APC 4th April 2021                  “Easter Sunday”
 
PART 1
Welcome and Introduction          
Good morning and welcome to our Easter Sunday Celebration.  On Friday we left in silence and darkness as we felt the disillusionment and dejection of the disciples as they watched their master die.  Today we will follow the ladies to the tomb as they faithfully pay their respects and put spices on their beloved friend’s body…They are in for a huge surprise.  It’s my hope that as we reflect again on the resurrection that we too might be surprised to find that despite all that’s happened over this past year we still believe and we are still filled with hope and joy…Let us pray…
 
Opening Prayer
All loving and all powerful God, we thank you for this day and all it means – the assurance it brings that your love is stronger than anything else in heaven and earth – stronger than evil, than all human powers, than sorrow and suffering, than death itself.  Accept our thanks for this day.  Accept our thanks for everything. 
We thank you that in our world of so much pain and sorrow you have shown that hope and faith are not in vain.  Your purpose is always at work, giving meaning to our seeking and striving after good.  Accept our thanks for this day.  Accept our thanks for everything. 
All loving and all powerful God, accept our praise for all you have done in Christ- a mystery before which we stand in awe, a wonder before which we bow in praise, a truth in which we live and move and have our being.  Accept our thanks for this day.  Accept our thanks for everything.  In the name of the living and risen Christ.  Amen.
 
Introduction to Apostle’s Creed
Since it’s Easter Sunday, rather than say the Lord’s Prayer together, we are going to say the words of the Apostle’s Creed.  This is a wonderful prayer, reaffirming in a concise way, the most important things that Christians have believed right from the very beginning.  So sit back and join in, as many of our church family lead us in the Apostle’s Creed-
 
(End Part 1)
 
 
Video-      The Apostle’s Creed
 
 
Part 2
 
Introduction to Opening Song
 
I’d like to thank Emma and Philip for putting that together and for everyone who volunteered to play a part. 
 
You may or not be aware that our RTE Choir spent many weeks practicing the song “Sing Hosanna” with the accompaniment of brass instruments played by Rebecca Kearon, Kate and Laura O’Sullivan and their Silver Band leader Artur Bosy.  Unfortunately, due to a last minute Covid Review, they were unable to play live on RTE last Sunday.
 
So to honour all the work that they have put in and to show you what you missed out on last Sunday, sit back as we worship God together through the original version of our song…
 
(END Part 2)
 
 
Opening Song                “Sing Hosannah with Brass”
 
 
PART 3
 
Introduction to Kids Video
We come now to the part of the service that is especially for the younger members of our church family.  So if your kids aren’t beside you right now, why not pause the recording, and call them in to watch a short video about the Easter story.  And at the end of this video I’ve a few words to say to the children so don’t let them rush away.
 
(END Part 3)
 
 
Kid’s Video   Saddleback Kids – “The Easter Story, Jesus’ Sacrifice”
Link         https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL8R158Ujp4
 

PART 4
 
Kid’s Talk Summary
Hey boys and girls.  I want to wish you all a very happy Easter.  The Easter is story is so amazing.  A couple of weeks ago we learned that Jesus died on the cross to take the blame for all the wrong things we do.  Today we celebrate that isn’t the end of the story.  Jesus didn’t stay dead.  Three days later He came back to life again and spent another 6 weeks with his friends.  We know that it’s true because so many of His friends saw him and then they told everybody else.  After the 6 weeks were over Jesus went back up into heaven again.  That’s where He is today.  You know it’s fantastic to know that Jesus is alive today.  Because that means when you talk to Jesus, when you pray, He really can hear you and He really can help you.  Maybe you find it hard to do what your mum or dad says.  Maybe you find it hard to share.  Maybe you find it hard not to say certain words.  Well, the great news is that because Jesus is alive, when you ask Him He will help you with the things we find hard.  Jesus can really help you and me to be better people.  This is the great news of Easter.  Jesus is alive!  He can give us the power to live right.  I hope you have a really, really lovely Easter and that you get to eat lots of chocolate eggs.  Don’t forget to ask your mum or dad to print off the colouring sheet to help you remember the lesson today.  And don’t forget to tune in again next Sunday.  Bye for now…
 
Colouring Sheet Link
https://coloringhome.com/he-is-risen-coloring-pages
 
Introduction to Bible Reading
 
Our bible Reading today is taken from Mark Chapter 16 reading from verses 1-8.  “Jesus Rises from the dead.”
 
Bible Reading   Mark 16 v 1-8   “Jesus rises from the dead””
“When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?”
4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
6 “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’”
8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.”
 
Reflection                       “Easter Sunday”
 
Today is Easter Sunday.  For me it’s the highlight of the Christian Year.  Today we celebrate that Jesus Christ rose from the dead and is alive for evermore!
If it’s true, it makes all the difference!  All the difference to my life now, and every day.  All the difference when eventually my life comes to an end.  But is it true?  Do I actually still believe it?  Do you?
For all of us, this past year has perhaps made it harder for us to believe than ever before.  Certainly the fact that we have been forbidden to meet together hasn’t helped.  Like a coal taken from the fire and set on the hearth, it’s easy to find our faith growing cold when we can’t meet face to face and encourage one another.
By nature I’m a gregarious person.  I’ve found this lockdown really hard.  There are times like you, I’ve felt threatened in my faith.  I’ve experienced the same fears and doubts that you have.
So as I reflected this week on what I might say today about the resurrection, I found myself asking – after all that’s happened this year, do I really still believe it?  Do I really believe that Jesus came back to life and is alive today?  Or am I just hanging on, pretending, because at the end of the day it’s a job, and at my age, what else would I do?
As I’ve searched my heart, deep down, I have found that my answer to that question is still a “Yes”.  Sure, like the disciples who locked themselves away in fear of facing the same fate as their master, there have been times when I’ve queried whether everything I’ve believed in is all just a fairy tale.  But then, also like them, as I’ve reflected, as I’ve prayed, as I’ve seen glimpses of the risen Christ in the world, I’ve discovered once again that actually, it is true, and I do believe!
But why, as Jesus said, am I so blessed?  How am I able to hold on to my faith even though I have never seen the risen Christ?
Well for one thing I want it to be true.  As you know my mum died during Covid from cancer about 9 months ago.  Due to the lockdowns and travel restrictions I only got to see her headstone for the first time a few weeks ago.  If I’m honest, I don’t think about her all the time, but last week as I was weeding in the garden I missed her a lot.  She was an amazing gardener.  There were questions I wanted to ask her and things I wanted to show her, but I couldn’t- she wasn’t there.  But as I forked over the soil and saw the little green shoots poking their heads from the ground, as I looked at the new growth beginning to appear on the bushes and climbers, I was surprised once more by the evidence of resurrection!  Like the disciples who heard stories that Jesus was alive, who touched the scars in his hands, who saw Him breaking bread at their table or heard Him calling to them from the beach as they fished, in that moment, I realised again – “it’s true!”
The evidence of the power of creation was all around.  The evidence of the power of God to bring about new life.  And in that moment, my heart leapt for joy.  Mum’s not dead, she’s just not here at the moment.  Her headstone doesn’t mark a grave, it’s an empty tomb!  Sure I miss her!  But if Christ isn’t risen it’s a whole lot worse!  But He is risen!  And she is risen.  And one day there’s going to be a great reunion!
So I want to believe, because the thought of not seeing our loved ones again is just unthinkable.
But I also believe because for me, the stories of the gospels ring so true.  If the resurrection is a conspiracy, it’s not a very good one.  If the alibi of the guards is to be believed – how were they not wakened when the disciples reportedly stole the body?  And if they were asleep how did they know it was the disciples?  Not that I believe the disciples, who were cowering in locked rooms, seemed capable of stealing a body and faking a resurrection.  They were too afraid for their own safety to attend Jesus’ burial.  And if they really wanted to promote such a victorious concept, would they not have concealed the reality of their unbelief? 
And, in a society where the courts scandalously didn’t actually accept the testimony of a woman, would you really want your prime witnesses to be the women?  A conspiracy would have tidied up the eye witness testimonies – were there two white figures or just one?  Why did Mary mistake Him for a gardener? 
No, the gospels are not presented as courtroom evidence to prove the resurrection happened.  Rather the resurrection is reported honestly for what it was – a shocking surprise that no one was expecting.
What was it that turned depressed, fearful and silent followers into a band of courageous advocates who would eventually give their very lives for the resurrection party?  For me the story rings true.
And lastly, like the disciples, at the end of the day I believe because I’ve actually encountered the risen Christ.  It’s not that he has appeared to me in a dream or that He’s walked into my office.  But when I knelt at the side of my bed 30 years ago and asked Him genuinely for the first time to become part of my life something happened.  I can’t explain it.  But it’s very, very, real. 
The Spirit of the risen Christ became part of me and from that day on it’s been different.  That day, I began a genuine and real relationship with Christ.  I don’t see Him, but I talk to Him.  At times I sense very much that He is with me.  I listen for His guiding voice as I read the scriptures and as I pray.  And in the moments when I ask myself, am I actually going mad?  I remind myself of what I know and have proven again and again and again to be true-  When I pray, I am a much better man than when I don’t.  Without question, Jesus Christ has made me a much less selfish person than I was before I encountered Him.
What about you?  Do you believe?  Why or why not?
It is my hope and prayer this Easter that all of us will take time to reflect on the stories of the resurrection and to ask ourselves these questions.
For me again, the answer is “Yes.”  I see evidence of God and His new creation power in every element of spring time.
I want it to be true, because I know that a loving God would not want death and separation to be the final chapter.
For me, the gospel record, just seems so unedited, not to be true.
And at the end of the day, I encounter the risen Jesus every time I find the faith to pray.
May I wish you and all your loved ones a very happy and a reassured Easter.  Amen.
 
