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  • October 12, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. 

    • Engage a posture that opens your heart to the world around you (palms up, hands open, etc.) 
    • Inhale: I receive God’s love  
    • Exhale: I share God’s love 
    Call to Worship

    Adapted from the Brief Statement of Faith 

    In life and in death, we belong to God.
    Through the transforming grace of our risen Lord, 

    the steadfast love of God,
    and the faithful presence of the Holy Spirit,

    We are brought from darkness into light,
    called to live and share the resurrection.
    Amen.

    Worship Songs

    Let Everything That Has Breath

    Praise You in the morning
    Praise You in the evening
    Praise You when I’m young and when I’m old

    Praise You when I’m laughing
    Praise You when I’m grieving
    Praise You every season of the soul

    If we could see how much You’re worth
    Your power, Your might, Your endless love
    Then surely we would never cease to praise

    Let everything that
    Everything that
    Everything that has breath praise the Lord

    Praise You in the heavens
    Join with the angels
    Praising You forever and a day

    Praise You on the earth now
    Join with creation
    Calling all the nations to Your praise

    If they could see how much You’re worth
    Your power, Your might, Your endless love
    Then surely they would never cease to praise, to praise

    I will worship, I will worship
    I will worship You with every breath

    The Joy of the Lord

    Though tears may fall
    My song will rise, my song will rise to You
    Though my heart may fail
    My song will rise, my song will rise to You
    While there’s breath in my lungs
    I will praise You, Lord

    In the dead of night
    I’ll lift my eyes, I’ll lift my eyes to You
    When the waters rise
    I’ll lift my eyes, I’ll lift my eyes to You
    While there’s hope in my heart
    I will praise You, Lord

    The joy of the Lord is my strength
    The joy of the Lord is my strength
    In the darkness I’ll dance
    In the shadows I’ll sing
    The joy of the Lord is my strength

    When I cannot see You with my eyes
    Let faith arise to You
    When I cannot feel Your hand in mine
    Let faith arise to You
    God of mercy and love
    I will praise You, Lord

    Oh You shine with glory Lord of light
    I feel alive with You
    In Your presence now I come alive
    I am alive with You
    There is strength when I say
    I will praise You, Lord

    When sorrow comes my way
    You are the shield around me
    Always You remain
    Like courage in the fight
    I hear You call my name
    Jesus, I am coming
    Walking on the waves
    Reaching for Your light

    Prayer of Confession

    God of love,
    The wonder of Your creation
    speaks to Your goodness.
    Uphold us with Your grace:

    For our fears and worries;
    For our neighborhoods and the nations;
    For our present and our future:
    Hear us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    Lord Jesus,
    Teach us how to walk in Your ways
    throughout the world You love.
    Amen. 

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Prayers of the People

    After each phrase, let’s pray out loud: “Lord, have mercy” 

    For those facing disaster, whether from the natural world
    or caused by humankind… 

    For the emotional, spiritual, physical, and relational
    healing of ourselves and our loved ones… 

    For our neighbors in Mira Mesa & San Diego
    to know Jesus’ love through us… 

    For our global siblings in Christ, especially those
    who suffer because of their faith in You… 

    For the Church worldwide to be faithful witnesses
    of Your justice, mercy, and love… 

    Amen. 

    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Women’s Bible Study: This Friday, October 17th in person!  
    • Community Connections: Let’s pray for and build up our connections with neighbors and our broader community!  Please continue to lift up our 10:02 prayer daily until Advent, that God would give us love & courage to invite friends to be a part of what God is doing in and through Anchor & Hope!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    The Love of the Father

    Lift up your voices and lift up your praise
    Join with the heavens, declaring the wonders
    Of His faithfulness forever

    Sing of the victory, the hope of the world
    The Saviour has risen, the Spirit has come to
    Bring us into love forever

    We are the people of God
    With the freedom of hope in our hearts
    How great is the love of the Father

    Lifted from darkness and into the light
    The sons and the daughters are loved at a price
    Our God has made us His forever

    This is the song of the redeemed
    The ransomed and the free
    Given life at such a price
    This is love, this is love

    And when the Father calls us home
    And we see Him on the throne
    Hear the voices sing as one
    This is love, this is love

    Scripture Reading

    Matthew 22:34-40

    34 When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, 35 and one of them, an expert in the law, asked him a question to test him. 36 “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” 37 He said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the greatest and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Image of a sun rising over a field of flowers with text overlaid, "Faithful Love"

    Faithful Love

    Pastor Dan

    Conversation questions 

    • What makes your heart pulse as you think about loving God? 
    • How can you help others know they are loved by God? 
    Worship Song

    Oh You Bring

    Oh You bring hope to the hopeless
    And light to those in darkness
    And death to life… now I’m alive

    Oh You give peace to the restless
    And joy to homes that are broken
    I see You now… in You I’m found

    And You opened the door for me
    And You laid down Your life to set me free
    All that I am will serve You, Lord

    And You opened my eyes to see
    All the wonder and awe of Christ in me
    Jesus, You’re everything I need

    Oh You fill those who are empty
    And rescue those in the valley
    And through it all… You calm my soul

    Oh You find me in my weakness
    And heal the wounds of my heartache
    I worship You… in spirit and truth

    All honor… all glory… all praise to You

    Benediction

  • October 5, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    World Communion Sunday

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. 

    • Hold yourself in a hug and be reminded of the embrace of God and God’s people throughout history and space 
    • Inhale: The earth is the Lord’s 
    • Exhale: And all who live within it  
    Call to Worship

    Adapted from the Brief Statement of Faith 

    In life and in death, we belong to God.
    Through the transforming grace of our risen Lord, 

    the steadfast love of God,
    and the faithful presence of the Holy Spirit,

    We are brought from darkness into light,
    called to live and share the resurrection.
    Amen.

    Worship Songs

    Great Are You Lord / Oh Our Lord

    All the earth
    will shout Your praise
    Our hearts will cry
    these bones will sing
    Great are You Lord!

    We behold the breaking dawn
    The light that shines over everyone
    We look to You, we long for You, oh Lord

    We behold the rising sun
    The earth awaits, Your hope has come
    We look to You, we long for You, oh Lord

    Oh, oh, oh, our Lord
    Oh, oh, oh, our Lord
    How majestic is Your name in all the earth

    We behold the falling rain
    Like waters rise, flood this place
    We reach for You, we cling to You, oh Lord

    Oh, Your name is a light in the darkness
    Oh, Your name is the word of truth
    Oh Your name, oh Your name

    Be Thou My Vision / Open the Eyes

    Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
    Open the eyes of my heart
    I want to see You
    I want to see You

    Be thou my Vision
    O Lord of my heart
    Naught be all else to me
    Save that Thou art

    Thou my best thought
    By day or by night
    Waking or sleeping 
    Thy Presence, my Light

    Riches I heed not
    Nor vain empty praise
    Thou mine inheritance
    Now and always

    Thou and Thou only 
    Be first in my heart
    High King of Heaven 
    My treasure, Thou art

    O God, be my everything
    Be my delight
    Be Jesus, my glory
    My soul satisfied

    High King of Heaven
    When victory is won
    May I reach Heaven’s joys 
    O bright Heaven’s sun

    Heart of my own heart
    Whatever befall
    Still be my vision
    O Ruler of all

    Prayer of Confession

    God of love,
    Your banquet table is open to all,
    a place of love and belonging. 

