Questions Jesus Asked - "Do you understand what I have done for you?"

Welcome & Opening Prayer

Good morning church!

I am Russell Clark and I am the senior minister here at Azle Christian Church. For those here in worship and those worshipping with us online, we’re so glad you’re here! May we understand more of who we are through the Gospel of Jesus Christ this morning!

We like for everyone to know a few things before we begin worship every week.

(1)   If you’re a guest today, we’re so happy you’re here! Filling out the attendance registration in your pew helps us connect names with faces and sharing your e-mail helps us to connect you to our weekly newsletter. There are information brochures in your pew to get to know us more and there is information about our weekly activities and calendar in your bulletin.

(2)   Second, we love our children here in worship and we always welcome them here. There is a kids corner in the back if your children need a space to move around. There is also a nursery available if you’d like.

(3)   Finally, our liturgy is posted each week on the website if you would like to follow along with our service.  

Will you pray with me as we begin this time of worship?

Lord – Through the power of your resurrection and the Holy Spirit you sent to be with us, may we come to understand who we are and the calling you have placed on all of our lives as your disciples this morning. Amen.

May we take a moment before we get started to greet those next to us with a hug or a high five!

Opening Songs:      

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

Let me hide myself in Thee;

Let the water and the blood,

From Thy riven side which flowed,

Be of sin the double cure,

Save me from its guilt and power.

2

Not the labor of my hands

Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;

Could my zeal no respite know,

Could my tears forever flow,

All could never sin erase,

Thou must save, and save by grace.

3

Nothing in my hands I bring,

Simply to Thy cross I cling;

Naked, come to Thee for dress,

Helpless, look to Thee for grace:

Foul, I to the fountain fly,

Wash me, Savior, or I die.

4

While I draw this fleeting breath,

When mine eyes shall close in death,

When I soar to worlds unknown,

See Thee on Thy judgment throne,

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

Let me hide myself in Thee.

As the Spirit was moving over the waters

Spirit, come move over us

Come rest on us

Come rest on us

As the Spirit was moving over the waters

Spirit, come move over us

Come rest on us

Come rest on us

So come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill the room

You're here and I know You are moving

I'm here and I know You will fill me

Come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill the room

You're here and I know You are moving

I'm here and I know You will fill me

Hey

Come fill us up

Come fill us up

Come fill us up

And as the Spirit was moving over the waters

Spirit, come move over us (come on)

Come rest on us

Come rest on us

As the Spirit was moving over the waters

Spirit, come move over us

Come rest on us

Come rest on us (I feel the fire)

Fire and wind, come and do it again

Open up the gates, let Heaven on in (come)

Come rest on us (won't you come)

Come rest on us (I feel the fire)

Fire and wind, come and do it again

Open up the gates, let Heaven on in

Come rest on us

Come rest on us

So come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill the room

You're here and I know You are moving

I'm here and I know You will fill me

Come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill the room

You're here and I know You are moving

I'm here and I know You will fill me

Won't You fill me afresh?

Fill me afresh (ooh-ooh, ooh, ooh)

Holy Spirit, come rest on us

You're all we want

You're all we want

Holy Spirit, come rest on us

You're all we want

You're all we want

Holy Spirit, come rest on us

You're all we want (yeah)

You're all we want

Oh, Holy Spirit, come rest on us

You're all we want

You're all we want (Holy Spirit)

Holy Spirit, come rest on us

You're all we want (yeah, you're all)

You're all we want (hey)

Holy Spirit, come rest on us

You're all we want

You're all we want

So come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill this room

You're here and I know You are moving

I'm here and I know You will fill me

Come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill the room

You're here and I know You are moving (hey)

I'm here and I know You will fill me (won't You come down, come down?)

Come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill the room

You're here and I know You are moving

I'm here and I know You will fill me

Come down

Spirit, when You move You make my heart pound

When You fill the room

You're here and I know You are moving

I'm here and I know You will fill me

Litany of Faith – Dora McDonald

One: May we trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding.

All: May we listen for God’s voice in everything we do and everywhere we go so He will make our paths straight.

One: Let us love the Lord our God with all our heart and soul and mind and strength.

All: And love our neighbor as we do ourselves.

One: May we go into the world to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All: May you open our minds to understand the Scriptures and to practice the calling you have placed on our lives. And be near to us on this journey. Amen.

Scripture Meditation – John 13:12-17

“When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me “Teacher” and “Lord,” and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”

One: This is the word of God for the people of God.

All: Thanks be to God.

This is a question Jesus asked his disciples multiple times throughout his life. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” It is one thing to see and hear what Jesus said and did. It is another thing to understand the deeper meaning and symbolism behind what Jesus wanted to teach us. And it is another thing to put it into practice as we live with the understanding and purpose and calling Jesus has given to us.

Let us not check our brains at the door this morning, but open our hearts and minds to hear AND understand the good word God has for each of you this morning.

Consider this as we enter our time of prayer and prepare for the sermon this morning.

Pastoral Prayer

The Lord be with you. And Also with you. Let us pray.

Lord – Open our hearts to care for your people.

Open our ears to listen to the stories we haven’t heard.

Open our mouths to speak the truth of your grace and forgiveness.

Open our minds to understand the message you have for us.

Open our souls to receive your love.

Get our feet ready for dancing. Give us strength to move mountains. Clean our hands so we might extend a hand to the broken and lost.

May the world come to know your crazy, countercultural message that unites us. May we show the world that this table of Jesus Christ is for everyone. May we welcome our enemies to this table. May we welcome those who have been hurt to be healed. May we welcome those who have been cut out and welcome them back home.

May not our will but your will be done, O Lord. Open our eyes to see who you are and what you have planned for us. Guide us throughout every moment of every day of our lives to be who you call us to be.

Thank you Lord for this amazing grace that transforms our lives, our families, our church, our community, and this world! May we be your light in the dark. May we break free from the box the world tries to fit us in so we can be more like you as your disciples.

