Easter 2020 is not looking like it usually does within the local church. Even though this year looks different for all of us, as believers, we have reason to celebrate! We have resurrection hope that no outside circumstances can take away. There are many people in our communities and around the world who don’t have the luxury of “extra time” to celebrate, but there are some also who do.
Heather Sterenberg prepared this downloadable guide which gives daily readings and activities for you to participate in and lead your families through Holy Week well. She’s included all the sources in a page at the end of the plan. Holy Week 2020 begins with Palm Sunday, April 5 and concludes on April 12, Easter Sunday.
We pray you’ll be blessed to participate in celebrating and remembering our Lord Jesus Christ and His great sacrifice and love for each of you.
*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):
TEXT– send amount to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
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.
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 18:25Right
Psalm 89:14Foundation of God’s Throne
Deuteronomy 24:17-21Generosity 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 9:14Nationals and Foreigners
Deuteronomy 1:17Impacts all matters
Exodus 23:6Lawsuits
Proverbs 16:8
Proverbs 29:4
Jeremiah 22:3Sanctity of Life
Amos 5:15
Malachi 3:5
Isaiah 58:6-7Care of Family Members
How God Feels About Justice
Isaiah 61:8
Micah 6:8
When We Act Justly
Deuteronomy 11:1We show our love for God
2 Chronicles 19:6We act on behalf of God who is watching
Proverbs 21:3
Proverbs 21:15
Zephaniah 2:3
God’s Activity in Justice
Psalm 25:9God 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
What was something you learned about kingdom justice? Explain.
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.)
“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?
As you want to grow in being servants of justice, read over this list and share your thoughts, or additional ideas, on these suggestions:
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.
Get Informed-notice people and their needs. Ask questions. Learn more about immigration reform, anti racism training, or health care reform.
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.
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?
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
00Gold Avenue Churchhttp://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GAC-Logo-V5-nbmod-300x300-1.pngGold Avenue Church2020-03-28 17:01:092020-03-28 17:01:09Gold Avenue Church At Home Worship Liturgy 3/29
Here we are again, ready to worship with you and your children… in your own home! What a gift the Lord has given us that we have technology that enables us to continue to learn and worship together!
OVERVIEW:
Activity One: Watch the video. The lesson today is “God Saves, Part 2, The Story of Esther.” The Sterenberg family has prepared a video for this lesson. It’ll be fun to see some familiar faces again!
Activity Two: Discuss the story using provided questions as prompts
Activity Three: Respond to the story by doing an art project. Pray together.
Worship: Sing
Activity Four: Bless your children
EQUIP:
(It’s not an activity, but just a little background on the story for you, the parent, to read.)
There are many details that make the book of Esther a triumphant story. None is as amazing as the way God wove every event together to bring about His plan. As you read through this narrative, you will notice the name of God is not mentioned once. However, His presence is strong.
At this time in The Big God Story, Judah was a territory of the Persian Empire and the people its subjects. Although King Cyrus, who preceded King Xerxes, had decreed the Jewish captives be allowed to return to their homeland, many chose to stay in Babylon. God’s people had become prosperous and held positions of influence, which made the thought of returning to the destroyed and desolate Jerusalem unappealing for many. After a falling-out between King Xerxes and Queen Vashti, the king commanded a search be made among all the young virgins (women of marrying age) of his empire for the woman who would take Vashti’s place as queen. A young Jewish woman from Susa, named Esther, won his favor and was crowned queen. Esther continued to gain favor not only with the king, but also with everyone she met.
Haman, one of the king’s officials, devised a plan to annihilate all the Jewish people within the king’s territory. (At this time the Persian Empire stretched from India to modern-day Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Judah was in exile within the Persian territory. Because God’s promised Messiah was to come from the line of Judah, if they were at risk for being destroyed, so was The Promise.) Esther realized she needed to act so her people wouldn’t be destroyed and went bravely before the king, revealing Haman’s plan. God had gone before Esther, and the Jewish people were saved. God used Esther to help preserve His promised Savior within the line of Judah.
