Scripture Reading: Philippians 2: 1-11. Bay Shore Sunday Worship Service, February 18, 2024

This Sunday, February 18 in Worship “Freeing Jesus” Sermon Series Based on the book Freeing Jesus: Rediscovering Jesus as Friend, Teacher, Savior, Lord, Way and Presence by Diana Butler Bass “Jesus as Lord” Philippians 2: 1-11 What does it mean for to call Jesus "Lord?" As we enter the reflective period of Lent, our focus turns to the profound message of Philippians 2:1-11, a scripture that calls us to embody the humility and kindness that Jesus Christ exemplified. In this passage, we are reminded that true leadership is not about dominance or imposing our will on others, but rather about serving with a heart of compassion and empathy. Jesus, redefined what it means to be 'Lord' by demonstrating that the greatest among us are those who serve. This Lent, let us embrace this radical vision of servant leadership, seeking not to dominate but to uplift, not to control but to empower. Through a commitment to serve one another with humility and love, we can truly live out the calling of our faith and reflect the selfless love of Christ. This season, may we all be inspired to lead by serving, following in the footsteps of Jesus, whose idea of lordship was marked by sacrifice and service for the good of all. On this first Lenten Sunday, our Bay Shore Bells will add their sonorous sound to our prelude with a lovely rendition of In the Garden arranged by Cynthia Dobrinski. Our Chancel Choir will be offering two anthems, Amazing Grace, expertly arranged for choir by Katherine K. Davis, as well as during our imposition of ashes one of the most well known and well written church anthems based on John 3;16-17 ever composed - God So Loved the World by John Stainer. And for our offertory, Shannon Miller will be singing the John Jacob Niles arrangement of The Original Sacred Harp folk and gospel song Wayfaring Stranger, about a plaintive soul on the journey through life. Lent is a time of contemplation and a journey for all of us towards what is to come. Join us to experience a meaningful beginning to our Lenten season through word and song.