Introduction to Song
It was a real encounter with the living Christ that made all the difference to the first disciples.  What a morning that was.  For us, every morning is a resurrection morning.  For Christ is with us by His Spirit, every moment of every day.  So let’s join together to celebrate as members of the choir last Sunday lead us in the song, “See what a morning!”
(End Part 4)
 
 
Song of Response                 “See what a Morning”
 
PART 5
Prayer for Easter Assurance
 
Living God, we come to you on this day of celebration, conscious that there is so much in our lives that is uncertain, so much we cannot predict, so much we neither know nor understand. 
Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ.
Remind us once more through this season that in all the changes and chances of this world you are an unchanging rock, an unfailing deliverer, an everlasting hope.
Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ.
Remind us as we continue to celebrate Easter in the days ahead, that your love continues through all things, your power is supreme over all things, and your presence is with us in all things.
Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ.
Give us this day, a sense of your greatness, a recognition of all you have done and a confidence in all you shall do.
Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ.
Living God be among us now we pray through the risen Christ.  Help us to hear His voice, to offer him our service and to offer you our praise.
Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ.
We know that our hope is in you and in you alone.  Help us to accept that, to live in that assurance and so to follow wherever you might lead us.
Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ.  For it’s in His name that we ask it.  Amen.
Take a moment now to pray for one or two people you know who need God’s help at this time….
 
All this we ask in the name of the one who died who is risen and ascended and will come again in glory, Amen.
 
 
CLOSING WORDS
 
It’s been a joy and privilege to share with you again today. Thanks again for logging on.  I hope you’ve enjoyed our service.  May I take this opportunity to wish you and all your families a very happy Easter.  I want to say a big thank you to Dave Hendry for all the extra work he has put in this week downloading, and uploading and stitching the services together. 
I would also like to give a very special thanks to Alison and all the members of our choir and to everyone who has been so willing to contribute with the bible readings and prayers.  We really are so blessed to be part of such a wonderful church family.
With our Taoiseach’s announcement early this week there seems that there is Easter hope of church reopening at the beginning of May.  So do pray that the vaccination program will continue to roll out successfully and that Covid numbers will fall sufficiently to allow that to happen.  I honestly can’t wait to see you all again in person and to join in worship together.
I’m hoping to take a rest this week so there will be no service this Wednesday. 
Please do tune in again next Sunday when our Moderator Rev David Bruce will lead the service for us.
But for now, let me lead you in a Benediction, after which I invite you as always, to say the grace together…
 
Benediction   
May the loving power of God,
which raised Jesus to new life,
strengthen you in hope,
enrich you with his love,
and fill you with joy in the faith
And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and forever more.  Amen.
 
       
 
 
 
 
 

​Good Friday Online Tenebrae
 
Part 1      My Video
 
Welcome and Introduction to ‘Tenebrae’
 
Tenebrae or ‘Service of Shadows,’ is one of the oldest church traditions for the commemoration of the Passion and Death of Jesus.  It comes from the Latin word ‘tenebrae’- meaning ‘shadows’.  Normally we share this service in an evening.  The only light at the beginning of the service are candles dotted around the church.  During the service, as the Passion story unfolds, the candles are extinguished after each reading and we pause for reflection.  The darkness increases, until we reach the final reading, the death and burial of Christ.  Following this reading the final candle is snuffed out plunging the church into complete darkness.  Deliberately, the service ends with no benediction and no music.  We are invited at the end of the service to remain for a few moments in quiet prayer, and then to leave in silence.  This dark, subdued and incomplete ending reflects the death of Christ and a salvation incomplete until the later miracle of the resurrection.
 
Obviously since today’s Tenebrae is online it will be somewhat different but I’ve tried to keep as many elements as we normally would.  Different people from our church family have recorded the 7 readings of the cross.  After each reading a flickering candle will appear on your screen for a short time.  I would encourage you to spend this time in quiet reflection.  There will be two online songs sandwiched between the readings.  At the end of the service after our last reading you will see me carry a lit candle to my office door and leave.  This will signal the end of the service.  I encourage you at that point to spend a few moments reflecting on the darkness that covered the earth when Christ died and the despair that filled the disciples’ hearts and minds….
The service will proceed unannounced.
 
Call and Prayer
 
Today the carpenter’s hands are nailed to a cross,
the King of kings is crowned with thorns
and wears the purple robe of mockery.
Today he sets us free, himself imprisoned on a tree.
Today is God’s Friday.
We come in worship.  Let us pray…
 
Holy and loving God,
as we prepare to set aside our busyness
and to focus intently on Jesus’ suffering and death,
we ask for eyes to see all of the amazing things that Jesus’ death
means for understanding you, your love, and our salvation.
This we ask in Jesus’ name, Amen.
 
(End Part 1)
 
 
Part 2 (People’s video readings and flickering candle video)
 
Reading 1: ‘Last Supper’ (Matt. 26: 17-30)            Jamie Fenton
 
Silent Reflection – ‘Flickering Candle Video’
 
Reading 2: ‘Gethsemane’ (Matt. 26: 36-45)           Deon Theron
 
Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’
 
Reading 3: ‘Jesus’ Arrest’ (Matt. 26: 47-56)          Jean Hendry
 
Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’
 
SONG      “Yet not I”
 
Reading 4: ‘The Walk to Calvary’ (Matt. 27: 27-32)       Lara Prestage
Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’
 
Reading 5: ‘Death’ (Matthew 27: 33-54)                 Pauline Wilson
 
Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’
 
Reading 6: ‘Burial’ Matt. 27: 57-66)        Laudimar Coelho
 
Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’
 
(End Part 2)
 
 
Part 3      My Video
 
Reflection                       ‘Words from the cross’
 
Today as we reflect on the death of Christ on the cross, one of the most important questions we can ask is, “Why?”  There are many answers to that, found in different parts of scripture.  But today I want to spend a few moments considering two of the clues that come from the mouth of Jesus Himself.
 
The gospels record just 7 short sentences that Jesus spoke from the cross.  Throughout the centuries the church has cherished these ‘7 words from the cross’ as they are known because they give us an insight into the otherwise unknown thoughts of Jesus.
 
Amazingly none of them were uttered in bitterness or complaint.  The first 3, spoken to those who killed him, a dying thief and his own mother, express the love that He showed to others even in his final moments.  The 4th and 5th express the spiritual separation and thirst he endured as He bore the judgement for the sins of the world.  But today I want to focus on the last two which help us understand something of how a death which appeared to everyone as a defeat, was actually a final triumph and victory.
 
His sixth cry was “It is finished!”  Jesus had already privately told His disciples that he had completed the work he had come into the world to do.  Now in his final moments He makes a public declaration of it.  This was not a despairing groan of someone dying in resignation and defeat.  Matthew and Mark record that Jesus actually shouted.  In His own mind, His death was a resounding victory.
The Greek verb that’s used here is in the past tense and literally means, “It has been and remains forever accomplished!”
 
The writer of the letter to the Hebrews, explains to us that when Christ died on the cross He made a one time, once for all sacrifice for human sin.
 
Up until this time, Jewish people had to make regular animal sacrifices for sin.  It was a horrible, bloody and smelly affair.  The whole point being that sin was something that is horrible because it causes us to experience guilt, it hurts other people, and it grieves the heart of God.
 
But now that Christ, the God man, the only perfect human being had offered Himself as a perfect sacrifice, that whole system was finished.  Through His death on the cross, Christ had taken the judgement for the sins of the whole world.  That means there is nothing that we need to do or that we can even contribute.  Christ has done it all for us.  Our sins have been paid for.  It is finished.
 
To show that these words weren’t just an empty delusion, at that exact moment the thick curtain stretching from floor to ceiling in the temple was ripped from top to bottom.  For centuries that curtain kept people from the presence of God.  The only person allowed through the curtain was the High Priest once a year on the day of Atonement.  But now that Christ had died, sacrifice for human sin once, forever had been made.  That means that you and I can come right into God’s presence anytime, anywhere, without the permission or aid of anyone else because of what Christ has done.
 
Which brings us to His final words, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”  It’s interesting that none of the gospel writers say that Jesus died.  Mark and Luke say, “he breathed his last.”  Mathew and John say, “He gave up His spirit”.
The phrase used literally means “handing over.”  John notes that before this handing over of His Spirit, Jesus bowed his head.  This was surely His final act of surrender to His Father’s will.  So by His very actions, and by His final words Jesus clearly indicates that His death was his own voluntary act. 
 
This is important.  There were many occasions, not least during his 40 days in the desert when He was tempted to call down legions of waiting angels to rescue Him.  But all the way He resisted.  He could easily have answered the mockers who challenged Him by coming down form the cross.  But He refused.  No one took His life from Him.  Jesus chose to die for your sins and mine.
 
And so, Jesus’ last two words from the cross, “It is finished” and “I commit my spirit” proclaim that He is the conqueror of sin and of death.
 
All that’s left, is for us is to believe it.  To come to Him and lay our sins at His feet.  To trust that he has taken the judgement that we deserve.  To accept that the way is now open for us to come to God every day because of what he’s done.  To allow Him to wash our conscious clean from the guilt of our sins.  What’s more, we can live each day without the fear.  Christ has defeated death.  So whatever happens, no one and nothing can ever separate us from His love.  Death will simply be the doorway to our new and perfect heavenly home.
 
So can I ask you, “Who are you trusting in for today and tomorrow?”  Yourself, the church, the minister or priest?
Trust in Jesus.  He is all you need.
 
(End Part 3)
 
 
SONG      My God, my God why have you forsaken me?
 