When have you cried out to God and seen Him save you? We see it all throughout the Bible: God’s people—Moses, Esther, David, Joshua, Jonah, and others—cried out to Him, and He saved them. Countless times the Israelites groaned in their slavery and repented of their sin, and God always came to their defense as their strong tower and Savior.
Take time this week to read Psalm 116 and meditate on its message. Write down what stands out to you in this passage. Note the words and phrases that remind you of God’s salvation. Write down situations in your life where you need God to show up and save you. He can, and He will.
Throughout the week, consider reading this chapter once a day to be reminded of these truths: God bends down to hear us; He is gracious and righteous. Because God has proved Himself as Savior, we can call on Him for as long as we live. He will continue to save.
Activity 1: STORY
(Optional Review)
Last week we learned about how God saved Jonah AND the people of Ninevah. When Jonah ran away from God rather than take a message to the evil people of Nineveh, he was thrown off a boat during a storm. God saved Jonah by sending a big fish to swallow him. Jonah decided to obey God and give God’s message of mercy to the Ninevites, and as a result, the Ninevites turned from their sin and God saved them from destruction. This week, we’ll see how God saves his people, the Jews, through a queen.
Watch Esther video:
Activity 2: DISCUSSION
Ask your child to imagine what it must have been like to be Esther, the queen! Talk about how God used Esther to save His people, the Jews.
I wonder … What would have happened if King Xerxes had chosen another woman to be the queen?
I wonder … What would have happened if Esther was too afraid to go see the king?
What did Esther ask the king to do?
How did the Jewish people feel when God saved them?
I wonder … How do I need God to save me?
These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Saves into your everyday life as a family.
Activity 3: RESPONSE ACTIVITY
In today’s part of The Big God Story, God saved His people by putting a Jewish queen in the palace. As children respond today they will have the opportunity to thank God for saving them while creating a crown.
Supplies:
Paper plates
Crayons
Glue stick
Small buttons or pom poms or similar
Directions:
You want to use just a flimsy paper plate. Each child will need one.
Fold the paper plate in half.
There is absolutely no need to draw a dotted line on your paper plate. I did it on mine as a helpful visual for you to see where you cut. Essentially, you cut it like a pizza.
You will need to open up the paper plate to make the final two cuts. You can cut while the paper plate is folded. Do not cut all the way through. Cut it up to the ruffle edge of the plate.
They can color the paper plate however they want to create the look of their crown.
To make the crown part stand up, the kids can just fold them up into place.
We added buttons to the final look, but this is completely optional.
Since we didn’t add a memory verse you may want to write “God Saves” on the crown.
Using the answers from the last discussion question above remind the children to remember how God saves us and them when they wear the crown.
Today’s Worship Songs:
Who You Say I Am: by Hillsong Kids
(If you enjoyed last week’s songs, here they are again):
SingHey Jonah, Jonahto the tune of Jesus Loves Me
Jonah, Jonah have you heard?
Said the Lord, go preach my Word.
Jonah said, “That’s not for me!”
Took a ship and fled to sea.
Chorus:
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
You should obey the Lord.
Though he thought he’d get away
Soon the ship began to sway
Jonah said, “It’s for my sin,
Pick me up and throw me in!”
Chorus
When it seemed that he would drown,
Came a fish and gulped him down,
Jonah said, “Lord, I’ll obey,
Tell the folks about your way!”
Chorus:
Lord, I’ll obey you.
Lord, I’ll obey you.
Lord, I’ll obey you.
I will obey the Lord.
This Little Light of Mine by Listener Kids:
Activity 4: CLOSING BLESSING
A blessing to pray over your child(ren):
“May you remember that God has the power to save you.”
Pray with your kids, asking them if they have any prayer requests and encouraging them to pray for others. Have a blessed week!
