Welcome to First Christian Reformed Church! Pastor John Knoester

January 21, 2018

Sanctity of Life Sunday

“I have a Maker, he formed my heart,” Prelude: Jill Klunder Ministry of Music: SFL #88 “We Thank God for Giving Us Life” - Sunday School Children

Welcome/Announcements * Call to Worship

Leader: God makes the sun rise and set.

People: He is faithful from generation to generation.

Leader: God makes summer and winter come and go.

People: He is faithful from generation to generation.

Leader: God helps plants grow and flowers bloom.

People: He is faithful from generation to generation.

Leader: God gives us food to eat, places to live, and people to love us.

People: He is faithful from generation to generation.

Leader: God is always with us.

People: He is faithful from generation to generation.

Leader: God keeps his promises to us.

People: He is faithful from generation to generation.

Leader: Let us praise our faithful God. * Opening Hymn of Praise: LUYH #348:1-3 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”

1. Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father; there is no shadow of turning with thee; thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not; as thou hast been thou forever wilt be.

Refrain Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

2. Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above join with all nature in manifold witness to thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.

Refrain

3. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide, strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow— blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Refrain

Words: Thomas O. Chisholm, 1923, © 1923, ren. 1951 Hope Publishing Company; Music: William M. Runyan, 1923, ren. 1951 Hope Publishing Company; CCLI #678905

* God’s Greeting / We Greet Each Other

* Opening Songs of Praise Read Matthew 7:24-25

“All Are Welcome” LUYH #269:1,2,4,5 1. Let us build a house where love can dwell and all can safely live, a place where saints and children tell how hearts learn to forgive. Built of hopes and dreams and visions, rock of faith and vault of grace; here the love of Christ shall end divisions:

Refrain All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

2. Let us build a house where prophets speak, and words are strong and true, where all God's children dare to seek to dream God's reign anew. Here the cross shall stand as witness and as symbol of God's grace; here as one we claim the faith of Jesus:

Refrain

4. Let us build a house where hands will reach beyond the wood and stone to heal and strengthen, serve and teach, and live the Word they’ve known. Here the outcast and the stranger bear the image of God’s face; let us bring an end to fear and danger:

Refrain

5. Let us build a house where all are named, their songs and visions heard and loved and treasured, taught and claimed as words within the Word. Built of tears and cries and laughter, prayers of faith and songs of grace, let this house proclaim from floor to rafter:

Refrain Words and Music: Marty Haugen (b. 1950) © 1994 GIA Publications, Inc.; All rights reserved. OneLicense.net License #A-711218

“I Give You My Heart” LUYH #340 This is my desire: to honor you. Lord, with all my heart I worship you. All I have within me— I give you praise. All that I adore is in you.

Refrain Lord I give you my heart, I give you my soul, I live for you alone. Every breath that I take, every moment I’m awake, Lord, have your way in me. Words and Music: Reuben Morgan © 1995 Hillsong Music Publishing (APRA) admin. in the US and Canada at EMICMGPublishing.com; CCLI #678905

Children ages 3-first grade are dismissed to the Koinonia room for Children & Worship.

“Before even time began, my life was in his hand.”

Sanctity of Life Sunday Prayer of Lament - Read by Heather & Tim Van Hofwegen

Song of Confession: LUYH #662:1,3 “In an Age of Twisted Values”

1. In an age of twisted values we have lost the truth we need. In sophisticated language we have justified our greed. By our struggle for possessions we have robbed the poor and weak. Hear our cry and heal our nation; your forgiveness, Lord, we seek.

3. When our families are broken, when our homes are full of strife, when our children are bewildered, when they lose their way in life, when we fail to give the aged all the care we know they need, hear our cry and heal our nation; help us show more love, we plead. Words: Martin E. Leckebusch (b. 1962) © 1995 Kevin Mayhew Ltd; Music: Alfred V. Fedak (B.1953), 1988, © 1989 Selah Publishing Company, Inc. CCLI #678905

Sanctity of Human Life Prayer— Read by Eliot & Sue Blom Scripture Reading: Psalm 139:15-16

Song of Response: LUYH #339:1-2 “He Knows my Name” 1. I have a Maker, He formed my heart;

before even time began, my life was in his hands.

