Third Sunday in Lent - 7 March 2021
Bede Methodist Circuit - Worship Resources
Lent Week 3
Opening Prayer
Lord Jesus your presence calms our fears.
Your presence eases our anxieties.
Your presence helps us to focus our attention on one thing necessary – to listen to your word.
Hymn 530: To be in your presence
To be in your presence, to sit at your feet,
Where your love surrounds me, and make me complete:
This is my desire; O Lord,
this is my desire.
This is my desire, O Lord,
this is my desire.
To rest in your presence, not rushing away,
To cherish each moment-
Here I would stay.
Noel Richards (born 1955)
Bible Reading (Luke 10:38-42) The Gospel contrasts Martha’s activity and Mary’s quiet devotion to the Lord.
The story of Martha and Mary can be seen as a parable in action. Whereas the parable of the Good Samaritan stressed the importance of action, or practical love, in the life of a disciple, this story stresses the importance of contemplation. Both are necessary, and have to be integrated in the life of a Christian. Martha is the patron saint of waiters and waitresses.
‘The Methodist Way of Life’ Learning and Caring
Will we care for ourselves and those around us.
We wi learn more about our faith.
We will practice hospitality and generosity.
Some questions to ponder
How have you shown hospitality to others?
How are you caring for yourself?
How and what are you learning now?
Prayers
Conscious of our need of God`s blessings we bring our needs before him.
We pray for people who are overworked and overburdened.
For all in positions of responsibility: that they may seek the guidance of God through prayer and reflection.
For our own special needs.
Loving God, your Son honoured Martha and Mary by coming to their home as a guest. May we serve you in our brothers and sisters, and be welcomed by you into heaven, our true home. We ask this through the same Christ our Lord.
Hymn 467: I need thee every hour
V3: I need thee every hour
In joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide,
Or life is vain:
I need thee, O I need thee
Every hour I need thee;
O bless me now, my Saviour
I come to thee
Anne Sherwood Hawks (1835-1918)
Closing Prayer
God of mercy , help us to make love the foundation of our lives. May our love for you express itself in our eagerness to do good for others. We ask this through the same Christ our Lord.