Delaware Maryland Synod

Lenten Worship Non-Lectionary

Midweek Services for Lent, 2015

Week 1 – Creation of the World

Focus

Human beings were created at the end so that they could take care of Earth’s garden that God had created; indeed so that they could serve and preserve it.

“Have dominion over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over the cattle and wild animals of the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth” (Genesis 1:26). They were to have dominion. The Hebrew word for dominion does not mean domination or exploitation but to take responsibility for, to protect and to serve, with earth as the domain for which humans were responsible. As a ruler over Israel would have responsibility to see that the people were protected – that justice was done for the poor, the widows, and the orphans – so humans were, and are, to care for the earth.

Scripture

Genesis 1:1-2:3 The Creation of the World

Responsive Reading

Psalm 8

1O LORD, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens.

2Out of the mouths of babes and infants you have founded a bulwark because of your foes, to silence the enemy and the avenger.

3When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,

the moon and the stars that you have established; 4what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?

5Yet you have made them a little lower than God, and crowned them with glory and honor.

6You have given them dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under their feet,

7all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field,

8the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas.

9O LORD, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

Contemporary Hymn

God of Wonders by Marc Byrd and Steve Hindalong

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYBehBWgGPY

Lord of all creation Of water, earth, and sky The heavens are Your tabernacle Glory to the Lord on High God of wonders, beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy Lord of heaven and earth (2X) Early in the morning I will celebrate the light And as I stumble through the darkness I will call Your name by night God of wonders, beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy Lord of heaven and earth (2X)

Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth (3X) God of wonders, beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy Precious Lord, reveal Your heart to me Father hold me, hold me The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy, holy, holy Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth (6X)

Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth

Early in the morning I will celebrate the light and as I stumble through the darkness I will call your name by night

God of wonders beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy The universe declares your majesty You are holy, holy Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth

hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth

God of wonders beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy Precious Lord reveal your heart to me Father holy, holy the universe declares your majesty you are holy, holy, holy, holy

hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth

Traditional Hymn

ELW #713 Earth and All Stars

Prayer

Heavenly Father, you created the earth and all its inhabitants and you gave us the awesome responsibility to care for it. During this season of Lent, give us the strength and courage to sacrifice our wants for the needs of your creation. Make us aware of the impact our actions have on your Creation and bring healing to the earth where we have damaged it. Amen.

Fact Sheet

Climate change is the single biggest environmental and humanitarian crisis of our time. The Earth's atmosphere is overloaded with heat-trapping carbon dioxide, which threatens large-scale disruptions in climate with disastrous consequences.

Here's what the first six months of 2012 brought:

The hottest January to June ever recorded in the continental United States. More than 22,000 daily high temperature records tied or broken. The largest drought declaration in over 50 years, with more than two-thirds of the continental

United States in drought at the end of July. One of the most destructive freak derecho storms in history. Fires in Colorado that have destroyed more than 700 homes.

Unfortunately, the first half of 2012 is not the exception. It's becoming the new normal. In 2011, for instance, an unprecedented 14 disastrous weather events resulted in an estimated $53 billion in damage –- not including health costs. But the trend goes back much further. In fact, the 13 warmest years ever recorded have occurred since 1997, according to the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization. June 2012 also marks the 328th consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average.

(Source: National Resources Defense Council NRDC)

Our Response

There is a concept of environmental tithing that is relevant to our vocation as stewards of creation. Most people are familiar with the biblical concept of tithing, the giving of a “tenth.” The biblical tithe has been used as a marker of responsible stewardship. This tenth is given back to God—to the church, to the poor, to other causes deemed expressions of God’s will—as a symbol that the whole belongs to God. We can also apply the tithe to the stewardship of our personal resources of Earth. Can we reduce our electrical use by ten percent? Can we reduce the gas for heating by ten percent? Can we reduce the water we use by ten percent? Can we eat ten percent less food that comes from a distance? Can we eat fewer meals with meat? Can we travel ten percent less than usual? Can we invest a tenth of our

financial resources in funds that contribute to sustainability? Can we set other goals to reduce our impact on the environment by a tenth—or more? And if we can, could we then contribute the money saved toward further efforts at restoring Earth? Tithing is just a beginning as we contemplate all we can do on a daily basis at home, at work, and in society to foster and maintain a sustainable world.

Week 2 – Land

Focus

In Genesis, God creates Adam from the adamah (earth) and human beings are commanded to care for it.

On Ash Wednesday, we are reminded ritually with the words, “Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return.”

Land was the tangible sign of a sacred covenant between God and Israel.

The land is a “new Eden” where God will pitch his tent (tabernacle) and walk among the people.

Scripture

Gen 15:18 On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates.”