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 Isaiah 43:1-3a:
But now, this is what the Lord says—
he who created you, Jacob,
he who formed you, Israel:
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
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 title. 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.
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 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.”)
Raise a Hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah, in the presence of my enemies
I raise a hallelujah, louder than the unbelief
I raise a hallelujah, my weapon is a melody
I raise a hallelujah, Heaven comes to fight for me
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
I raise a hallelujah, with everything inside of me
I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the darkness flee
I raise a hallelujah, in the middle of the mystery
I raise a hallelujah, fear you lost your hold on me!
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Let’s sing a little louder (Let’s sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (In the presence of my enemies)
Sing a little louder (Louder than the unbelief)
Sing a little louder (My weapon is a melody)
Sing a little louder (Heaven comes to fight for me)
Sing a little louder (In the presence of my enemies)
Sing a little louder (Louder than the unbelief)
Sing a little louder (My weapon is a melody)
Let’s sing a little louder (Heaven comes to fight for me)
Sing a little louder!!
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
Oh, I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah!
Just begin to raise your own hallelujah
I can’t do it for you
There’s a song written on your heart only you can sing
And when you sing enemies flee
When you sing prison walls come falling down
When you sing Heaven invades the earth
So just begin to lift up your hallelujah
Raise it like a banner
Raise it like a flag
Raise it in the middle of the storm
Let it rise, let it rise
Like a symphony to the King
Everything to You, Jesus
We raise it all
Sing a little louder!!
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah (In the presence of my enemies)
I raise a hallelujah (Louder than the unbelief)
I raise a hallelujah (My weapon is a melody)
I raise a hallelujah (Heaven comes to fight for me)
Lion and the Lamb
He’s coming on the clouds, kings and kingdoms will bow down
And every chain will break, as broken hearts declare His praise
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah
He’s roaring with power and fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before You
Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain
For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Oh every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
So open up the gates, make way before the King of kings
Our God who calls the saved is here to set the captives free
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah
He’s roaring with power and fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before You
Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain
For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Oh every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Oh who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Oh who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord?
Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah
He’s roaring with power and fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before You
Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain
For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Oh every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Great Are You Lord
You give life, You are love
You bring light to the darkness
You give hope, You restore
Every heart that is broken
Great are You, Lord
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise to You only
You give life, You are love
You bring light to the darkness
You give hope, You restore
Every heart that is broken
Great are You, Lord
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise to You only
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise to You only
And all the earth will shout Your praise
Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing
Great are You, Lord
And all the earth will shout Your praise
Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing
Great are You, Lord
And all the earth will shout Your praise
Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing
Great are You, Lord
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
To You only
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
To You only
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:
TEXT– send amount to (616) 319-2259, for more options see this link
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.
God of this City
You’re the God of this city
You’re the King of these people
You’re the Lord of this nation
You are
You’re the light in this darkness
You’re the hope to the hopeless
You’re the peace to the restless
You are
There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
You’re the God of this city
You’re the King of these people
You’re the Lord of this nation
You are
You’re the light in this darkness
You’re the hope to the hopeless
You’re the peace to the restless
You are
There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done here
There is no one like our God
There is no one like you, God
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done
We believe, we believe in you, God
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
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.
The Heart of Worship
[Verse 1]
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that’s of worth
That will bless Your heart
[Pre-Chorus]
I’ll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You’re looking into my heart
[Chorus]
I’m coming back to the heart of worship
And it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus
I’m sorry, Lord, for the thing I’ve made it
When it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus
[Verse 2]
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much you deserve
Though I’m weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath!
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.
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 heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Amen
Response and Reflection:
According to Isaiah, why is the Lord upset with his people?
Reread Isaiah 58:1-4; ask the Lord if he has anything he has to say to you about the ways that you approach, worship, and relate to him. If any conviction bubbles up, take some time to confess, repent, and rejoice! Our God corrects because he loves us and knows what’s best.