    When our tables are too small;
    When our vision of grace is too narrow;
    When we do not love our neighbors;
    Forgive us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    God of welcome,
    We give You all our grateful praise,
    together with all Your people, everywhere.
    Amen. 

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Prayers of the People

    After each phrase, let’s pray out loud: “Lord, have mercy” 

    For those suffering from violence, hatred, and war,
    especially children…  

    For the emotional, spiritual, physical, and relational
    healing of ourselves and our loved ones… 

    For our neighbors in Mira Mesa & San Diego
    to know Jesus’ love through us… 

    For our global siblings in Christ, especially those
    who suffer because of their faith in You… 

    For the Church worldwide to be faithful witnesses
    of Your justice, mercy, and love… 

    Amen. 

    Communion
    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Mira Mesa Street Fair: Thank you to everyone who was able to come by and help out. We had over 400 interactions with our community — engaging kids with art, collaborating with our neighbors in visualized prayer, and sharing affirmations with everyone so they would know they’re loved!  
    • Women’s Bible Study: This Friday, October 10th in person!  
    • Community Connections: Let’s pray for and build up our connections with neighbors and our broader community!  Please continue to lift up our 10:02 prayer daily until Advent, that God would give us love & courage to invite friends to be a part of what God is doing in and through Anchor & Hope!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    Promises

    God from age to age
    Though the earth may pass away
    Your word remains the same

    Your history can prove
    There’s nothing You can’t do
    You’re faithful and true

    Though the storms may come 
    And the winds may blow
    I’ll remain steadfast

    And let my heart learn 
    When You speak a word
    It will come to pass

    Great is Your faithfulness to me
    Great is Your faithfulness to me

    From the rising sun to the setting same
    I will praise Your name
    Great is Your faithfulness to me

    I put my faith in Jesus
    My anchor to the ground
    My hope and firm foundation
    He’ll never let me down

    Scripture Reading

    2 Timothy 1:1-7

    1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, for the sake of the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus,

    2 To Timothy, my beloved child:
    Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

    3 I am grateful to God—whom I worship with a clear conscience, as my ancestors did—when I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. 4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, lives in you. 6 For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Image of a group of hands holding soil with plants growing, with text overlaid, "Spiritual Ancestors"

    Spiritual Ancestors

    Pastor Jeya

    Conversation Questions: 

    • Who are your spiritual ancestors? (they can still be alive!)
    • What have they taught you?
    Worship Song

    Send the Rain

    Lord, we come to You
    Now with open hands
    Broken lives and dreams
    Washed up on the sand

    We’ve been beaten down
    But still we choose to stand
    We choose to stand

    Lord, we long for You
    For Your hand to move
    Heal this barren land
    Come and make it new

    Jesus, You’re the life
    That is breaking through
    You’re breaking through

    The saints of old in ancient days
    They worked the ground
    that we reap from today

    So use our hands to cultivate
    The harvest that
    our children’s children taste
    We’re ready God, so send the rain

    Lord, we’ll follow You
    To unbroken earth
    On the path not used
    Where new hope is birthed

    We will work as one
    Holding to Your truth
    To Your truth

    Heal the ruined cities
    We destroyed with our own hands
    Bring us back together
    Let us see the promised land

    Pour out Your Spirit
    On this dry and thirsty ground
    O God of the harvest
    Could it be right here and now
    Could it be right here and now

    Open up the heavens,
    let Your rain fall down
    We are thirsty, we are thirsty

    Benediction

  • September 28, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. 

    • As we continue to dream together, we invite you to stand and stretch your arms upward 
    • Now, we invite you to stretch your arms wide as a symbol of openness to the dreams God has for you and for us as a church
    Call to Worship

    Like clay on a wheel, God forms us.
    We are created — and re-created,
    as the Artist imagines & shapes us.

    Our story is still being written
    by the creative Author of Life.
    May we learn to dream with God.
    Amen.

    Worship Songs

    Here For You

    Let our praise be Your welcome
    Let our songs be a sign
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    Let Your breath come from heaven
    Fill our hearts with Your life
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    To You our hearts are open
    Nothing here is hidden
    You are our one desire

    You alone are holy
    Only You are worthy
    God, let Your fire fall down

    Let our shout be Your anthem
    Your renown fill the skies
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    Let Your Word move in power
    Let what’s dead come to life
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    My Hallelujah

    Open up the doors again
    Let the King of glory in
    His Kingdom will never end
    Oh, I know that You are good

    Break the darkness with the light
    All the earth let praise arise
    Every dead place come alive
    Oh, I know that You are good
    Oh, I know that You are good

    You will have my hallelujah
    You alone the highest name
    All to You I surrender
    Every breath I take
    Make my life Your praise

    Oh, Spirit of the Living God
    Fire burning in my heart
    I’m wide awake to who You are
    Oh, I know that You are good
    Oh, I know that You are good

    You are my strength when I am weak
    You are my sight when I can’t see
    As praise goes up, I believe
    The walls are coming down

    Oh, when I was lost, You rescued me
    When I was bound, You set me free
    As praise goes up, I believe
    The walls are coming down

    Prayer of Confession

    God of love,
    Your compassion is so evident
    in our lives and all around us. 

    When we close our hearts to those in need;
    When choose comfort over generosity;
    When we tear down instead of build up;
    Forgive us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    Renew us, O God, by Your Spirit
    to bring justice and joy
    into the world You love.
    Amen. 

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Prayers of the People

    One of the blessings from our retreat was the dedicated time and space to be with each other — worshiping, eating, playing, and praying, especially with people we might not always get to spend time with. Please form a triad with people who you might not know as well. Have one person pray out loud for each of the following:  for your triad, for our church, and for the world. 

