November 12, 2023
Twenty-Fourth  Sunday After Pentecost
“Wisdom”

Call to Worship (Inspired by Wisdom of Solomon 6:12-16)
One: Wisdom is radiant and unfading, and she is easily discerned by those who love her, and is found by those who seek her.
Many: We hear your Still Speaking voice. We come to you, Wisdom, seeking knowledge and understanding.
One: Wisdom is radiant and unfading, and she is easily discerned by those who love her, and is found by those who seek her.
Many: We remember your marvelous acts and faithful instruction. We come to you, Wisdom, as you have been near to us!
One: Wisdom is radiant and unfading, and she is easily discerned by those who love her, and is found by those who seek her.
Many: We trust in your guidance and place our hope in you through feast and famine. We come to you, Wisdom, to worship and to serve. 

Invocation
Wisdom, your presence illuminates our path. Shine your light into dim spaces so that we do not stray from your teaching. Help us discern what you are calling us, your church, to do and be in this moment in time. Give us urgency to be good news in the world and for our neighbors. Let your glory reign among us and your Spirit lead us into truth, justice, and love. For your name and in your name, we pray. Amen.

Prayer for Transformation and New Life
Wise God, we often seek counsel from so many sources while ignoring your guidance. Help us to navigate the tough choices we must make and to discern the circumstances of our world and our lives through your perspective. Your way is life and embodies care, compassion, and concern for all creation. May we follow your model for the flourishing of our human siblings and our home, the Earth. Amen.

Words of Grace
Beloved, God gives good instruction and the grace to begin anew. You are empowered by God to choose the path of life everlasting and nudged by God when your journey strays. Know that every movement toward God is received with gladness and the full and welcoming embrace of the Holy One. 

Invitation to Generosity
As the people of ancient days said to Joshua, let us proclaim that we will serve the Holy One. Let us choose this day to serve with all the gifts and resources we have been given to the glory of God and in generous hope for the world. 

Prayer of Dedication and Thanksgiving
Discerning God, receive our offerings and gifts for your kindom. Let them be a blessing to those in need of encouragement, material goods, and evidence of your presence among us. Magnify them beyond our imagining and grant us insight into the possibilities before us for ministry and witness. We are grateful to give. Amen. 

Benediction
May Wisdom give you knowledge and peace beyond understanding. May Wisdom reveal the way to reach the unreachable. May Wisdom pour her love upon you with generous abandon and inspire and empower you to do the same as you go in the world. 

Wisdom: Service Prayers for the Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost were written by The Rev. Dr. Cheryl A. Lindsay, Minister for Worship and Theology, United Church of Christ.