Reading 7: ‘Forsaken’ (Psalm 22: 1-21)        Dave Twamley
 
 
Part 4      My Video (Me reflecting in silence then blowing out candle to leave darkness remaining…
 
END
 
 

Wednesday of Holy Week     APC 31st March 2021 ‘Betrayal’
Introduction and Welcome
Good morning and welcome to the opening reflection in our Holy week series.  Today is entitled ‘Betrayal’ as together we will imagine ourselves in the Upper Room as Jesus announces to his disciples that one of them will betray him.  But before we reflect on this and how we might find God’s comfort for our own betrayals, let us take a moment to talk to God.  Let us pray…
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, once more we remember that last week before you faced the cross- your pain and hurt as you faced betrayal, denial, rejection and abandonment, and we confess that we have added to your pain.
Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy upon us.
Through our thoughts, words and actions, so often we have deserted you when you needed us most.
Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy upon us.
Through our lack of thought, our failure to speak, and our reluctance to act, so many times we have denied the faith and love we declare.
Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy upon us.
We have cared too much for the good opinion of others.  We have been fearful to contemplate the true cost of discipleship.  Like lost sheep we have gone astray.
Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy upon us.
Yet you have called us to be your church.  You have forgiven us, cleansed and restored us, giving your own life for our sakes.
Receive our thanks.  Receive our praise.  And help us to follow you more faithfully.
Join with me as we say the Lord’s Prayer, thoughtfully and sincerely together…
 
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name,
Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us,
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil,
For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory,
For ever and ever, AMEN.
 
Matthew 26 v 14-16
14 Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests 15 and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
 
Matthew 26 v 20-24
20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve. 21 And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.”
22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, “Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?”
23 Jesus replied, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. 24 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”
Matthew 26 v 47-50
47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.
50 Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.”[a]
Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.
 
Mathew 27 v 1-5
Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed. 2 So they bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor.
3 When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. 4 “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.”
“What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.”
5 So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.
 
Reflection for Holy Week               “Betrayal”
On Sunday we listened to the crowds of people lining the streets of Jerusalem.  On that day they shouted “Hosannah!”  It means “Rescue me!”  A cry for help but also an exclamation of worship to the only one who could really save them.
Yet just a few days later, most of those people would change their cry to “Crucify Him!”
All of us know what it feels like to be betrayed.  A confidence shared, a promise broken, a friendship abandoned.  As we enter Holy week for another year, it’s this aspect of Jesus’ final days that has grabbed my attention.  I’ve been particularly inspired in my thinking by Philip Yancey in his book, “The Jesus I never knew.”
For one thing, His betrayal was something that Jesus already knew.  Dramatically, in the middle of their final meal together Jesus calmly drops the bombshell to the group… “Tonight one of you will betray me.”
What a conversation stopper!  Or perhaps it was a starter, as the disciples stared at each other and exclaimed indignantly, “Well, it won’t be me!”  The truth is, it could have been any one of them. Who knows how many of them had already been approached by the authorities probing for information?
Did any of them feel suspicious when a few minutes later Judas left the room?  Probably not.  It would be normal for the treasurer to excuse themselves to purchase supplies or run a charitable errand.
The truth is, knowing the rest of the story, we do judge Judas in a different light to all the others.  I mean, who even thinks about naming their child after the greatest traitor in history?
But if we read the gospels honestly, it’s the ordinariness, not the evil of Judas that stands out.  Like the rest He was selected by the Master after a night of prayer.  They must have trusted Him to appoint Him treasurer.  At the last Supper he sat near Jesus, a place of honour.  There’s no hint in all the gospels that Judas was a double agent.
So, how could he betray Christ?
Society has posed many answers to that question throughout the years.  Was it his love for money?  Had he become disillusioned, feeling that Jesus was too soft or misguided in His belief that His martyrdom would bring about the revolution they needed?  Was he simply wanting to save his own skin?  Perhaps he was hoping to kick start the revolution by arranging an arrest.
The bible says simply, “Satan entered him.”
But the truth is Satan had entered them all.  When it became clear that Jesus’ kind of Kingdom would lead to a cross and not a crown, all of them left the table and vanished into the shadows.  One of them even swore blindly in public on several occasions that he had never been associated with Jesus.
It’s easy to point the finger at Judas, harder to point it at the disciples, but even more difficult to look in the mirror and say – “Well, actually, I did that too.”
The truth is we’ve all betrayed Him at times.  In the right circumstances, under enough pressure, we’ve all abandoned our Lord. 
So can I ask you, gently, where are you at the moment in your relationship with Christ?  Have you abandoned the table?  Are you hiding in the shadows?  Do you publicly not even care?
Over the Christmas break I watched a fascinating movie called “Silence” which did indeed leave me speechless.  It’s based on the book of the same name written by Shusaku Endo one of Japans most renowned novelists.
Starring Liam Neeson, it describes the true story of how Japanese Christians, including world respected priests renounced their faith under severe torture at the hands of regional Shoguns.  Endo wrote his book because he could only find books written about famous martyrs.  His inspiration came from his understanding that the most powerful message of Jesus was his unquenchable love for people who betrayed him.
When Judas opened the gate for the authorities in the garden, Jesus called him his Friend.  When all but his mother, 3 other women and John deserted him, Jesus continued to love them all.  When leaders of His own religious denomination and nation hung him naked on a cross, His only words were, “Father forgive them.”
You know, the real question is not, how could Judas betray the Son of God?  The real question is how could the Son of God love you and me despite all that He knows about us?
The saddest thing for me about Judas is not his betrayal of Jesus.  It’s the fact that he failed to understand how much the Lord still loved him.  It’s the fact that Judas couldn’t find the courage to say sorry and forgive Himself.  Peter, somehow grasped this mystery and became a leader of the church.  Judas took his own life.
Listen, in one sense it really doesn’t matter how you or I have betrayed the Lord.  What matters is that we understand how much He loves us.  What matters is that we come out of the shadows, return to the table and commit to caring once again about how we represent Him.  What matters is that we learn to love as He loves…even those we consider to be our Judas.  Let us pray….
 
Prayer for ourselves and others
Dear God, we thank you for always being faithful to us.  We can always count on you to love us completely and unconditionally. Thank you for being perfectly trustworthy. We can always rely on you to do what's best for us and help us with whatever we need. Please help us to remember that you are here for us even when we feel betrayed by other people.
Lord, you know all of the painful thoughts and feelings we have to deal with after being let down. We find it so hard to understand how people or institutions we felt we could trust have let us down so badly.  God, when these things happen, we feel we need a miracle to find real inner peace again after what we've been through. Please give us that peace so that we can think about our betrayals from your perspective.  Give us the strength to be able to control our emotions rather than allowing them to control us.
Loving Father, we know you agree that betrayal is wrong and are just as upset as we are about what has happened to us. But we also know that you want us to forgive those who have hurt us. If we’re honest, we may not want to forgive, but we don't want to hurt ourselves more by holding onto bitterness or pursuing revenge. In a few moments of silence we bring those people or organisations who have betrayed us to God now….
Lord, empower us to forgive by letting go of the offense and trusting you to bring justice to the situation in the right ways and at the right times.
Please free us from the burden of holding onto a grudge and help us move on with our lives well.
God, we confess that this betrayal has damaged our confidence. We feel insecure and blame ourselves for mistakes we have made. We wonder what we could have done differently to prevent this betrayal from happening. Please steer us away from wasting our time and energy living in the past, and help us to focus now on how we can best move into a better future. Remind us of how valuable we are, and let us sense your love for me in tangible ways.
As we move forward with the other relationships in our lives, help us not to punish those who have goodwill toward me by assuming that they will betray me too. Help us to trust the people we know who are treating us well.  Help us even to rebuild relationships with those who have hurt us but who have been willing to change and be reconciled to us.
Show us the people who can support us as we recover from this betrayal.  Thank you for them all.  Please bless them for their help.
And Lord, forgive us for the times when we have betrayed you and for times that we too have betrayed other people, even those closest to us.
Take a moment to pray for a few people who you know who have been betrayed and are feeling angry and hurt at this time…
 
Closing Words
I just want to say a huge thank you to Alison, and all those who took part in the RTE service on Sunday.  It was a very special, if nerve wrecking experience for us all.  Thank you also to everyone who watched the service and all those people who have contacted us with words of support and encouragement.  We thank God that the service has been such a blessing to so many people throughout Ireland and we give the glory to Him.
No word yet on when we can return to church but do tune in again on Friday as we join together for a very special virtual service of Tenebrae as we reflect on the death of our Lord.  This will include readings and songs from lots of people within our church family.
And don’t forget that Sunday is the high point of our Christian year as we celebrate that Christ is alive. That service will also include a couple of nice surprises and many familiar faces from our congregation.  So I do hope you can join us for worship on both of those occasions.
In the meantime, as always, let me close with the benediction after which I will invite you to share I the words of the grace together…
 
Benediction
May Christ, who accepted the cup of sacrifice in obedience to
the Father’s will, keep you steadfast as you walk with him the
way of his cross.  And
 
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the
fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and for evermore,
Amen.
​

Arklow Presbyterian Church are really excited to announce that we will be celebrating the Palm Sunday Service, this coming Sunday, live on RTE.   

The Service will be led by  Rev. Michael Anderson and Music Director, Alison Crammond.  

We have chosen some beautiful hymns for this very special occasion which will be sung by Tara Crammond & Holly Prestage; Sharon, Kate & Laura O’Sullivan; and Elaine & Rebecca Kearon.   

Some younger members of the Arklow Shipping Silver Band, with their teacher Mr Artur Bosy will be in attendance, adding a lovely dimension to the worship of the King of Kings.  🏻 

The Service will be televised on the 28th of March at 11:00 am on RTE 1.  The service will have a link at 11:00am on Sunday, if you click on rte.ie/live.  The service will be available on the  RTE player for the next 3 weeks following the broadcast. 

