Description
Luke 23:1-49
From Judas’ betrayal of His Lord to the intimate last supper, we read the events of Jesus’ last moments before His death unfold. Tension arises as Jesus fervently prays to the Father sweating blood. Next, soldiers arrest the innocent Jesus and Peter strikes off the ear of one causing Jesus to heal the soldier. We read of the struggle of Pilate who found Jesus’ innocent, but decided to please the shouting crowd, leading to the brutal crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus. On this Palm Sunday, bask in the provision of salvation offered to us through the servant Jesus Christ. Reflect on His love and authority as King of Kings, and await in joyful anticipation of His resurrection!
We Lift Our Hearts in Worship
[Preservice options include video countdowns, worship song videos, welcomes), CDs, or live music.]
Welcome & Time of Greeting
Time of Praise and Worship
Great Things
Jonas Myrin, Phil Wickham, © Capitol CMG Paragon (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing) Son of the Lion (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing) Phil Wickham Music (Fair Trade Music Publishing [c/o Essential Music Publishing LLC]) Simply Global Songs (Fair Trade Music Publishing [c/o Essential Music Publishing LLC]) Sing My Songs (Fair Trade Music Publishing [c/o Essential Music Publishing LLC])
Hosanna (Praise Is Rising)
Paul Baloche & Brenton Brown, ©2005 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music
You Are Holy (Prince of Peace)
Marc Imboden & Tammi Rhoton, ©1994 Imboden Music (Admin. by Music Services, Inc.) Martha Jo Publishing (Admin. by Music Services, Inc.)
[Traditional Options]
Hosanna, Loud Hosanna
BH 91 130; CH 297; HWC 174; HFG 248; HLC 134; HGP 28; LSB 443; LW 106; NCH 213; PH 89; RH 154; STTL 217; WC 203; UMH 278; WAR 267; WHM 220
All Glory, Laud, and Honor
BH 91 126; CH 300; EH 154, 155; ELW 344; HWC 173; HFG 249; HLC 131; LBW 108; LSB 442; LW 102; NCH 216; PH 88; RH 155; UMH 280; WC 204; WR 265
Prepare the Royal Highway
ELW 264; LBW 26; LSB 343; LW 27
Invocation
Pastor / Worship Leader
On this Palm Sunday, isn’t it wonderful to be gathered together?
Worshipers
By the grace of God, we are here. We are the Church of Jesus Christ, gathered together in one accord and in His name to celebrate His life on this earth and remember His death.
Pastor / Worship Leader
Today, we are in Christ and He in us. Let us worship Him now.
Opening Prayer / Theme Introduction
Pastor / Worship Leader
Jesus, it only through You that we may approach the throne of God. You are our Great High Priest, our Mediator. There is only one way to Heaven, and it’s through You. Jesus, as remember Your death today, let us celebrate what happened next- Your resurrection- and what is coming soon- Your return! Let us die to ourselves and resurrect to new life in You!
Worshipers
In the name of the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ, we pray, amen!
Time of Confession and Forgiveness
[Alternate location: following Message]
Pastor / Worship Leader
We live in this world, but we are not of this world. It’s easy to become distracted and confused- an ancient tactic of the enemy. But we are on the road of righteousness through Christ! Let us throw off everything that hinders us from following Jesus. Let us repent and confess to our loving Savior now, for He is faithful to forgive us our sins.
(Allow time for personal reflection and prayer)
Pastor/ Worship leader
Holy Spirit, thank You for convicting us and leading us to Jesus every single time.
Worshipers
We accept the blood-bought forgiveness of Jesus Christ.
Pastor / Worship Leader
Thank You, Jesus. Amen.
We Hear God’s Word
[Read aloud both the introduction and Scripture]
First Reading Isaiah 50:4-9a
God is the defender of His people. There is no one like Him. He holds all the power in His hands, and is the true refuge for us.
The Lord will vindicate his people and relent concerning his servants when he sees their strength is gone and no one is left, slave or free. 37 He will say: “Now where are their gods, the rock they took refuge in, 38 the gods who ate the fat of their sacrifices and drank the wine of their drink offerings? Let them rise up to help you! Let them give you shelter! 39 “See now that I myself am he! There is no god besides me. I put to death and I bring to life, I have wounded and I will heal, and no one can deliver out of my hand.