And Lord, will you hear us as we pray the prayer Jesus taught us…

Our Father, who art in heaven

Hallowed be thy name

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done

On earth as it is in heaven

Give us this day our daily bread

Forgive us our debts

As we forgive our debtors

And lead us not into temptation

But Deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

RESPONSIVE HYMN –

 1 Though I may speak with bravest fire,

and have the gift to all inspire,

and have not love, my words are vain,

as sounding brass, and hopeless gain.

2 Though I may give all I possess,

and striving so my love profess,

but not be giv'n by love within,

the profit soon turns strangely thin.

3 Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control,

our spirits long to be made whole.

Let inward love guide every deed;

by this we worship and are freed.

Children’s Moment – Susie Hiles

Sharing Our Resources

There are many ways to support the ministries of Azle Christian Church. You can give online on our website, on Venmo, use the QR code in your bulletin, or place it in the offering plate as the deacons come by during our anthem. You can also put in a prayer request card or information card in the plate. 

Anthem – With Every Act of Love

Doxology - Praise God from whom all blessing flow; praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Offering Prayer – Dora McDonald

Sermon Series: Questions Jesus Asked

Sermon: “Do you understand what I have done for you?” – Rev. Russell Clark

Holy Communion Meditation & Prayer – Dora McDonald

Communion Song –

We gather here in Jesus' name

His love is burning in our hearts like living flame

For through His loving Son the Father makes us one

Come take the bread come drink the wine

Come share the Lord

No one is a stranger here,

everyone belongs;

finding our forgiveness here,

we in turn forgive all wrongs.

He joins us here He breaks the bread

The Lord who pours the cup is risen from the dead

The One we love the most is now our gracious host

Come take the bread come drink the wine

Come share the Lord

We are now a family

of which the Lord is head;

though unseen he meets us here

in the breaking of the bread.

We'll gather soon where angels sing

We'll see the glory of our Lord and coming King

Now we anticipate the feast for which we wait

Come take the bread come drink the wine

Come share the Lord

We believe Jesus Christ is the gracious host at this table.

Everyone is welcome to participate in communion. Please pass tray to your neighbor after receiving your communion cups. Please help those who need assistance. Hold cups until instructed by Elder to take in unison.

Holy Communion Words of Institution – Dora McDonald

Invitation – If you would like to make your statement of faith or become a member of ACC, you may come forward after the benediction or talk to our minister after worship.

*Announcements & Benediction – Rev. Russ Clark

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A few announcements for this week before our benediction:

You can find information on the back of your bulletin about our weekly activities, such as Sunday School, our Ukulele Group, our Wednesday dinner and bible study, and our prayer group. In the insert, you will find our calendar to transfer to your personal calendars. We also have a google calendar on our website to add to your personal calendar.

This Tuesday I will be at central park at 9:30 in the morning to walk the circle and pray for our church & community if anyone would like to join me! Please invite your friends to join us, as this will be a more informal way for them to get to know me and what our church is about.

This Wednesday there will be activities for the youth and children after our Wednesday dinner, but there will be no bible study for the adults, as we will head straight into our leadership team meeting after dinner.

We still have some T-shirts available if anyone would like one for $25.

Again, be sure to check our calendar for everything we have coming up in April & May.

Finally, If you or someone you know needs a visit OR has a prayer request OR would like home communion, you may contact the church office or contact me directly.

BENEDICTION –

Will you please rise in body and in spirit to receive this benediction?

Next Sunday, I will be in Florida to officiate a friend’s wedding, but our youth minister, Joey, will be continuing our Questions Jesus Asked series with, “Why do you see the speck?”

Until then,

May we seek to understand what Jesus has done for us so we may be servant leaders like him. May you be filled with the courage and passion of the Holy Spirit to love and care for one another, as we stand united to share this countercultural Gospel message about this radical love.

Amen.

*BENEDICTION RESPONSE -

I, the Lord of sea and sky

I have heard my people cry

All who dwell in dark and sin

My hand will save

I have made the stars of night

I will make their darkness bright

Who will bear my light to them?

Whom shall I send?

Here I am, Lord

Is it I, Lord?

I have heard You calling in the night

I will go, Lord

If You lead me

I will hold Your people in my heart

I, the Lord of wind and flame

I will tend the poor and lame

I will set a feast for them

My hand will save

Finest bread I will provide

'Til their hearts be satisfied

I will give my life to them

Whom shall I send?

Here I am, Lord

Is it I, Lord?

I have heard You calling in the night

I will go, Lord

If You lead me

I will hold Your people in my heart

I will hold Your people in my heart

Questions Jesus Asked: Do you love me?

Welcome & Opening Prayer – Joey Garcia

Good morning church!

I am Joey Garcia and I am the youth minister here at Azle Christian Church. For those here in worship and those worshipping with us online, we’re so glad you’re here! May God’s love and healing become a reality in our lives this morning!

We like for everyone to know a few things before we begin worship every week.

(1)   If you’re a guest today, we’re so happy you’re here! Filling out the attendance registration in your pew helps us connect names with faces and sharing your e-mail helps us to connect you to our weekly newsletter. There are information brochures in your pew to get to know us more and there is information about our weekly activities and calendar in your bulletin.

(2)   Second, we love our children here in worship and we always welcome them here. There is a kids corner in the back if your children need a space to move around. There is also a nursery available if you’d like.

(3)   Finally, our liturgy is posted each week on the website if you would like to follow along with our service.  

Will you pray with me as we begin this time of worship?

Lord – Even though Easter was a week ago, may the power of your resurrection and the new life found through you continue to transform us today. Amen.

May we take a moment before we get started to greet those next to us with a hug or a high five!

Opening Songs:     

1 Come, Christians, join to sing

Alleluia, Amen!

Loud praise to Christ our King,

Alleluia, Amen!

Let all, with heart and voice,

before His throne rejoice;

praise is His gracious choice,

Alleluia, Amen!

2 Come, lift your hearts on high,

Alleluia, Amen!

