The oil is almost always applied using the right thumb, or occasionally is poured on. When applied with the thumb, it is usually applied in the form of a cross. This is to remind us that all blessing come from the crucified Christ, the source of all healing and life for the world.
When anointing accompanies Baptism, the cross is marked in oil on the baptized person's forehead. In this way they are 'sealed' with the Holy Spirit as a reminder of Revelation 7:3 in which the servants of God are "sealed . . . upon their foreheads." In Baptism we are made servants of God.
Confirmation candidates and the sick are anointed in the same way on their foreheads, and for the same reasons. The sick are also anointed, as the need arises, on the infected part of their bodies. In this way their prayer is acted out.
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I have prepared a meditative exercise to help shape or heal our image of God. I invite you to close your eyes, breathe deeply and begin to focus your mind on God.
1. Picture yourself having committed some sin, standing before God the judge expecting to be condemned. The judge recognizes your remorse, accepts your repentance, drops the charges against you, forgives the harm you have done, releases you from your punishment, and sets you free! (Psalm 103:10 -12) "God does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. As the heavens are high above Earth, that's how great God's steadfast love is toward us who respect God. As far as the East is from the West, that's how far God removes our transgressions from us."
2. Picture God as a loving mother/father holding you in his/her arms. (Hosea 11: 3,4) It was I who taught you to walk, I took you up in my arms; but you did not know that I healed you. I led you with the cords of human kindness, with the bands of love. I was the one who lifted you as an infant to my cheek and bent down to feed you.
3. Can you picture God as the anguished parent of a rebellious teenager? (Isaiah 1) "Why must you persist in your rebellion until your head is injured, your heart is afflicted, and you are covered with wounds. I am so weary of bearing the burdens you place on me. If only you were willing, I would take your blood red sins and make them pure as snow."
4. Can you picture God as a shepherd who lovingly cares for you? (Isaiah 40:11) "God is like a shepherd feeding his flock, gathering the lambs in his arms, holding them against his breast and gently leading the mother ewes." Can you picture yourself as a lamb being held against God's breast, or a mother ewe being gently led.
5. Think of God as a wise woman, a teacher speaking to us to set us right (Proverbs 8) "Listen, I have something important to tell you. What I say is right; nothing false, nothing misleading. What I tell you is the plain truth. I will give you good advice. If you listen to me you will be blessed day after day. Whoever finds me finds life."
6. Can you picture God as your lover? (Song of Songs 7) "How beautiful you are, how charming, my love, my delight! Come my love, let us walk together through the fields, then we will spend the night together in the village. In the morning we will go into the vineyard and among the blossoms of the orchard. There I will give you the gift of my love." Have you read Morton Kelsey's book "Sacrament of Sexuality"?
7. Or perhaps you can picture God as a glorious light. (Psalm 119:105) "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Can you picture your soul being flooded with God's glorious light? Once, while attending a Quaker Meeting, I was meditating on how to visualize the presence of God when a glorious deep blue light filled my consciousness. (Isaiah 60:1-2) "Arise, shine out, for your light has come, and the glory of God has risen on you. Look! though night still covers Earth and the people are in darkness, on you God is rising and over you God's glory can be seen."
8. Finally let's consider God simply as the spirit or reign of love. ( Zephaniah 3:14 -18 ) "Shout for joy, daughter of Zion, Shout aloud! Rejoice and exult with all your heart. . . Have no fear, nor let your hands fall limp. God is in the midst of you as your savior. God will rejoice over you with gladness, and will renew you with love." Perhaps you can feel or imagine your whole being filling to overflowing and being renewed with the spirit of Love. Breathe it in with your breath. Let it flow to your heart. Let it be carried to every part of your body, mind, and soul. Can you feel God's love as emotionally renewing?
Now while continuing to hold the light of God in your soul and the love of God in your heart, center your focus on your breathing again, and gradually become aware of the people around you. When you are ready, open your eyes and rejoin the group. Stretch!
Share with the group your thoughts about some of these images.
Rabbi Simkha Y. Weintraub, of the Jewish Healing Center, has put together a study by Jewish spiritual leaders of the 10 Psalms which are considered to be the complete remedy. This study has been published by Jewish Lights Publishing of Woodstock, Vt. in a book, Healing of Soul, Healing of Body. It begins with Psalm 16 which urges us to trust in God who watches over us, who turns our pain into gladness, who provides security and rest for the body and who will not abandon the soul. Then Psalm 41 reminds us that God sustains us on our sick bed and, in our illness, heals all our infirmities. These psalms can lead us finally to Shalom! Shalom is not only "Peace"; the cessation of fighting, it is blessing, healing and complete wholeness.