*Check out the prayer of repentance below to get you started
According to Isaiah, what is God asking of his people?
Reread Isaiah 58: 6-7; ask the Lord if he has anything he has to say to you about what he’s asking of you. If anything bubbles up, share it or journal about it… capture it so that you can come back to it and respond to it.
According to Isaiah, what will happen if God’s people share his heart of justice?
Reread Isaiah 58:8-14; what does this passage tell us about God’s character or personality? What does this passage tell us about how God views us as his people?
As you think about current events, how does today’s scripture bring you comfort and hope?
How might the Lord be inviting you to share his heart of justice today and this week in your own life, within your family, your neighborhood, and the world?
*Check out the practical ways to respond list below and share a comment on our Facebook post of any ideas that you may have!
Close your time of discussion in prayer, asking God to help you share his heart for you and for the world. Ask God to help you live for Him this week in everything you do, even if you are staying home.
Resources:
Sample Prayer of Confession:
“Eternal God, our judge and redeemer,
we confess that we have tried to hide from you,
for we have done wrong.
We have lived for ourselves
and apart from you.
We have turned from our neighbors
and refused to bear the burdens of others.
We have ignored the pain of the world
and passed by the hungry, the poor, and the oppressed.
Here is a list (click here) of organizations that are finding ways to serve our community in the midst of COVID-19. If you are in need of services, please don’t hesitate to utilize these options and also to contact our Gold Avenue Church deacons to see how we can serve you well.
Coming out this week’s sermon, this list also offers us the opportunity to consider how we might be God’s practical hand of justice in our community right now! We invite and encourage you to pray for all medical personnel, first responders and others who are still faithfully working, to pray for these organizations and their volunteers, and to pray for all who stand in need of care or services.
Please also prayerfully consider how you might partner with our church deacons and these services through prayer, donation, or whatever other means they may request.
Children’s Worship Lesson
Dear Parents,
It goes without saying that we are living in some crazy times right now! But, we are deeply grateful to know that we serve a God who knew this is exactly how today would look for each of us before time even began! We can trust He is doing a good work, even when we can’t see what it is, and we want to support you as you teach your children to also trust Him. We’ve put together a lesson for you (click here) to use as a family sometime this week!
00Gold Avenue Churchhttp://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GAC-Logo-V5-nbmod-300x300-1.pngGold Avenue Church2020-03-21 18:52:252020-03-21 18:52:25Gold Avenue Church At Home Worship Liturgy 3/22
…Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty. Haggai 2:4
When we heard these words that Pastor Dave preached a few weeks ago, we heard that the people of Judah felt weak and had challenges coming up against them, and yet God was calling for them to take steps of faith to carry on the work of rebuilding the temple. I’m guessing most of us have felt weak as we have faced the challenges of this past week, and yet God has been with us. He has met us in our disappointments and all our concerns, and has been strengthening us to carry on in His kingdom work, often supported by the prayers of others!
Thank you Gold Avenue Church family for being faithful and strong in the face of much uncertainty and engaging the work of embodying, proclaiming and advancing God’s Kingdom these last few weeks. You are using your gifts and faithfully serving despite our facility being closed:
You are checking in on one another by phone, text, FaceTime or messaging.
You are praying more often and with more fervor for our neighborhood and the world, particularly praying for revival.
You are brave nurses and other front line services, along with Nick who remains on mission in Africa, carrying on serving others.
You are reaching out to your neighbors and sharing the hope of Jesus with strangers.
You are adapting to changed schedules and seeking to love your children and help them adjust to the many unsettling changes with school and social distancing (which can be so hard!)
A number of you are using your gifts of music, writing, and prophecy to encourage others by means of FaceBook posts.
Some have contacted us offering helpful resources to the church.
The discipleship team is creatively thinking of new ways to connect.
The Gold Rush team is preparing to resume youth group via Zoom.
