“My kingdom is not from this world” - Rev Stuart Bell

​This morning’s reading starts, “then Pilate entered the headquarters again”. It’s clearly part of the story of the passion of Jesus and your first reaction might have been, “why has he chosen a reading from Jesus’ passion just as everybody is getting ready for Christmas, for Jesus birth.”

​StF 175 Light of the world you stepped down into darkness sung by Maranatha Kid's Praise Company. Words & Music Tim Hughes © 2000 Thankyou Music.

​ *Prayers
Jesus, while we acknowledge you as King, we know that you are a king unlike any earthly king. A king unlike any that we could imagine, for when we think of kings we think of power and privilege, trumpets and fanfare, palaces, and riches.
And yet you left heaven to meet us your creation on earth. Choose a stable over a palace. And a cross in death.
You are a king who invites all to come as they are whether rich or poor; busy and hassled; lonely and bored; happy and joyful. You are always happy to see us even in our reluctance, always anxious to speak to us to remind us of your great love for us.
And knowing that you love us we bring our confessions to you,
For the times we have placed ourselves above others and above you,
For the times we have abused our positions and bent the rules to suit ourselves,
For the times we have looked down on others,
We are truly sorry and ask for your forgiveness.

Even during difficult times, God is with us, loving and forgiving us. Let us receive that love and forgiveness now.
Amen.

​The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours. Now and for ever.
Amen.

Gospel: John 18: 33-37 (link to this passage on Biblegateway)

​Stf 157 God has spoken – by his prophets, George Wallace Briggs (1875–1959) organ played and video produced by G. R. Dohrmann

​Address: “My kingdom is not from this world” - Rev Stuart Bell

​ Our Lord, you stood in Pilate’s hall Music by Carl Gotthilf Gläser, lyrics by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. Sung as part of the online worship service for July 12, 2020 from Peace Hill Christian Fellowship

​Words of Hymn 'Our Lord, you stood in Pilate’s hall'

 *Prayers of Intercession
Father God,
As we have thought about kings, we think of those who rule and have power and influence. We pray for our Queen and government, for politicians and those in big business. May they make wise and just decisions and remember that they are responsible to others and to you.

We pray for those who are rich and famous that they may keep in touch with reality and use their fame and wealth both for others as themselves.

We pray for those people who are our role models, whom we look up to and admire, we thank you for those people who have helped us make wise decisions. May they know your love and support.

We pray for all who feel that they are nobody – maybe because of lack of wealth, status, or due to an illness or disability. Let them know your healing and love, through our words and actions, for everyone is of worth to you.

We pray for ourselves, for we too will be special to others, stars in their eyes, we pray that we may live up to the best that we are able with your help, depending on your grace and strength day by day.
Amen.

​ StF 272 From heaven you came, helpless babe, Sung by Pierre-Nicolas De Katow, Christine Reymond, written by Graham Kendrick. Copyright © 1983 Kingsway’s Thankyou Music

​*Blessing
As we go into this next week may we know God’s love, strength, and guidance.
Amen.

​*Original Materials by Yvette Edwards, Local Preacher in the Newport and Lower Wye circuit.
This resource is administrated by Ministries: Vocations and Worship in the Connexional Team.