Introduction
Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem for his rendezvous with the cross. As he approached Jericho, a blind beggar cried out for mercy (Luke 18:35-43). Because of the man’s faith, the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Light of the world, gave him his sight.
The songs selected for the worship service highlight themes from this story: light, blindness, sight, and faith.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: John 8:12
Invocation
Hymn 46: O Worship the King
Note: Based on Psalm 104, this hymn calls us to worship our great God, the King who is all-glorious, pavilioned in splendor, and whose robe is the light. In contrast (v. 4) we are “frail children of dust, and feeble as frail.” Even so, the glorious King has tender mercy that is firm to the end.
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 23 Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
Note: We sing of God’s transcendent character. He is beyond our ability to grasp fully, but we can know him truly because he graciously makes himself known to his people. “All praise we would render: O help us to see ‘Tis only the splendour of light hideth Thee.”
Scripture Reading Psalm 36:1-12
Note: In this Psalm David reminds us that God is the only source of spiritual life and understanding, “With you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light.”
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 247 Amazing Grace
Notes: John Newton, the author of perhaps the most famous hymn, never got over the grace of God that delivered him from his sin. Like the beggar in the sermon text, we all must remember the grace of God given through Christ. He alone can remove our spiritual blindness and give us eyes to see.
Message: Lord Jesus, Have Mercy on Me!
Luke 18:35-43
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn Credo
Notes: Jesus gave the blind beggar sight because of his faith. That was a physical illustration of the spiritual reality: Jesus gives sight to the spiritually blind and all he requires is that they believe in him. The title of this hymn, “Credo,” means “I believe.” It expresses the essence of the truth that Christians confess. The life, death, and resurrection of Christ lie at the very core of this faith.
Prayer Response: John Miles
Benediction: John Miles