Sunday,  June 28, 2026
Fifth Sunday after Pentecost | Year A
Genesis 22:1-14 | "It Shall Be Provided"

Call to Worship (inspired by Psalm 13)
One: We gather as a people to worship the Holy One who considers our cries and responds to our conditions.
Many: We gather even when wearied by the world because we trust in God's steadfast love.
One: Our souls may ask, "How long, Holy One?" Yet our hearts rejoice in your saving acts.
Many: We gather even when shaken and sorrowful because we hope in God's steadfast love.
One: We gather to sing to the Holy One who has been generous with us.
Many: Our worship and our work testifies to the goodness of the God who prevails. Let us worship the God of Life!

Invocation
God who provides, we acknowledge your presence that invites us to draw near to you. We glorify your name, for you, Holy and Righteous One, remain faithful to your creation. We open our hearts and minds to remember the testimonies of the past and to receive the truth revealed in your word for the present. May you delight in our praise as we honor you and encourage one another in the journey of faithful living. Amen. 

Prayer for Transformation and New Life
God of the Covenant, in you, we have new life. In you, we have a faithful companion. Yet, difficult moments confront us with the limits of our trust in you. We struggle to release control so that we might participate fully in your plan without fear, hesitation, or resistance. Help us, O God, to be your faithful service who trust you even through the tests and trials of life. May we know the assurance and peace of your eternal love. Amen.

Words of Grace
The Holy One loves you and has made you participants in an everlasting covenant. God will not abandon you in despair or deprivation. Rather, the one who creates also sustains. There is a ram in the bush, and the Sovereign God will continue to provide. Receive the grace of God. 

Invitation to Generosity
God is still creating and still providing. Let us honor the continued and new gifts of God's generosity by bringing forth a portion of what we receive so that all needs will be met. Let us participate in the realization of the kindom through offering material resources to the Body of Christ.

Prayer of Dedication and Thanksgiving
Generous God, may the gifts we bring provide for our community and neighbors just as you provided a ram for Abraham. Bless our time, talent, and treasure for your glory and your kindom. Amen.

Benediction 
Be confident that the Holy One will provide
For the promise of God is trustworthy
And the presence of God is enduring
Therefore, show up in the world 
With boldness and clarity
That justice and righteousness will prevail
In the name of Holy Love and Everlasting Peace
May it be so for you and through you. 

It Shall Be Provided: Service Prayers for the Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Year A was written by the Rev. Dr. Cheryl A. Lindsay, Minister for Worship and Theology for the United Church of Christ.