    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Women’s Bible Study: This Friday, October 3rd via Zoom!  
    • Mira Mesa Street Fair: This Saturday, October 4th. If you can join us for part of the day, we’ll be there from 9:00 am (setup) until about 4:00 pm (tear down). 
    • Office Space: Please join us in prayer as we look to establish an ongoing presence in the Mira Mesa area — and keep an eye out!
    • Community Connections: Let’s pray for and build up our connections with neighbors and our broader community!  Please continue to lift up our 10:02 prayer daily until Advent, that God would give us love & courage to invite friends to be a part of what God is doing in and through Anchor & Hope!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    Teach Us Your Ways

    Teach us Your ways… teach us Your ways
    As we learn from one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us Your ways

    Teach us to give… teach us to give
    Give ourselves for one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us to give

    Teach us to weep… teach us to weep
    Let us weep with one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us to weep

    Hallelujah, hallelujah
    Let us learn from one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us Your ways

    Scripture Reading

    Deuteronomy 10:16-21

    16 Circumcise, then, the foreskin of your heart, and do not be stubborn any longer. 17 For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who is not partial and takes no bribe, 18 who executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and who loves the strangers, providing them food and clothing. 19 You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. 20 You shall fear the Lord your God; him you shall serve; to him you shall hold fast; and by his name you shall swear. 21 He is your praise; he is your God who has done for you these great and awesome things that your own eyes have seen.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Image of a long banquet table with text overlaid, "The Dream of Belonging"

    The Dream of Belonging

    Pastor Dan

    Conversation Questions: 

    • How is immigration part of your life story? 
    • Has it changed over time?
    Worship Song

    Let Us Be Known

    Let us be known by our love
    In every word, in every deed
    Honor the Son

    Let our light shine in every eye
    Let us be known by our love

    For the glory of our Savior
    For the glory of our God
    For the glory of the Spirit
    Let us be known by our love

    Let us be known by our joy
    In every home, in every heart
    Sing to the Lord

    Let our lives show goodness and hope
    Let us be known by our joy

    For the glory of our Savior
    For the glory of our God
    For the glory of the Spirit
    Let us be known by our joy

    Let us be known by our peace
    In every town, in every tribe
    Jesus is King

    Let us go forth, heal and restore
    Let us be known by our peace

    For the glory of our Savior
    For the glory of our God
    For the glory of the Spirit
    Let us be known by our peace

    For the glory of our Savior
    For the glory of our God
    For the glory of the Spirit
    Let us be known by our love

    Benediction

  • September 21, 2025 • Retreat Day 2

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. At our retreat, we are recentering ourselves & our church around the dreams of God. Today’s centering practice is adapted from Cole Arthur Riley of Black Liturgies: 

    • Inhale: God, awaken my soul to beauty
    • Exhale:  I will dream again 
    Call to Worship

    Like clay on a wheel, God forms us.
    We are created — and re-created,
    as the Artist imagines & shapes us.

    Our story is still being written
    by the creative Author of Life.
    May we learn to dream with God.
    Amen.

    Worship Songs

    Great Things

    Come let us worship our King
    Come let us bow at His feet
    He has done great things

    See what our Savior has done
    See how His love overcomes
    He has done great things
    He has done great things

    O Hero of Heaven
    You conquered the grave
    You free every captive and break every chain
    O God, You have done great things

    We dance in Your freedom, awake and alive
    O Jesus, our Savior, Your name lifted high
    O God, You have done great things

    You’ve been faithful through every storm
    You’ll be faithful forevermore
    You have done great things

    And I know You will do it again
    For Your promise is “Yes and amen”
    You will do great things
    God, You do great things

    Great Are You Lord

    You give life
    You are love
    You bring light to the darkness

    You give hope
    You restore
    every heart that is broken
    And great are You, Lord

    It’s Your breath in our lungs
    So we pour out our praise
    We pour out our praise

    It’s Your breath in our lungs
    So we pour out our praise
    To You only

    All the earth will shout Your praise
    Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing
    Great are You, Lord

    Prayer of Confession

    O God, giver of all good dreams,
    How precious is Your steadfast love.
    In Your light, we see light.

    We confess that our vision is too small;
    even in our dreams, we’re afraid.
    Renew in us Your dreams of love & grace.
    Hear us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    Your righteousness is like mighty mountains;
    Your justice is like the great deep.
    May we flow in the river of Your dreams.
    Amen.

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Prayers of the People

    Take a moment to pray in triads. Please find people you haven’t had the chance to pray for or connect with yet at our retreat!

    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Women’s Bible Study: This Friday, September 26th in person!  
    • Office Space: Please join us in prayer as we look to establish an ongoing presence in the Mira Mesa area — and keep an eye out!
    • Community Connections: Let’s pray for and build up our connections with neighbors and our broader community! Please prayerfully consider asking a friend to visit our church and keep the Mira Mesa Street Fair (Sat, 10/4) in prayer!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Family Praise
    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    Here For You

    Let our praise be Your welcome
    Let our songs be a sign
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    Let Your breath come from heaven
    Fill our hearts with Your life
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    To You our hearts are open
    Nothing here is hidden
    You are our one desire

    You alone are holy
    Only You are worthy
    God, let Your fire fall down

    Let our shout be Your anthem
    Your renown fill the skies
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    Let Your Word move in power
    Let what’s dead come to life
    We are here for You, we are here for You

    Scripture Reading

    Luke 14:15-24

    15 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”

    16 Jesus replied: “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17 At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’

    18 “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’

    19 “Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’

    20 “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’

    21 “The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’

    22 “‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’

    23 “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full. 24 I tell you, not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.’”

    Isaiah 2:3-5

    3 Many peoples will come and say,
    “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,
    to the temple of the God of Jacob.
    He will teach us his ways,
    so that we may walk in his paths.”
    The law will go out from Zion,
    the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

    4 He will judge between the nations
    and will settle disputes for many peoples.
    They will beat their swords into plowshares
    and their spears into pruning hooks.
    Nation will not take up sword against nation,
    nor will they train for war anymore.

    5 Come, descendants of Jacob,
    let us walk in the light of the Lord.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Blurry image of a sunset over the ocean with text overlaid, "Dreams & Visions"

    The Dreams of God

    Pastor Dan

    Worship Song

    Canvas & Clay

    In my mother’s womb
    You formed me with Your hands
    Known and loved by You
    Before I took a breath

    When I doubt it, Lord, remind me
    I’m wonderfully made
    You’re an artist and a potter
    I’m the canvas and the clay

    You make all things work together
    For my future and for my good
    You make all things work together
    For Your glory and for Your name

    There’s a healing light
    Just beyond the clouds
    Though I’ve walked through fire
    I see clearly now

    I know nothing has been wasted
    No failure or mistake
    You’re an artist and a potter
    I’m the canvas and the clay

    Benediction

  • September 14, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. This month we are recentering ourselves & our church around the dreams of God. Today’s centering practice comes from Cole Arthur Riley of Black Liturgies:

    • Take a moment to warm your hands, then place them over your eyes, asking God to restore your vision for God’s world and your life 
    • Inhale: Hope is a portal 
    • Exhale: I let myself dream
    Call to Worship

    Like clay on a wheel, God forms us.
    We are created — and re-created,
    as the Artist imagines & shapes us.

