The Gathering Prayer

God – we gather in your presence.

Father – we long for more of you.

Jesus – we place you at the center.

Holy Spirit – come and fill our time together.

Help us to be fully present here,

to your word, to one another,

and to the world you love.

Amen.

Join Anderson by standing and reciting alongside.

The text of lectionary passage for you to read aloud as you remain standing.

Psalm 23

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

2  He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,

3 he refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths

    for his name’s sake.

4 Even though I walk

    through the darkest valley,[a]

I will fear no evil,

    for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

    they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me

    in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

    my cup overflows.

6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me

    all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord

    forever.

Theophilus Sermon: Psalms 23 // Cameron Marvin from Theophilus Church on Vimeo.

Sermon Questions

1. When you feel yourself in a dark valley, what are the things you turn to for comfort?
2. What are the things you need to surrender to receive the peace of God in hard times?
3. How can you participate with God in “preparing a table” for those in need or despair?

Take some time to listen to the Spirit and respond in prayer, however you feel led.

This month, we are actively looking for ways to give to the poor and vulnerable in Portland. Please let us know of needs you’re connected to so we can be a blessing to those in need. As we live collectively and generously, we can “prepare a table” for those in need and fill our neighbor’s “cups to overflowing.”

Donate

Numbers 6:24-26

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.”

Go in Peace!