Lev 20:24 But I have said to you: You shall inherit their land, and I will give it to you to possess, a land flowing with milk and honey. I am the LORD your God; I have separated you from the peoples.

Deut 8:7-20

For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land, a land with flowing streams, with springs and underground waters welling up in valleys and hills, a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey, a land where you may eat bread without scarcity, where you will lack nothing, a land whose stones are iron and from whose hills you may mine copper.

You shall eat your fill and bless the LORD your God for the good land that he has given you. Take care that you do not forget the LORD your God, by failing to keep his commandments, his ordinances, and his statutes, which I am commanding you today. When you have eaten your fill and have built fine houses and live in them, and when your herds and flocks have multiplied, and your silver and gold is multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied, then do not exalt yourself, forgetting the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery, who led you through the great and terrible wilderness, an arid wasteland with poisonous snakes and scorpions. He made water flow for you from flint rock, and fed you in the wilderness with manna that your ancestors did not know, to humble you and to test you, and in the end to do you good. Do not say to yourself, “My power and the might of my own hand have gotten me this wealth.” But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, so that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your ancestors, as he is doing today. If you do forget the LORD your God and follow other gods to serve and worship them, I solemnly warn you today that you shall surely perish. Like the nations that the LORD is destroying before you, so shall you perish, because you would not obey the voice of the LORD your God.

Responsive Reading

Psalm 104 verses 1-15

1Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, you are very great. You are clothed with honor and majesty,

2wrapped in light as with a garment. You stretch out the heavens like a tent,

3you set the beams of your chambers on the waters, you make the clouds your chariot, you ride on the wings of the wind,

4you make the winds your messengers, fire and flame your ministers. 5You set the earth on its foundations, so that it shall never be shaken. 6You cover it with the deep as with a garment; the waters stood above the mountains. 7At your rebuke they flee; at the sound of your thunder they take to flight. 8They rose up to the mountains, ran down to the valleys to the place that you appointed for them. 9You set a boundary that they may not pass, so that they might not again cover the earth. 10You make springs gush forth in the valleys; they flow between the hills, 11giving drink to every wild animal; the wild donkeys quench their thirst. 12By the streams the birds of the air have their habitation; they sing among the branches. 13From your lofty abode you water the mountains; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work. 14You cause the grass to grow for the cattle, and plants for people to use, to bring forth food from the earth, 15and wine to gladden the human heart, oil to make the face shine, and bread to strengthen the human heart.

Contemporary Hymn

“Indescribable” by Laura Story

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e00JWpre67U

From the highest of heights to the depths of the seaCreation's revealing Your majestyFrom the colors of fall to the fragrance of springEvery creature unique in the song that it singsAll exclaiming

Indescribable, uncontainableYou placed the stars in the skyAnd You know them by nameYou are amazing, God

All powerful, untamableAwestruck we fall to our kneesAs we humbly proclaimYou are amazing, God

Who has told every lightning bolt where it should goOr seen heavenly storehouses laden with snowWho imagined the sun and gives source to its lightYet, conceals it to bring us the coolness of nightNone can fathom

Indescribable, uncontainableYou placed the stars in the skyAnd You know them by nameYou are amazing, God

All powerful, untamableAwestruck we fall to our kneesAs we humbly proclaimYou are amazing, GodYou are amazing, God

Indescribable, uncontainableYou placed the stars in the skyAnd You know them by nameYou are amazing God

All powerful, untamableAwestruck we fall to our kneesAs we humbly proclaimYou are amazing God

Indescribable, uncontainableYou placed the stars in the skyAnd You know them by nameYou are amazing, God

Incomparable, unchangeableYou see the depths of my heartAnd You love me the sameYou are amazing, GodYou are amazing, God

Traditional Hymn

ELW #824 This is My Father’s World

Prayer

Heavenly Father, you have given us a land flowing with milk and honey, but we have not taken care of it or used it wisely. Forgive us when we are careless and put our needs ahead of the needs of all you have created. Restore the land where we have damaged it by strip mining, over-farming, over-development, fracking, drilling, and many other ways. Teach us to live in harmony with all you have created. Amen.

Fact Sheet

PESTICIDE USAGE

78 million households in the U.S. use home and garden pesticides. Herbicides account for the highest usage of pesticides in the home and garden sector with over 90

million pounds applied on lawns and gardens per year. Suburban lawns and gardens receive more pesticide applications per acre (3.2-9.8 lbs) than agriculture

(2.7 lbs per acre on average). Pesticide sales by the chemical industry average $9.3 billion. Annual sales of the landscape industry are

over $35 billion. Included in the most commonly used pesticides per pounds per year are: 2,4-D (8-11 million),

Glyphosate (5-8 million), MCPP (Mecoprop) (4-6 million), Pendimethalin (3-6 million), Dicamba (2-4 million).