    Our story is still being written
    by the creative Author of Life.
    May we learn to dream with God.
    Amen.

    Worship Songs

    Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly

    It all comes down to this
    What You require of me
    Love my neighbor as myself
    And You above all things

    Act justly, love mercy
    Walk humbly, with You God
    In all things, in all ways
    Walk humbly, with You God

    It all comes down to this
    To be Your hands and feet
    Good News to all the world
    The truth will set us free

    It’s beauty for ashes
    It’s mourning to dancing
    It’s closer and closer
    The Kingdom of heaven

    Years from now we’ll see
    The fruit our hands have sown
    Faith just like a seed
    The only way it grows

    Send the Rain

    Lord, we come to You
    Now with open hands
    Broken lives and dreams
    Washed up on the sand

    We’ve been beaten down
    But still we choose to stand
    We choose to stand

    Lord, we long for You
    For Your hand to move
    Heal this barren land
    Come and make it new

    Jesus, You’re the life
    That is breaking through
    You’re breaking through

    The saints of old in ancient days
    They worked the ground
    that we reap from today

    So use our hands to cultivate
    The harvest that
    our children’s children taste
    We’re ready God, so send the rain

    Lord, we’ll follow You
    To unbroken earth
    On the path not used
    Where new hope is birthed

    We will work as one
    Holding to Your truth
    To Your truth

    Heal the ruined cities
    We destroyed with our own hands
    Bring us back together
    Let us see the promised land

    Pour out Your Spirit
    On this dry and thirsty ground
    O God of the harvest
    Could it be right here and now
    Could it be right here and now

    Open up the heavens,
    let Your rain fall down
    We are thirsty, we are thirsty

    Prayer of Confession

    Creator God,
    You have searched us and You know us.
    Before we even call, You answer.

    Guide us to live justly;
    Open our hearts to Your mercy;
    Teach us to walk humbly with You;
    Hear us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    Renewing God,
    Forgive the ways we’ve fallen short;
    help us amend our future steps;
    And set us free to be Your people.
    Amen. 

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Prayers of the People

    After each phrase, let’s pray out loud: “Lord, have mercy” 

    For those suffering from violence, hatred, and war, especially children…  

    For all of creation, groaning under the weight of sin and waste… 

    For the emotional, spiritual, physical, and relational
    healing of ourselves and our loved ones… 

    For our friends who need to know Your love
    and the friendship of our Anchor & Hope community… 

    For our retreat and every time we gather to be
    a meaningful time of transformation, hope & dreaming… 

    For the Church worldwide to act justly, to love mercy,
    and to walk humbly with You… 

    Amen. 

    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Parents Meeting: After service today with our Director of Children’s Ministry, Ann Leong! 
    • Young Adult’s Bible Study: Please contact Pastor David if you’re interested — every other Thursday via Zoom at 5:30 pm. 
    • Women’s Bible Study: This Friday, September 19th via Zoom!  
    • Church Retreat this weekend! 
      • Dates: September 20th and 21st (Saturday and Sunday) 
      • Times: Saturday from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm-ish; Sunday at 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm-ish 
      • Registration Fees: $100/person for 6th grade & up; $50/person for 5th grade & below ($25 discount for each additional child)
    • Office Space: Please join us in prayer as we look to establish an ongoing presence in the Mira Mesa area — and keep an eye out!
    • Community Connections: Let’s pray for and build up our connections with neighbors and our broader community! Please prayerfully consider asking a friend to visit our church and keep the Mira Mesa Street Fair (Sat, 10/4) in prayer!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    Kingdom Come

    God, let Your kingdom come
    May Your will be done
    God, let Your kingdom come

    Earth is groaning and we are longing
    For Your kingdom to come
    All creation and all of heaven
    Join their voices as one

    Hope is stirring, joy arising
    As we look to the day
    When all injustice will bow
    And every voice will cry out
    Holy is Your name

    Lift up your heads, all the weak and the poor
    The Lord is at hand and His kingdom is yours

    Lift up your hearts, all who suffer and mourn
    The Lord is at hand and His kingdom is yours

    Lift up your eyes, all who hunger for more
    The Lord is at hand and His kingdom is yours

    Lift up a shout, let the earth hear your voice
    The Lord is at hand and His kingdom is yours

    I will build my life upon Your love
    It is a firm foundation
    I will put my trust in You alone
    And I will not be shaken

    Scripture Reading

    Isaiah 65:1-8

    1 Thus says the Lord:
    Maintain justice, and do what is right,
    for soon my salvation will come
    and my deliverance be revealed.

    2 Happy is the mortal who does this,
    the one who holds it fast,
    who keeps the Sabbath, not profaning it,
    and refrains from doing any evil.

    3 Do not let the foreigner joined to the Lord say,
    “The Lord will surely separate me from his people,”
    and do not let the eunuch say, “I am just a dry tree.”

    4 For thus says the Lord:
    To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,
    who choose the things that please me
    and hold fast my covenant,

    5 I will give, in my house and within my walls,
    a monument and a name
    better than sons and daughters;
    I will give them an everlasting name
    that shall not be cut off.

    6 And the foreigners who join themselves to the Lord,
    to minister to him, to love the name of the Lord,
    and to be his servants,
    all who keep the Sabbath and do not profane it
    and hold fast my covenant—

    7 these I will bring to my holy mountain
    and make them joyful in my house of prayer;
    their burnt offerings and their sacrifices
    will be accepted on my altar,
    for my house shall be called a house of prayer
    for all peoples.

    8 Thus says the Lord God,
    who gathers the outcasts of Israel:
    I will gather others to them
    besides those already gathered.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Silhouette of two people appearing to hold the sun, with text overlaid, "Dreaming Together"

    Dreaming Together

    Pastor Dan

    Conversation question: 

    • What do you think might be the dream of God for Anchor & Hope in the next 3 years or so? The next 20 years? 50 years? 
    • (Imagine yourself at that point of your life and think, what would you be so proud of our church accomplishing at that point?) 
    • Reminder: The dream of God is never meant to be only for ourselves — it’s always meant to be for the good of the world
    Worship Song

    Open Up (reprise)

    May Your love
    Cause us to open up
    Cause us to open up our hearts

    May Your light
    Cause us to shine so bright
    That we bring hope into the dark

    All that we do without love
    It means nothing
    Grant us the courage to give
    As You’re calling

    Make me an instrument
    Of Your peace
    Where there is hatred
    Let me sow love

    Where there is darkness
    Let me shine light and . . .

    Hope for the hopeless
    Your love is
    Strength in our weakness
    Your love is

    Benediction

  • September 7, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. 

    • Silently with one breath, say to God: I’m glad You’re here  
    • Silently with another breath, say to yourself: I’m glad I’m here 
    • Out loud to neighbors: I’m glad you’re here 
    Call to Worship

    Like clay on a wheel, God forms us.
    We are created — and re-created,
    as the Artist imagines & shapes us.

