Worship series for September 28 – October 19
Obedience. It’s no one’s favorite word, especially in a society that so prizes individuality and independence. Because obedience, which implies subservience, seems a strange thing to focus on after taking three-weeks to focus on the importance of relationships. As Google tells us, however (yes, roll your eyes, but it CAN be helpful), “The Latin foundational word for ‘obedience’ is oboedire, which correctly translated means – ‘to hear or to listen’. This translation implies a relationship of mutuality where members of the community are listening to one another.” Community. Mutuality. Where have we heard THOSE words?
Sunday, September 28 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: Exodus 2: 23-25; 3: 1-15; 4: 10-17
Theme: “But Moses said to God…” A bit cheeky, right? As an obedient servant, shouldn’t Moses just do what God says? But what if you’re uncertain that you’re up to the task? What if you feel you need to push back to make sure you can do what you’re being asked to do? What if you think maybe you might possibly be willing, but you’re going to need some serious help? Perhaps true obedience is not an automatic “You bet!” but a thoughtful “Let’s figure out together how we can actually make this happen”?
Sunday, October 5 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: Exodus 16: 1-18
Theme: Sometimes we’re just plain disobedient. Our disobedience brings discomfort. And by all rights, we should just be left to stew in our juices. But God takes a deep breath and simply refuses to abandon us.
Sunday, October 12 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: 1 Samuel 3: 1-21
Theme: Samuel “let none of [God’s] words fall to the ground.” Perhaps this kind of trustworthiness, this kind of dogged attention to one’s calling is what true obedience is. Not craven groveling, but courageous faithfulness.
Sunday, October 19 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: 1 Samuel 16: 1-13
Theme: There’s always a backstory. God’s people were tired of their obedience of relational mutuality with God. They wanted a king who would make them bend the knee, who would bring glory to Israel by compelling them to fight their enemies. Didn’t work out well. The solution? Bring another king into the mix, but make it a runt whom God could form and mold.