April 24, 2016                                                                       Easter 5

Welcome to all worshipers of Jesus! Our glorified Savior leads us to love one another.

Order of Service

Service of Word and Sacrament, page 26 in the front part of the hymnal

Opening Hymn

Jesus Christ, My Sure Defense, #167

Prayer of the Day

O God, you form the minds of your faithful people into a single will. Make us love what you command and desire what you promise, that among the many changes of this world, our hearts may ever yearn for the lasting joys of heaven; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one God, now and forever. Amen (sung)

First Lesson

Acts 13:44-52

Paul and Barnabas preach the message of salvation to crowds of people. However, jealous Jews stir up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and force them to leave. But God used persecution to spread his Word to many others, Jews and Gentiles alike.

Psalm of the Day

Psalm 145, page 119 in the front part of the hymnal

Second Lesson

Revelation 21:1-6

John is allowed to see a new heaven and a new earth. In this new creation there are no tears, no sorrow, no death. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, the heavenly bridegroom, we look forward to living in this new creation, our heavenly home.

Gospel Lesson

John 13:31-35

By carrying out the plan of salvation, Jesus brought glory to himself and to his heavenly father. Although he is no loner with us in the body, he lives in us through faith. He commands us to love one another. He days that love for one another will tell those around us that we are his disciples.

Hymn of the Day

At the Lamb's High Feast We Sing, 141

Sermon

Acts 13:44-52—The Word Always Brings Results

Hymn

Here, O My Lord, I See You Face to Face, #315

Closing Hymn

Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain, #142