    Our story is still being written
    by the creative Author of Life.
    May we learn to dream with God.
    Amen.

    Worship Songs

    You Hold It All Together

    You come at the right time
    When I least expect it
    Never behind

    So why would I be surprised
    When You deliver every time?

    On mountaintops, You stay the same
    On valley low, You never change

    And I believe that I will see
    The goodness of the Lord
    I’m confident as seasons change
    Your faithfulness remains

    You go, You go before me
    To prepare a blessing
    You madе a way

    It’s more than I could imagine
    More than I can fathom
    Or comprehend

    God of my present
    God of my future
    You write my story
    You hold it all together 

    Cornerstone

    My hope is built on nothing less
    Than Jesus blood and righteousness
    I dare not trust the sweetest frame
    But wholly trust in Jesus name

    When darkness seems to hide His face
    I rest on His unchanging grace
    In every high and stormy gale
    My anchor holds within the veil

    Christ alone, Cornerstone
    Weak made strong; in the Savior’s love
    Through the storm, He is Lord
    Lord of all

    His oath, His covenant, His blood 
    Support me in the whelming flood 
    When all around my soul gives way 
    He then is all my hope and stay
    He then is all my hope and stay

    When He shall come with trumpet sound
    Oh, may I then in Him be found
    Dressed in His righteousness alone
    Faultless stand before the throne

    Prayer of Confession

    God our Creator,
    You know us better than anyone else.
    You created us in Your own image.

    When we deny Your image in others;
    When we fail to keep our promises;
    When we are stubborn and proud;
    Forgive us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    God of all,
    You created the world in beauty and love.
    May our lives declare Your goodness.
    Amen. 

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Prayers of the People

    After each phrase, let’s pray out loud: “Lord, have mercy” 

    For those suffering from violence, hatred, and war, especially children…  

    For all of creation, groaning under the weight of sin and waste… 

    For ourselves and our loved ones,
    to be strengthened, healed, and renewed… 

    For our friends who need to know Your love
    and the friendship of our Anchor & Hope community… 

    For renewed dreams, reinvigorated hearts,
    and restored lives in our church… 

    For the Church worldwide to act justly, to love mercy,
    and to walk humbly with You… 

    Amen. 

    Communion
    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Young Adult’s Bible Study: Please contact Pastor David if you’re interested — every other Thursday via Zoom at 5:30 pm.
    • Women’s Bible Study: Continues this Friday, September 12th in person. 
    • Parents Meeting: Next Sunday, September 14th. Please reach out to Ann Leong with any questions!
    • Church Retreat: 
      • Dates: September 20th and 21st (Saturday and Sunday) 
      • Times: Saturday from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm-ish; Sunday at 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm-ish 
      • Registration Fees: $100/person for 6th grade & up; $50/person for 5th grade & below ($25 discount for each additional child)
    • Office Space: Please join us in prayer as we look to establish an ongoing presence in the Mira Mesa area — and keep an eye out!
    • Community Connections: Let’s pray for and build up our connections with neighbors and our broader community! Please prayerfully consider asking a friend to visit our church and keep the Mira Mesa Street Fair (Sat, 10/4) in prayer!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    Lord I Need You

    Lord I come, I confess
    Bowing here, I find my rest

    Without You, I fall apart
    You’re the One 
    That guides my heart

    Lord I need You
    Oh I need You
    Every hour I need You

    My One defense
    My righteousness
    Oh God how I need You

    Where sin runs deep
    Your grace is more
    Where grace is found
    Is where You are

    And where You are
    Lord I am free
    Holiness is Christ in me

    So teach my song to rise to You
    When temptation comes my way
    When I cannot stand I’ll fall on You
    Jesus, You’re my hope and stay

    Scripture Reading

    Joel 2:28-32

    28 Then afterward I will pour out my spirit on all flesh;
    your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
    your old men shall dream dreams,
    and your young men shall see visions.

    29 Even on the male and female slaves,
    in those days I will pour out my spirit.

    30 I will show portents in the heavens and on the earth,
    blood and fire and columns of smoke. 

    31 The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood,
    before the great and terrible day of the Lord comes. 

    32 Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord
    shall be saved, for in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem
    there shall be those who escape, as the Lord has said,
    and among the survivors shall be those whom the Lord calls.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Image of a starry night sky with a lone tree, with text overlaid, "Dreams & Visions"

    Dreams & Visions

    Pastor Jeya

    Reflection Questions:

    • Think of a way that you feel rested; the places where you might feel inspired or alive.
    • What is it about it that you love?
    • Keep digging into this by asking the why of this down to the deepest root of it
    Worship Song

    Psalm 23 (I Am Not Alone)

    O Lord You’re my Shepherd
    You go before me
    Defender behind me
    I won’t fear

    I’m filled with anointing
    My cup’s overflowing
    Nothing can harm me
    I won’t fear

    Hallelujah, I am not alone
    You’re my comfort
    Always holds me close

    Lord, You always guide me
    Through mountains and valleys
    Your joy is refreshing
    It restores my soul

    Your mercy and goodness
    Gives me assurance
    That I’ll see Your glory
    Face to face

    Your Spirit lives within me
    So I will walk in Your peace
    Your Spirit lives within me
    Come lead me, Lord lead me

    Benediction

  • Reset Sunday Worship Guide • 08-31-25

    Image of a mountain peak with a sunrise sky, with text overlaid, "Reset Sunday"
    Centering Practice

    Take a moment to practice gratitude before God. Say out loud (whether you’re alone or with others) the following — and be specific!

    • 5 things you are thankful you can see
    • 4 things you are thankful you can taste
    • 3 things you are thankful you can hear
    • 2 things you are thankful you can smell
    • 1 thing you are thankful you can touch

    Read Psalm 34:8 out loud: Taste and see that the Lord is good!

    Worship Song

    I Need Words

    I need words
    As wide as sky
    I need a language large as
    This longing inside

    And I need a voice
    Bigger than mine
    And I need a song
    To sing You
    That I’ve yet to find

    I need You
    Oh I need You
    I need You
    Oh I need You
    To be here now
    To be here now
    To hear me now
    To hear me now

    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s continue to build a more creative, hope-filled world! Take a moment to text a friend (from our Anchor & Hope community or beyond) and let them know how they inspire you! You can even send PJ & PD a text message to say hello 🙂

    Kids Worship Song

    Fixin’ My Eyes on You

    I won’t turn left and I won’t turn right
    I will not stray from the path that’s right
    But I’ll keep on seeking
    And keep on reaching
    And follow, follow, follow Jesus Christ

    I’m fixin’ my eyes on You
    I’m fixin’ my eyes on You
    I’m fixin’ my eyes on You – only You!
    I’m fixin’ my eyes on You
    I’m fixin’ my eyes on You
    I’m fixin’ my eyes on You – only You!