A 2004 national survey reveals that 5 million homeowners use only organic lawn practices and products and 35 million people use both toxic and non-toxic materials.

HEALTH & EXPOSURE RISKS

Of 30 commonly-used lawn pesticides, 19 have studies pointing toward carcinogens, 13 are linked with birth defects, 21 with effects on reproduction, 15 with neurotoxicity, 26 with liver or kidney damage, 27 are sensitizers and/or irritants, and 11 have the potential to disrupt the endocrine (hormonal) system.

Pregnant women, infants and children, the aged and the chronically ill are at greatest risk from pesticide exposure and chemically induced immune-suppression, which can increase susceptibility to cancer.

Scientific studies find pesticide residues – such as the weed-killer 2,4-D and the insecticide carbaryl – are tracked in or drift inside homes, where they contaminate air, dust, surfaces, and carpets and expose children at levels ten times higher than pre-application levels.

CHILDREN & PESTICIDES

Children take in more pesticides relative to body weight than adults and have developing organ systems that make them more vulnerable and less able to detoxify toxins.

The National Academy of Sciences estimates 50% of lifetime pesticide exposure occurs during the first 5 years of life.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute finds home and garden pesticide use can increase the risk of childhood leukemia by almost seven times.

Studies show low levels of exposure to actual lawn pesticide products are linked to increased rates of miscarriage, and suppression of the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.

Exposure to home and garden pesticides can increase a child’s likelihood of developing asthma. Studies link pesticides with hyperactivity, developmental delays, behavioral disorders, and motor

dysfunction. Children ages children ages 6-11 have higher levels of lawn chemicals in their blood than all other age

categories. Bio-monitoring studies find that pesticides pass from mother to child through umbilical cord blood and breast milk.

(Source: Beyond Pesticides)

Our Response

Sustainability is the effort to live in such a way that Earth will be passed on to the next generations in ways that will enable stable and positive life-patterns to endure. Sustainability is a complex issue. Nevertheless, speaking generally, it can be seen in simple terms. Sustainable living has often been compared to a three-legged stool. We would add a fourth leg in order to give the stool even more stability. In every action and project you undertake, ask yourself: What can we do and how can we do it so as to promote: 1) ecological sustainability (Is it earth-friendly?); 2) economic sustainability (Does it support a just and equitable sharing of life’s resources); 3) social sustainability (Does it create and strengthen community?); and 4) spiritual sustainability (Does it deepen our faith relationships with and commitments to Earth?). These considerations will not only promote sustainability, they will also enable your efforts to have the greatest impact.

Week 3 – Water

Focus

Water is foundational to our relationship with God. Through the waters of baptism, we are connected with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This sacrament is an outward sign of our salvation and God’s unbreakable promise to us of forgiveness and new life in Jesus Christ. Baptism is a significant part of our faith journey as we come from the baptismal waters to live a new life as children of God.

Our baptism sets us out on a lifelong journey that is characterized by our relationship to God, our relationship to our faith community, our relationships in our community and the wider world. Living our baptismal covenant means living a life of growth in the faith practices of discipleship

Scripture

Mark 1:1-11 The Baptism of Jesus

1The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

2As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way;3the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,’”

4John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 6Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. 8I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

9In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. 11And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”

Responsive Reading

Psalm 65

1Praise is due to you, O God, in Zion; and to you shall vows be performed,

2O you who answer prayer!

To you all flesh shall come.

3When deeds of iniquity overwhelm us, you forgive our transgressions.

4Happy are those whom you choose and bring near to live in your courts. We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, your holy temple.

5By awesome deeds you answer us with deliverance, O God of our salvation; you are the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas.

6By your strength you established the mountains; you are girded with might.

7You silence the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, the tumult of the peoples.

8Those who live at earth’s farthest bounds are awed by your signs; you make the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy.

9You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it; the river of God is full of water; you provide the people with grain, for so you have prepared it. 10You water its furrows abundantly, settling its ridges, softening it with showers, and blessing its growth. 11You crown the year with your bounty; your wagon tracks overflow with richness.

12The pastures of the wilderness overflow, the hills gird themselves with joy, 13the meadows clothe themselves with flocks, the valleys deck themselves with grain, they shout and sing together for joy

Contemporary Hymn

The River is Here by Andy Park

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYzEvsws3A4

Down the mountain the river flows And it brings refreshing wherever it goes Through the valleys and over the fields The river is rushing and the river is here

The river of God sets our feet a-dancing

The river of God fills our hearts with cheer The river of God fills our mouths with laughter And we rejoice for the river is here

The river of God is teeming with life And all who touch it can be revived And those who linger on this river’s shore Will come back thirsting for more of the Lord Up to the mountain we love to go To find the presence of the Lord Along the banks of the river we run We dance with laughter giving praise to the Son

Traditional Hymn

ELW #455 Crashing Waters at Creation

Prayer

Holy Spirit, in the beginning you moved over the face of the waters and created the earth and all its creatures. Through water and the Spirit, we are promised to you in our baptism. Forgive us when we pollute beautiful streams, rivers, and oceans, and restore them to their natural, pristine condition so all can receive the blessings they hold.