Chorus He knows my name, He knows my every thought; He sees each tear that falls, and He hears me when I call.

2. I have a Father, He calls me His own; He’ll never leave me, no matter where I go.

Chorus

Instrumental Interlude

Chorus x2

Tag He hears me when I call. Words and Music by Tommy Walker, © 1996 Doulos Publishing, CCLI # 678905

Offering: General Fund

“He knows my name, he knows my every thought,”

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:25-32 (pg. 1158)

* Sung Prayer of Illumination: LUYH #754:1-4 “Lord, Speak to Me That I May Speak” 1. Lord, speak to me that I may speak in living echoes of your tone. As you have sought, so let me seek your erring children, lost and lone.

2. O lead me, Lord, that I may lead the wandering and the wavering feet. O feed me, Lord, that I may feed your hungry ones with manna sweet.

3. O teach me, Lord, that I may teach the precious truths which you impart. And wing my words that they may reach the hidden depths of many a heart.

4. O fill me with Thy fullness, Lord, until my very heart o'erflows in kindling thought and glowing word, your love to tell, Thy praise to show. Words: Frances Ridley Havergal; Music: Robert Alexander Schumann © Words: Public Domain; Music: Public Domain; CCLI #678905

Message: “Characteristics of the Renewed Life”

Time of Prayer

“He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call.”

* Hymn of Application: LUYH #691:1-5 “Amazing Grace” 1. Amazing grace—how sweet the sound— that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind, but now I see.

2. ’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved; how precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed!

3. The Lord has promised good to me, his word my hope secures; he will my shield and portion be as long as life endures.

4. Through many dangers, toils, and snares I have already come; ’tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.

5. When we’ve been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we’ve no less days to sing God’s praise than when we’d first begun. Words: st. 1-4 John Newton, 1779, st. 5 A Collection of Sacred Ballads, 1790, P.D. Music: Virginia Harmony, 1831; adapt. and harm. Edwin O. Excell, 1900, P.D.; CCLI# 678905

* Benediction

* Parting Praise: LUYH #947 “We Receive Your Blessing” We receive Your blessing; we receive Your grace, as we walk in the light shining from Your face. May the peace that You give change the way that we live. We receive Your blessing as we leave this place.

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him, all creatures here below. Praise Him above, you heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son, and praise the Holy Ghost.

Repeat Song

We receive your blessing as we leave this place. Words & Music: Grace Moes &Natasha Moes © 2003 Unity Music Ministries; CCLI #678905

* Postlude

Welcome! We cordially welcome all who worship with us today. With joyful hearts let us approach God and share kindness toward one another. After joining us in worship, join us in the fellowship hall next to the sanctuary for a cup of coffee or juice and continued fellowship.

Next Sunday, Jeff Droog will lead us in our morning worship.

OUR CHURCH FAMILY

To the congregation of First CRC: Thank you so much for the support and gifts that our ministry, Back to God Ministries International, receives from your church. Know that we continue to share the Gospel around the world. We still use radio, television and printed materials like the TODAY devotional – but we are reaching people with all kinds of new media too – internet, blogs and smartphone apps. Not only do we share the Good News of Jesus Christ, we are also committed to discipling people and strengthening the Church. We so appreciate your partnership. We ask that you pray for our ministry and staff, and pray that the Holy Spirit will work in the hearts of people who hear the message of salvation. Thanks again for your support.