    Kids Reflection

    This animated story is based on 1 John 3:16-20!

    Take a moment to ask your kids the following “I wonder” questions and have a short conversation together:

    • I wonder what felt important to you from today’s video?
    • I wonder how we can show love as a family to others?
    • I wonder what other important things you remember from the Bible, God’s Word?
    Prayer for Illumination

    Open our hearts and minds, O God,
    by your Holy Spirit’s power,
    to receive and share
    the transforming power
    of Your Good News.
    Amen.

    Scripture Reflection

    Read Psalm 119:176 out loud:

    I have gone astray like a lost sheep;
    seek out your servant,
    for I do not forget your commandments.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Reflection questions:

    • How is God shaping my story and who I am?
    • How am I being sought out by the Lord, especially in my everyday life?
    Worship Song

    The Prayer of St. Patrick

    I arise today by the mighty strength
    Of the blessed trinity
    For the three in one, Father, Spirit, Son
    Bind my heart with bravery
    You’re my breastplate and my shield

    Christ before me
    Christ behind me
    Christ within me
    All around me
    You’re the only armor
    that my soul will ever need
    Jesus You’re my victory
    You’re my everything
    Amen

    I can face this day by the matchless power
    Of the cross and empty grave
    For the spirit of resurrecting love
    Is alive in me today
    You’re alive in me today

    My pilot
    My captain
    My guide and my guardian
    Blessed be Your name
    My wisdom
    My wonder
    My father forevermore
    Blessed be Your name

    Closing Blessing

    Adapted from re:worship

    Just as God’s Word was sent into the world
    to heal and redeem,
    so God sends us into the world this day
    to be light and love, healing and hope.

    May the grace and peace
    of God the Creator,
    the Redeemer,
    and the Sustainer
    be with us always. Amen.

    ,

  • August 24, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. 

    • For the last month, we’ve been looking at how we read Scripture 
    • Today, as we begin our worship gathering, I invite you to hold a posture that represents how you want or need the Word of God to speak to you today (heart, eyes, ears, hands, feet)
    Call to Worship

    We gather together to seek Jesus,
    the Light of the World
    and the One who sets us free.

    We open our hearts, minds, and lives
    to hear the voice of Love.
    May the word of Christ dwell in us richly.
    Amen. 

    Worship Songs

    My Lighthouse

    In my wrestling and in my doubts
    In my failures You won’t walk out
    Your great love will lead me through
    You are the peace in my troubled sea
    You are the peace in my troubled sea

    In the silence You won’t let go
    In the questions Your truth will hold
    Your great love will lead me through
    You are the peace in my troubled sea
    You are the peace in my troubled sea

    My lighthouse, my lighthouse
    Shining in the darkness I will follow You
    My lighthouse. my lighthouse
    I will trust the promise
    You will carry me safe to shore
    Safe to shore

    I won’t fear what tomorrow brings
    With each morning I’ll rise and sing
    My God’s love will lead me through
    You are the peace in my troubled sea
    You are the peace in my troubled sea

    Fire before us You’re the brightest
    You will lead us through the storms

    Cornerstone

    My hope is built on nothing less
    Than Jesus blood and righteousness
    I dare not trust the sweetest frame
    But wholly trust in Jesus name

    When darkness seems to hide His face
    I rest on His unchanging grace
    In every high and stormy gale
    My anchor holds within the veil

    Christ alone, Cornerstone
    Weak made strong; in the Savior’s love
    Through the storm, He is Lord
    Lord of all

    His oath, His covenant, His blood 
    Support me in the whelming flood 
    When all around my soul gives way 
    He then is all my hope and stay
    He then is all my hope and stay

    When He shall come with trumpet sound
    Oh, may I then in Him be found
    Dressed in His righteousness alone
    Faultless stand before the throne

    Prayer of Confession

    O God, our strength and refuge,
    We’re grateful for Your lovingkindness
    and in need of Your truth and goodness.

    In Your love, restore our broken lives;
    By Your light, renew our clouded vision;
    Through Your justice, reawaken our hearts;
    Hear us, O God, we pray:

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    Creator, Christ, and Spirit,
    Revive our hope and energy,
    making us ready to answer Your call.
    Amen. 

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Prayers of the People

    We invite you to lift up someone you care for and love in the following way:
    “For ____________, as they _____________________”

    And the church will respond, “Lord, have mercy” 

    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Women’s Bible Study: Continues this Friday, August 29th at Jennifer’s place. Please talk to PJ if you have any questions! 
    • Youth Group: Today with Uncle Will! 
    • Young Adult’s Bible Study: Please contact Pastor David if you’re interested — every other Thursday via Zoom at 5:30 pm.
    • Reset Sunday: We will not gather in community next Sunday 8/31. Keep an eye out for our worship guide!
    • Church Retreat: 
      • Dates: September 20th and 21st (Saturday and Sunday) 
      • Times: Saturday from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm-ish; Sunday at 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm-ish 
      • Registration Fees: $100/person for 6th grade & up; $50/person for 5th grade & below ($25 discount for each additional child)
    • Office Space: Please join us in prayer as we look to establish an ongoing presence in the Mira Mesa area — and keep an eye out!
    • Community Connections: Let’s pray for and build up our connections with neighbors and our broader community! Please prayerfully consider asking a friend to visit our church and keep the Mira Mesa Street Fair (Sat, 10/4) in prayer!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    Teach Us Your Ways

    Teach us Your ways… teach us Your ways
    As we learn from one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us Your ways

    Teach us to give… teach us to give
    Give ourselves for one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us to give

    Teach us to weep… teach us to weep
    Let us weep with one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us to weep

    Hallelujah, hallelujah
    Let us learn from one another
    Learn to love each other
    Teach us Your ways

    Scripture Reading

    Psalm 119:137-168

    137 You are righteous, O Lord,
    and your judgments are right.
    138 You have appointed your decrees in righteousness
    and in all faithfulness.
    139 My zeal consumes me
    because my foes forget your words.
    140 Your promise is well tried,
    and your servant loves it.
    141 I am small and despised,
    yet I do not forget your precepts.
    142 Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
    and your law is the truth.
    143 Trouble and anguish have come upon me,
    but your commandments are my delight.
    144 Your decrees are righteous forever;
    give me understanding that I may live.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Image of a hand holding a camera lens with text overlaid, "Holy Perspective"

    Holy Perspective

    Pastor Dan

    Conversation Question: What do you think is the point of the Bible? 