Fact Sheet

Scientists think that oceans began soon after the origin of the Earth about 4.6 billion years ago. We are the watery planet with over 70% of the watery surface providing the largest habitat for life, including the oldest living organisms. The species which inhabit oceans are adapted to life in the water. Humans are not. The oceans contain the highest mountains and the deepest canyons in which are the minerals from which the Earth evolved. Oceans help regulate land temperature. Oceans are the largest and most important carbon sink. Though coral reefs are small in area, more than 90 per cent of marine species are directly or indirectly dependent on them.

(Source: www.savethesea.org)

Our Response

In Your Yard

1. Decrease impervious surfaces around your home. Having fewer hard surfaces of concrete and asphalt will reduce runoff from your property. Landscape with vegetation, gravel, or other porous

materials instead of cement; install wood decking instead of concrete, and use interlocking bricks and paver stones for walkways. Redirect rain gutters and downspouts away from buildings and to rain barrels and gardens, soil, grass or gravel areas. Planting vegetation at lower elevations than nearby hard surfaces allows runoff to seep into soil.

2. Use native plants and natural fertilizers. Native plants need less water, are more tolerant of drought conditions, cost less to maintain, and provide habitat for birds and butterflies. Apply natural fertilizers and soil conditioners, such as compost, peat, rotted manure, and bone meal to stimulate plant growth and retain soil moisture.

3. Don't over-water lawns and gardens. According to the EPA, "nationwide, landscape irrigation is estimated to account for almost one-third of all residential water use, totaling more than 7 billion gallons per day." Limit irrigation to vegetated areas -– prevent overspray onto sidewalks, driveways, and street curbing. Watering before the sun comes up, or after it sets, will also decrease the amount of water lost to evaporation.

In Your Home

4. Recycle and dispose of all trash properly. Never flush non-degradable products -- such as disposable diapers or plastic -- down the toilet. They can damage the sewage treatment process and end up littering beaches and waters.

5. Correctly dispose of hazardous household products. Keep paints, used oil, cleaning solvents, polishes, pool chemicals, insecticides, and other hazardous household chemicals out of drains, sinks, and toilets. Many of these products contain harmful substances -- such as sodium hypochlorite, petroleum distillates, phenol and cresol, ammonia and formaldehyde -- that can end up in nearby water bodies. Contact your local sanitation, public works, or environmental health department to find out about hazardous waste collection days and sites, or check Earth911.com for local recycling options.

6. Use nontoxic household products whenever possible. Discarding harmful products correctly is important, but not buying them in the first place is even better. Ask local stores to carry nontoxic products if they don't already. For examples of safe substitutes for environmentally harmful household products, check EPA's Greener Products website.

Maintaining Your Car

7. Recycle used motor oil. Don’t pour waste oil into gutters or down storm drains, and resist the temptation to dump wastes onto the ground. A single quart of motor oil that seeps into groundwater can pollute 250,000 gallons of drinking water. If you don't have a place to recycle used motor oil in your community, ask your local sanitation or public works department to create one. Check Earth911.com for local recycling options. When you buy motor oil, ask if the store or service station has a program to buy back waste oil and dispose of it properly. Keep up with car maintenance to reduce leaking of oil, coolant, antifreeze, and other hazardous fluids.

8. Be "green" when washing your car. Skip the home carwash. Take your car to a professional –- professional carwashes are required to drain their wastewater into sewer systems, where it is treated before being discharged. This spares your local rivers and bays from the brake fluid, oil and automotive fluids that could otherwise contaminate your water.

In Your Community

9. Help identify, report and stop polluters. Join a local clean water or environmental group that monitors industries and sewage treatment plants that are discharging wastes. Local groups can be effective working together with state environmental agencies, EPA and national groups like NRDC to ensure that industries comply with regulations. To find a local clean water organization in your area, contact the Clean Water Network or Waterkeeper Alliance.

10. Be an activist. Educate yourself about water issues in your community. Find out where and how decisions are made about investments in projects and programs to protect your water and the rates and charges you pay for water and wastewater service. Contact your public officials and attend hearings to encourage them to support laws and programs to protect our water. Ask officials to control polluted runoff, ensure protection for wetlands and other aquatic ecosystems, reduce the flow of toxics into our waterways, and strengthen enforcement. Volunteer for a beach or stream clean up, tree planting, water quality sampling, or stream pollution monitoring project sponsored by a local environmental group or watershed council.