OUR CHURCH EVENTS

Dear Friends in Christ, As we begin this New Year we return to our study of Ephesians, which is essentially a miniature doctrine of the Church. Whereas the first half of Paul’s letter focuses on the nature of the Church and its purpose – the second half deals more with the practical ways in which God’s purpose is fulfilled in the Church. Unity, maturity, personal renewal etc. was not only important to the spiritual health of the early believers, but is just as important for us today. May God bless us as we continue our study in the weeks ahead. In Christ, Pastor John

January 7: Growing in Spiritual Maturity in Unity Together–Eph. 4:1-16 January 14: Putting Off the Old and Being Made New – Eph. 4:17-24 January 21: Characteristics of the Renewed Life– Eph. 4:25-32 February 4: Imitators of God – Eph. 5:1-7 February 11: Children of Light – Eph. 5:8-21

Council Nominations: In the coming weeks and months the nominating committee will begin their work towards selecting new council members for the 2018-2019 church year. This year there is the need to select 3 new elders and 3 new deacons. We realize this is a higher number than usual. However, we also believe there are more than enough eligible and gifted individuals who can serve. If possible, we would like to fill each position. The council requests that all congregational members be in prayer for the process itself. Pray too that God makes it clear to us as a congregation whom He is calling to serve. If you have any questions regarding the work of the council or the process itself please don't hesitate to contact current council president Greg Boon, or clerk Dennis De Kok.

The Youth Group will meet at 7:45 p.m. this evening in the Education Wing.

The Men's Bible Study will meet on Wednesday, January 24 at 6:30 a.m. at Shari's Restaurant in Burlington. We are studying the book of Revelation. You are welcome to join us. The Cadets will meet on Wednesday, January 24 at 7:00 p.m. The Young at Heart will meet for lunch on Thursday, January 25 at 1:30 p.m. at I-Hops in Mount Vernon. Ladies Craft Night will be held on Friday, January 26 at 6:30 p.m. Come as go as you please. FAMILY VISITING: The following is the family visiting schedule for January—February 2018. If your family is included in the list, please expect a call from the listed Elder to arrange the day and time for the visit. If you have questions about the schedule please call the listed Elder or call Henry Hammingh at 360-424-3019.

January - February 2018 Family Visits

Elder Deacon Family

Dave V Mardick S Daniel & Briana Vander Kooy

Dave V Mardick S Hank & Sylvia Van Zanten

Greg A Rich K Elaine Hammingh

Greg A Rich K Jeanette, Ed & Fred Folkertsma

Greg B Jim F Rich Knight

Greg B Jim F Alice De Vries

Henry H Randy B Bob & Andy Pippel

Henry H Randy B Dennis & Melba De Kok

Darrel L Hank VZ Grace Feddema

Darrel L Hank VZ Wilma De Boer

Pastor John Brian VB Duane & Trudy Van Dyke

Pastor John Brian VB Martha Haarsma

Dennis D Brad DK Todd Klunder

Dennis D Brad DK Darin & Michelle Kuipers

ADVANCED NOTICES

Blood Draw: A blood draw will be held on Monday, January 29, from 12:00 p.m.—6:00 p.m. (closed from 2:15 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.) at Emmanuel Baptist Church in the Fireside Room. Please donate and save a life.

The Elders & Deacons will meet on Monday, January 29 at 7:00 p.m.