    Worship Song

    Everything

    God in my living, there in my breathing
    God in my waking, God in my sleeping

    God in my resting, there in my working
    God in my thinking, God in my speaking

    Be my everything… be my everything…
    Be my everything… be my everything…

    God in my hoping, there in my dreaming
    God in my watching, God in my waiting

    God in my laughing, there in my weeping
    God in my hurting, God in my healing

    Christ in me, Christ in me
    Christ in me, the hope of glory
    You are everything

    Christ in me, Christ in me
    Christ in me, the hope of glory
    Be my everything… be my everything…

    Benediction

  • August 17, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths. Today’s practice is adapted from Black Liturgies by Cole Arthur Riley: 

    • “The world is full of painful stories. Sometimes it seems as though there aren’t any other kind. And yet I found myself thinking how beautiful that glint of water was through the trees.” — Octavia Butler
    • Inhale: We hold onto wonder 
    • Exhale: We bear witness to goodness
    Call to Worship

    We gather together to seek Jesus,
    the Light of the World
    and the One who sets us free.

    We open our hearts, minds, and lives
    to hear the voice of Love.
    May the word of Christ dwell in us richly.
    Amen. 

    Worship Songs

    Be Thou My Vision w/ Open The Eyes

    Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
    Open the eyes of my heart
    I want to see You
    I want to see You

    Be thou my Vision
    O Lord of my heart
    Naught be all else to me
    Save that Thou art

    Thou my best thought
    By day or by night
    Waking or sleeping 
    Thy Presence, my Light

    Riches I heed not
    Nor vain empty praise
    Thou mine inheritance
    Now and always

    Thou and Thou only 
    Be first in my heart
    High King of Heaven 
    My treasure, Thou art

    O God, be my everything
    Be my delight
    Be Jesus, my glory
    My soul satisfied

    High King of Heaven
    When victory is won
    May I reach Heaven’s joys 
    O bright Heaven’s sun

    Heart of my own heart
    Whatever befall
    Still be my vision
    O Ruler of all

    Called Me Higher

    I could just sit
    I could just sit and wait for all Your goodness
    Hope to feel Your presence

    And I could just stay
    I could just stay right where I am
    and hope to feel You
    Hope to feel something again

    But You have called me higher
    You have called me deeper
    And I’ll go where You will lead me Lord

    And I could hold on
    I could hold on to who I am and never let You
    Change me from the inside

    And I could be safe
    I could be safe here in Your arms
    and never leave home
    Never let these walls down

    And I will be Yours
    I will be Yours for all my life

    Prayer of Confession

    Good Shepherd,
    We thank You for Your tender care
    for each of us, and for the world.

    Instead of anger, give us kindness;
    in place of greed, make us generous;
    rather than apathy, fill us with love;
    Hear us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    God our true Gardener,
    plant, grow, and tend within us
    the seeds of the Spirit-filled life.
    Amen.

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Commissioning Service

    Today, we come together as a church to pray for and to commission Deleine to serve as a Young Adult Volunteer in New York City, working with Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations for the next year.

    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Women’s Bible Study: Starts this Friday, August 22nd at 7:30 pm at Anne Kim’s place. Please talk to PJ if you have any questions! 
    • Youth Group: Next Sunday 8/24 during service, led by Uncle Will! 
    • Young Adult’s Bible Study: Please contact Pastor David if you’re interested — every other Thursday via Zoom at 5:30 pm.
    • Reset Sunday: August is a month with 5 Sundays, which means we will not gather in community on Sunday 8/31.
    • Church Retreat: 
      • Dates: September 20th and 21st (Saturday and Sunday) 
      • Times: Saturday from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm-ish; Sunday at 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm-ish 
      • Registration Fees: $100/person for 6th grade & up; $50/person for 5th grade & below ($25 discount for each additional child)
    • Office Space: Please join us in prayer as we look to establish an ongoing presence in the Mira Mesa area — and keep an eye out!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    Build My Life

    Worthy of every song we could ever sing
    Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring
    Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe
    We live for You

    Jesus, the Name above every other name
    Jesus, the only One who could ever save
    Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe
    We live for You, we live for You

    Holy, there is no one like You
    There is none beside You
    Open up my eyes in wonder

    And show me who You are
    And fill me with Your heart
    And lead me in Your love
    To those around me

    I will build my life upon Your love
    It is a firm foundation
    I will put my trust in You alone
    And I will not be shaken

    Scripture Reading

    Psalm 119:89-93, 96-97, 103-105, 111-114, 127-130, 134-135

    89 The Lord exists forever;
    your word is firmly fixed in heaven.
    90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
    you have established the earth, and it stands fast.
    91 By your appointment they stand today,
    for all things are your servants.
    92 If your law had not been my delight,
    I would have perished in my misery.
    93 I will never forget your precepts,
    for by them you have given me life.
    . . . . . 

    96 I have seen a limit to all perfection,
    but your commandment is exceedingly broad.
    97 Oh, how I love your law!
    It is my meditation all day long.
    . . . . . 

    103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
    sweeter than honey to my mouth!
    104 Through your precepts I get understanding;
    therefore I hate every false way.
    105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
    and a light to my path.
    . . . . . 

    111 Your decrees are my heritage forever;
    they are the joy of my heart.
    112 I incline my heart to perform your statutes
    forever, to the end.
    113 I hate the double-minded,
    but I love your law.
    114 You are my hiding place and my shield;
    I hope in your word.
    . . . . . 

    127 Truly I love your commandments
    more than gold, more than fine gold.
    128 Truly I direct my steps by all your precepts;
    I hate every false way.
    129 Your decrees are wonderful;
    therefore my soul keeps them.
    130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
    it imparts understanding to the simple.
    . . . . . 

    134 Redeem me from human oppression,
    that I may keep your precepts.
    135 Make your face shine upon your servant,
    and teach me your statutes.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Image of a starry night sky over a mountain with text overlaid, "Delight, Discernment, Direction"

    Delight, Discernment, Direction

    Pastor Jeya

    Conversation Questions 

    • How does what I’m reading make me feel more free to be fully alive? Fully free? Fully loving? Fully joyful?   
    • What is this reading requiring of me that I can become that way? 
    Worship Song

    Open Space w/ Make Room

    I will make room for You
    To do whatever You want to
    To do whatever You want to

    Pull me in closer
    Close to your heart
    May I be a pure reflection
    of all You are

    Love that is patient
    Love that is kind
    And love that keeps no offenses
    or wrongs in mind

    Make me like Jesus
    Make me like Jesus

    My heart is an open space
    For You to come and have Your way
    I’m open, I’m open

    You’re faithful to find me
    Right where I am
    Though even in my wandering
    You call me friend

    And mercy receives me
    and lifts me to my feet
    And I’m caught up in
    the wonder and the mystery

    Of knowing Jesus
    Of knowing Jesus

    Benediction

  • August 10, 2025 • Worship liturgy

    Centering Practice

    We invite you to slow down, breathe, and connect with God, each other, and yourself. Begin by closing our eyes and taking several slow, deep breaths

    • Author Morgan Harper Nichols reminds us, “There is a reason the sky gets dark at night — we were not meant to see everything all the time. We were meant to rest and trust even in the darkness”
    • Inhale: The world seems dim
    • Exhale: But we dream in the dark
    Call to Worship

    We gather together to seek Jesus,
    the Light of the World
    and the One who sets us free.

