Upcoming Sunday Morning Information

Sunday, October 20^th Information
Pentecost Autumn/November Theme (2^nd half of Pentecost)

Living out the Kingdom with a generous spirit

Theme Write-up written by Matthew Reece, Director of Music Ministries

As we conclude the Pentecost season, we are reminded that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit empowers us to live as citizens of God’s Kingdom. “Living out the Kingdom with a generous spirit” calls us to embody the generosity of God in our daily lives, reflecting the abundance of His love and grace. The Kingdom of God is not just a future promise but a present reality, manifest in our willingness to give freely—of our time, resources, and compassion. Just as the early church shared everything in common and no one was in need, we are invited to continue this legacy of selfless giving, ensuring that our communities are marked by care, kindness, and mutual support.

This theme challenges us to see generosity not as a mere act of giving, but as a lifestyle rooted in the Kingdom values of justice, mercy, and humility. When we live with a generous spirit, we mirror the heart of Christ, who gave His all for us. This generosity transcends material wealth; it includes offering forgiveness, extending grace, and providing encouragement. As we live out the Kingdom in this way, we become living testimonies of God’s love, drawing others into the transformative power of His Kingdom. Let us, therefore, embrace this call to generosity, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in building a world that reflects the generosity of our Savior.

Altarscape

Julie, Thank you for the beautiful altarscape for the season. Let it remind us that the Holy Spirit is living within all of us; we should spread the good news to all.

Ardor (Worship Musicians)

The musicians rehearse from 9:00 – 9:45 am every Sunday morning. All are welcome! The musicians for worship can find the service orders and music in the crate on the back pew in the sanctuary for each week of the month. Contact the office if you plan to help lead worship.

Sunday School

Sunday school meets at 9:00 – 9:45 am in the fellowship hall (downstairs). This is a multigenerational Sunday school where we will dig deeper into our faith walk using the series titled “The Chosen”.

Worship Information

Join us in-person for the Worship Service at 10:00 am on Sunday where we will celebrate the 21^st Sunday after Pentecost. We broadcast the worship service via Facebook Live if you are unable to attend in person (https://www.facebook.com/allsaintsdavenport).

If you would like the words for the worship service, contact the office (office@allsaintsdavenport.org) to request the information.

Sunday’s gospel starts with disciples obsessing over who will be closest to Jesus, leading to Jesus teaching his followers about God’s take on importance and power. Here Jesus makes it explicit that the reversal of values in God’s community is a direct challenge to the values of the dominant culture, where wielding power over others is what makes you great. When we pray “your kingdom come” we are praying for an end to tyranny and oppression. We pray this gathered around the cross, a sign of great shame transformed to be the sign of great honor and service.

Sovereign God, you turn your greatness into goodness for all the peoples on earth. Shape us into willing servants of your kingdom, and make us desire always and only your will, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen

Isaiah 53:4-12 – The suffering servant

This reading is from the last of four passages in Isaiah that are often called “servant songs.” Christians are probably most familiar with this servant song. In light of Christian faith, the servant’s healing ministry and redemptive suffering are understood to be fulfilled in the life and death of Christ.

Psalm 91:9-16 – You have made the Lord your refuge, and the Most High your habitation. (Ps. 91:9)
Hebrews 5:1-10 – Through suffering Christ becomes the source of salvation

Using imagery from scripture and from Jewish worship practices, Jesus is presented as the great high priest who was obedient to God’s saving plan. Through his suffering and death he has become the source of eternal salvation.

Mark 10:35-45 – Warnings to ambitious disciples

On the way to Jerusalem the disciples ask Jesus to grant them seats of honor. Jesus responds by announcing that he and his followers will “rule” through self-giving service.

Fellowship Time

You are invited to stay after worship for refreshments and fellowship time in the gathering space.