The Second Sunday After Epiphany - Online Worship - January 18, 2026
The Second Sunday After Epiphany
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Sunday Worship - The Third Sunday After Epiphany
”A New Leader, is Only the Beginning!”
January 25, 2025 - 9:30AM
Faith Quest Sunday School resumes next Sunday!
All are welcome, encouraged to visit the Prayer Cross as moved to do so.
Gathering in Glory & Grace
Hear Our Praises
Morgan
vs. 1
May our homes be filled with dancing
May our streets be filled with joy
May injustice bow to Jesus
As the people turn to pray
refrain:
From the mountains to the valleys
Hear our praises rise to You
From the heavens to the nations
Hear our singing fill the air
vs. 2
May Your light shine in the darkness
As we walk before the cross
May Your glory fill the whole earth
As the water o’er seas
(refrain)
A New Epiphany is Only the Beginning in God’s Grace & Light
BASED ON PSALM 139
Friends, today we are blessed with a new epiphany, from the mountains, to the valleys, to sing our praises, trusting anew, God’s grace is only the beginning to so much more, so we worship in the name of The Father, and of The Son, and of The Holy Spirit.
Amen. O Lord, you have searched me out and you know me. When I sit down and when I rise up. You know my thoughts no matter how far I stray from you.
People of God: The Lord knows everything about us. Let us take a moment of silence to confess our sins and those times we have failed to trust the epiphanies of God’s light and grace.
(silence for reflection)
Dear friends, receive a new epiphany, for God’s grace blesses us with a new finding which is only the beginning to so much more; Jesus saves; Jesus forgives you all your sins. May our spirits be renewed by God’s light and grace, as we trust and make known, the One who is surely present in this and every place!
Song Revealing Grace
Surely the Presence of The Lord
Wolfe
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
I can feel His mighty power and His grace
I can hear the brush of angels’ wings
I see glory on each face
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
Lord, you know my every word, still you lay your hand on me. You will not let me flee from you. By your Spirit, I have found only the beginning of your grace and light! Forever shine on me!
Friends: The works of the Lord are incredible, filled with light and grace. God alone formed you and found you. His light forever guides you! Do not be hesitant or silent! May our hearts sing of the salvation we share in the One who is forever present in this and every place!
Song Revealing Grace
Surely the Presence of The Lord
Wolfe
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
I can feel His mighty power and His grace
I can hear the brush of angels’ wings
I see glory on each face
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
Almighty and loving God, you made known your grace and glory by leading many to faith through the power and presence of your Son. The Word became flesh to come and see us, to find us, to know our every thought, word and deed, for you are faithful. Give us a new epiphany today! By your light and grace, may each day be only the beginning to finding so much more, as the Spirit finds us and calls us, to believe and to follow anew. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Faith Quest Sunday School meets today!
The Old Testament
ISAIAH 49:1–7
Listen to me, O coastlands, pay attention, you peoples from far away! The Lord called me before I was born, while I was in my mother’s womb he named me. He made my mouth like a sharp sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me a polished arrow, in his quiver he hid me away. And he said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.” But I said, “I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity; yet surely my cause is with the Lord, and my reward with my God.” And now the Lord says, who formed me in the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honored in the sight of the Lord, and my God has become my strength – he says, “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the survivors of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” Thus says the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nations, the slave of rulers, “Kings shall see and stand up, princes, and they shall prostrate themselves, because of the Lord, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.”
(New Revised Standard Version)
The New Testament
1 CORINTHIANS 1:1–9
Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes, To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, together with all those who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind – just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you – so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
(New Revised Standard Version)
Song Living Anew In Grace
In Christ Alone
Getty/Townend
In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light my strength my song
This cornerstone this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love what depths of peace
When fears are stilled when strivings cease
My Comforter my all in all
Here in the love of Christ I stand
Gospel
JOHN 1:29–42
The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.” The next day John again was standing with two disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “Where are you staying?” Jesus said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). Andrew brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon, son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).
(New Revised Standard Version)
Stating Our Faith in God
BASED ON HEBREWS 11-12:2
Long ago witnesses wrote words to proclaim Jesus as the treasured bright new light, The True Epiphany, fulfilling the coming of the promised Messiah, that his power and grace were only the beginning for the Hebrew Christians considering returning to Judaism. Let us boldly share our faith using these same words.
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible. ...Without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. ...Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Amen.