The admin elders are prayerfully discerning the current situation while also considering how to love our church and neighborhood well with our facility in the future, as they consider a new ministry proposal.
The deacons continue to monitor and serve the needs of our church and community, even as they think ahead about needs that may be coming.
The care elders are doing a fantastic job of checking in with people and also praying faithfully for our congregation.
Our volunteer worship leaders are continuing to plan meaningful worship services using the new At Home Worship Liturgy, even blessing a church in the UK this past week!
There are many more stories that I could share, but I want to take a minute and ask you to thank the Lord along with me for the gift of our 3 urban missionaries: Mark, Stephanie and Pastor Jaleesa. They have put in several weeks of very long hours, using their gifts, skills and backgrounds, to help put technology and strategies in place, with help from Justin Blake, that will help our church remain a strongly connected community now, and will serve us so well long into the future. Their joyful servant leadership is a great model for us all, and so please consider how you might bless them with a word of thanks, a contribution to their fundraising efforts, and/or most certainly praying for them regularly.
In Haggai, the Lord repeatedly says “give careful thought to your ways.“ As I met online with a group of pastors this week from all around the country, we were encouraged to reflect on history. At times of great trouble and even past quarantine, God has brought forth amazing gifts-books, songs, prayers and stories of sacrificial love that have advanced God’s kingdom and served as inspiration for Christians through history (the disciples, Paul, Luther, the early church caring for the sick during the plague, Bonhoeffer, CS Lewis, Corrie tenBoom, etc…).
Church family and friends, I believe the Lord will gift you and will use us together in mighty ways if we will earnestly seek Him. This could be the church’s finest hour, if we will humble ourselves, pray, turn from any wicked ways and seek God’s face. As together we devote ourselves completely to the Lord, I believe we will see the gospel of Jesus Christ transform our lives, our neighborhood and the world. To God be the glory, now and forever, Amen!
This Coronavirus Resource Packet is a list of organizations that are finding ways to serve our community in the midst of COVID-19. If you are in need of services, please don’t hesitate to utilize these options and also to contact our Gold Avenue Church deacons to see how we can serve you well.
Coming out this week’s sermon, this list also offers us the opportunity to consider how we might be God’s practical hand of justice in our community right now! We invite and encourage you to pray for all medical personnel, first responders and others who are still faithfully working, to pray for these organizations and their volunteers, and to pray for all who stand in need of care or services.
Please also prayerfully consider how you might partner with our church deacons and these services through prayer, donation, or whatever other means they may request.
It goes without saying that we are living in some crazy times right now! But, we are deeply grateful to know that we serve a God who knew this is exactly how today would look for each of us before time even began! We can trust He is doing a good work, even when we can’t see what it is, and we want to support you as you teach your children to also trust Him. We’ve put together some resources for you to use as a family sometime this week!
These 4 activities are for you to help your children worship at home using the same curriculum we use in Children’s’ Worship every Sunday (adapted from TruStory Curriculum). Our vision for our children is for them to grow in relationship with the Lord and in prayer. The first section called is “Equip.” It’s not an activity, but just a little background on the story for you to read. Though this material was written long before the words “coronavirus” and “social distancing” took up most of our thought space and conversations, it is so timely for today.
OVERVIEW:
Activity One: Watch the video. The lesson today is “God Saves, Part 1, the story of Jonah”, which is a pretty familiar story. The curriculum has made a video link which I think the kids will enjoy. It’s just over 6 minutes.
Activity Two: Discuss the story using provided questions as prompts
Activity Three: Respond to the story by doing an art project. Pray together.
Worship: Sing Hey, Jonah, Jonah to the tune of Jesus Loves Me (Words below). There are also a couple of other youtube links for songs to sing together.
