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 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 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