Let praises fill the sky,

Alleluia, Amen!

He is our Guide and Friend,

to us He'll condescend;

His love shall never end,

Alleluia, Amen!

3 Praise yet our Christ again,

Alleluia, Amen!

Life shall not end the strain,

Alleluia, Amen!

On heaven's blissful shore

His goodness we'll adore,

singing forevermore,

"Alleluia, Amen!"

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord

And we pray that our unity will one day be restored

And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love

Yeah they'll know we are Christians by our love

We will work with each other, we will work side by side

We will work with each other, we will work side by side

And we'll guard each man's dignity and save each man's pride

And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love

Yeah, they'll know we are Christians by our love.

Litany of Faith – Becky Stults

One: May our love for one another look more like the unconditional love Jesus has for us.

All: May we live to serve one another and lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

One: May this love bring healing from past pain, freedom to live free lives, and wonder at the transformed life we have now.

All: May we forgive one another as Jesus forgives us. And may we forgive ourselves as Jesus forgives us.

One: May we allow Jesus to stretch our thinking from doubt to faith, from denial to redemption, and from conditional to unconditional love.

All: May this everlasting, unconditional love transform us so we may live as disciples of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Scripture Meditation – John 21:15-17 – Joey Garcia

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.”

One: This is the word of God for the people of God.

All: Thanks be to God.

We are continuing our sermon series – “Questions Jesus asked” – by continuing to walk this journey with the Resurrected Jesus. When Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me?,” this is the 3rd time in the Gospel of John that he has appeared to the disciples after he was resurrected.

Pastor Russell will be exploring this question and the disciples journey with Jesus after the resurrection – and what it means for us as disciples today – when we get to the sermon.

For now, let us consider how we would answer Jesus’ question, “Do you love me?” as we enter our time of prayer.

Pastoral Prayer – Joey Garcia

The Lord be with you. And Also with you. Let us pray.

Lord, it’s hard for us sometimes to receive your grace & forgiveness. It’s even harder to show this grace and forgiveness to one another.

Where we have failed to show grace, we’re sorry.

Help us to be more like you. Help us to love by serving one another as you did for us. Help us to care by sacrificing ourselves to meet the needs of others. Help us to bring healing and transformation to the lives of others by first receiving this healing and transformation in our own lives.

Your grace has the power to heal us from past mistakes. Your love gives us the hope and strength to move forward in a new day. The power of your resurrection resides in us and gives us the freedom of a new life (that starts today)!

We thank you for this amazing grace! May we live freely to love and care for one another as you call us to live.

And Lord, will you hear us as we pray the prayer Jesus taught us…

Our Father, who art in heaven

Hallowed be thy name

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done

On earth as it is in heaven

Give us this day our daily bread

Forgive us our debts

As we forgive our debtors

And lead us not into temptation

But Deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

RESPONSIVE HYMN –

 In loving partnership we come

Seeking O God your will to do

Our prayers and actions now receive

We freely offer them to you

We are the hands and feet of Christ

Serving by grace each other’s need

We dare to risk and sacrifice

With truthful word and faithful deed

In loving partnership O God

Help us your future to proclaim

Justice and peace be our desire

We humbly pray in Jesus’ name

Children’s Moment – Joey Garcia

Sharing Our Resources

There are many ways to support the ministries of Azle Christian Church. You can give online on our website, on Venmo, use the QR code in your bulletin, or place it in the offering plate as the deacons come by during our anthem. You can also put in a prayer request card or information card in the plate. 

Anthem –

Doxology - Praise God from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Offering Prayer – Becky Stults

Sermon Series: Questions Jesus Asked

Sermon: “Do you love me?” – Rev. Russell Clark

Holy Communion Meditation & Prayer – Becky Stults

Communion Song –

One bread, one body, one Lord of all

One cup of blessing which we bless

And we, though many, throughout the Earth

We are one body in this one Lord

Gentile or Jew

Servant or free

Woman or man

No more

One bread, one body, one Lord of all

One cup of blessing which we bless

And we, though many, throughout the Earth

We are one body in this one Lord

Many the gifts, many the works

One in the Lord

Of all

One bread, one body, one Lord of all

One cup of blessing which we bless

And we, though many, throughout the Earth

We are one body in this one Lord

We are one body in this one Lord

We believe Jesus Christ is the gracious host at this table.

Everyone is welcome to participate in communion. Please pass tray to your neighbor after receiving your communion cups. Please help those who need assistance. Hold cups until instructed by Elder to take in unison.

Holy Communion Words of Institution – Becky Stults

Invitation – If you would like to make your statement of faith or become a member of ACC, you may come forward after the benediction or talk to our minister after worship.

*Announcements & Benediction – Rev. Russ Clark

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A few announcements for this week before our benediction:

You can find information on the back of your bulletin about our weekly activities, such as Sunday School, our Ukulele Group, our Wednesday dinner and bible study, and our prayer group. In the insert, you will find our calendar to transfer to your personal calendars. We also have a google calendar on our website to add to your personal calendar.

This Tuesday I will be at central park at 9:30 in the morning to walk the circle and pray for our church & community if anyone would like to join me! Sorry I missed last Tuesday. I’ve been dealing with allergy issues for most of March, which led me to have really bad nosebleeds for most of the week last week.

This afternoon, the youth will have a fun park day from 3-5 at central park and they’ll be passing out flyers for our block party.

This evening, we will have Bible & Beer at Rick Seed’s house at 5pm. His address is printed in the bulletin. At bible & beer, we have a bible study, great conversation, and we always have snacks and beverages. You don’t have to drink beer, but of course you can!

THIS SATURDAY is our Community Block Party will be from 11am-2pm. We will have live bands, food, frios gourment pops, bounce house, petting zoo, face painting from our very own Carol, and crafts with Kathy & Jeannie.

The purpose of this event is to make our church more visible by throwing an epic party for our community! As I said last week, Rick has said, “Azle Christian Church is the best kept secret in Azle.” I don’t want us to be a secret anymore! We need to show our community who we are because we’re OWESOME!