RTE Palm Sunday Service Order  TRANSCRIPT
 
INTROIT     To be in your presence (Sharon and Elaine)         2 min 32 secs
WELCOME and INTRODUCTION            Michael      1 min 40 secs
OPENING PRAYER and LORD’S PRAYER            2 min 12 secs
INTRODUCTION TO KING OF KINGS                      1 min 10 secs
 
PRAISE           King of Kings (All)                 2 min 40 secs
READING Mathew 21 v 1-11        Tara                     1 min 45 secs
INTRODUCTION TO ‘SING HOSANNA’           Michael      45 secs
 
PRAISE   Give me joy (All, Instruments only v 3)   2 min 40 secs     (Artur, Rebecca, Kate and Laura accompany)
TALK       ‘Hosanna’ (Part 1)                 Michael               5 mins 30 secs
PRAISE       The Lord’s my shepherd Tara and Holly    3 mins 26 secs
TALK       ‘Hosanna’ (Part 2)                 Michael               5 mins
PRAYER FOR OTHERS          Michael              2 mins 40 secs
PRAISE           It is well with my soul (All)    3 mins 44 secs
CLOSING WORDS                  Michael                         50 secs
BENEDICTION Michael                         30 secs
RECESSIONAL       Oh Lord my God (All)  4 min 54 secs
 
 
INTROIT     To be in your presence (Sharon and Elaine)         2 min 32 secs
To be in your presence
To sit at your feet
When your love surrounds me
And makes 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
This is my desire, O Lord
This is my desire
This is my desire, O Lord
This is my desire
 
WELCOME and INTRODUCTION            Michael      1 min 40 secs
Good morning everyone and welcome to our very special, Palm Sunday service.  Thank you Sharon and Elaine for your beautiful introduction to our service.
Today marks the beginning of Holy Week- that time of the year when Christians throughout the world pause to reflect on Jesus’ final week on earth before his crucifixion. 
Holy week begins by focusing on Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem when Jewish crowds waved palm leaves to celebrate their belief that Jesus would become their new King.  That’s why today is called ‘Palm Sunday’.  This week, many churches will provide special online prayers to help us reflect on significant events in Jesus’ final days.  This will end on Friday, Good Friday as we remember the ‘Passion’ or death of Christ on the cross.
Then next Sunday morning, ‘Easter Sunday’, we will gather to celebrate the truth that Christ is alive and to reflect on the significance that can have for our lives.
But today our focus is on the amazing, if somewhat bizarre story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey.  This event is obviously a very significant one because it is recorded by each of the four gospel writers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  This morning we will look at this event as seen through the eyes of Matthew.  But before we do, let’s take a moment to pause and talk to God, let’s pray…
 
OPENING PRAYER and LORD’S PRAYER            2 min 12 secs
Gracious God thank you for this new day and for another opportunity to worship you together.
As we remember this day how Jesus entered Jerusalem to cries of celebration, help us to welcome Him afresh into our own hearts and lives.
Lord God, whether we are here in the studio or sitting at home, accept the praise and worship we bring you and give us a very real sense of expectation as we look forward to the coming of Christ’s Kingdom.
Hosanna to the Son of David,
Glory in the Highest heaven.
Gracious God, like your people long ago, we do not always see clearly.  At times our faith is shallow and self-centred; we do not understand as we should, our praise short-lived and superficial.
But we ask- take the faith we offer, weak though it may be, and deepen it through this day, so that we may truly welcome Christ as our King and worship Him with joyful praises and obedient lives, now and always.
Hosanna to the Son of David,
Glory in the Highest heaven.
Join with us now as we share in the Lord’s Prayer, thoughtfully and sincerely together…And so we pray…
The Lord’s Prayer
 
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name,
Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us,
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil,
For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory,
For ever and ever, AMEN.
 
 
INTRODUCTION TO KING OF KINGS              1 min 10 secs
 
Recently there has been much debate over the pros and cons of the Monarchy.  It’s a debate that also raged throughout the history of the Nation of Israel.  Over the years that spanned the record of the Old Testament there many good Kings and some that were not so good.  During that time God promised that one day He would send a final King, someone who would fulfil all His people’s dreams for a society filled with kindness, fairness, peace and happiness.  They expected that King to be a military or political leader.  But God had other plans.  Today looking back, as Christians we believe that Jesus Christ is God’s promised King.  We worship Christ as the King of Kings and look forward to the day when His Kingdom will come in all its fullness.  Let’s do that now as we join together in the beautiful hymn “King of Kings, Majesty.”
 
PRAISE           King of Kings (All)                 2 min 40 secs
King of kings, Majesty
God of Heaven living in me
Gentle Saviour, closest friend
Strong Deliverer, beginning and end
All within me falls at Your throne
Your Majesty, I can but bow
I lay my all before You now
In royal robes I don't deserve
I live to serve Your Majesty
Earth and Heaven worship You
Love eternal, Faithful and True
Who bought the nations, ransomed souls
Brought this sinner near to Your throne
All within me cries out in praise.
Your majesty, I can but bow
I lay my all before You now
In royal robes I don't deserve
I live to serve Your Majesty
 
READING Mathew 21 v 1-11 (NIV         )        1 min 45 secs     Tara
Our reading today comes from Mathew Chapter 21 reading from verses 1 to 11… Jesus Comes to Jerusalem as King…
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt beside her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.”
4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
5 “Say to Daughter Zion,
    ‘See, your king comes to you,
gentle and riding on a donkey,
    and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’”
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. 8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted,
“Hosanna to the Son of David!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
10 When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”
11 The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
“This is the word of the Lord”
Thanks be to God.
 
 
INTRODUCTION TO ‘SING HOSANNA’           Michael    45 secs
 
Every town and region has its own special genre reflected in its history and the clubs and societies that have evolved over the years.  Founded in 1968, The Arklow Shipping Silver Band has provided enormous enjoyment for its musicians and for all of us who have had the pleasure of experiencing their performances.  They have become one of the premier brass bands in Ireland achieving multiple awards over the years.  We’re privileged to have 3 of its youngest members in our church family (that’s Rebecca, Kate and Laura) and I’m delighted that along with their teacher, Artur Bosey and members of our church choir, they will lead us in worship now as we ‘Sing Hosanna’ to the King of Kings!
 
PRAISE       Give me joy (All, Instruments only v 3)       2 min 40 secs
Rebecca, Kate and Laura accompany on Cornet, Baratone and Trombone
 
1       Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning
Give me oil in my lamp, I pray
Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning
Keep me burning till the break of day


Sing hosanna, sing hosanna
Sing hosanna to the King of Kings
Sing hosanna, sing hosanna
Sing hosanna, to the King


2       Give me joy in my heart, keep me singing
Give me joy in my heart, I pray
Give me joy in my heart, keep me singing
Keep me singing till the break of day


Sing hosanna, sing hosanna
Sing hosanna to the King of Kings
Sing hosanna, sing hosanna
Sing hosanna, to the King


VERSE 3 INSTRUMENTS ONLY
4       Give me love in my heart, keep me serving
Give me love in my heart, I pray
Give me love in my heart, keep me serving
Keep me serving till the break of day


Sing hosanna, sing hosanna
Sing hosanna to the King of Kings
Sing hosanna, sing hosanna
Sing hosanna, to the King
 
TALK       ‘Hosanna’ (Part 1)                 Michael               5 mins 30 secs
Hosanna! means, “Rescue us, now!”
That’s what the crowds of people lining the streets shouted all those years ago as Jesus rode into Jerusalem. 
Knowing who He was and why He’d come, Jesus had deliberately chosen a donkey as his mode of transport.  This would fulfil the promise of the prophet Zechariah-
“Rejoice, people of Zion! Shout for joy, you people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you! He comes triumphant and victorious, but humble and riding on a donkey...”
The whole incident bears all the signs of being prearranged and stage managed.  A way of advertising his identity to the masses.  Friends had been tipped off to release the donkey on the agreed password, “The Master needs it.”
Still reeling with excitement over the resurrection of Lazarus, a group from Bethany gathered around Jesus.  No doubt pilgrims from Galilee who had witnessed other miracles made up another large portion of the crowd.  Matthew tells us that further support came from the blind, the lame and children.  Then others lining the streets for the Passover Festival joined in with the drama, spreading their clothes on the road and breaking into spontaneous cheering!
Hosanna! – “Rescue us, now!”
The scene is almost comical.  You can imagine a Roman officer galloping up to check on the disturbance.  He laughs when he compares it with the processions that he’d attended in Rome.  The conquering general sitting in a golden chariot, stallions straining at the reins, wheel spikes flashing in the sun.  Behind him marching officers carry the captured banners of vanquished armies.  At the rear comes a ragtag procession of slaves and prisoners in chains, proof of what happens to those who defy Rome.
As his mind returns to the ragtag bunch of the poor, the needy and the youngest and their forlorn general, weeping on the back of a donkey, he concludes, “No threat here.”  Perhaps he even joins in with the crowd,
Hosanna! – “Rescue us, now!”
It seems so ironic to call it, “The Triumphal Entry.”
But for those who had eyes to see, and ears to hear – the understated procession, was the whole point!  Yes, Jesus was indeed the King, God had sent to rescue them.  But not as they imagined…
The events of this past year have been devastating for us all but particularly for all those who have lost their lives and their families.  Perhaps like at no other time in our lives, we have all been brought to the point of literally shouting out loud, Hosanna! – “Please, somebody, rescue us, now!”
People have cried out to government.  Government have cried out to scientists.  Scientists have cried out to one another. Hosanna! – “Rescue us, now!”
The response has been amazing.  We thank God today for every frontline worker, for every researcher and manufacturer, for every government minister who has worked long into the night, for every teacher who has zoom taught our children, for every person that has taken time to pick up the phone and ask, “How are things?” 
All of these people and so many others have tried their best to answer our cries and in so many ways it has helped.
But at the same time, there has been such loss- loss of employment, loss of freedom, loss of education, loss of sleep and loss of life.
Any pride that we had about our abilities, achievements and security has been punctured by a microbe so tiny that 100,000 of them will fit on the head of a pin.
We’ve all felt vulnerable, anxious, isolated and afraid.
This Pandemic has made us realise how fragile we really are; and  how broken this universe really is.  This world needs rescued from disease and natural disasters and the effects our lifestyles are having on its climate.
We need rescued from our own innate instincts which cause us at times to do and say things or adopt attitudes which cause deep hurt to ourselves, to one another and to our world.
Even many of us who wouldn’t class ourselves ‘religious’ have been left looking skyward and crying out, Hosanna! – “Rescue us, now!”
For those of us who are Christians it’s a genuine comfort to know that God is our Shepherd, the one in whom we can shelter, the one in whom we can trust.  So let’s worship Him again as Tara and Holly lead us in the song, “The Lord’s my Shepherd”.
 
