The Fourth Sunday After the Epiphany
February 1st marks the fourth Sunday after the Epiphany. This week, in the sermon series "I Can See Clearly Now," Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes' sermon "Blessed Are Those We Miss" will focus on Matthew 5:1-12.
Notes from the Bench
Music has a wonderful way of helping us see—sometimes before we even realize what God is revealing.
Our Prelude, “Jesus Calls Me,” opens worship with a gentle reminder that clarity often begins with listening. Before we see the path ahead, we are first called—called to follow, to trust, and to open our hearts to where Christ is leading us.
At the Offertory, Johann Pachelbel’s “How Brightly Shines the Morning Star” turns our attention to light breaking through the darkness. The beloved chorale has long symbolized Christ as the Morning Star—steady, radiant, and faithful. Even when the night feels long, God’s light is already rising, helping us see with new hope and perspective.
During Communion, Sam Williams will sing “Be Thou My Vision,” in the moving arrangement popularized by Nathan Pacheco. This prayerful hymn beautifully echoes today’s theme: true clarity comes when Christ becomes our vision—not only in what we see, but in how we live, love, and serve.
Our service concludes with a joyful and powerful Postlude, “Toccata on Good News” by Carl Maultsby, offered in honor of Black History Month. This work is based on the African American spiritual “Good News,” a song born out of faith, resilience, and hope in the midst of hardship. Spirituals carried the message that God’s promises are real, freedom is coming, and light will overcome darkness. Maultsby’s toccata brings that message forward with energy and celebration—good news that still rings true today.
May the music this morning help clear our vision, brighten our faith, and renew our readiness to follow.
Worship Service will also include the hymns Gather Us In, Breathe on Me, Breath of God, and Let There Be Peace on Earth along with the Anthem, Lord, Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace, sung by the Chancel Choir.
Come join us at 9:00 a.m. as we Worship Together. We hope something in this music and message uplifts and strengthens your spirit. You are always welcome here.
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