T-shirts are available today for $25 after worship. You may purchase your shirt through Realm if you need to pay by credit or debit card.

For this event to reach our community and make our church more visible we need (1) for you to get a shirt and wear it this Saturday and (2) to invite friends, family, and neighbors and spread the word about the block party this Saturday!

Finally, If you or someone you know needs a visit OR has a prayer request OR would like home communion, you may contact the church office or contact me directly.

BENEDICTION –

Will you please rise in body and in spirit to receive this benediction?

I hope to see you all Saturday for the block party to show our community how OWESOME this church and God’s love is. Until then…

May we show our love for Jesus as his disciples by loving and caring for one another with this agape-type of love.

Amen.

*BENEDICTION RESPONSE -

Day by day

Day by day

Oh, Dear Lord

Three things I pray

To see thee more clearly

Love thee more dearly

Follow thee more nearly

Day by day

Oh

Day by day

Day by day

Oh, Dear Lord

Three things I pray

To see thee more clearly

Love thee more dearly

Follow thee more nearly

Day by day

Day by day

Day by day

Oh, Dear Lord

Three things I pray

To see thee more clearly

Love thee more dearly

Follow thee more nearly

Day by day

Questions Jesus Asked: Who is it you are looking for?

Welcome

Happy Easter!

I am Russell Clark and I am the senior minister here at Azle Christian Church. Today is Easter Sunday where we celebrate that Jesus Christ has risen from the grave!

We like for everyone to know a few things before we begin worship every week.

(1)   If you’re a guest today, we’re so happy you’re here! Filling out the attendance registration in your pew helps us connect names with faces and sharing your e-mail helps us to connect you to our weekly newsletter. There are information brochures in your pew to get to know us more and there is information about our weekly activities and calendar in your bulletin.

(2)   Second, we love our children here in worship and we always welcome them here. There is a kids corner in the back if your children need a space to move around. There is also a nursery available if you’d like. [TBD - We’re in the process of improving our nursery and bringing back children’s church soon. Parents, we’re asking you to get in the habit of signing in your child before the service if you plan to take them to the nursery or children’s church after children’s moment.]

(3)   Finally, our liturgy is posted each week on the website if you would like to follow along with our service.  

Will you pray with me as we begin this time of worship?

Lord – We rejoice in your resurrection and new life on this Easter Sunday. May we feel the power of your love in our hearts this morning releasing us from our junk to truly come alive in you. Amen.

Opening Songs:   Blessed Assurance #543

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God

Born of his Spirit, washed in His blood

This is my story, this is my song

Praising my Savior all the day long

This is my story, this is my song

Praising my Savior all the day long

Perfect submission, perfect delight

Visions of rapture now burst on my sight

Angels descending bring from above

Echoes of mercy, whispers of love

This is my story, this is my song

Praising my Savior all the day long

This is my story, this is my song

Praising my Savior all the day long

Praising my Savior all the day long

                                 This is Amazing Grace by Phil Wickham

Who breaks the power of sin and darkness?

Whose love is mighty and so much stronger?

The King of glory, the King above all kings

Who shakes the whole earth with holy thunder?

And leaves us breathless in awe and wonder?

The King of glory, the King above all kings

This is amazing grace

This is unfailing love

That You would take my place

That You would bear my cross

You laid down Your life

That I would be set free

Oh, Jesus, I sing for

All that You've done for me

Who brings our chaos back into order?

Who makes the orphans a son and daughter?

The King of glory, the King of glory

Who rules the nations with truth and justice

Shines like the sun in all of its brilliance

The King of glory, the King above all kings

This is amazing grace

This is unfailing love

That You would take my place

That You would bear my cross

You laid down Your life

That I would be set free

Oh, Jesus, I sing for

All that You've done for me

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy is the King who conquered the grave

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy is the King who conquered the grave

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy is the King who conquered the grave

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

Worthy, worthy, worthy

This is amazing grace

This is unfailing love

That You would take my place

That You would bear my cross

You laid down Your life

That I would be set free

Oh, Jesus, I sing for

All that You've done for me

All that You've done for me

Litany of Faith – Susie Hiles

One: This is the day the Lord has made!

All: Let us rejoice and be glad in it!

One: Christ is risen!

All: He is risen indeed!

One: This is our story! This is our song!

All: Life is worth the living because we know He lives. Amen.

Scripture Meditation – John 20:15-16

“Jesus asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). – John 20:15-16

One: This is the word of God for the people of God.

All: Thanks be to God.

We are starting a new sermon series today called “Questions Jesus Asked.” Questions are not something to shy away from, but are a vibrant part of our spiritual growth. We can’t find the answers if we don’t ask the questions. Questions help us grow.

Jesus asked 307 questions that are recorded in the bible. We’ll look at some of these questions and what Jesus taught us by asking these questions for us to ponder.

Today we’ll be looking at Jesus’ question to Mary Magdalene after his resurrection:

“Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?”

Consider the answer to this question in your own life today as we prepare for the sermon and enter our time of prayer.

Pastoral Prayer

The Lord be with you. And Also with you. Let us pray.

Lord, we lay before the empty tomb today looking for you. We sit in the upper room with our friends waiting for a sign of where to go next.

Reveal yourself to us today, O Lord. Show us your resurrected body. Show us the rest of the story.

Bring freedom and grace and healing and joy and new life that only you can bring. Bring resurrection in our lives today where we are filled with your Holy Spirit and commissioned to go out into this world to transform lives by this good news of your unconditional, everlasting love.

“I have seen the Lord!”

Let us cry out just as Mary Magdalene did. Let us share this good news that oppression should cease, that those outside might be included, and that all persons may receive this love.

For those suffering, those who have been through a tragic event, and those still grieving their own losses at the tomb, may you appear to them in their grief and wipe away their tears.

May you resurrect us all from our broken and imperfect lives to live this day anew. May you roll away the tomb that keeps us from seeing you in our midst.