PRAISE       The Lord’s my shepherd Tara and Holly    3 mins 26 secs
The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want;
He makes me lie in pastures green.
He leads me by the still, still waters,
His goodness restores my soul.
And I will trust in You alone,
And I will trust in You alone,
For Your endless mercy follows me,
Your goodness will lead me home.
He guides my ways in righteousness,
And He anoints my head with oil,
And my cup, it overflows with joy,
I feast on His pure delights.
And I will trust in You alone,
And I will trust in You alone,
For Your endless mercy follows me,
Your goodness will lead me home.
And though I walk the darkest path,
I will not fear the evil one,
For You are with me, and Your rod and staff
Are the comfort I need to know.
And I will trust in You alone,
And I will trust in You alone,
For Your endless mercy follows me,
Your goodness will lead me home.
 
TALK       ‘Hosanna’ (Part 2)                 Michael               5 mins
The fantastic news is that God has heard and answered our cries, Hosanna! – “Rescue us, now!”
Only, not in the way we expect, or in the timescale that suits us best.
Naturally, we want rescued now.  We want healed now.  We want our lives back to normal now.  Those of us who believe that God is real want Him to intervene now! 
Sometimes He does.  Any consultant in the country will tell you that at times the unexplainable happens, and strangely, often in answer to prayer.  But even those of us who regularly pray can sometimes get frustrated because it feels as if God is simply sitting on His Hands.  We know He could do this or that in an instant.  So why doesn’t God rescue us, now?
After years of theological reflection and interaction with hundreds of people in all circumstances of life and death, my answer to that question is simply, “I don’t know”. 
What I do know is that God cares deeply about the reality of our suffering.  In fact, He cares about it so much that from the very moment sin entered this world God set in motion a long term plan that would eventually remove all sin and all suffering by restoring this universe to its original perfection.
Part of that rescue plan is personal and something we can experience now.  That’s why God came to earth in Jesus Christ- to offer Himself on the cross to take the judgement that we deserve for all the ways that we have grieved His heart and hurt each other.  By acknowledging our guilt and by trusting in His death we can receive forgiveness and be reconciled to Him forever.  Every time we pray, God comes near to help us in our times of greatest pain.
God’s plan is also cosmological.  Not only does God wish to restore our relationship with Himself, He also desires to restore this entire universe to the perfection that existed at the beginning of creation.
God could complete this plan in an instant.  Instead, for reasons only He knows, He has chosen to roll it out over time.  And as He does so, He invites us to be part of His rescue.  That means we must continue to search for cures for cancer, we must continue to reduce our carbon footprint and do all we can for the environment, we must champion the cause of the poor, the migrant, and all who suffer injustice, and do everything we can to stop the spread of this virus and return our lives to what we miss so much. We must tell people the good news that if they turn away from wrong and believe in Jesus they can become God’s friends forever.  In all these ways, to some degree, God answers our cry, “Hosanna!  Rescue me now.”
In the meantime, I just don’t know why God doesn’t come now and do all this immediately.  I don’t know why His plan for the redemption of the universe is still just a promise and not yet a reality.  I don’t know why he calls us to be part of His great rescue
plan when He could easily do a much better and quicker job Himself.
But what I am certain of is that God has promised that one day the current heaven will come to earth and the new perfect universe will be formed.  All who trust in Jesus will receive a new resurrection body and will live happily forever in this transformed land without any hint of suffering, pain or sorrow. 
“Yes there is sin, yes there is suffering but my goodness, in Christ there is hope!  Hosanna!”    Let us pray…
 
 
PRAYER FOR OTHERS          Michael            2 mins 40 secs
Lord Jesus Christ, you entered Jerusalem in quiet humility, taking the form of a servant, even to the point of death on a cross, emptying yourself, so that we might be filled.
Come afresh to our troubled world, with all its needs, its tensions, its problems and its evil.
Bring healing where there is division, love where there is hatred, hope where there is despair, joy where there is sorrow, confidence where there is fear, strength where there is weakness, healing where there is sickness. Life where there is death.
Lord, we thank you for all those who have followed your example, even without knowing it, over this past year.  Thank you for the humility and the sacrifice made by so many people to keep one another safe and to prevent the spread of the Corona virus.
We remember especially today all those who have lost family members to this illness and ask that you will comfort them deeply.  We ask that you will continue to give wisdom, strength and encouragement to all who are in positions of leadership and who are tasked with making difficult decisions that impact us all.
We pray for all those who are struggling emotionally at this time and ask that through family, friends and other networks, each one will find the care and the support that they need. 
We pray that in your mercy, the vaccination program will continue to roll out effectively and as a consequence that soon the levels of infection will reduce to an extent that will enable us to return to our normal way of living. 
Take a moment now in quiet to bring your own prayers for others to the Lord…(Count to 15)
Lord Jesus Christ, reach out to your church and to your world, despite the weakness of our faith and the rejection of so many.  May your will be done on earth even as it is in heaven.  Come again now and establish your Kingdom, for it’s in your name that we pray.  Amen.
 
PRAISE           When Peace like a river          3 mins 44 secs
When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
It is well (it is well),
With my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, if trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And has shed His own blood for my soul.
It is well (it is well),
With my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.
My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought,
My sin, not in part, but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
It is well (it is well),
With my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.
But Lord it’s for you- For your coming we wait,
The sky not the grave is our goal:
O trump of the angel!  O voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul.
It is well (it is well),
With my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.
 
CLOSING WORDS          Michael                    50 secs
It has been a joy and privilege for us to lead you in worship this morning.  Special thanks to Alison Crammond our Musical Director for all her encouragement and support, thanks to all our musicians, readers and singers for taking part and a big thanks to all the staff at RTE for their kind invitation, help and advice.  Most of all thanks to you at home for tuning in.  We really hope you’ve enjoyed the service and found this time to be encouraging.  Please remember to tune in again next Sunday, as we celebrate the amazing and powerful reality that Christ is alive!
In these challenging times do keep everyone in your prayers and look out for anyone you can help.  But for now, let me close with a benediction after which, I invite you to join me in saying the grace together…
 
BENEDICTION         Michael                    30 secs
My sisters and brothers.  As we enter this holy week, let us keep our eyes on Jesus.  He will show us where we need to go and what we ought to do. 
 
And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and for evermore, Amen.
                            
RECESSIONAL       Oh Lord my God (All)  4 min 54 secs
O Lord my God,
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all
The works Thy Hand hath made,
I see the stars,
I hear the mighty thunder,
Thy pow'r throughout
The universe displayed,
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
When through the woods
And forest glades I wander
I hear the birds
Sing sweetly in the trees,
When I look down
From lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook
And feel the gentle breeze,
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing; 
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in; 
That on a Cross, my burdens gladly bearing, 
He bled and died to take away my sin.
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
When Christ shall come,
With shouts of acclamation,
And take me home,
What joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow
In humble adoration
And there proclaim,
"My God, how great Thou art!"
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Then sings my soul,
My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!

​APC 24th March 2021
“Lessons in Lent – The Mount of Reassurance”
Welcome and Introduction
Good morning everyone and welcome to our Midweek worship.  Today we conclude our ‘Lessons in Lent’ as we pause and reflect on the story of the transfiguration.  But before we do that, let’s take a moment to be still and talk to God.  Let’s pray…
 
Opening Prayer
Holy God,
We come before you,
many of us feeling like we have already climbed the mountain,
and yet there is so much more of a climb left before we can be dazzled by your creation and inspired to worship.
 
Our loads are heavy,
with worry, with regret,
with fatigue, with illness,
with despair for all in the world
that is hurting, in danger, in bondage and more.
 
We trudge ahead, following you,
stumbling, hoping, praying...
breathing hard, hearts pounding, longing to find you.
Lead us Lord,
to the top of that mountain,
where we might be dazzled by your Light,
lifted by what is Divine,
and filled by the sheer delight
of your presence.
 
We pray this,
for ourselves, for one another,
and for the world in which we live.
 
Join with me in the words that Jesus taught us, saying…
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name,
Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us,
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil,
For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory,
For ever and ever, AMEN.
 
Reflection       “Lessons in Lent – The Mount of Reassurance”
Today finds us in that strange interim period leading up to Palm Sunday and Holy Week.  Since Christmas, we’ve followed Jesus by eavesdropping on various fascinating moments in his life and ministry.  Most recently we’ve seen how, as the hour of his death draws closer, Jesus begins to spend more time explaining to His disciples why His death is necessary.  Like a life-changing diagnosis from a doctor, nothing could have prepared the disciples for the shock of realising that the one they had put all their hopes in was soon going to die.  In His humanity it may be that even Jesus Himself had his doubts…
Which is why the next intriguing episode in his life is so significant and so important.  I’m referring of course to the mysterious mountain hike we call the transfiguration.
Jesus selects 3 of his closet companions and takes them on a walk up a nearby hillside.  The suggestion of a ramble would not have struck any of them as strange.  Jesus often took retreats in quiet places to spend time in prayer.  Little did they realise the unbelievable events they were about to experience.  Let’s listen as it’s described for us by Mark in his gospel…
 
Bible Reading Mark 9 v 2-9            The Transfiguration
2 After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. 3 His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. 4 And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.
5 Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.)
7 Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”
8 Suddenly, when they looked around, they no longer saw anyone with them except Jesus.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
 
There’s so much that could be said and learned from this spectacular event but today I simply want to draw your attention to the wonderful reassurance both Jesus and the disciples would have received at a time when that’s exactly what they needed.
Jesus had taken the decision to go to Jerusalem.  He knew that would mean arrest and execution.  It was vital to know for certain that He was right before he could go on.  So He did what He always did when he faced significant crossroads.  He went to the mountain to pray.  At some point during His devotions, mysteriously and miraculously Moses and Elijah appeared.  There were no greater figures in the history of Israel than these two giants.  To Moses they owed the law of God.  Elijah was the first and greatest of all the Prophets- the one who brought to people the very voice of God.  Luke tells us that their conversation centred largely around Jesus’ Exodus or departure.  To have these two giants tell you to “Go on” would have reassured Jesus that he was right to set His face towards Jerusalem.
As if that wasn’t enough, suddenly the presence of God descended in a a cloud and a voice from heaven spoke, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”  Echoing the reassurance he had received at His baptism Jesus would have been left in no doubt that His heavenly father loved Him and that the path to glory was the way of the cross.
But Jesus wasn’t the only one who received reassurance in this emotionally charged worship experience.  The disciples had been shattered by Jesus announcement that he was going to Jerusalem to die.  It was the complete opposite of everything they understood about the Messiah.  Not only were their minds baffled, their hearts were broken.  What they experienced on that mountain would give them something to hold on to even when they couldn’t understand.  Cross or no cross, they had heard God’s voice, acknowledging Jesus as His Son.
I don’t know about you but I can’t seem to resist the temptation to peek at the daily Covid update hoping for some good news.  But every day I’m left without much reassurance other than the reality of history that all pandemics eventually come to an end.  Of course that’s not the only part of our lives where we need reassurance.  For some of us it’s our kids, for others it’s our health, for some of us it’s our finances and for others its questions of how our exam results are going to turn out and where we’re going to be next year.  In what areas do you feel insecure?
Where do you go when you feel like that?  People we trust can often be a great source of help.  But ultimately I’m learning more and more to climb the mountain by falling to my knees and laying it all out before my heavenly Father.  I don’t often leave those times with a miracle or every problem resolved, but I do often receive the reassurance and the courage that I need to face the day.
 