A New Finding, is Only the Beginning
ISAIAH 49:1-7; 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-9; JOHN 1:29-42
Do you know what you want? At times we can be so agreeable, that we do not know what we want. "What do you want to do tonight?" "I don't know." "What do you want to eat?" "I don't care." Of course, we are also pretty good at voicing our dissatisfaction. "It sure is cold.” “I don’t mind the cold, it’s the wind.” “I like the snow; it’s just so cold.” “I can’t wait for spring.” We may never be satisfied, but do we even know what would satisfy us? Do we truly know what we are looking for? Would we know it, if we found it? Our faith walk is not so different. `What do we want from our God?' `What would we like Jesus to help us do?' `I don't know.' `When is God going to take action?' `Why did God do that?' As we continue our celebration of epiphany, what light are you looking for from God? What new revelation or insight would you like to come your way? Do you know what you are looking for? Do you know what Jesus is looking for from you? Today's scripture reminds us, long ago people were looking for the Messiah. They were not sure who that was, or what they would find when they found him. Let a new finding be only the beginning, for God in light and grace has found us! As we look to the Christ, trust Jesus is all we are looking for, and so much more!
1. What are you looking for out of life?
2. What are you looking for in your faith walk? Trust a new finding in who Christ is, is only the beginning!
1 Corinthians 1:1-9; John 1:29, 36-38, 41
A. Are you looking for a feeling? This is only the beginning!
B. Are you looking for a Savior? On your terms? Surrendering to God's terms, God's way? This is only the beginning!
3. Briefly, but pointedly, what will you do if you find what you are looking for? What will you do when you find Jesus? What will you do when Jesus finds you? This is only the beginning!
Isaiah 49:6; 1 Corinthians 1:3-7
A. While searching, it is easy to make excuses, claim ignorance, hide, to not commit. A new finding is only the beginning!
B. When you find what you are looking for, there are no more excuses, we must step forward. A new finding is only the beginning to so much more!
4. What do you think Jesus is looking for, hoping to find? As Jesus finds us, this is only the beginning to so much more in the grace and light of Christ!
Isaiah 49:1-4, 7; 1 Corinthians 1:4, 9; John 1:29-34, 41-42
A. Do you think he wants to find us looking for him, trusting his light, making a difference while we wait? Believe and trust this is only the beginning to so much more!
B. Do you trust God in Jesus is searching diligently for you? Do you look for him to find you, for his light to lead him to you? Believe and trust this is only the beginning to so much more!
C. Jesus can have whatever he wants. He wants you! Trust he is looking for you. God indeed sent Jesus to look for you, to find you, to rescue you, to save you. Trust and be satisfied! The Savior has broken into our lives and world. Believe and trust being found, finding Christ, is only the beginning! Come and see, and together let us find even more than we are looking for!
Offering is available for our indoor services. Find a Lord of Life with a volunteer bucket to deposit offering in person as you leave worship today. If you find yourself wanting to offer your gifts to Lord of Life, you can do so online using the link below. You can also drop offering at anytime in our secure mailbox at Lord of Life located in the parking lot.
Song Anew in Light & Grace
There is None Like You
LeBlanc
refrain:
There is none like You
No one else
Can touch my heart like You do
I could search for all eternity long
And find
There is none like You
(repeat)
vs. 1
Your mercy flows like a river wide
And healing comes from Your hands
Suffering children are safe in Your arms
There is none like You
(refrain)
... as we pray to you, Jesus,
Give us a new epiphany, give us a new beginning, in your light and your grace.
All these things and whatever else you see we need, grant to us we pray, for into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Holy Communion will take place during our service. For those worshiping with us in person, we receive communion through intinction; that is, you will receive the bread, the host, then dip into the glass of choice, either a red wine in the chalice closest to the host, or in a light colored non-alcoholic grape juice. All are welcome.
We also offer gluten free and pre-packaged options. Please take these options before arriving at the host to receive a blessing.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name,
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us;
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.