Golden Hour will meet on Wednesday, January 31 at 1:30 p.m. for their next meeting. We will study Jonah 1:4-16. We are having a Safe Church Training event for all church volunteers in our youth programs. Join us as we talk about guidelines for keeping our youth safe on Wednesday, January 31 at 7:00 p.m., here at church. Please sign-up in the Fellowship Hall during the next couple weeks. The nursery is available upon request if needed for the 31st meeting. All are welcome, and those who volunteer with Children & Worship, GEMS, Cadets, Sunday School, Youth Group, and Nursery volunteers are strongly encouraged to attend. Jayne Hammingh and Dennis DeKok will provide more information for you as we get closer to the January 31 meeting. You are welcome to ask Jayne and Dennis questions in advance if you desire. Our Church Potluck will be held on Sunday, February 4, after the morning service. Please bring a 9x13 inch hot dish (enough to feed 12-15), and salad or dessert. Table service is provided as well as juice and coffee. Save the Date: Take a moment to mark Friday, March 9 on your 2018 calendar! This will be the date of the 1st Annual "Taste of Italy Night" at First CRC! Think you have a good lasagna recipe or Italian entree? Do you love a great salad? Are you ready to test your Italian cooking skills against a bunch of other wanna-be Italians? If so, then begin making your recipe plans now. Various awards and prizes will be given for the best-tasting lasagna, most delicious salad, etc.. Just imagine layer upon layer of soft buttery pasta with the delicious combination of juicy seasoned tomatoes mixed with ground meat perfectly seasoned with softened onions with just the right amount of cottage cheese - all mixed perfectly together with hot, cheesy mozzarella cheese topped with a crunchy Parmesan cheese crust. ... Are you hungry yet!? A Denominational Safe Training Event will be held at First Christian Reformed Church in Mount Vernon on Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17. A flyer is posted on the bulletin boards. You are encouraged to attend. For more information you may contact Jayne Hammingh, Dennis De Kok, or Pastor John.

ORGANIZATIONS WE SUPPORT

Light for the Nations: We all wish for church growth, but how do we react when it happens in ways that make us uncomfortable? Join Groundwork as we study Acts 13 to see how the early church reacts as they experience the same situation and discover what it teaches us about the scope of God’s mission. Listen now at GroundworkOnline.com and subscribe to Groundwork's weekly emails for future episodes. Morrie the Samaritan: Liz is mean to Morrie, but that doesn’t stop Morrie from helping Liz when he crashes his bike. (Includes Bible story—The Good Samaritan.) Free Stuff: KC invites you to print off our set of valentine cards, each featuring a favorite Bible passage. Sunday, February 4: Make your golf game count! Mark your calendars for the GEMS Open on Monday, May 14 at Railside Golf Club in Byron Center, Michigan to help GEMS Girls’ Clubs continue to reach girls everywhere with the Good News! Join our Michigan event or golf at a distance for a discounted rate! Not a golfer? Consider being a sponsor or donating silent auction items. If you’re in the area, you can also join us for lunch! For more information contact Kelli at (616) 241-5616 ext. 3035 or visit gemsgc.org.

Writers: freelance opportunity, apply now. - Hey, have you seen the new Banner? The monthly publication of the Christian Reformed Church and its website thebanner.org have just had a makeover. We're looking for new writers to contribute to our news section with stories of our congregations, ministries, and members. Coaching is available. Inquire about joining our correspondent team at news@thebanner.org and our news editor will get back to you.

REQUESTED ANNOUNCEMENT

Seniors Christian Cruise to Alaska, 2018: We have only 10 cabins still available for our Seniors Cruise to Alaska. If anyone is still considering joining a group of Christian Seniors for May 9-16, 2018, please call as soon as possible. This vacation is the ideal way to travel with several leaders who are there to be sure that your vacation runs smooth. The cruise will depart from Vancouver to Alaska return on Holland America Line’s beautiful Volendam ship. All your food and entertainment is provided, assistance from the airport to the pier, as well as social events to get to know other seniors who are booked already from various parts of Canada and the USA. Feel free to invite other family members to come along to add to your own enjoyment. We are still looking for a couple more single men or ladies who would like to share a cabin with someone to keep the cost down. If you are single, please consider this unique opportunity to travel as a single within a group. For more information please visit www.christiancruises.ca or call Lorraine Kammeraad at 604-866-7961.

