January 22 – Third after Epiphany
Jonah 3:1–5, 10
Jonah calls Ninevah to repent.
Psalm 62:5–12 (VU pp.
779–780)
Be still, my soul, and wait for God.
1 Corinthians 7:29–31
The time is short for the present form of the world.
Mark 1:14–20
Jesus calls Simon, Andrew, James, and John.
Spark
Include numerous invitations to respond to God’s call in the liturgy. “Come and follow” might be a common challenge offered to the congregation. This might also be a good week for a fire drill.
Theme Engagement Question
What holds you back from following the call of your heart, the call of God? If those blocks were removed, would you then respond?
With Children
A conversation about fire drills leads to thoughts about responding promptly. If your congregation does not regularly have fire drills, then perhaps the younger folk could suggest an appropriate process. Share stories about a recent global disaster and how the Mission and Service Fund enabled us as a church to give immediate assistance. Link these conversations with the reminder that we are called by God to respond now, just as the fishers did.
Sermon Starter
How do we invite others to share the Holy mystery of faith-filled living? What preparations do we need to make to fully embrace this opportunity? What are the spiritual disciplines that support one’s openness to journey the way of Christ? What is God’s call to us as individuals? What is God’s call to our faith community? How will we respond to our call as a faith community when new challenges and opportunities are present?
Hymns
VU 117 “Jesus Christ is waiting”
VU 356 “Seek ye first”
VU 562 “Jesus calls us”
VU 563 “Jesus, you have come to the lakeshore”
VU 567 “Will you come and follow me”
VU 568 “Dear Lord, lead me day by day”
VU 582 “There’s a spirit in the air”
VU 597 “Simon, Simon”
VU 652 “Be still, my soul”
MV 4 “All who are thirsty”
MV 62 “There
is room for all”
(also
in French)
MV 77 “Be still and know”
MV 113 “Jesus saw them fishing”
MV 216 “Wherever you may go”