Activity Four: Bless your children
EQUIP:
Jonah, a prophet of God, was given a message to take to the Gentile people of Nineveh. But Jonah ran from the Lord, boarding a boat with plans to travel to Tarshish. When ships headed to Tarshish, they weren’t expected to return for three years—a trip of significant time and distance. Nineveh was the capital city in the Assyrian Empire. Although the Assyrians and the Israelites had a tumultuous relationship for many years, at this time the Israelites had been free from Assyrian rule for approximately 50 years. In giving Jonah a message to take to the people of Nineveh, God would call this Gentile city to repentance.
It seems strange to think a prophet of God would flee from His clear commands—especially when the goal of the message was to bring repentance and grace to its recipients. Israel was gaining strength and enjoying their favored relationship with God. However, in this time of reprieve, the people were becoming complacent. It’s possible Jonah’s response was reflective of the heart of the Israelite people. Perhaps he was jealous for the relationship his people had with God and didn’t relish the thought of the Lord extending grace and compassion toward the enemies of Israel, or he simply hated them because they were wicked and cruel.
The gift of relationship with God was never intended to be for Abraham’s descendants alone; it was to come from Abraham’s line to bring salvation to the world. God chose Abraham and his descendants to proclaim His truth and identity to all people. God would often send His message through prophets to awaken all the people so they would be moved to repentance and restoration. After hearing and believing His message, the people of Nineveh repented and were shown grace and mercy by the Lord.
Through Christ you’ve been given a new identity. You’ve been spiritually reborn into a legacy and heritage of faith.
God richly blessed the Israelites that they might be a blessing to all nations and peoples. So too, has He richly blessed all who believe in Him and call Him Lord and Savior. Each follower of Christ has been blessed not only for themselves, but also to bless others.
The gift and truth of salvation is the greatest blessing we can share with those who don’t yet know Christ. Look at the boundaries you have on your daily world. Is God calling you to push past those boundaries? How will you respond? How has He uniquely created you to serve Him and be a blessing to others? Take a walk around your neighborhood sometime this week. As you walk past each home, pray for those who live inside. Ask God how He would use you to be a blessing to the people in your neighborhood.
Activity 1: STORY
Activity 2: DISCUSSION
Ask your child to imagine what it must have been like to be inside a giant fish! Talk about how God saved Jonah by sending the giant fish. Ask:
What did Jonah do when God told him to go to Ninevah?
What happened after Jonah was thrown overboard?
What do you think Jonah was thinking when he saw the big fish coming towards him? Do you think he thought being swallowed by the fish was a good plan or a bad plan? (Even though it probably looked like the worst thing at first, it actually turned into the thing that saved him!)
What did Jonah say to God inside of the fish?
These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Saves into your every day life as a family. (i.e. If your child verbalizes or acts afraid about getting sick, remind him/her that God has a plan and we can trust him and not fear)
Activity 3: RESPONSE ACTIVITY
Supplies
Card stock (1 sheet per child, white)
Pencil
Table Covering
Crayons (variety of dark colors)
Paper cups
Watercolors Paints
Paintbrushes
Children will create crayon-resist art pieces as a response to the truth that when they trust and obey God, He saves them and chooses them to be a part of His family. Cover the table and put a sheet of card stock at every child’s seat. Place the bowls of crayons down the center of the table and a watercolor paints (If you don’t have watercolor paints, you can also add food coloring to water). Put a paintbrush at every child’s seat.
Invite children to join you around the table. God gave Jonah a special message for the people of Nineveh so they could choose to trust and obey Him. When we trust and obey Jesus, we become a part of God’s family and we belong to Him too. God will always be with us. We’re His chosen children!
Explain to children that they’re going to make a picture to always remember that they belong to Christ. Take them step-by-step through the crayon-resist art piece. Step one: Trace the word Chosen in a dark crayon (you may need to help with this). They can use a couple of different colors to make sure it stands out. Step two: Paint the entire paper with watercolors. Encourage them to choose whatever colors they want! As a parent, you should also make one.
