September 14, 2025 - A Special Sunday of Worship and Music

From the first welcome, the tone of the service was one of warmth, openness, and shared joy. Children’s voices and movement were not only tolerated but embraced as part of the congregation’s living soundscape, reminding us that worship is not confined to polished performance but is a space where faith is formed in real time.

Musically, the service unfolded with grace and intentionality. The gathering song, Come, Let Us Worship God from Dancing at the Harvest, set a celebratory tone that paired well with the Genesis readings. 

The Children's Sermon song "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" was both inviting and grounding, helping prepare the assembly to hear the familiar but weighty story of Abraham and Isaac. It expressed the childlike confidence that allows our hearts to be attuned to God’s promises.

 Later, the Gospel acclamation Return to the Lord (from Tree of Life) and the offertory Come, Let Us Bring echoed this theme of trust and provision, layering scriptural depth with melodic beauty. The call and response structure Marty Haugen employed throughout this setting was executed perfectly by Chris and Marilyn with help from Tini, Suzi, and Gary.

The congregation’s voice was never overshadowed by the leadership; instead, the music wove seamlessly into the liturgy, supporting rather than distracting from the texts. The hymn of the day, Here I Am, Lord (ELW 574), was a particularly moving moment of response after Pastor Emilie’s message. It allowed the community to voice their willingness to serve in the wake of Abraham’s trial and God’s providence.

Musicians Chris and Marilyn particularly deserve special note. Their performance was described by many as “seamless and balanced,” with listeners highlighting the natural chemistry between them. The interplay of their voices and accompaniment brought a sense of ease and harmony, underscoring the unity of the congregation’s prayer. Their music felt less like a performance and more like a gift, offered humbly to God and shared generously with the community.

The pair performed “He Looked Beyond My Fault (And Saw My Need)” for Communion, the power of each built up the quiet intensity of the music. It was a simple and fitting reminder that worship on earth is always a foretaste of the great song already being sung in glory. 

They ended with an equally powerful "Shout to the Lord". Overall, the service’s music was not only beautiful but purposeful. It carried the themes of promise, provision, and trust, and it invited the assembly to enter deeply into the story of God’s people. Balanced, seamless, and filled with good chemistry. This was worship that nourished both spirit and community.