light that overwhelms the darkness

There is a kingdom that forever reigns

There is freedom from the chains that bind us

Jesus, Jesus

Who walks on the waters

Who speaks to the sea

Who stands in the fire beside me

He roars like a lion

He bled as the Lamb

He carries my healing in His hands

Jesus

There is a name I call in times of trouble

There is a song that comforts in the night

There is a voice that calms the storm that rages

He is Jesus, Jesus

Who walks on the waters

Who speaks to the sea

Who stands in the fire beside me

He roars like a lion

He bled as the Lamb

He carries my healing in His hands

Messiah

My Savior

There is power in Your name

You’re my rock and my Redeemer

There is power in Your name

In Your name

You walks on the waters

You speaks to the sea

You stands in the fire beside me

You roars like a lion

You bled as the Lamb

You carries my healing in Your hands

Jesus, there is no one like You

Jesus, there is no one like You

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

From Numbers 6:24-26:

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

God is Able

God is able

He will never fail

He is almighty God

Greater than all we seek

Greater than all we ask

He has done great things

Lifted up

He defeated the grave

Raised to life

Our God is able

In His name

We overcome

For the Lord

Our God is able

God is with us

God is on our side

He will make a way

Far above all we know

Far above all we hope

He has done great things

Lifted up

He defeated the grave

Raised to life

Our God is able

In His name

We overcome

For the Lord

Our God is able

God is with us

He will go before

He will never leave us

He will never leave us

God is for us

He has open arms

He will never fail us

He will never fail us

Lifted up

He defeated the grave

Raised to life

Our God is able

In His name

We overcome

For the Lord

Our God is able

Lifted up

He defeated the grave

Raised to life

Our God is able

In His name

We overcome

For the Lord

Our God is able

For the Lord

Our God is able

For the Lord

Our God is able

Children’s Worship Lesson:

This week the lesson is: Palm Sunday! Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and while you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us! You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or by email at goldavechurch@gmail.com

Kingdom Justice Bible Study

*The link above will be part of the sermon. If you’d like to print it out ahead of beginning to move through the At Home Liturgy, then please do so. It will be included in the Sermon section of the Liturgy so printing it out is not required to participate. 

 

Call to Worship: 

The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him.

Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:

 

From Psalm 20:6-8

 

6 Now this I know:

    The Lord gives victory to his anointed.

He answers him from his heavenly sanctuary

    with the victorious power of his right hand.

7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses,

    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

8 They are brought to their knees and fall,

   but we rise up and stand firm.

9 Lord, give victory to the king!

    Answer us when we call!

 

Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.

Worshiping in Song:

You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. Participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song. 

 

Your Love Never Fails

Nothing can separate

Even if I ran away

Your love never fails

I know I still make mistakes

But You have new mercies for me everyday

Your love never fails

You stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

And may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Your love never fails

The wind is strong and the water’s deep

I’m not alone in these open seas

‘Cause Your love never fails

The chasm is far too wide

I never thought I’d reach the other side

‘Cause Your love never fails

‘Cause you stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

There may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Oh no, love never fails

‘Cause You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

‘Cause you stay

‘Cause you stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

It may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Love never fails

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make, you make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

You make all things work together for my good

‘Cause You make all things work together for my good

‘Cause you stay the same through the ages

Your love never changes

It may be pain in the night

But joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage

I don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that You love me

Never fails

 

The Lord’s Greeting:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all. Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From 2 John 1:3:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.

 

Greeting One Another:

It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump: 

“The peace of the Lord be with you.”  (Or if alone, say aloud: The peace of the Lord be with me.”)

 

The Saving One

What mercy was revealed
What selflessness and peace
My fate was surely sealed
Until He rescued me
His pardon for my sin
His bounty for my need
From slavery and shame
I am redeemed
And Heaven can’t contain
The glory of the Son
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
His love has made a way
The grave is overcome
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
No fear can hold me down
Nor darkness steal my joy
For blood has been poured out
The enemy destroyed
Death could not hold Him down
The cross was not enough
To steal away His throne
For He is God
And Heaven can’t contain
The glory of the Son
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
His love has made a way
The grave is overcome
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved
And Heaven can’t contain
The glory of the Son
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
His love has made a way
The grave is overcome
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One (x2)
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved

To Our God

Up from the ashes Your love has brought us

Out of the darkness into the light

Lifting our sorrows

Bearing our burdens healing our hearts

To our God we lift up one voice

To our God we lift up one song

To our God we lift up one voice

Singing Hallelujah

[x2]