What is it that’s keeping you awake at night?  What big decision do you feel you need to make?  What problem are you facing that needs some wise advice?  Let me encourage you to talk to God about it deeply and honestly.  You may just be surprised at the insight and reassurance He will give you.  Let us pray…
Prayers for others
“And while he was praying the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white.”  (Luke 9.29)
 
Lord Jesus, as we pray to you this morning, help us to know the glory of your presence among us and to see more clearly the beauty of your holiness.
 “Suddenly they saw Moses and Elijah, talking to him.” (Luke 9.30)
 
Lord Jesus, you are the fulfilment of the law and the prophets of Israel and in you the hopes and fears of all people are met.  Give us grace to receive from you all that we need for today and the coming week.  Bring rest and refreshment when we’re exhausted; hope and faith when we’re despondent and doubt you; and the assurance of your love and forgiveness when we’re overwhelmed by our own weaknesses and failures.
Inspire your church today with a renewed vision of your glory so that we and all your people may walk as children of light and, by your grace, reveal your presence in the world.
 “To Jesus are given dominion and glory and kingship that all peoples, nations and languages should serve him.”  (based on Daniel 7.14)
 
Lord Jesus, we pray to you for the life of our nation with its joys, its sorrows and its wrong doing.
We pray for all those who are involved in the administration of justice.  Give wisdom to all those who are in authority over others especially members of the police force, those who sit in judgment, prison and probation officers and those who support the victims of crime.
We pray for all who walk in the darkness of crime whether as perpetrators or as victims living in the shadow of the wrong done to them.  Reveal among them your glory and power to bring resurrection and new life out of even the deepest evils and sufferings.
 “They saw his glory and heard a voice that said ‘This is my Son, my chosen, listen to him’”  (Luke 9.parts of vv32&35)
 
Lord Jesus, as we go about our daily routines this week help us to see your glory in the people we work with, our neighbours and friends and in those we fear or find hard to get on with.  In all our conversations help us to listen carefully not only to what others are saying but also to what you are saying in each encounter.
 “They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.” (Luke 9.31)
 
Lord Jesus, you know what it is to experience the joy and wonder of God’s presence and then to go down into the depths of despair and to suffer rejection and pain.
In a moment of silent prayer we give thanks for your compassion and bring to you the needs of those who are in our thoughts and hearts today……..SILENCE……
Help them and us to know that you are with us when we descend from the mountain top and that although your presence may be hidden from us you are still there with the power to bring comfort and healing of body, mind and spirit.
 “They appeared in glory” (Luke 9.31a)
 
Lord Jesus, we pray for those who are now with you in your eternal glory.  As we rejoice in the fellowship of those who  now see the fullness of your glory, be with us in our journey and transform our lives with the promise that you will grant us, with them, a share in your eternal kingdom.
Lord Jesus, we give you thanks and praise because the greatness, the power, the glory, the splendour and the majesty belong to you and you reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, One God for ever and ever.  Amen.
 
Closing Words
It’s been a joy and privilege to share in worship with you this morning.  Thanks for tuning in.  I hope you’ve enjoyed it and found it to be encouraging. 
I’ve still no further confirmation of when our church can reopen for services but as vaccines continue to roll out we hope it won’t be too long until we can meet together. 
One piece of exciting news is that we will be leading worship on the RTE One Sunday morning service next Sunday at 11am.  This will be a special Palm Sunday service.  Please do pray for all those taking part as we head down to RTE studios next Sunday at 8am.  Pray that God will give us all courage as we record live and that our message will be a great blessing to all who hear.  And please tune in on TV at 11am or livestream on your phone on RTE player.
Please continue to pray for Father Padraig as he continues to recover in hospital.
We’ve done a lot of work behind the scenes as a Kirk Session over the last number of months updating all our policies and procedures as part of our first year of recording for the Charity Commission.  As part of that process in the coming weeks we will be emailing every family a Consent form to ensure that we are fully compliant with Data Protection Legislation.  This Consent form will enable you to see all the information that we currently hold on file about your family.  Please amend the information in case there is anything you don’t want us to hold or if there is other information like an email address or phone number that you would like us to have so that we can contact you.  Please make sure that anyone in your family over 16 sees the form, amends it accordingly and then signs it.  If you require any additional forms then please do let us know and we can email one out to you.
I’m conscious that many of us are weary and really struggling the longer the lockdown restrictions continue, so please do continue to keep in touch with one another to encourage and reassure one another. 
But for now, let me lead you in a Benediction after which I invite you as always, to say the grace together…
 
Benediction
May God now send us back down the mountain of our worship. 
We have been changed. We can’t be silent anymore. 
We have seen the Light of the World. Go and share the radiance of His love!
And may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy spirit be with us all now and forever more,  Amen.

APC 21st March 2021             “Why Jesus?”
 
PART 1
Welcome and Introduction
Good morning everyone and welcome to our Sunday morning worship.  Today we’ll be looking at an interesting conversation between Jesus and his disciples full of strange metaphors and intrigue.  As we dig into its meaning we will find the answer to one of the most important questions we can ever ask, “Why Jesus?”
But first, sit back as we turn our eyes upon Jesus and worship Him together…
(End Part 1)
 
Opening Song                “Turn your eyes upon Jesus”
 
 
PART 2
It’s amazing that when we turn our eyes and hearts towards Jesus He always sees and listens to us.  Let’s do that now, let’s pray…
 
Opening Prayer
Great and wonderful God, we come before you in humility, in awe, in faith, in hope, in love, in worship.  In your mercy, hear our prayer.
 
We come to praise you, to bless you, to adore you, to acknowledge you, to thank you.  In your mercy, hear our prayer.
We come recognizing your power, your authority, your wisdom, your faithfulness, your goodness, your love.  In your mercy, hear our prayer.
We come confessing our weakness, our unworthiness, our faults, our failings, our faithlessness, our lack of love.  In your mercy, hear our prayer.
We come seeking your mercy, your guidance, your strength, your renewal, your inspiration, your word.  In your mercy, hear our prayer.
We come to commit ourselves to your service, your purpose, your Kingdom, your will, your people, your world.  In your mercy, hear our prayer.
Great and wonderful God, we come to you now in the name of Christ.  Receive the worship we offer this day.  In your mercy, hear our prayer.
Join with me now as we say the Lord’s Prayer thoughtfully and sincerely together…
 
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name,
Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us,
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil,
For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory,
For ever and ever, AMEN.
 
Introduction to Kids Video
We come now to the part of our service that’s especially for the younger members of our church family.  So if your kids aren’t beside you right now, why not pause the recording, and call them in to watch a short video explaining why Jesus is such good News for all of us.   And at the end of this video I’ve a few words to say to the children so don’t let them rush away.
 
(END Part 2)
 
Kid’s Video     Crossroads Kids Club - “God’s Story the Good News”
LINK        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nleiAfrp2kY
 
 
PART 3
Kid’s Talk Summary
Hey boys and girls, I hope you enjoyed the video today.  You know, we all make bad choices and do or say things that are wrong.  The good news is God still loves us and Jesus died on the cross to take the punishment we deserve for all the wrong things we do.  I hope you really believe that, and that you say thank you to Jesus every day.  I hope you have a really good week in school and I hope to see you again next Sunday.  But the big surprise is that I’ll see you on Television!  So don’t forget to tune in to the RTE service next Sunday and see if you can spot anyone that you know from our church.  Don’t forget to ask your mum or dad to download the colouring sheet from our Facebook page to help you remember today’s lesson.  But Bye for now!
 
Colouring Sheet
https://kidadl.com/free-coloring-pages/bible/jesus-died-for-us
 
Introduction to Bible Reading
In today’s reading a group of Greek pilgrims seek out Jesus to hoping to find answers to their questions about the deep purpose of life.  His answer is full of fascinating metaphors and cryptic language.  Let’s listen to that now as Paddy Purser reads for us from John Chapter 12 v 20 -33.
 
(End Part 3)
 
Bible Reading Video       John 12 v 20-33     Paddy Purser
 
PART 4
Paddy, thank you so much for reading for us this morning.  Pass on our best wishes to Lesley Anne, Ollie and Luke.
 
Reflection               Why did Jesus have to die?...
 