I have always found the psalms to be a source of comfort, strength and healing. When I was in Sunday School we were expected to memorize certain passages of scripture. In Second Grade I learned the 23rd psalm. One phrase always bothered me. "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies." Then I tried putting it into my own words, "You welcome me at your table where everyone can see how much you love me." That made more sense to me. Since then I have worked at paraphrasing all of the Psalms; putting them into my own words and it has been a great blessing to me. I highly recommend this to you as a wonderful spiritual discipline and a means of bringing you deep inner healing.
One of my favorites is Psalm 103 describing God's compassion and healing.
Praise God, my soul, and from the depth of my being praise the Holy One. Praise God, my soul, and never forget all the benefits of God's kindness. God forgives all our offenses, cures all our diseases. God redeems our lives from the pit of worthlessness, and places a crown of faithful love upon our heads with tenderness; God intends our years to be filled with goodness and our youthful strength to be continuously renewed so that we may soar like the eagles.
We have talked about the healing that is needed to fit us to be receptive to God's healing activity. Now I want to move on to look at some healing experiences described in the Hebrew Bible and the persons God empowered to perform them. Frank Darling in his book Biblical Healing; Hebrew and Christian Roots, emphasized that these healing activities were carried out by persons with a special relationship with God. Isaiah 61 describes the healing mission of God's servant in this way: "The Spirit of God is upon me, because GOD has anointed me; and has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners. . . to comfort all who mourn and give them flowers instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning." Some people are anointed by God to be healers.
One of the earliest references to healing in the Bible involves Abraham. He was seen as a healer because he had a special covenant relationship with God. When Abimelech and his whole household were afflicted with barrenness (Genesis 20:17) "Then Abraham prayed to God and God healed Abimeleck and his wife and female slaves so they could bear children."
Moses was another person with a special relationship with God. After receiving God's call at the burning bush Moses protested that he needed proof to show God's people in Egypt. (Exodus 4:6-7) Then Moses discovered that his hand had become infected with leprosy but he was given a sign of God's healing power by the cleansing his leprous hand. After God's people had escaped from Egypt and had crossed the sea,
( Exodus 20:26 ) God assured them through Moses that they would be protected from the diseases which had afflicted the Egyptians "For I am the God who heals you." When Miriam was afflicted with leprosy Moses prayed to God to heal her (Numbers 12) and after 7 days outside the camp she was cleansed and able to rejoin them.
In Numbers 21, we are told that Moses made a bronze serpent on a rod to heal the people who had been bitten by poisonous snakes and save them from the fear of death. People really do die of fear. Even today the serpent on the rod is a sign of healing.
In 2 Kings 5 we read about the prophet Elisha healing Naaman's leprosy by sending him to wash in the Jordan river. Naaman at first protested, but when he humbled himself and obeyed, he was healed.
These examples tell us that healing came as a result of prayer, faith, and humble acceptance. The healings were all performed by people who had a special relationship with God and who were given special gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is interesting to read that the special gifts of the Spirit were passed on from Elijah to Elisha. Elisha asked for a double share of Elijah's spirit. (2 Kings 2) This was the customary request of an eldest son to receive a double share of the inheritance from his father. This was granted to Elisha when Elijah was taken to heaven. The spirit of Moses was passed on to Joshua, by the laying on of hands. (Deuteronomy 34:9) "Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, because Moses had laid his hands on him." In the Bible the hand represented power and blessing. When Isaac laid his hands on his sons to bless them, something was transferred to them that was irrevocable. The Bible often speaks of the Hand of God as representing God's power. We set aside and empower ministers by ordination with prayer and the laying on of hands. At confirmation we pass God's blessing on to the confirmands and empower them to be disciples by prayer and the laying on of hands. In healing ministry one of the ways we can convey God's love and healing power to the sick is by laying hands on them and praying for their healing. Often touch is important in the healing process.