Chains have been broken eyes have been opened

An army of dry bones is starting to rise

Death is defeated

We are victorious for You are alive

To our God we lift up one voice

To our God we lift up one song

To our God we lift up one voice

Singing Hallelujah

[x2]

Hallelujah

Singing Hallelujah

[repeat]

We’ll make His praise glorious glorious, glorious

For His name is glorious, glorious, glorious

Make His praise glorious, glorious, glorious

Shout His name Glorious, Glorious, Glorious

To our God we lift up one voice

To our God we lift up one song

To our God we lift up one voice

Singing Hallelujah

[x2]

We’ll make His praise glorious glorious, glorious

For His name is glorious, glorious, glorious

Make His praise glorious, glorious, glorious

Shout His name Glorious, Glorious, Glorious

[repeat]

Way Maker

You are here

Moving in our midst

I worship you

I worship you

You are here

Working in this place

I worship you

I worship you

You are here

Moving in our midst

I worship you

I worship you

You are here

Working in this place

I worship you

I worship you

Way maker

Miracle worker

Promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God

That is who you are

Way maker

Miracle worker

Promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God

That is who you are

You are here

Touching every heart

I worship you

I worship you

You are here

Healing every heart

I worship you

I worship you

You are here

Turning lives around

I worship you

I worship you

You are here

Mending every heart

I worship you

I worship you

Way maker

Miracle worker

Promise keeper

Light in the darkness

That is who you are

Way maker

Miracle worker

Promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God

That is who you are

You wipe away all tears

You mend the broken heart

You’re the answer to it all

Jesus

You wipe away all tears

You mend the broken heart

You’re the answer to it all (to it all)

Jesus

Way maker

Miracle worker

Promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God

That is who you are

Way maker

Miracle worker

Promise keeper

Light in the darkness

My God

That is who you are

You are here

Touching every life

I worship you

I worship you

You are here

Meeting every need

I worship you

I worship you

Testimony/Family Prayer Time:

 

As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to? 

 

Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.  

 

For Family Prayer Time:  Please utilize and add to this prayer guide and also take time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads. 

 

Song of Preparation: 

The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us. 

 

Ways to give (Click the picture for more giving options):

  1. TEXT– send amount to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
  2. Give online at https://goldavenuechurch.breezechms.com/give/online or https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
  3. Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 

As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.

 

Even So Come

All of creation

All of the earth

Make straight a highway

A path for the Lord

Jesus is coming soon

Call back the sinner

Wake up the saint

Let every nation

Shout of Your fame

Jesus is coming soon

Like a bride

Waiting for her groom

We’ll be a church

Ready for You

Every heart longing for our King

We sing

Even so come

Lord Jesus come

There will be justice

All will be new

Your name forever

Faithful and true

Jesus is coming soon

Like a bride

Waiting for her groom

We’ll be a church

Ready for You

Every heart longing for our King

We sing

Even so come

Lord Jesus come

Even so come

Lord Jesus come

So we wait

We wait for You

God we wait

You’re coming soon

So we wait

We wait for You

God we wait

You’re coming soon

Like a bride

Waiting for her groom

We’ll be a church

Ready for You

Every heart longing for our King

We sing

Like a bride

Waiting for her groom

We’ll be a church

(We’ll be) Ready for You

Every heart longing for our King

We sing

Even so come

Lord Jesus come

Even so come

Lord Jesus come

Even so come

Lord Jesus come

Even so come

Lord Jesus come

The Preaching of the Word:

This week the sermon is broken up into two parts with Bible Study activities and questions in between. You’re welcome to view the Bible Study materials below, but we strongly encourage you, if you have a printer, to download them here and make notes as you go.

You can Access the audio of Part 1 of the sermon here:  Sermon Audio Recording

Kingdom Justice Bible Study

 

This is a word study of the Hebrew word mishpat translated in English most often as “justice”.  God is the source of mishpat. Mishpat is the order of compassionate justice that God has created and on which the whole universe depends. Mishpat is a proper judgement, process, ordinance, decision or proper and fitting plan.  Kingdom justice is consistent with the character of God. Kingdom justice is a righteous world order and always points to God. 

 

Please look up and read the following Bible passages, recording a few words about what each scripture says about justice.  You can split up the sections among the people you are worshipping with or take your time and do this alone. If you do it as a group, have each person read their verse and share what you learned with one another.  Depending on your available time, you may wish to do some of this now and come back to finish it later.  

