9:30am Welcome - Rev. Dana Seiler Opening Song - “Gratitude” - Makenzie Loudermilt Time of Greeting Children’s Message Song - “Redeemed” Reflection on Service and “The Commission” Sermon - “New Direction” As we recall this story of how these three wise men fell to their knees and paid homage to Christ by presenting him with valuable gifts, it illustrates a for all of us to take this time of the year. After the Magi went and visited Jesus, and made their offering to Christ, Matthew tells us that they and went in a completely different direction. What turn or new direction do you want to go in over this next year? What skills and talents do you possess that you can use for the betterment of God’s Kingdom? What is your one word for 2024? Offering and Prayer - Rev. David Bonnema Communion Closing Song - "I Will Follow” Benediction 11:00am Prelude Welcome - Rev. Dana Seiler Call to Worship - Rev. David Bonnema Leader: Children of God, it is time to celebrate new beginnings. People: We step into the new year with faith! Leader: People of faith, it is time to look ahead in hope. People: We step into the unknown with hope! Leader: People of hope, it is time to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. People: We step forward as God’s family with joy! Hymn - “Come Sing, O Church, In Joy” - #430, 4 Verses Prayer of Confession Everlasting God, we are creatures of habit. We like to think we will take this new year to finally eat better, exercise, or get organized, but we know that somehow our old ways will begin to creep in before we know it. Help us to focus this year – to make one change that will draw us closer to You - and then help us stick to this change. We know it won’t always be easy, but we know that You will be with us, forgiving us when we get off course, and covering us in Your love and grace, as we pray in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Declaration of Forgiveness Passing of the Peace Reflection on Service Anthem - “Heavenly Star” - Choplin - Unity Choir Sermon - “New Direction” - Rev. Dana Seiler As we recall this story of how these three wise men fell to their knees and paid homage to Christ by presenting him with valuable gifts, it illustrates a for all of us to take this time of the year. After the Magi went and visited Jesus, and made their offering to Christ, Matthew tells us that they and went in a completely different direction. What turn or new direction do you want to go in over this next year? What skills and talents do you possess that you can use for the betterment of God’s Kingdom? What is your one word for 2024? Anthem - “What Shall I Give” - Althouse - Unity Choir Offering and Prayer Doxology The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Affirmation of Faith - The Apostles’ Creed: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. He descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. Closing Hymn - “Arise, Your Light Is Come!” - #411, 4 Verses Benediction Postlude