Week 4 – Air

Focus

In Hebrew, the original inspired language of the Tanach (Old Testament), the word 'Ruach' cannot be construed as a person. It is a force. It is invisible and like wind, because it can be felt or experienced, but not seen. It is the breath of God which disperses the life-force, God’s energy, and Divine intention or thought. It is Yahweh's Spirit which is omnipresent, but also can be directed in specific ways for specific purposes. It is not God’s actual Person being made manifest in the world, but the Spirit which comes to dwell in the hearts and lives of God’s people.

Definition of spirit/ruach: “The basic meaning of ruach is both ‘wind’ or ‘breath,’ but neither is understood as essence; rather it is the power encountered in the breath and the wind, whose whence and whither remains mysterious… 2. ruach as a designation for the wind is necessarily something found in motion with the power to set other things in motion…The divine designation also apparently has an intensifying function in a few passages: ruach elohim (Gen 1:2) and ruach yhwh (Isa 59:19)” (Theological Lexicon of the Old Testament, “Ruach”).

This lexicon also states that ruach (Strongs 7307) implies a power that is within the breath and wind, which is connected to the Name Yahweh. The Holy Spirit is the power emanating from Yahweh, the Heavenly Father. It is Yahweh’s power that puts all things into motion. It is Yahweh’s power through the divine ruach that breathes life into Creation and makes things live.

Scripture

John 3:1-10 The Holy Spirit

Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. 2He came to Jesus* by night and said to him, ‘Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.’ 3Jesus answered him, ‘Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.’* 4Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?’ 5Jesus answered, ‘Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. 6What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit.* 7Do not be astonished that I said to you, “You* must be born from above.”* 8The wind* blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.’ 9Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can these things be?’ 10Jesus answered him, ‘Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things?

Responsive Reading

Psalm 19

1The heavens are telling the glory of God;

and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. 3There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; 4yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun,

5which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy.

6Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them; and nothing is hid from its heat. 7The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the LORD are sure, making wise the simple;

8the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eyes; 9the fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. 10More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb. 11Moreover by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults.

13Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. 14Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

Contemporary Hymn

“Who Am I” by Mark Hall

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTQTcasa2S8

Who am I, that the Lord of all the earthWould care to know my nameWould care to feel my hurtWho am I, that the Bright and Morning StarWould choose to light the wayFor my ever wandering heart

Not because of who I amBut because of what You've doneNot because of what I've doneBut because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fadingHere today and gone tomorrowA wave tossed in the oceanA vapor in the windStill You hear me when I'm callingLord, You catch me when I'm fallingAnd You've told me who I amI am Yours, I am Yours

Who am I, that the eyes that see my sinWould look on me with love and watch me rise againWho am I, that the voice that calmed the seaWould call out through the rainAnd calm the storm in me

Not because of who I amBut because of what You've doneNot because of what I've doneBut because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fadingHere today and gone tomorrowA wave tossed in the oceanA vapor in the windStill You hear me when I'm callingLord, You catch me when I'm fallingAnd You've told me who I amI am, I am Yours

Not because of who I amBut because of what You've doneNot because of what I've doneBut because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fadingHere today and gone tomorrowA wave tossed in the oceanA vapor in the windStill You hear me when I'm callingLord, You catch me when I'm falling

And You've told me who I amI am Yours, I am Yours

I am YoursWhom shall I fearWhom shall I fear'Cause I am YoursI am Yours

Traditional Hymn

ELW #396 Spirit of Gentleness

Prayer

We thank you for the air that we breathe and for the ever-changing skies. We give thanks for the rhythm of the seasons, for the warmth of the summer sun, and the sharpness of the winter frost. Help us to feel the freshness of the breeze upon our faces and to discern the rainbow of hope that you give us.

Fact Sheet

Earth’s atmosphere formed 5 billion years ago. It is a dynamic mixture of nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), and other gases (1%) that surrounds Earth. These gases are mostly produced by living organisms. Atmosphere prevents the sun’s dangerous rays from reaching Earth. Greenhouse gases keep Earth’s surface at an average 15 degrees C, instead of a frozen -18 degrees C. Oxygen within our atmosphere is essential for life. The clouds, with their accompanying lightning phenomenon and rainfall, play a critical role in supporting life on Earth. www.teachertech.rice.edu

Smog hanging over cities is the most familiar and obvious form of air pollution. But there are different kinds of pollution—some visible, some invisible—that contribute to global warming. Generally any substance that people introduce into the atmosphere that has damaging effects on living things and the environment is considered air pollution.

Carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, is the main pollutant that is warming Earth. Though living things emit carbon dioxide when they breathe, carbon dioxide is widely considered to be a pollutant when associated with cars, planes, power plants, and other human activities that involve the burning of fossil fuels such as gasoline and natural gas. In the past 150 years, such activities have pumped enough carbon dioxide into the atmosphere to raise its levels higher than they have been for hundreds of thousands of years.

Other greenhouse gases include methane—which comes from such sources as swamps and gas emitted by livestock—and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were used in refrigerants and aerosol propellants until they were banned because of their deteriorating effect on Earth's ozone layer.

Another pollutant associated with climate change is sulfur dioxide, a component of smog. Sulfur dioxide and closely related chemicals are known primarily as a cause of acid rain. But they also reflect light when

released in the atmosphere, which keeps sunlight out and causes Earth to cool. Volcanic eruptions can spew massive amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, sometimes causing cooling that lasts for years. In fact, volcanoes used to be the main source of atmospheric sulfur dioxide; today people are.

Industrialized countries have worked to reduce levels of sulfur dioxide, smog, and smoke in order to improve people's health. But a result, not predicted until recently, is that the lower sulfur dioxide levels may actually make global warming worse. Just as sulfur dioxide from volcanoes can cool the planet by blocking sunlight, cutting the amount of the compound in the atmosphere lets more sunlight through, warming the Earth. This effect is exaggerated when elevated levels of other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trap the additional heat.

Most people agree that to curb global warming, a variety of measures need to be taken. On a personal level, driving and flying less, recycling, and conservation reduces a person’s "carbon footprint"—the amount of carbon dioxide a person is responsible for putting into the atmosphere.

On a larger scale, governments are taking measures to limit emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. One way is through the Kyoto Protocol, an agreement between countries that they will cut back on carbon dioxide emissions. Another method is to put taxes on carbon emissions or higher taxes on gasoline, so that people and companies will have greater incentives to conserve energy and pollute less.

Our Response

At Home

Conserve energy - turn off appliances and lights when you leave the room. Recycle paper, plastic, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans. (This conserves energy and

reduces production emissions.) Keep woodstoves and fireplaces well maintained. You should also consider replacing old wood

stoves with EPA-certified models. Visit www.epa.gov/burnwise. Plant deciduous trees in locations around your home to provide shade in the summer, but to allow

light in the winter. Buy green electricity, produced by low-or even zero-pollution facilities. Connect your outdoor lights to a timer or use solar lighting. Wash clothes with warm or cold water instead of hot. Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 120F. Use low-VOC or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.

Buy Smart

Buy ENERGY STAR products, including energy efficient lighting and appliances. They are environmentally friendly products.

Choose efficient, low-polluting models of vehicles. Visit www.epa.gov/greenvehicles. Choose products that have less packaging and are reusable. Shop with a canvas bag instead of using paper and plastic bags.

Buy rechargeable batteries for devices used frequently.

Drive Wisely

Plan your trips. Save gasoline and reduce air pollution.

Keep tires properly inflated and aligned. In the summertime, fill gas tank during cooler evening hours to cut down on evaporation. Avoid

spilling gas and don't "top off" the tank. Replace gas tank cap tightly. Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at fast-food restaurants or banks. Park your car

and go in. When possible, use public transportation, walk, or ride a bike. Get regular engine tune ups and car maintenance checks (especially for the spark plugs). Use an energy-conserving (EC) grade motor oil. Ask your employer to consider flexible work schedules or telecommuting. Report smoking vehicles to your local air agency. Join a carpool or vanpool to get to work.

Week 5 – Animal Life

Focus

“As for me I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the domestic animals, and every animal of the earth with you . . . “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature.” (Genesis 9:12; see also Hosea 2:18).

At that time, God made a covenant not only with humans but also with all the animals. The rainbow was a sign of the covenant: “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creatures.” (Genesis 9:12; Hosea 2:18). The story of Noah has been called the first rescue of endangered species. We are losing species of plants and animals at more than 100 a day. Like Noah, we are to preserve the diversity of plant and animal species God has created.

Scripture

Genesis 7:1-3

Then the LORD said to Noah, “Go into the ark, you and all your household, for I have seen that you alone are righteous before me in this generation. 2Take with you seven pairs of all clean animals, the male and its mate; and a pair of the animals that are not clean, the male and its mate; 3and seven pairs of the birds of the air also, male and female, to keep their kind alive on the face of all the earth.

Genesis 8:15 -19

15Then God said to Noah, 16“Go out of the ark, you and your wife, and your sons and your sons’ wives with you. 17Bring out with you every living thing that is with you of all flesh—birds and animals and every creeping thing that creeps on the earth—so that they may abound on the earth, and be fruitful and multiply on the earth.” 18So Noah went out with his sons and his wife and his sons’ wives. 19And every animal, every creeping thing, and every bird, everything that moves on the earth, went out of the ark by families.