 

Characteristics of God’s Justice

Genesis 18:25 Right

Psalm 89:14 Foundation of God’s Throne

Deuteronomy 24:17-21 Generosity for those who can’t care for themselves:

Foreigner and orphan

Psalm 112:5

Psalm 9:16

Ezekiel 34:16

Micah 3:8

 

Part of Covenant Blessings & Curses when Israel Entered Promised Land

Deuteronomy 27:19

Deuteronomy 30:16

 

More Blessings:

1 Kings 2:3

Psalm 106:3

 

Scope of God’s Justice

Numbers 9:14 Nationals and Foreigners

Deuteronomy 1:17 Impacts all matters

Exodus 23:6 Lawsuits

Proverbs 16:8

Proverbs 29:4

Jeremiah 22:3 Sanctity of Life

Amos 5:15

Malachi 3:5

Isaiah 58:6-7 Care of Family Members

 

How God Feels About Justice

Isaiah 61:8

Micah 6:8

 

When We Act Justly

Deuteronomy 11:1 We show our love for God

2 Chronicles 19:6 We act on behalf of God who is watching

Proverbs 21:3

Proverbs 21:15

Zephaniah 2:3

 

God’s Activity in Justice

Psalm 25:9 God guides humble in right (just) way

Psalm 103:6

Psalm 140:12

Jeremiah 1:16

Deuteronomy 10:18

Once you have completed this study and discussed your findings, listen to Part 2 of today’s sermon on Isaiah 42:1-9 here:  Sermon Audio Recording

 

 

Sermon Discussion Questions for After Sermon Part 2 on Isaiah 42:1-9

  1. What was something you learned about kingdom justice? Explain.
  2. God says in Isaiah 42:9

See, the former things have taken place,

    and new things I declare;

before they spring into being

    I announce them to you.”

One commentator pointed out that when God says He is doing a new thing, it will always be consistent with all He has done in the past and what He has promised for the future. How does this quote apply to the topic of kingdom justice? (Hint:  Look again at Deut. 27:19, Deut. 30:16 and then read Matthew 25:31-40.)

  1. “The world is attracted by embodied compassion and righteousness.”  Who comes to mind as you think about people who have modeled being servants of kingdom justice?  
  2. As you want to grow in being servants of justice, read over this list and share your thoughts, or additional ideas, on these suggestions:
    1. Intercede-spend time in prayer asking God to break off selfishness and any cultural or thought process that doesn’t align with His kingdom justice. Ask God to help you love people more.
    2. Get Informed-notice people and their needs.  Ask questions. Learn more about immigration reform, anti racism training, or health care reform.  
    3. Get Involved-consider a gift to our benevolence fund. Be advocates. Be active in ways the Lord would direct you, for His glory and the good of those who are weak, hurting and marginalized, as you joyfully follow in the steps of Jesus.
  3. Isaiah 42:3 says “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.”  What do these images symbolize and what does this show about the character of God’s servant? 
  4. Who do you know, or know about, who might be considered poor, broken, bruised, burned out, struggling, weak, or oppressed right now?  Take turns sharing the person or situation that comes to mind (or journal if doing this study alone) and then close your time in prayer, asking God how you might serve.  

Song of Response:

The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly.

God of Justice

God of Justice, Saviour to all

Came to rescue the weak and the poor

Came to serve and not be served

And Jesus, You have called us

Freely we’ve received now freely we will give

We must go, live to feed the hungry

Stand beside the broken, we must go

Stepping forward keep us from just singing

Move us into action, we must go

Fill us up, send us out

To act justly everyday

Loving mercy in every way

Walking humbly before You God

You have shown us what You require

Freely we’ve received now freely we will give

We must go, live to feed the hungry

Stand beside the broken, we must go

Stepping forward keep us from just singing

Move us into action, we must go

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out Lord

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out Lord

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out Lord

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out

Fill us up, send us out Lord

To act justly, loving mercy

We must go, we must go

To the broken and the hurting

We must go, we must go

We must go, live to feed the hungry

Stand beside the broken, we must go

Stepping forward keep us from just singing

Move us into action, we must go

Fill us up, send us out

The Lord’s Blessing:

The Lord’s Greeting serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.

Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:

 

From Numbers 6:24-26:

 

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

 

Closing Song: While there is a link for this song, try to sing it acapella (without any music, just your voices). Let’s embrace the slowing down and simplicity of lifting our voices to the Lord.  

 

My Friends May you Grow in Grace

 

My friends, may you grow in grace,

and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior.

My friends, may you grow in grace,

and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

To God be the glory, now and forever,

now and forever, amen.

To God be the glory, now and forever,

now and forever, amen.

 

Response and Reflection:

 

Children’s Worship Lesson:

This week the lesson is: God Saves, Part 2! Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and while you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us! You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or by email at goldavechurch@gmail.com