And Lord, will you hear us as we pray the prayer Jesus taught us…

Our Father, who art in heaven

Hallowed be thy name

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done

On earth as it is in heaven

Give us this day our daily bread

Forgive us our debts

As we forgive our debtors

And lead us not into temptation

But Deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

RESPONSIVE HYMN – Because He Lives #562

 God sent His son, they called Him, Jesus;

He came to love, heal and forgive;

He lived and died to buy my pardon,

An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone;

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,

And feel the pride and joy he brings;

But greater still the calm assurance:

This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone;

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!

And then one day, I'll cross the river,

I'll fight life's final war with pain;

And then, as death gives way to victory,

I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives!

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone;

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!

Children’s Moment – Joey Garcia

Sharing Our Resources

There are many ways to support the ministries of Azle Christian Church. You can give online on our website, on Venmo, use the QR code in your bulletin, or place it in the offering plate as the deacons come by during our anthem. You can also put in a prayer request card or information card in the plate. 

Anthem – Mary Magdalene – Ashley Lagunas

Doxology - Praise God from whom all blessing flow; praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Offering Prayer – Susie Hiles

Sermon Series: Questions Jesus Asked

Sermon: “Woman, Why Are You Crying? Who is it you are looking for?” – Rev. Russell Clark

Holy Communion Meditation & Prayer – Susie Hiles

Communion Song – How Great Thou Art #33

Oh Lord, my God

When I, in awesome wonder

Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made

I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder

Thy power throughout the universe displayed

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art, how great Thou art

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art, how great Thou art

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing

Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in

That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing

He bled and died to take away my sin

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art, how great Thou art

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art, how great Thou art

When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation

And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart

Then I shall bow, in humble adoration

And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art, how great Thou art

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee

How great Thou art, how great Thou art

How great Thou art, how great Thou art

We believe Jesus Christ is the gracious host at this table.

Everyone is welcome to participate in communion. Please pass tray to your neighbor after receiving your communion cups. Please help those who need assistance. Hold cups until instructed by Elder to take in unison.

Holy Communion Words of Institution – Susie Hiles

Invitation – If you would like to make your statement of faith or become a member of ACC, you may come forward after the benediction or talk to our minister after worship.

*Announcements & Benediction – Rev. Russ Clark

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A few announcements for this week before our benediction:

You can find information on the back of your bulletin about our weekly activities, such as Sunday School, our Ukulele Group, our Wednesday dinner and bible study, and our prayer group. In the insert, you will find our calendar to transfer to your personal calendars. We also have a google calendar on our website to add to your personal calendar.

This Tuesday I will be at central park at 9:30 in the morning to walk the circle and pray for our church & community if anyone would like to join me!

This Saturday we will have a work day from 8-11am to prepare the outside of the church for our Block Party. So come ready to do yard work!

Next Sunday, the youth will have a fun park day from 3-5 at central park and they’ll be passing out flyers for our block party.

Also next Sunday, we will have Bible & Beer at Rick Seed’s house at 5pm. At bible & beer, we have a bible study, great conversation, and we always have snacks and beverages. You don’t have to drink beer, but of course you can!

Our Community Block Party will be Saturday, April 13 from 11-2. We will have live bands, food, frios gourmet pops, bounce house, petting zoo, face painting from our very own Carol, and crafts with Kathy & Jeannie. The purpose of this event is to make our church more visible by throwing an epic party for our community! As Rick said, “Azle Christian Church is the best kept secret in Azle.” I don’t want us to be a secret anymore! We need to show our community who we are because we’re OWESOME!

We will be making an order for t-shirts with our logo and “be who you are with us” very soon. One of the main things to make this event successful is we need everyone to have one of these shirts. T-shirts will be $25(?) and will help offset some of the cost for the event. Jessie, Joey, Beverly, Jackson, and I have all been involved in planning this event. We need you to (1) buy a shirt and (2) spread the word & invite your friends to this block party!

Again, be sure to check our calendar for all we have coming up in April! Can you believe it’s already April tomorrow?!

Finally, If you or someone you know needs a visit OR has a prayer request OR would like home communion, you may contact the church office or contact me directly.

BENEDICTION –

Will you please rise in body and in spirit to receive this benediction?

May you see the Resurrected Jesus in your midst. May more of Jesus be revealed to you as you ponder the questions Jesus asked us… and as you find yourselves free to ask more questions yourselves.

Have a blessed Easter with your loved ones!

Amen.

*BENEDICTION RESPONSE - Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing #16

 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 upon it

Mount of Thy redeeming love

Here I raise my Ebenezer

Here by Thy great help I've come

And I hope by Thy good pleasure

Safely to arrive at home

Jesus sought me when a stranger

Wandering from the fold of God

He to rescue me from danger

Interposed His precious blood

(Precious blood)

Oh, that day when freed from sinning

I shall see Thy lovely face

Clothed then in blood washed linen

How I'll sing Thy sovereign grace

Come my Lord, no longer tarry

Take my ransomed soul away

Send Thine angels now to carry

Me to realms of endless days

Oh, 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, oh take and seal it

Seal it for Thy courts above

Here's my heart

Oh take and seal it

Seal it for Thy courts above

Seven Sayings on the Cross: It is Finished

Welcome

Good morning church!

I am Russell Clark and I am the senior minister here at Azle Christian Church. Today is Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, and remembering the events that led to Jesus’ death and resurrection and the celebration that is to come next Sunday on Easter Sunday.

We like for everyone to know a few things before we begin worship every week.

(1)   If you’re a guest today, we’re so happy you’re here! Filling out the attendance registration in your pew helps us connect names with faces and sharing your e-mail helps us to connect you to our weekly newsletter. There are information brochures in your pew to get to know us more and there is information about our weekly activities and calendar in your bulletin.

(2)   Second, we love our children here in worship and we always welcome them here. There is a kids corner in the back if your children need a space to move around. There is also a nursery available if you’d like. [TBD - We’re in the process of improving our nursery and bringing back children’s church soon. Parents, we’re asking you to get in the habit of signing in your child before the service if you plan to take them to the nursery or children’s church after children’s moment.]

