Seeking the Kingdom...

People: We have come seeking the Kingdom of God.

Leader: God’s Kingdom has no borders and no specific location.

P: Where then can we find it?

L: Search for the King, and you will find the Kingdom.

P: Where can we find the King?

L: The King resides in the edges of this world’s kingdoms, at those places where this world does not meet the needs of its people.

P: Then we will look into our own suffering and the suffering of those around us.

L: Let us be blessed in the search.

P: Let us remember that the King said, “Seek and you will find.”

The table has been set...

Leader: As we approach our Master in worship this morning,

People: The table has been set and a feast has been prepared.

L: Who will sit and partake in this spiritual feast?

P: All who are hungry, all who long to be with their Master.

L: Many have been invited, but not all have come.

P: Who can we find to fill these empty seats?

L: Let us bring in everyone – rich and poor, sick and well, young and old, free and oppressed.

P: Let us join together in the Great Feast prepared by our God.

A Call to Worship from Children...

(written by children in Mississippi)

Leader: Children want love. Will you love me?

People: As Jesus loves the children, we will love you.

L: We want to learn to pray. Will you pray with us?

P: As Jesus prayed with his disciples, we will pray with you.

L: Sometimes we are mean and do bad things. Will you teach how to say I'm sorry?

P: As Jesus forgives, we will look into our own hearts and forgive.

L: When we grow up, we will take care of you. Show us how to care.

P: With God's help, we will show you how to care.

L: We cannot vote. Will you vote for us?

P: We will stand for you and we will vote for you.

L: Our world is all messed up. It is hard to know what is right. Will you help?

P: With God's help, we will show you how to live.

L: Jesus listened to children. Will you hear us when we call your name? Are we important to the church?

P: Jesus said, "Unless you turn and become children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Children are our teachers. Yes, we are the church together!

Kingdoms all around us...

Leader: We see kingdoms all around us.

People: Kingdoms of power and authority. Kingdoms of fear and greed.

L: These kingdoms leave us feeling helpless and unfulfilled.

P: We seek a better kingdom. We seek a greater kingdom.

L: Take heart, for the God of the universe wants to be your king.

P: We seek a kingdom of justice and righteousness.

L: God opens the doors of his kingdom to all who wish to enter.

P: We worship you, O God, our King, and are here that we may serve you.