One of my favourite songs of all time is the Neil Diamond song, “I am, I said.”  It’s hard to know for sure what exactly the song means.  Neil Diamond says he wrote the song during a difficult time in his life when He was questioning everything, including himself, after failing to secure the part for a film for which he had auditioned.
The song itself describes the turmoil of an artist on the road.  He likes LA but his home is New York.  Yet it’s been so long since he’s been there, it doesn’t feel like home anymore.  It’s a lonely life, at times his only company is an empty chair.  Like the frog who fulfils his dreams by becoming a prince, he had made his fortune and fame, but he still feels an emptiness deep inside that causes him to cry out, “I am.”
I love this song for many reasons, but particularly because the cry, “I am” is the name for God that we find in the Old Testament.  It means the one who has always existed.  Who just is and will always be and can be relied upon.  Whether Neil Diamond, who was raised as a Jew, used this as a spiritual reference to describe His cries to God at a time of crisis I can’t be sure.  What I do know is that if we’re honest, all of us at times, and especially over this last year, ask deep questions like – what’s it all about?  Why am I here?  What’s the purpose of life? 
We’re just like the Greek tourists who had travelled to Jerusalem to experience the Jewish Passover.  Sensing a connection with Philip because of his Greek name, they asked him, “Would you bring us to see Jesus?”  Fascinated by philosophy and religion, they had seen and heard of Jesus on their travels.  Could He be the one who would provide them with the meaning and purpose that they were looking for?
Jesus reply to their question was indirect but clear in its implications.
“The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.”
In other words, if they were looking for the meaning of life, they’d come to the right place at exactly the right time, because Jesus, who He was and why He’d come, was about to be revealed in all His glory. 
The hour had come, the reason for His entire life and mission – yet bizarrely it was the hour of His death.
How could this be the answer to all their questions?  How could this give these pilgrims true meaning and purpose to their lives?  And how can Jesus’ death still do the same for us all these years later?
Jesus moves on to explain using an illustration from the farming world.  “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies it remains only a single seed.  But if it dies it produces many seeds.”
If a seed remains in the warm, dry security of the granary, it will never reproduce itself.  It has to be buried alive in the cold, dark, grave of the soil.  There it has to die.  But when Easter comes, it springs to life and produces a multitude of new grain.
Here, looking back, we know that Jesus was speaking about His death.  If He had clung to His life, the world would have died.  But because He gave His life on the cross, there is hope of life for the world.
But why is this so?  Why do we need Jesus and particularly how can his death fill the emptiness that at times we all feel inside and give us that spark of life that we all desire?
Well, again, this is something that this Pandemic points us towards.  It has taught us that above all things we need relationships.  Our relationships with our parents, our school friends, our grandchildren, our church family, our work colleagues and so on.  Relationships are the most important aspect of our lives.  Take that away and what are we left with?  We are left with a life without any real meaning or purpose.
But even when we have the freedom to enjoy these things, it is still common for people to feel like something is missing in their life.  We try to fill this gap with money, hard work, music, family or sport.  These things do give us much pleasure but ultimately they do not satisfy the deep hunger that exists inside our human soul.  Even the closest human relationships, wonderful as they are, do not in themselves satisfy this “emptiness deep inside”.  That’s because you and I were created to live in a relationship with God.  Until we find that relationship there will always be something missing in our lives. 
As we read the New Testament, we discover that the reason for this emptiness is that all of us have turned our backs on God.  In other words, we all have two books.
What I mean by that is this.  If I was to write a story about the life of any one of us, including myself, I would have to write two books.  One of the books would be entitled – “All the good things I have said, thought and done”.  For most of us this book would be really thick with many examples of how we had worked hard or been kind to others.
 
But the other book would be entitled – “All the wrong things I have said, done or thought.”  For most of us this book would be quite thin because over a lifetime we have hopefully done and said more good things than bad.
 
But the point is this - it doesn’t matter who we are, we all have two books- one recording the good things we have done, and the other recording the wrong things. 
 
You may say to me, “Well sure, everyone’s the same, so it doesn’t really matter if I have a bad book.”
 
Or you may say, “Well I know I have a bad book, but it’s pretty thin.  I certainly haven’t done as many bad things as such and such a person.”
 
My response would be to say to you, “It does matter, that you have a book of wrongs.”  It matters because you might still feel guilty about some of those things.  It matters because you may have hurt someone else’s feelings through some of those wrong things you have done.  But above all, it matters because your book of wrongs is stopping you from being God’s friend and enjoying a relationship with Him.
 
That’s because God is perfect and He hates everything that is wrong. Your book of wrong things, however thin it may be, proves that you have disobeyed God.  It proves that you are a sinner.  That means that you are guilty of breaking God’s commands and that you deserve to be judged by Him.  It doesn’t matter how thick your good book is.  No amount of good actions can take away the reality of your book of wrongs.
 
Your book of wrongs, matters.  That’s because it is the one thing that is stopping you from being best friends with the God who loves you because He made you.
 
Let me ask you – Have you ever stopped to think about the reality that you have a book of wrongs?
Have you ever stopped to think about how serious that is?
Do you realize that no amount of good deeds can remove that book?
Do you realize that your book of wrongs is stopping you from being friends with God?
 
Until you have thought through these things you will never understand why you need Jesus.  And if you don’t understand this you are very unlikely to ever reach out to Him for help.  Until you do that you will never experience a deep peace and contentment and sense of purpose in your life.
 
These were the sorts of questions that the Greek tourists in today’s gospel reading were asking.  Despite all their travels, all their knowledge and all their discoveries, they still felt empty and were searching for true meaning and purpose.
 
Here Jesus says to them that He is the answer to their quest.  They will only find satisfaction if they give their life to a greater cause than living for themselves.  If they follow Him, however difficult that may prove, they will ultimately find deep contentment in this life and in the life to come.  “Whoever loves their life will lose it but whoever hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.  Whoever serves me must follow me and where I am my servant will also be.  My Father will honour the one who serves me.”
 
He becomes visibly distressed as he reasons with Himself- “Should I ask father to rescue me from this hour, no, this is the very reason I came.  Father bring glory to yourself!”
 
The conversation is suddenly interrupted by what sounded like thunder.  Yet within the rumblings many people heard the words, “I have and will glorify my name.”  Some thought it was an angel.  Jesus knew it was God.
 
“Now is the time for judgement on this world now the prince of this world will be driven out.  But I, when I am lifted up, will draw all men unto myself.”
 
The gospel writer adds a note of explanation – Jesus was talking about His death.
 
Putting all the pieces together, in today’s reading, Jesus seems to be saying that just like a seed He must die and that will somehow just as miraculously make a way for many new seeds to be produced, for people to be drawn to Himself, for judgement to fall and the prince of the world to be defeated.  What on earth does He mean and what’s the significance for you and me?
 
Well, it’s the answer to our book problem that I mentioned earlier.  If you remember, I explained how we all have two books.  One is a record of all that’s good about us.  But the other is the book of all the thoughts, attitudes, words and actions that we don’t want anyone else to know about.  The problem is God sees.  He knows that we are guilty. 
 
He is also right and just which means he can’t just turn a blind eye.  To be true to Himself and to His own laws, God must judge all wrongdoing, including yours and mine.  That means we are in danger of God’s judgement.  In fact, we only deserve His punishment rather than His friendship.  But He wants us to be His friends.  So how can this circle be squared?  Some people think if they just try really hard to be good that will fix their problem.  But you see, no matter how thick your good book gets, you still have a bad book.  So how can God be true to Himself, judge our bad book, and at the same time restore our broken relationship? 
Well, that’s why God in Christ came from heaven to earth 2000 years ago.  You see Jesus Christ is completely God and completely human.  That means he was able to live a completely perfect human life.  In fact Jesus Christ is the only human who ever lived who only has one book – a good book. 
 
His greatest act of goodness was that when He was 33 years old He willingly died on a cross for you and me.  When He died, He took the punishment for all the wrong things that we have ever done.  What that means is that when He died, Jesus took your book of wrongs and my book of wrongs, upon Himself.  (ACTION – MOVE BOOK FROM ONE HAND TO THE OTHER).  In doing that, Jesus has removed the barrier that is stopping us from being God’s friend.  The prince of this world has tried his best to entice us away from God and to destroy our relationship with Him.  But through His death and later resurrection Jesus Christ has defeated this plan of the enemy.
 
So let me ask you?-  Have you been questioning what life is really all about?   Despite all that you have tried, do you find an emptiness deep inside and it won’t let you go?  Only a living relationship with God can fill that gap.  Only God in Christ can take away your book of wrongs and open up the way for you and God to be friends?
 
Have you come to Jesus and handed your book of wrongs over to Him?  Have you asked Him to forgive you?  Have you thanked Him for dying on the cross for your sins?  Have you asked Him to give you the gift of His Holy Spirit to live within you?  Are you willing to follow and serve Him?
 
If not, then don’t leave it any longer.  Call out to Him, today, even during a quiet moment in this service knowing that He promised, “Whoever comes to me I will never turn away.”
 
 
Introduction to Song
Let’s respond to what we’ve been thinking about as we worship God through the song “Jesus is able to save.”
(End Part 4)
 
Song of Response         “Jesus is able to save.”
 
PART 5
What a beautiful song.  What a wonderful Saviour.  Let’s pray…
 
Prayers for others
Living God, we pray for all those who witness for you, all who preach and proclaim the message of Christ, who challenge people with the message of the gospel.  Give them inspiration, courage and sincerity, so that their witness may lead others to know Jesus for themselves.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
We pray for all those who hear, all who in different ways are confronted with the challenge to respond to Christ.  May those who earnestly seek find faith, those who are undecided be convinced, those who glimpse a little see more clearly, those whose faith is shallow be led to deeper understanding, and those who refuse to listen be challenged to think again.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
Take a moment now to pray for one or two people who you would love to find faith in Jesus…
All this we ask in the name of the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.  Amen.
 