When kids are finished painting, point out how the word Chosen stands out. The world might make you feel different because you love God, but God loves you and chose you to be one of His children. That means you’re very special! Share a story of your own, either from childhood, or from right now, to share with your child about a time you felt particularly chosen, by a friend or family member or even stranger (i.e. “In most things, like sports at recess, I was always the last one chosen for a team. That made me feel sad and left out. But, when we would play in class games, I was often the first chosen for a team because I was pretty smart. That made me feel important and noticed”). Ask your child to do the same. Translate this idea over to how special we really are and how God chooses us right away every time.
Pray together. Ask your child(ren) to pray for you or each other. (If they don’t feel comfortable, don’t force them.) Thank God for choosing your children and choosing you. If they don’t feel special or chosen, ask God to show them how much He loves them.
Worship Songs:
Sing Hey Jonah, Jonah to the tune of Jesus Loves Me
Jonah, Jonah have you heard?
Said the Lord, go preach my Word.
Jonah said, “That’s not for me!”
Took a ship and fled to sea.
Chorus:
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
You should obey the Lord.
Though he thought he’d get away
Soon the ship began to sway
Jonah said, “It’s for my sin,
Pick me up and throw me in!”
Chorus
When it seemed that he would drown,
Came a fish and gulped him down,
Jonah said, “Lord, I’ll obey,
Tell the folks about your way!”
Chorus:
Lord, I’ll obey you.
Lord, I’ll obey you.
Lord, I’ll obey you.
I will obey the Lord.
“This Little Light of Mine” by Listener Kids:
Activity 4: CLOSING BLESSING
A blessing to pray over your child(ren):
(Child’s name), may you always remember you are God’s child. When you call out to God, He will save you.
Thank you for your desire to give generously to support our ministry at Gold Avenue Church. Your generous gifts enable us to continue to see the gospel of Jesus Christ transform us, our neighborhood, and the world. This post has instructions on the various ways to give which are all secure. Your gifts will be received and recorded for tax purposes. You’ll also find instructions on how to give to our ministry partners through our special offerings. Details on which special offerings occur each month can be found in our weekly emails, which you can subscribe to on our main webpage.
Online Direct:
Give securely and directly through this link, you can also set up recurring gifts and select which fund to donate to. The default fund is general fund, you can choose other fund designations 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 (link to help and additional text commands: Breeze Help) Additionally, different funds can be given to by adding a space and then a keyword as shown below. An example would be: “50 special” – that would send $50 to the special offering for the month.
No keyword (number only with no words) to give directly to General Fund
“benevolence” to give to Benevolence (Deacons fund)
“van” to give to Van Fund
“special” to give to other designated Special Offering
“kc” to give to Kingdom Congregations
“outreach” to give to Urban Missionary Mark Essenburg
“mission” to give to Missions Fund
“efw” to give to Empowered for Witness
Check:
Make checks out to “Gold Avenue Church” and mail to: Gold Avenue Church, 49 Gold Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. If for a special offering, designate as such in the memo line.
Cash:
Give in person in the offering box at church, if for a special offering, place in an envelope and write intended fund on the envelope.
Please click on the link below to view our order of worship that we used Sunday March 15. We encourage you to go through it with your family, even if you are separated, using technology to stay connected. Take part in the prayer times, worship songs, testimony time, sermon, and blessings, and discuss the questions at the end.
Even though we aren’t able to meet together as a group, we are still the body of Christ, and we will remain strong as we are able to serve each other in new and unexpected ways. We encourage you to take time to go through these liturgies as you would experience a Sunday Worship service, and to live a life of worship, dedicated to the Lord and seeking His guidance in all that you do.
https://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DSCF1156-scaled-1.jpg17072560Gold Avenue Churchhttp://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GAC-Logo-V5-nbmod-300x300-1.pngGold Avenue Church2020-03-14 16:52:262020-03-14 16:52:26Sunday March 15 At Home Liturgy