Responsive Reading

Psalm 104: verses 24-34

24O LORD, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.

25Yonder is the sea, great and wide, creeping things innumerable are there, living things both small and great.

26There go the ships, and Leviathan that you formed to sport in it.

27These all look to you to give them their food in due season;

28when you give to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are filled with good things.

29When you hide your face, they are dismayed; when you take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.

30When you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you renew the face of the ground.

31May the glory of the LORD endure forever; may the LORD rejoice in his works

32who looks on the earth and it trembles, who touches the mountains and they smoke.

33I will sing to the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have being.

34May my meditation be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the LORD.

Contemporary Hymn

With One Voice 767 – All Things Bright and Beautiful

Traditional Hymn

ELW #684 Creating God, Your Fingers Trace

Prayer

We pray in gratitude for the diversity of animal life from insects to elephants, from krill to whales, from eagle to wren. Help us to be more considerate of our fellow animal species and forgive us when we

consume more than we need. Give us faith that you can restore what we have destroyed and bring back to abundance what we have endangered.

Fact Sheet

Scientists have no clear idea of how many species - from algae to blue whales - live on earth. Estimates are up to 100 million, of which only about 1.8 million have been named so far. Humans are but one of those species. Though the exact number is impossible to determine, an unprecedented mass extinction of life on Earth is occurring. Scientists estimate that between 150 and 200 species become extinct every 24 hours. This means the species may disappear before they are discovered.There have always been periods of extinction in the planet’s history, but this episode is greater than anything the world has experienced for the past 65 million years – the greatest rate of extinction since the vanishing of the dinosaurs.

According to The Living Planet Report, released by the World Wildlife Federation in September of 2014, more than 50% of vertebrates have disappeared since 1970. The report overall considers 10,380 populations of 3,038 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, and says populations have declined by 52% between 1970 and 2010. But for freshwater fish and other species, the drop is 76%. And for species in the Neotropics, which includes Central and South America, the decline is 83%.

Habitat loss and degradation, and exploitation through hunting and fishing, are the primary causes of decline. Climate change is the next most common primary threat, and is likely to put more pressure on populations in the future.

Our Response

Provide Wildlife Habitat:

Plant a Native Garden. By starting a native garden in your own backyard, you can help stem the loss of native biodiversity, provide shelter and food for native wildlife, and reduce pollution. Learn to identify invasive species and remove them from your yard.

Build a bird house or bat house. You can also help neighborhood birds and enjoy watching them by buying a birdfeeder and a birdbath. Just be sure to keep them filled—birds come to rely on a food or water source.

Leave Nature as You Find It:

Don’t feed wild animals. It may seem harmless enough, but dependent animals become less "wild" and therefore more susceptible to illness and predators, and begin to associate humans with food—a danger to both the animals and people. When in a wilderness area, keep all food items sealed in airtight containers, preferably suspended safely out of bear range on a high tree limb.

Do not transport animals or plants into locations where they are not native. Because they have no natural enemies in their new habitat, invasive species disrupt native ecosystems and species that have evolved in harmony for thousands of years. And they do so quickly and without resistance.

Act Conservatively:

Conserve fossil fuels. Take public transportation, walk, or ride a bicycle instead of using a car. This will reduce air pollution, a serious threat facing many of our national parks. Turn off lights, radios, and the TV when you are not using them. Lower the temperature in your home at night to 68 degrees during winter months. Our energy consumption results in an accelerated rate of global warming, a trend that impacts habitat and migration patterns.

Conserve water. Turning the water off when scrubbing dishes, taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while you brush your teeth, and watering your lawn in the early morning or late evening will help protect the integrity of our wetlands, a vital habitat that provides nearly half of North American bird species area for some aspect of their nesting or feeding.

Be an Educated Consumer:

Don't buy products like tortoise shell, coral, or ivory made from threatened or endangered animals, and avoid ordering dishes like shark in restaurants.

Take your own (reusable) bag to the store and try to buy products and food with little or no packaging. You will notice quickly how much less garbage and waste you produce. Instead of throwing out old toys, books, and clothes, donate them to a hospital, daycare, or charity.

Provide financial support for conservation organizations such as the World Wildlife Federation

Week 6 – Plant Life

Focus

God has provided us with the abundance of plants for our very life and also for our enjoyment, but God commands us to respect the land and to take care of it.

Scripture

Leviticus 25:3-5 Six years you shall sow your field, and six years you shall prune your vineyard, and gather in their yield; but in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of complete rest for the land, a Sabbath for the LORD: you shall not sow your field or prune your vineyard. You shall not reap the after-growth of your harvest or gather the grapes of your unpruned vine: it shall be a year of complete rest for the land.