 
 
Closing Words
It’s been a joy and privilege to share in worship with you this morning.  Thanks for tuning in.  I hope you’ve enjoyed it and found it to be encouraging. 
I’ve still no further confirmation of when our church can reopen for services but as vaccines continue to roll out we hope it won’t be too long until we can meet together. 
One piece of exciting news is that we will be leading worship on the RTE One Sunday morning service next Sunday at 11am.  This will be a special Palm Sunday service.  Please do pray for all those taking part as we have our final zoom practice on Monday night and them as we head down to RTE studios next Sunday at 8am.  Pray that God will give us all courage as we record live and that our message will be a great blessing to all who hear.  And please tune in on TV at 11am or livestream on your phone on RTE player.
Thank you for all your prayers for Bev who is now hone from hospital.  Please continue to pray for Father Padraig.
I’m conscious that many of us are weary and really struggling the longer the lockdown restrictions continue, so please do continue to keep in touch with one another and encourage one another. 
But for now, let me lead you in a Benediction after which I invite you as always, to say the grace together…
 
Benediction
Go now and proclaim the gospel, not just through words but deeds through what you say, what you do and who you are.  May others as they meet with you, meet with Christ, and know His living presence for themselves. And
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and for evermore, Amen.”  
 
 

​APC 17th March 2021     “Lessons from St. Patrick”
Welcome and Introduction
Good morning and welcome to our service of worship.  Let me begin by wishing you a very happy St Patrick’s Day.  St Patrick is one of the most famous Christian missionaries of all time.  Today we’re going to be reflecting on his life and thinking about some of the wonderful lessons he has to teach us.  But let’s begin with a short prayer using words from one of the prayers attributed to St. Patrick…
Opening Prayer
We arise today, through God's strength to pilot us, God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us, God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us, God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us and God's shield to protect us… 
Heavenly Father we praise you for the gift of another St Patrick’s Day and for this opportunity to worship you.  As we draw near to you now, we ask that you will draw near to us.  Teach us something new today or remind us of something we’ve forgotten or neglected.  Rekindle our love for you.  Comfort and strengthen us to endure our present trials.  Join with me as we say the Lord’s Prayer together…
Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name,
Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us,
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil,
For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory,
For ever and ever, AMEN.
 
St. Patrick knew his bible
Before he died, Patrick wrote his ‘confessions’.  In these writings he describes some of the main events in his life.  He also gives praise to God for His goodness, His help and His faithfulness at every stage during his life.  There are over 300 direct references in these confessions to the Holy Scriptures.  This shows us just how important St Patrick considered reading the bible and committing it to memory.  What about us?  You know it’s easy for us to forget just what a privilege it is for us to have the bible in our own language and to be able to access it in so many ways.  The question is, are we taking full advantage of these privileges? 
 
REFLECT        How might I find more time in my life to read Holy Scripture?
The more I’ve read about St Patrick, the more he reminds me of St. Paul.  Like Paul, Patrick was very conscious that everything he had and everything he accomplished was only because of the grace and mercy of God shown to Him in Christ Jesus.  Echoing St Paul’s words, Patrick begins his confessions with these humble words, “My name is Patrick.  I am a sinner, a simple country person and the least of all believers.” 
In his lifetime Patrick endured many things that we would consider unimaginable by today’s standards.  He was stolen from his family in Cumbria and forced to look after sheep in the glens of Antrim for 6 years.  He eventually escaped and found refuge on a ship bound for Gaul, which is modern day France.  Eventually he was reunited with his family.  Patrick must surely have identified with the many persecutions Paul endured as he journeyed from country to country telling people about Jesus.  Patrick must also have taken great comfort from Paul’s testimony that Christ gave Him the strength and courage to endure. 
After over twenty years of waiting, training and preparation Patrick finally returned to Ireland to share the love of God with those who had treated him so cruelly.  He knew their culture, he understood their customs, he spoke their language, and by the time he died at the age of 76, God had used him to turn the hearts of the Irish people from fear and brutality to the way of Christ and of peace. 
I am sure Patrick was also inspired by Paul’s words that He didn’t care what people did to him as long as he remained faithful to his God-given task of telling people that God loved them through Christ.  That’s why I want to take a few moments to read some of these words of St. Paul.  These would have been words St. Patrick read over and over again until they became the very heartbeat of his soul.  You can find them in Chapter 8 of Paul’s letter to the Romans in verses 28-39.
 
Reading: Romans 8: 28-39
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:
“For your sake we face death all day long;
    we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”[b]
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[c] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
These are words that bring us much comfort as we continue to battle with the current restrictions.
 
St. Patrick Prayed often
Like any true Christian, Patrick was humbly aware of his own failings.  I’m sure on a regular basis he spent time confessing His sins to God.  But He was also someone who was full of joy and overflowing with thankfulness because of God’s kindness and help to Him in answer to his prayers.  He writes, “This I know for certain, that before I was brought low, I was like a stone lying deep in the mud.  Then He who is powerful came, and in His mercy pulled me out and lifted me up and placed me on the very top of the wall.  That is why I must shout aloud in return to the Lord for such great good deeds of his, here and now and forever, which the human mind cannot measure.”  Patrick’s example of confession and thanksgiving is a good one to follow.  So we’re now going to take a few moments to say sorry for the ways we may have offended God and also to thank Him for His kindness to us.  Let us pray-
 
Prayer of Confession and Thanks
Dear Lord, forgive us when we have loved other things more than you.  Forgive us when we have been too proud to admit that we need your help.  Forgive us when we have failed to give you thanks.  Forgive us when we have been too busy to make time for you.  Forgive us when we have accumulated wealth without being willing to share with those in need.  Forgive us when we have shied away from sharing our faith.
Take a moment to bring your own confessions to God…
Thank you for your patience.  Thank you that you never stop loving us.  Thank you for sending Jesus to die for our sins.  Thank you that through His death and resurrection we can be set free from the guilt and power of our sins.  Thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit.  Help us through His presence and power to change our bad habits and wrong attitudes into attitudes and actions that are right and good. 
Take a moment to bring your own thanks to God…
Lord, help us, like St Patrick, to love you, to forgive those who have hurt us, and to share your love with the people we rub shoulders with each day.  This we pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
 
St. Patrick was humble and gave all the credit to God
I think if Patrick came back to Ireland during one of our normal St Patrick’s Days, he would be a little bit embarrassed that we were throwing a huge party in his honour.  That’s because throughout his writings, Patrick is very clear to point out that he takes absolutely no credit for anything he accomplished.  In his mind everything he had become and everything he was able to accomplish was only possible because of the grace and help of Jesus Christ.  As St Paul says in Ephesians, our salvation from start to finish is a gift from God to us in Christ Jesus.  It is only through the help of God’s Spirit that we can become more Christ-like in our attitudes and actions every day. 
 
Reflect    How do you feel when you think about Christ dying for you?  In what practical ways are you relying on the Holy Spirit and giving God the credit in your life?
 
St Patrick looked to God for help in life’s battles
St. Patrick's Breastplate is a popular prayer attributed to St. Patrick.  According to tradition, he wrote it in 433 A.D. for divine protection before successfully converting the Irish King Leoghaire and his subjects from paganism to Christianity. The term breastplate refers to a piece of armour worn in battle.  Here again we see the influence of St. Paul on Patrick.  For in chapter 6 of his letter to the Christians in Ephesus, Paul reminds them that the Christian life is a spiritual battle.  He encourages them to put on spiritual armour in order to withstand the attempts of the enemy to get them to turn away from Christ.  Let’s listen to this passage that was obviously such an inspiration to St. Patrick and can be a great encouragement to us.
Reading: Ephesians 6: 10-20
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
 
Reflect    This Pandemic has created many battles for us all.  What battles are you facing right now and how might the armour of God help you?
 
St. Patrick spent His whole life sharing God’s love
In response to God’s grace and call, Patrick gave his whole life to the task of sharing the love of God with the people who had treated him as a slave.  There is no greater example of the Christian way of caring for others as Christ did.  One of the ways we can follow in Patrick’s footsteps is by bringing other people and their needs to God in prayer.  That’s what we’re going to do now.  Let me encourage you to include a few people you know who need God’s help.  Let us pray:
 
Prayers for others
God of all comfort, we bring to you the people we know who are sick or in hospital.  We pray for those who despite this being St Patrick’s Day will find this a day of sorrow, of loneliness and of pain.  We pray that through the help of medical staff and the support of friends and family that people may find the hope and the encouragement that they need.  We remember all those who are struggling financially.  Watch over each one and provide for people even in miraculous ways as you did for Patrick.
We thank you that many of our children have returned to school and for all the continued efforts of all the staff.  Give them continued wisdom, energy and enthusiasm.  Protect each one, and grant that soon our other children and young adults will also be able to return to school and university.  In the meantime grant them the emotional and physical strength that they need to keep going.
We pray that any issues around the vaccination program may be able to be resolved and that soon the most vulnerable in our societies throughout the world will be protected.
Lord we pray that soon our churches will be reopened for worship and that in the meantime like St. Patrick may we even find that these adversities enable us to cling to you more closely.
We pray that the legacy of St Patrick will continue to lead people throughout our world to consider the message of Christ.  Fill us afresh this day with your Holy Spirit.  May we know you like St. Patrick knew you and may our lives be a blessing to those around us just as his life was a blessing to so many.
We pray especially for our children, our family members, our friends and the people we work with.  Lord may all these people see Christ in the way that we live.  May we in some way be enabled to help them to come to know you as their heavenly Father…
Take a few moments now to bring one or two people or situations in your own mind to God in prayer… 
All these prayers we offer in the name of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ, Amen.
Closing Words
Again, it’s been a joy and privilege to share in worship with you this morning.  Thanks for logging.  I do hope that despite our restrictions you have a very special St Patrick’s Day with your family and get a chance to relax in each other’s company.
Do join us again on Sunday when we’ll consider one of the most intriguing statements of Christ as he reflects on the reality that the hour of His death draws nigh..
But for now, let me lead you in a Benediction after which I invite you as always, to say the grace together…
 
Benediction
As we come to the end of our service we are reminded that our worship has not ended it has only just begun, for all of life is worship…So as you go into another week to serve your Lord may you know what Patrick knew- Christ is with you, Christ is before you, Christ is behind you, Christ is in you, Christ is beneath you, Christ is above you, Christ is on your right, Christ is on your left, Christ is there when you lie down, Christ is beside you when you sit, and Christ is at your shoulder when you stand….And
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be wit us all now and forevermore, Amen.