CALENDAR FOR THE WEEK

SUN 6:30 pm Evening Service 7:45 pm Youth Group TUES 7:00 pm Vida Nueva WED 6:30 am Men's Bible Study at Shari's 7:00 pm Cadets THURS 12:30 pm Young at Heart at I-Hops FRI 6:30 pm Ladies Craft Night NURSERY Today: AM Infants & Toddlers Michelle Kuipers, Kaeli Houck, Nathan Van Beek Next Week: AM Infants & Toddlers Briana Vander Kooy, Josie Droog, Trevor Blom GREETERS Today - AM Rovers: Keith & Jean Rasmussen AM: Kermit & Julie Houck, Rich Knight Next Week - AM Rovers: Larry & Margaret Vander Pol AM: Kevin & Glenda Kok, Darin & Michelle Kuipers USHERS Today: Kendall Van Zanten, Darin Kuipers, Larry Greidanus Next Week: Kermit Houck, Henry Van Zanten, Jr., Tim Van Hofwegen SOUND SYSTEM Today AM: Henry Van Zanten, Jr. Next Week AM: Mardick Stevens PROJECTION Today AM: Kendall Van Zanten Next Week AM: Nathan Van Beek

VIDEO TAPING Today AM: DJ Droog Next Week: Brandon Speck CHILDREN & WORSHIP Today AM: Teacher: Michele Feddema Assistants: Elly Cuperus, Carson Blom Next Week AM: Teacher: Michele Feddema Assistants: Johnna Van der Hoek, Emma Droog COFFEE HOSTS Today AM: Dennis & Melba De Kok, Jeannette Folkertsma, Les & Joy Faber Next Week AM: Alice De Vries, Katie Jungquist, John & Dena Klunder Cookies: Sunee Lagerwey, Juli Oostra VIDA NUEVA CHILDCARE Today: None Next Week: Marjean De Groot, Alice De Vries TRANSPORTATION CARE TEAM Next Week: Dennis & Melba De Kok MINISTRY OF PRAISE Next Week: Kayla Van Hofwegen Accompanist: Melba De Kok OFFERING: January 28, 2018 AM: General Fund PM: Skagit Valley Young Life

6:30 P.M. Worship Service

Pianist: Shirley Boonstra

Welcome/Announcements

Prayer for Worship

Opening Songs of Praise: Led by Marjean De Groot "Lord, I Gladly Trust in You" LUYH #354:1,2,3,4 "God of the Prophets" LUYH #853:1,2,3,5 "Faith Begins by Letting Go" LUYH #852:1,2,3

Catechism Reading: Lord’s Day 45 Q&A 116-119 Q. 116 Why do Christians need to pray?

A. Because prayer is the most important part of the thankfulness God requires of us.1 And also because God gives his grace and Holy Spirit only to those who pray continually and groan inwardly, asking God for these gifts and thanking God for them.2 1 Ps. 50:14-15; 116:12-19; 1 Thess. 5:16-18

2 Matt. 7:7-8; Luke 11:9-13

Q. 117 How does God want us to pray so that he will listen to us?

A. First, we must pray from the heart to no other than the one true God, who has revealed himself in his Word, asking for everything he has commanded us to ask for.1

Second, we must acknowledge our need and misery, hiding nothing, and humble ourselves in his majestic presence.2

Third, we must rest on this unshakable foundation: even though we do not deserve it, God will surely listen to our prayer because of Christ our Lord. That is what God promised us in his Word.3 1 Ps. 145:18-20; John 4:22-24; Rom. 8:26-27; James 1:5; 1 John 5:14-15; 2 2 Chron. 7:14; Ps. 2:11; 34:18;

62:8; Isa. 66:2; Rev. 4; 3 Dan. 9:17-19; Matt. 7:8; John 14:13-14; 16:23; Rom. 10:13; James 1:6 Q. 118 What did God command us to pray for?

A. Everything we need, spiritually and physically,1 as embraced in the prayer Christ our Lord himself taught us.

1 James 1:17; Matt. 6:33 Q. 119 What is this prayer?

A. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come. Your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom and the power

and the glory forever. Amen.1 1 Matt. 6:9-13; Luke 11:2-4

Scripture Readings: Matthew 6:5-8, Colossians 4:2-6, I Thessalonians 5:12-16 Message: “Lord, Teach Us to Pray” Time of Prayer Offering: Skagit Valley Young Life Song of Application: LUYH #896 “Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying” * God’s Blessing * Parting Praise: LUYH #965 “Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow”

People to be remembered with prayers, cards, letters & words of encouragement. Call the church office at (336-2405) or e-mail: secretary@firstcrcmv.com by Thursday of each week with your prayer items.