Carol During Holy Communion
Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness
Manley
refrain:
Spirit Spirit of gentleness
Blow through the wilderness
Calling and free
Spirit Spirit of restlessness
Stir me from placidness
Wind wind on the sea
vs. 1
You moved on the waters
You called to the deep
Then you coaxed up the mountains
From the valleys of sleep
And over the eons
You called to each thing
Awake from your slumbers
And rise on your wings
(refrain)
vs. 2
You swept through the desert
You stung with the sand
And you goaded your people
With a law and a land
And when they were blinded
With idols and lies
Then you spoke through your prophets
To open their eyes
(refrain)
vs. 3
You sang in a stable
You cried from a hill
Then you whispered in silence
When the whole world was still
And down in the city
You called once again
When you blew through your people
On the rush of the wind
(refrain)
vs. 4
You call from tomorrow
You break ancient schemes
From the bondage of sorrow
All the captives dream dreams
Our women see visions
Our men clear their eyes
With bold new decisions
Your people arise
(refrain)
The body and blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, strengthen you and keep you in his grace this day, and on into life everlasting.
Amen.
Let us pray.
Pour out upon us the spirit of your love, O Lord, and unite the wills of those whom you have fed with one heavenly food; through Jesus Christ, the Lord of life. Amen.
The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord look upon you with favor and give you peace, as you are blessed with only the beginning in every epiphany of God’s saving grace in Jesus Christ! In the name of The Father, and of The Son, and of The Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Let us go in the peace of Christ, celebrating the love of God, and serving the Lord of life.
Thanks be to God!
Going Anew in Light & Grace
My Life Is in You, Lord
Gardner
My life
Is in You Lord
My strength
Is in You Lord
My hope
Is in You Lord
In You it’s in You
My life
Is in You Lord
My strength
Is in You Lord
My hope
Is in You Lord
In You it’s in You
I will praise You with all of my life
I will praise You with all of my strength
With all of my life
With all of my strength
All of my hope is in You
My life
Is in You Lord
My strength
Is in You Lord
My hope
Is in You Lord
In You it’s in You
My life
Is in You Lord
My strength
Is in You Lord
My hope
Is in You Lord
In You it’s in You
In You
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Today we celebrate The Second Sunday After Epiphany, “A New Finding … Is Only The Beginning!” Faith Quest, Sunday School meets today!
Next Sunday, January 25, we celebrate The Third Sunday After Epiphany, “A New Leader … Is Only The Beginning!” Faith Quest, Sunday School meets next Sunday!
As we share our worship, we give thanks for every volunteer as you bless our ministry, greeting, ushering, nursery, serving communion, live streaming, AV ministry, set up, clean up, fellowship, worship leaders, and more! You can access details and ways to sign up on our website and Facebook page! Thank you!
Friends, today as always, all who proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, are welcome to God’s table of grace as we share Holy Communion. For those sharing their generosity today, we thank you for your faithful giving! Offering is collected in baskets by the ushers as you exit the sanctuary.
We hope our worship will touch you, comfort you, reassure you, and grace you in some way! If you believe others you know would be blessed to receive this bulletin, the sermon notes, or our live stream links, please forward these to them.
From everyone on every level of leadership and service, we continue to pray for you and to give thanks to God for each of you! Please contact Pastor Jamie if he can serve you in any way: jamie.thompson@lordoflifemn.org
We pray The Holy Spirit breathes anew on us to be God’s people and to be God’s Church, as together we make known and we trust anew God’s gifts of hope, peace, justice, clarity, calm, and comfort forever break forth in new ways for you and your loved ones, today, and as we share every gift of God’s light, love and grace!
Acknowledgments for today’s service include:
Litany Trusting A New Epiphany Is Only The Beginning In God’s Grace & Light, based on Ps. 139. “Spirit, Spirit, Gentleness,” “Prayer of The Day,” “The Lord’s Prayer,” “Post-Communion Blessing, Prayer, & Benediction,” based on the Lutheran Book of Worship. © 1978 Augsburg Publishing House, Mpls & Board of Publication, Lutheran Church In America, Philadelphia. Used w/permission. “Hear Our Praises” © 1998 Hillsong Music, CCLI #2543402 “Surely The Presence of The Lord” © 1977 Lanny Wolfe Music CCLI #7909 “Jesus Loves Me” © Words and Music Public Domain, CCLI #4771887 “In Christ Alone” © 2002 Thankyou Music CCLI #3350395 “There Is None Like You” © 1991 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music, CCLI #674545 “My Life Is In You, Lord” © 1986, this arrangement © 1992 by Integrity’s Hosanna! Music CCLI #17315 All rights reserved. All songs used w/permission. CCLI Lic. #1380826 & OneLicense #A-724016.