Transfiguration Sunday

COLOR: White
SCRIPTURE READINGS: Exodus 34:29-35; Psalm 99; 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2; Luke 9:28-36

THEME IDEAS

“Mountaintop experiences”—it’s the phrase we use to describe those ultimate highs in life. In these passages, Moses encounters God on Mount Sinai and the disciples view Jesus’ transfiguration on a mountaintop. Both experiences offer glimpses of the awesome power and mystery of God’s presence. Yet the reality of mountaintop experiences is that we don’t live there—at some point, we have to come down. How do we sustain a mountaintop experience of God in everyday life? How do we find God’s presence each and every day? The psalmist suggests continual worship and praise, hereas Paul encourages us to live and serve with faithfulness and integrity, for our ability to do so comes from God.

INVITATION AND GATHERING

Call to Worship (Psalm 99)

The Lord reigns.
Let the nations tremble.
The Lord reigns.
Let them praise God’s holy name.
The Lord reigns.
Let the peoples rejoice in awe and wonder.
The Lord reigns.
Let them shout in exaltation!

Opening Prayer (2 Corinthians 3, Luke 9)

Radiant Lord,
you shine with purity, power, and truth.
Your mercy reflects your compassion,
your care, and your love.
Transform us into your image
as we seek to follow you.
Use us to make your presence known
throughout the world.
In your strong name we pray. Amen.

PROCLAMATION AND RESPONSE

Prayer of Confession (Luke 9)

Lord,
you call us to draw near,
yet we fail to hear your voice.
We sleepwalk through life,
ignoring the needs of people all around us
and worrying about our own desires.
Forgive us:
when we shut out the call
to climb into your presence;
when we make excuses
to put off that journey.
Have mercy on us, O Lord,
as we silently open our hearts
and confess our sins:
(Time of silence)
Hear our pleas, O God,
and lift us to newness of life. Amen.

Words of Assurance (2 Corinthians 3, Psalm 99, Luke 9)

We worship a forgiving God,
whose mercy is never ending,
whose heart abounds in steadfast love.
Because of the love of Jesus Christ,
nothing can separate us
from the love of God.

Passing the Peace of Christ (Luke 9)

In the face of a stranger, in the greeting of a friend, we see our Lord, Jesus Christ. In the love of Christ, welcome those around you today.

Response to the Word (Luke 9)

Lord, it is good to be here—
to hear your word,
to share your story.
Help us see your Son for who he really is.
Help us listen to him,
receive his forgiveness,
and walk in his light.

THANKSGIVING AND COMMUNION

Invitation to the Offering (Exodus 34, 2 Corinthians 3)

In days of old, God was seen as far from the people.
But we know Christ, and in him we know God.
When we share what we have out of love,
our hearts grow closer to God,
and we shine with Christ’s glory.
Let us offer our gifts to God today.

Offering Prayer (2 Corinthians 4)

Generous God,
it is through your mercy
that we have this ministry—
the ministry of our talents and treasure,
the ministry of our passion and purpose.
Strengthen our hearts for your service,
and accept the grateful offerings
we lay before you. Amen.

SENDING FORTH

Benediction (Luke 9)

Led by the Spirit,
go forth in God’s love.
Illumined by the Spirit,
shine with Christ’s light. Amen.

CONTEMPORARY OPTIONS

Contemporary Gathering Words (Luke 9, 2 Corinthians 3)

Will you come to the highest mountain?
We come to worship the Lord.
Jesus is waiting, waiting to greet you.
Jesus, we come. Jesus, we’re here.
Come!
We come to worship the Lord.

Praise Sentences (Luke 9, 2 Corinthians 3)

You are so good, Lord!
Your love warms our hearts.
You are so good, Lord!
Your love shows us the way.
You are so good, Lord!
Your love shines like the sun.
You are so good, Lord!
You are so good!

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From The Abingdon Worship Annual edited by Mary J. Scifres and B.J. Beu, Copyright © Abingdon Press.