NEW CONCERN: Duane Van Dyke has been at Skagit Valley Hospital this past week due to a bad virus and pneumonia. The hope is that he will be able to return to Where the Heart Is sometime this weekend. Please pray for renewed strength and health for Duane. Greg Ackermann was taken to the hospital last week and diagnosed with an e coli infection. After several days of treatment he was doing much better and was even able to return to work. Praise God! .... Now it's Tish's turn to see the doctor as she will be undergoing foot surgery on Monday. Please pray that the surgery goes well and for a swift recovery in the days/weeks to come. We praise God that Kyle Donaldson's surgery went well this past Thursday. Kyle had a VNS Therapy device inserted into his chest area to help control his seizures. If all goes well this will mean less medication and less seizures! Please pray that the device will work as intended and for the wisdom of all involved to determine the right balance between the two in the coming weeks and months. Pray too that the many changes for Kyle himself will go smoothly and that his overall health will increase dramatically as a result of this surgery. Continue to remember those in your prayers who have recently lost loved ones. SHUT INS: Nell Annema at Birchview Memory Care in Sedro-Woolley, Marge Eskes at home in Mount Vernon; Mary Koopmans at Where the Heart Is in Burlington; Wilma Paul at Mountain Glen Retirement Center in Mount Vernon; Adrianna Swanson at Creekside in Burlington; Bev Van Slageren at family in Grandview, WA; Duane Van Dyke at Where the Heart Is in Burlington; Chris Van Sweden at Country Meadows in Sedro-Woolley, and Rena Wester at the Lynden Manor.

CONTINUING CONCERNS: Pray for Annette LeClair as she continues with treatments. Please continue to keep Annette and her entire family in your prayers. OTHER CONCERNS: Emily Curry finished 5 days of radiation this week. Pray that the remaining 10 treatments go well. Pray for healing for Emily and that the mass in her chest will be gone. World Renew: Malawi - Our Church in Community programs help church leaders and congregations make positive changes in their local communities by addressing challenges and goals. As Bible study and other aspects of the program develop in Malawi, ask God to guide church leaders and students in listening, learning, and understanding what it means to love one another. Trinity Christian College: Christian community - A new semester has begun at Trinity Christian College. The faith-full quest of growing into the joy of our vocations occurs in classrooms, residence halls, and internships in and around Chicago, as well as through digital and global connections. Please pray with thanksgiving and petition for the Christian community of Trinity students, faculty, and staff as they pursue creative insight, integral understanding, and Christ like service. Resonate Global Mission: Worship Symposium - Nine pastors and worship leaders from Ukraine and Hungary hosted by Resonate missionary George de Vuyst are among those taking part in the annual Worship Symposium at Calvin College. Pray that this opportunity to learn more about church and worship from different perspectives will be a blessing for all God’s servants. Urban Aboriginal Ministries: Reconciliation - As a new year begins, we celebrate what the CRC has done to reconcile broken relationships with Indigenous peoples. Synod 2015 recommended that each church and classis participate in the Blanket Exercise, an interactive event to help people understand the history of North America—and many have done so. As people learn, pray that healing and reconciliation will take place. Back to God Ministries International: Japan - Ms. Masayo lives in Japan and recently started a new job. At times she says she feels nervous in her new role, but after listening to our Japanese radio program, Let's Open the Bible, she shared, “It encouraged and comforted me so much.” Thank God for these Bible-based programs that minister to people like Ms. Masayo where they are. World Renew: Bangladesh - Throughout the past few months, Bangladesh has been a host nation for hundreds of thousands Rohingya people fleeing violence in Myanmar. Many of these are living in makeshift homes within refugee camps. World Renew is responding alongside the Canadian Foodgrains Bank by providing food to families. Please ask God to bring healing to all who are suffering in this crisis.