    We open our hearts, minds, and lives
    to hear the voice of Love.
    May the word of Christ dwell in us richly.
    Amen. 

    Worship Songs

    Oh Our Lord + Center

    Oh Christ be the center of our lives
    Be the place we fix our eyes
    Be the center of our lives

    We behold the breaking dawn
    The light that shines over everyone
    We look to You, we long for You, oh Lord

    We behold the rising sun
    The earth awaits, Your hope has come
    We look to You, we long for You, oh Lord

    Oh, oh, oh, our Lord
    Oh, oh, oh, our Lord
    How majestic is Your name in all the earth

    We behold the falling rain
    Like waters rise, flood this place
    We reach for You, we cling to You, oh Lord

    Oh, Your name is a light in the darkness
    Oh, Your name is the word of truth
    Oh Your name, oh Your name

    Cares Chorus

    I cast all my cares upon You
    I lay all of my burdens down at Your feet

    Anytime I don’t know what to do
    I will cast all my cares upon You

    Prayer of Confession

    God of hope & promise,
    Your love is always steadfast
    and Your grace abounds around us.

    When we feel overwhelmed and lose faith;
    For our broken relationships;
    In our grief, sorrow, and despair;
    Hear us, O God, we pray: 

    — Moment of silent prayer — 

    Light of the World,
    direct and guide our steps.
    Free us to live as Your people,
    for the life of the world You love.
    Amen. 

    Assurance of God’s Love
    Blessing of the Backpacks
    Offering Prayer
    Announcements
    • Thanks for worshiping with us today! We hope you experience meaningful connection with God and others in our community. If you’re visiting for the first time today, we’d love to get to know you better. Please take home a visitor’s card with QR code so that we can stay in touch & build a relationship!
    • Reset Sunday: August is a month with 5 Sundays, which means we will not gather in community on Sunday, August 31st.
    • Church Retreat: Our retreat is coming up next month on September 20th and 21st (Saturday and Sunday). We’ll be in town at Marina Village. 
    • Women’s Bible Study: Starting up this month! Please talk to PJ if you’re interested in joining.
    • Young Adult’s Bible Study: Please contact Pastor David if you’re interested — every other Thursday via Zoom at 5:30 pm.
    • Office Space: Please join us in prayer as we look to establish an ongoing presence in the Mira Mesa area — and keep an eye out!
    Passing of the Peace

    Let’s greet each other at this time! 

    Blessing of the Children
    Worship Song

    You Keep on Getting Better + Lord I Need You

    You are good
    In the morning I sing
    You are good

    In the evening I sing
    You are good
    You are good to me

    I will sing of Your goodness
    I will sing of Your love
    Though the seasons come quickly
    You have always been enough

    Though the night may get darker
    Though the waiting seems long
    You have always been faithful
    To remind me of Your love

    You have always been patient
    You have always been kind
    You’re consistent through the ages
    Oh what a friend of mine

    So I’ll remind my soul to bless You
    Standing firm upon Your truth
    Knowing You cannot be shaken
    I’ve seen what You can do

    So teach my song to rise to You
    When temptation comes my way
    When I cannot stand I’ll fall on You
    Jesus, You’re my hope and stay

    Scripture Reading

    Psalm 119:49-88

    49 Remember your word to your servant,
    in which you have made me hope.
    50 This is my comfort in my distress,
    that your promise gives me life.
    51 The arrogant utterly deride me,
    but I do not turn away from your law.
    52 When I think of your ordinances from of old,
    I take comfort, O Lord.
    53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked,
    those who forsake your law.
    54 Your statutes have been my songs
    wherever I make my home.
    55 I remember your name in the night, O Lord,
    and keep your law.
    56 This blessing has fallen to me,
    for I have kept your precepts.

    57 The Lord is my portion;
    I promise to keep your words.
    58 I implore your favor with all my heart;
    be gracious to me according to your promise.
    59 When I think of your ways,
    I turn my feet to your decrees;
    60 I hurry and do not delay
    to keep your commandments.
    61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me,
    I do not forget your law.
    62 At midnight I rise to praise you,
    because of your righteous ordinances.
    63 I am a companion of all who fear you,
    of those who keep your precepts.
    64 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
    teach me your statutes.

    65 You have dealt well with your servant,
    O Lord, according to your word.
    66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
    for I believe in your commandments.
    67 Before I was humbled I went astray,
    but now I keep your word.
    68 You are good and do good;
    teach me your statutes.
    69 The arrogant smear me with lies,
    but with my whole heart I keep your precepts.
    70 Their hearts are callous and unfeeling,
    but I delight in your law.
    71 It is good for me that I was humbled,
    so that I might learn your statutes.
    72 The law of your mouth is better to me
    than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

    73 Your hands have made and fashioned me;
    give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
    74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,
    because I have hoped in your word.
    75 I know, O Lord, that your judgments are right
    and that in faithfulness you have humbled me.
    76 Let your steadfast love become my comfort
    according to your promise to your servant.
    77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live,
    for your law is my delight.
    78 Let the arrogant be put to shame,
    for they have subverted me with guile;
    as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.
    79 Let those who fear you turn to me,
    so that they may know your decrees.
    80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes,
    so that I may not be put to shame.

    81 My soul languishes for your salvation;
    I hope in your word.
    82 My eyes fail with watching for your promise;
    I ask, “When will you comfort me?”
    83 For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,
    yet I have not forgotten your statutes.
    84 How long must your servant endure?
    When will you judge those who persecute me?
    85 The arrogant have dug pitfalls for me;
    they flout your law.
    86 All your commandments are enduring;
    I am persecuted without cause; help me!
    87 They have almost made an end of me on earth,
    but I have not forsaken your precepts.
    88 In your steadfast love spare my life,
    so that I may keep the decrees of your mouth.

    Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
    Together: Thanks be to God.

    Sermon
    Image of lit paper lanterns floating into the night sky with text overlaid, "Hope in the dark"

    Hope in the Dark

    Pastor Dan

    Worship Song

    Lord I Need You + Turn Your Eyes

    Turn your eyes upon Jesus
    Look full in His wonderful face
    And the things of earth
    will grow strangely dim
    In the light of His glory and grace

    Teach my song to rise to You
    When temptation comes my way
    When I cannot stand I’ll fall on You
    Jesus, You’re my hope and stay

    Lord I need You, Oh I need You
    Every hour I need You
    My One defense, my righteousness
    Oh God how I need You

    Benediction