Responsive Reading

Psalm 29

1Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.

2Ascribe to the LORD the glory of his name; worship the LORD in holy splendor. 3The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD, over mighty waters. 4The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty.

5The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD breaks the cedars of Lebanon. 6He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox. 7The voice of the LORD flashes forth flames of fire. 8The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. 9The voice of the LORD causes the oaks to whirl, and strips the forest bare;

and in his temple all say, “Glory!”

10The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD sits enthroned as king forever. 11May the LORD give strength to his people! May the LORD bless his people with peace!

Contemporary Hymn

Desert Song by Hillsong United

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WYK6TxWX7s

Verse 1:This is my prayer in the desertWhen all that's within me feels dryThis is my prayer in my hunger and needMy God is the God who provides

Verse 2:And this is my prayer in the fireIn weakness or trial or painThere is a faith provedOf more worth than goldSo refine me Lord through the flames

Chorus:And I will bring praiseI will bring praiseNo weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoiceI will declareGod is my victory and He is here

Verse 3:And this is my prayer in the battleWhen triumph is still on its wayI am a conqueror and co-heir with ChristSo firm on His promise I'll stand

Chorus:I will bring praiseI will bring praise

No weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoiceI will declareGod is my victory and He is here

Bridge:All of my lifeIn every seasonYou are still GodI have a reason to singI have a reason to worship

Chorus:And I will bring praiseI will bring praiseNo weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoiceI will declareGod is my victory and He is here

Verse 4:This is my prayer in the harvestWhen favor and providence flowI know I'm filled to be emptied againThe seed I've received I will sow

Traditional Hymn

ELW #680 We Plow the Fields and Scatter (Aramos nuestros campos)

Prayer

We give unbounded thanks for the land which sustains us, in all its variety and complexity, and for all the plants that abound. We thank you for fertile plains and desert places, for tropical forests andmeadow grasslands, for mighty sequoias and the moss that blankets the forest floor. Help us to value all vegetation which you have created, and to be good caretakers of the land on which we all depend.

Fact Sheet

Delaware:

Of the 1583 species of native flora in Delaware, 576 species, or 36%, are rare. 63 species, or 12% of the rare flora of Delaware, are known from only a single population in the state. 191 species, or 12% of Delaware’s full native flora, have not been reported in 20 or more years, or are known to be extirpated. 32 species of native flora in Delaware are globally rare, and 9 species are Federally listed as either Endangered, Threatened, or Candidate. There are 46 species of native flora in Delaware that are at the extreme northern limits of their distribution and 19 species of native plants in Delaware that are at the extreme southern limits of their distribution. The loss of these species would result in the extinction of locally distinct genotypes.

Maryland:Since Europeans first began cataloging the plant species of Maryland in the early 18th century, over 3,000 woody and herbaceous species have been recognized. The most important, by necessity, were those which provided food and shelter. Once their basic needs were addressed, settlers began to explore and describe their finds to their brethren across the Atlantic. Because of its diverse geology, hydrology and land formation, Maryland was home to an abundance of plant species, creating unique natural communities and providing habitat to wildlife.

Early documents by botanists provide current researchers with a picture of the landscape at the time of colonization. Since that time, an estimated 300 plant species have become extinct. Declines in number are due to a variety of factors: loss of habitat through conversion to development or agriculture, changes in hydrology, fragmentation, pollution and even over-collection.

Our Response

Grow vegetables and fruits organically

Buy produce from organic farmers

Don’t use chemical herbicides

Consider native plants when landscaping

Plant trees on your property

Volunteer with local conservation groups to plant trees

Canticle of the Sun by St. Francis of Assisi

Most high, all powerful, all good Lord!All praise is Yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing.

To You, alone, Most High, do they belong.No mortal lips are worthy to pronounce Your name.

Be praised, my Lord, through all Your creatures,especially through my lord Brother Sun,who brings the day; and You give light through him.And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor!Of You, Most High, he bears the likeness.

Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars;in the heavens You have made them bright, precious and beautiful.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brothers Wind and Air,and clouds and storms, and all the weather,through which You give Your creatures sustenance.

Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Water;she is very useful, and humble, and precious, and pure.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Fire,through whom You brighten the night.He is beautiful and cheerful, and powerful and strong.

Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Mother Earth,who feeds us and rules us,and produces various fruits with colored flowers and herbs.

Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of You;through those who endure sickness and trial.

Happy those who endure in peace,for by You, Most High, they will be crowned.

Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Bodily Death,from whose embrace no living person can escape.Woe to those who die in mortal sin!Happy those she finds doing Your most holy will.The second death can do no harm to them.

Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks,and serve Him with great humility.