(3)   Finally, our liturgy is posted each week on the website if you would like to follow along with our service.  

Will you join me in the Palm Sunday prayer found in your bulletin and up on the screens?

Palm Sunday Prayer – Rev. Russell Clark

One: We remember on this day when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. The crowd went to meet him, waving palm branches and shouting: “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord – The King of Israel!”

All: Lord Jesus, come into our midst this day. Open our hearts to receive your love; open our minds to hear your story; open our hands to receive your grace. In praise and adoration, we raise our palms to you. Amen.

Waving of the Palms

Opening Songs:    

Gather Us In

Here in this place new light is streaming

Now is the darkness vanished away

See in this space our fears and our dreamings

Brought here to you in the light of this day

Gather us in, the lost and forsaken

Gather us in, the blind and the lame

Call to us now and we shall awaken

We shall arise at the sound of our name

We are the young, our lives are a mystery

We are the old who yearn for your face

We have been sung throughout all of history

Called to be light to the whole human race

Gather us in, the rich and the haughty

Gather us in, the proud and the strong

Give us a heart so meek and so lowly

Give us the courage to enter the song

Here we will take the wine and the water

Here we will take the bread of new birth

Here you shall call your sons and your daughters

Call us anew to be salt for the earth

Give us to drink the wine of compassion

Give us to eat the bread that is you

Nourish us well and teach us to fashion

Lives that are holy and hearts that are true

Not in the dark of buildings confining

Not in some heaven light years away

But here in this place the new light is shining

Now is the kingdom, now is the day

Gather us in and hold us forever

Gather us in and make us your own

Gather us in, all peoples together

Fire of love in our flesh and our bones

Fire of love in our flesh and our bones

Shout Hosanna

To the King of glory and light all praises

To the only Giver of Life, our Maker

The gates are open wide

We worship You

Come see what love has done, amazing

He bought us with His blood, our Savior

The cross has overcome

We worship You

Shout hosanna

Jesus, He saves

Shout hosanna

He rose from the grave

Come and lift Him up

Hosanna

Now let the lost be found, forgiven

Death could not hold him down, He's risen

So let the saints cry out

We worship You

We worship You

We shout hosanna

Jesus, He saves

Shout hosanna

He rose from the grave

Come and lift him up

Hosanna

The same power that rolled the stone away

The same power alive in us today

King Jesus, we call upon Your name

No other name

The same power that rolled the stone away

The same power alive in us today

King Jesus, we call upon Your name

No other name

We shout hosanna

Jesus, he saves

Shout hosanna

He rose from the grave

Come and lift him up

Hosanna

Shout hosanna

Jesus, He saves

Shout hosanna

He rose from the grave

Come and lift him up

Hosanna

Come and lift him up

Hosanna

Come and lift him up

Hosanna

Come and lift him up

Hosanna

Litany of Faith – Nancy Robbins

One: God Most High, gracious and glorious, blessed is the one who comes in your name.

All: Lead us now on the road to the cross.

One: May we follow with faithfulness and joy, shouting hosanna in the highest heaven; through Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.

All: Hosanna in the highest! Jesus Christ is Lord! Amen.

Scripture Meditation – John 19:30 (NIV)

“When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” – John 19:30

One: This is the word of God for the people of God.

All: Thanks be to God.

Today being Palm Sunday, we sometimes wish that this was the completion of God’s story. Jesus is being praised with palms. He is being celebrated as King of Israel with a parade.

But the crowd that celebrates him today is ready to crucify him tomorrow. To be king of this earth wasn’t his mission. To be celebrated on the donkey with palm branches wasn’t the grand finale for Jesus – or for us.

There was more to Jesus’ life and story that was ready to be written, which would make it the GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD.

Think about this as we get ready for our sermon and enter our time of prayer.

Pastoral Prayer

The Lord be with you. And Also with you. Let us pray.

Lord, for the times we have waved palms at you and threw you a parade, but did not take up our cross and follow you, we pray you.

May we give you more than an empty celebration, but may we give our hearts and all that we are to you, O Lord.

May your sacrifice on the cross be near to us this week as we continue to reflect on why you died for us and the lessons you taught us all throughout your life.

You are the way, the truth, and the life. You are redeemer who restores our souls. You are the unconditional love that leads to life everlasting. We praise you for who you are, what you have done for us, and how you continue to work through our lives today.

Thank you, Lord, for being near to us. Revive our souls that we might follow you today and forevermore.

And Lord, will you hear us as we pray the prayer Jesus taught us…

Our Father, who art in heaven

Hallowed be thy name

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done

On earth as it is in heaven

Give us this day our daily bread

Forgive us our debts

As we forgive our debtors

And lead us not into temptation

But Deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

RESPONSIVE HYMN –

 We fall down

We lay our crowns

At the feet of Jesus

The greatness of

Mercy and love

At the feet of Jesus

And we cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

Is the lamb

We fall down

We lay our crowns

At the feet of Jesus

The greatness of

Your mercy and love

At the feet of Jesus

And we cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

Is the lamb

And we cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

Is the lamb

We cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

We cry holy, holy, holy

Is the lamb

Children’s Moment – Jessie Button

Sharing Our Resources

There are many ways to support the ministries of Azle Christian Church. You can give online on our website, on Venmo, use the QR code in your bulletin, or place it in the offering plate as the deacons come by during our anthem. You can also put in a prayer request card or information card in the plate. 

Anthem – Goodness of God

Doxology - Praise God from whom all blessing flow; praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Offering Prayer – Nancy Robbins

Series: Seven Sayings on the Cross

Sermon: “It is finished.” – Rev. Russell Clark

Holy Communion Meditation & Prayer – Nancy Robbins

Communion Song – 1 Jesus walked this lonesome valley;

He had to walk it by himself.

Oh, nobody else could walk it for him;

He had to walk it by himself.

