January 29 – Fourth after Epiphany

 

Deuteronomy 18:15–20

God will raise up a prophet after Moses.

 

Psalm 111 (VU p. 833)

The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom.

 

1 Corinthians 8:1–13

Concerning food offered to idols.

 

Mark 1:21–28

The man with an unclean spirit is healed in Capernaum.

Spark

Some congregations may be having annual meetings this week. Honour and bless those who share leadership.

Theme Engagement Question

To whom do you give authority in your life? Whom do you allow to make judgments about who you are and how you do things? Why or why not? In what ways does God have authority in your life?

With Children

Show a medical alert bracelet or necklace and explain why one would wear it. Talk about the many ways that illness, injury, and limitations can impact one’s life. Spend some time reflecting on the various ways that one lives fully, even when living with limitations. Sometimes a doll or stuffed animal can be helpful in conveying that we love it even when it is broken, has parts missing, or is scuffed and dirty. In the same way, God loves each of us just as we are. God doesn’t focus on what we can or can’t do. God doesn’t worry about how we look on the outside. God sees the beauty within each of us, even when we don’t feel beautiful.

Sermon Starter

These are challenging passages that invite us to explore the issues of authority and accountability. To whom are we accountable as we journey in faith? Perhaps a review of our church governance might be appropriate. Will we risk trying new things when others might criticize? To whom do we give authority? Do we compartmentalize our lives as to whom we give authority to and how we are accountable? Examining the global context would give some valuable insights. Who or what holds authority in various ways in our world? Why is this so? Does God hold authority for people? For societies? Why or why not? Is there a link between authority and accountability with justice, compassion, and grace?

Hymns

VU 223            “Eternal, Unchanging”

VU 260            “God who gives to life its goodness”

VU 338            “Ask me what great thing I know”

VU 342            “You servants of God”

VU 358            “When Jesus the healer”

VU 620            “Silence, frenzied, unclean spirit”

VU 622            “Your hands, O Christ”

VU 661            “Come to my heart”

VU 670            “Precious Lord, take my hand”

MV 12             “Come touch our hearts”

MV 48             “I can feel you near me God”

MV 63             “Long before my journey’s start”

MV 141           “We are all one people”

MV 144           “Like a healing stream”