2 We must walk this lonesome valley;

We have to walk it by ourselves.

Oh, nobody else can walk it for us;

We have to walk it by ourselves.

3 You must go and stand your trial;

You have to stand it by yourself.

Oh, nobody else can stand it for you;

You have to stand it by yourself.

We believe Jesus Christ is the gracious host at this table.

Everyone is welcome to participate in communion. Please pass tray to your neighbor after receiving your communion cups. Please help those who need assistance. Hold cups until instructed by Elder to take in unison.

Holy Communion Words of Institution – Nancy Robbins

Invitation – If you would like to make your statement of faith or become a member of ACC, you may come forward after the benediction or talk to our minister after worship.

*Announcements & Benediction – Rev. Russ Clark

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A few announcements for this week before our benediction:

You can find information on the back of your bulletin about our weekly activities, such as Sunday School, our Ukulele Group, our Wednesday dinner and bible study, and our prayer group. In the insert, you will find our calendar to transfer to your personal calendars. We also have a google calendar on our website to add to your personal calendar.

We have a lot going on this week for Holy Week.

Tonight and tomorrow evening at 7pm at Wesley Chapel I will be preaching at their revival.

Tuesday at 9:30am, for anyone that wants to join me, I’ll be walking the circle at central park and we can pray for one another, our church, and our community.

There will be NO Wednesday gathering this week and NO Thursday devotional and lunch this week.

Thursday evening, Revive United Methodist will be leading a Maundy Thursday service in our fellowship hall at 7pm.

Then, we will be leading the Good Friday service in the sanctuary on Friday at 7pm.

Next Sunday, we decided NOT to do the Easter sunrise service this year, but Easter morning we will start with breakfast at 9:30am,  followed by our Easter Worship Service at 11am.

Directly after the service is over today, we will have an Easter Egg hunt for all the children present.

Finally, If you or someone you know needs a visit OR has a prayer request OR would like home communion, you may contact the church office or contact me directly.

BENEDICTION –

Will you please rise in body and in spirit to receive this benediction?

We will be completing this series on the “Seven Sayings on the Cross” this FRIDAY at our Good Friday service, but hope to see you tonight and tomorrow night for the revival at Wesley Chapel, again on Thursday for the Maundy Thursday service, and on Friday, and next Sunday for Easter, but until then…

May you do more than wave palms with the crowd. May you lay at the foot of the cross, seeing all that God has done for you by his life, his death, and soon…his resurrection!

You are the reason God completed his work of art.

You are God’s original masterpiece.

Amen.

*BENEDICTION RESPONSE

I am the light of the world

You people come and follow me

If you follow and love you’ll learn the mystery

Of what you were meant to do and be

When the song of the angels is stilled

When the star in the sky is gone when the magi and the shepherds have found their way home

The work of the Christmas is begun

Seven Sayings on the Cross: I Thirst

Welcome & Opening Prayer

Good morning church!

I am Russell Clark and I am the senior minister here at Azle Christian Church. May we find our thirst quenched and our nourishment fulfilled by the food & drink Jesus offers.

We like for everyone to know a few things before we begin worship every week.

(1)   If you’re a guest today, we’re so happy you’re here! Filling out the attendance registration in your pew helps us connect names with faces and sharing your e-mail helps us to connect you to our weekly newsletter. There are information brochures in your pew to get to know us more and there is information about our weekly activities and calendar in your bulletin.

(2)   Second, we love our children here in worship and we always welcome them here. There is a kids corner in the back if your children need a space to move around. There is also a nursery available if you’d like. [TBD - We’re in the process of improving our nursery and bringing back children’s church soon. Parents, we’re asking you to get in the habit of signing in your child before the service if you plan to take them to the nursery or children’s church after children’s moment.]

(3)   Finally, our liturgy is posted each week on the website if you would like to follow along with our service.  

Now, may we take a moment to pray as we enter this time of worship.

Jesus – May the living water that flows freely be poured onto our souls this morning. Amen.

May we take a moment before we get started to greet those next to us with a hug or high five.

Opening Songs:   

1 Alas! and did my Savior bleed,

and did my Sovereign die!

Would he devote that sacred head

for sinners such as I?

2 Was it for crimes that I have done,

he groaned upon the tree?

Amazing pity! Grace unknown!

And love beyond degree!

5 But drops of tears can ne'er repay

the debt of love I owe.

Here, Lord, I give myself away;

'tis all that I can do.

Oh, I've heard a thousand stories of what they think You're like

But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night

And You tell me that You're pleased and that I'm never alone

You're a good, good Father

It's who You are, it's who You are, it's who You are

And I'm loved by You

It's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am

Oh, and I've seen many searching for answers far and wide

But I know we're all searching for answers only You provide

'Cause You know just what we need before we say a word

You're a good, good Father

It's who You are, it's who You are, it's who You are

And I'm loved by You

It's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am

Because You are perfect in all of Your ways

You are perfect in all of Your ways

You are perfect in all of Your ways to us

You are perfect in all of Your ways

Oh, You're perfect in all of Your ways

You are perfect in all of Your ways to us

Oh, it's love so undeniable

I, I can hardly speak

Peace so unexplainable

I, I can hardly think

As You call me deeper still

As You call me deeper still

As You call me deeper still into love, love, love

You're a good, good Father

It's who You are, it's who You are, it's who You are

And I'm loved by You

It's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am

And You're a good, good Father

It's who You are, it's who You are, it's who You are

And I'm loved by You

It's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am

You're a good, good Father

It's who You are, it's who You are, it's who You are

And I'm loved by You

It's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am

(You're a good, good Father)

You are perfect in all of Your ways (it's who You are, it's who You are, it's who You are)

(And I'm loved by You)

Litany of Faith – Diane Weger

One: Think of yourself the way Christ thought of himself. Christ had equal status with God, but he did not claim special privileges because of his status.

All: No, he became a human like us. He became a servant for us.

One: He lived a selfless, obedient life and died a selfless, obedient death. He even died on a cross.

All: Even his death was for us. He paid the price for our sins.

One: Because of his obedience, God lifted him higher than anyone, ever. Now, all beings in heaven and earth, and under the earth, shall scream, “Jesus Christ is Lord!”

All: Jesus Christ is Lord! To the Glory of God the Father! Amen!

Scripture Meditation – John 19:28-29 (NIV)

“Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, ‘I am thirsty.’ A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips.”

One: This is the word of God for the people of God.

All: Thanks be to God.

Why is Jesus’ statement about being thirsty important?

How does this reflect other things he said and did throughout his life?

Think about this as we get ready for our sermon and enter our time of prayer.

Pastoral Prayer

The Lord be with you. And Also with you. Let us pray.

Lord, may your Spirit rain down on us, refreshing our souls. May your living water always be available to us for the renewal of our minds and spirits.

May we thirst after you, O Lord, settings our hearts fully towards you and your ways. Teach us how to drink from the cup we have been called to drink from. May we not stray away from the calling and purpose you have for our lives. May we ask you every day, “Lord, what do you want me to do next?”

You are the bread of life. You are the living water. You give us food that lasts. You give us your body and blood which renews and fulfills our lives to be whole and transformed.

Thank you, Lord, for quenching our thirst. May we have your heart for humanity to quench the thirst of the broken and widows and poor and hurting. May we do our part to break the damns of corruption that keep your people out. May we burst through the walls to show radical hospitality and amazing grace to those who need it.

And Lord, will you hear us as we pray the prayer Jesus taught us…

Our Father, who art in heaven

Hallowed be thy name

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done

On earth as it is in heaven

Give us this day our daily bread

Forgive us our debts

As we forgive our debtors

And lead us not into temptation

But Deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

RESPONSIVE HYMN –

 What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul

What wondrous love is this, O my soul

What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss

To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul

To bear the dreadful curse for my soul

When I was sinking down sinking down sinking down

When I was sinking down sinking down

When I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown, Christ laid aside his crown for my soul for my soul, Christ laoid aside his crown for my soul

To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing

To God and to the Lamb, I will sing

To God and to the Lamb, who is the great I Am

While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing

While millions join the theme, I will sing

And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on, I'll sing on

And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on

And when from death I'm free, I'll sing and joyful be

And through eternity, I'll sing on, I'll sing on

And through eternity, I'll sing on

Children’s Moment – Dan Robinson

Sharing Our Resources

There are many ways to support the ministries of Azle Christian Church. You can give online on our website, on Venmo, use the QR code in your bulletin, or place it in the offering plate as the deacons come by during our anthem. You can also put in a prayer request card or information card in the plate. 

Anthem – Thirst

Doxology - Praise God from whom all blessing flow; praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Offering Prayer – Diane Weger

Series: Seven Sayings on the Cross

Sermon: “I Thirst.” – Rev. Russell Clark

Holy Communion Meditation & Prayer – Diane Weger

Communion Song –

Be still my soul the Lord is on thy side

Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain

Leave to thy God to order and provide

In every change He faithful will remain

Be still my soul thy best, thy heavenly friend

Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end

Be still, my soul, thy God doth undertake

To guide the future as He has the past

Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake

All now mysterious shall be bright at last

Be still, my soul, the waves and winds still know

His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below

We believe Jesus Christ is the gracious host at this table.

Everyone is welcome to participate in communion. Please pass tray to your neighbor after receiving your communion cups. Please help those who need assistance. Hold cups until instructed by Elder to take in unison.

Holy Communion Words of Institution – Diane Weger

Invitation – If you would like to make your statement of faith or become a member of ACC, you may come forward after the benediction or talk to our minister after worship.

*Announcements & Benediction – Rev. Russ Clark

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A few announcements for this week before our benediction:

You can find information on the back of your bulletin about our weekly activities, such as Sunday School, our Ukulele Group, our Wednesday dinner and bible study, and our prayer group. In the insert, you will find our calendar to transfer to your personal calendars. We also have a google calendar on our website to add to your personal calendar.

This afternoon, the youth will be playing mini golf from 3-5pm. See Joey after church with any questions.

Directly after worship is the DWM meeting.

This Wednesday, we have our Wednesday dinner at 5:30pm. There will be activities for youth and children after dinner, but there will be no adult bible study. On the 3rd Wednesday of every month, we will be going straight into our leadership team meeting at 6:30pm.

Our final Lent Devotional & Lunch is this Thursday starting at 11:30 with Dr. Gladys Childs, chaplain at Texas Wesleyan University, giving the devotional.

This Saturday is Food Hub, where we will be giving food out to the community at 8am.

Next Sunday is Palm Sunday in worship, followed by our Easter egg hunt, so bring all your kids and grandkids next Sunday.

Be sure to check out our calendar for everything coming up with holy week starting next Sunday!

Finally, If you or someone you know needs a visit OR has a prayer request OR would like home communion, you may contact the church office or contact me directly.

BENEDICTION –

Will you please rise in body and spirit for the benediction and receive this blessing?

Next week is Palm Sunday and our Easter Egg Hunt after church, and I hope to see you all then, but until next week…

May you examine your hearts all throughout this week to see if you are drinking from the cup you are called to drink from.

And may you see Jesus’ humanity by how he lived his life so you are better able to see the humanity in one another.

And then, may we all see Jesus’ divinity as we complete our mission and drink from our own cup of salvation.  Amen.

*Benediction Response –

 O let the Son of God enfold you

With His Spirit and His love

Let Him fill your heart and satisfy your soul

O let Him have the things that hold you

And His Spirit like a dove

Will descend upon your life and make you whole

Refrain:

Jesus, O Jesus

Come and fill Your lambs

Jesus, O Jesus

Come and fill Your lambs

O come and sing this song with gladness

As your hearts are filled with joy

Lift your hands in sweet surrender to His name

O give Him all your tears and sadness

Give Him all your years of pain

And you'll enter into life in Jesus' name (Refrain)