The first time I laid hands on someone in prayer was early in my ministry. I was visiting parishioners in the hospital when a nurse who knew me came to me and asked me to come a pray for a man who saw suffering terribly. When I entered his room the man was very agitated, tossing and turning in his bed and crying out in pain in spite of the drugs he had been given. I went over to his bed, laid my hand on his head and began to pray out loud that God would be merciful to him, forgive his sins, relieve his pain and suffering, and grant him peace. Immediately the man became quiet and seemed to be sleeping peacefully. When I returned to his room a few minutes later the nurse told me that the man had died shortly after my prayer, but on his face I could see a wonderful expression of relief and peace. Wow! What an answer to prayer! Through our hands we express many things, our strength, our own faith and confidence, the love God has given us, and sometimes God's power to comfort and heal. If we lay hands on other people without a firm connection with the love and power of God they can draw the love and energy all out of us and leave us totally drained.
In healing ministry our hands can also communicate in both directions. Not only can we communicate God's healing love to someone, we can also receive things from them. One time when I visited another parishioner who was in pain, I took his hand in mine and told him to give me his pain. He looked at me in surprise and said he wouldn't wish that pain on anyone. I told him that it wouldn't hurt me because I would pass it on the God. Then as I reached up as if to take the hand of God with my left hand, my parishioner gritted his teeth and squeezed my right hand as hard as he could. I felt something pass through my body like a great sigh and he released his grip with a surprised expression of relief on his face and exclaimed: "Wow! it worked!" Other people can transmit their curses, their pain, their fears and anxieties to us and without a firm connection with God we can be sorely afflicted.
There is also something else we can receive through the laying on of hands and prayer. Remember that God's prophets were often called seers because they could perceive things not obvious to others. Our hands may be sensitive to the special needs of the person for whom we are praying. This can be helpful in the discernment of problems of which the person for whom we are praying may be unaware. As we move our hands over the person's body, while seeking any discernment God's Holy Spirit may give us, distress or disorder may be communicated to our sensitized hands in ways that might otherwise be indiscernible. Once when I was working with a person who was experiencing back pain, I prayed for discernment concerning the cause. As my hands passed over the back of the neck I sensed a pinched nerve. More exploration revealed tension in the neck muscles. With my hands laid on the neck muscles and my prayer to relieve stress, God relieved the pain in the back.
Another time I had been experiencing severe pain running down my right leg from my hip. My prayer partner sought the discernment of the Holy Spirit as I stood before him and he gently ran his hands down my body. Suddenly he stopped and told me, "If you get that fat wallet out of your hip pocket it might help." When I took it from my pocket the pain ceased immediately and it has never returned. I was healed!
Exercise - Decide if you want to try laying on hands, receive laying on hands or to be an observer. If you want to try some laying on of hands, pair up with someone next to you who is interested in receiving this ministry and invite someone else to join you as an observer. Lay your hands on that person's shoulders, and pray the Holy Spirit for discernment of anything that may be causing that person discomfort. You may feel various sensations with your hands such as warmth, tingling, tension. As the Holy Spirit leads you share what you are sensing and seek confirmation. You might say: "I am sensing some pain, sorrow, distress, anxiety etc. in you. Is that right? I sense that God wants to offer you assurance, strength, comfort, healing, etc. Would you like me to pray for that with you? Offer prayer as the Holy Spirit leads you. If you don't feel or sense anything after a few moments consider if your own hurts or feelings may be getting in the way and perhaps you should shift roles with your prayer partner. If you both wish to shift roles you may do so.
If something gets opened up for healing in this exercise and you feel the need for it to continue be sure to seek out a prayer partner here later today or someone of your home congregation to continue the process.
The Hebrew Bible can also teach us about what we call soaking prayer. When the son of the widow of Zarephath was stricken, (1 Kings 17:17-23) Elijah cried out to God, then stretched himself over the child three times praying, "My God, let this child's life come into him again." and the child was revived. Similarly, when a Shunammite woman's son was stricken Elisha prayed for his recovery (2 Kings 4:32-36). Elisha lay upon the child, putting his mouth to the child's mouth, and his hands on the child's hands, until the child's flesh was warmed. A second time he repeated the procedure and this time the child sneezed and opened his eyes.
We learn from this that it may take repeated applications of prayer and laying on of hands for complete healing to take place. Sometimes one needs to work with a prayer partner for several sessions as healing gradually progresses. Sometimes it is helpful to immerse a person in the prayers of a prayer group. One person may begin by laying hands on the person's head and beginning to pray. Several other persons then join in and with the permission of the person for whom the prayers are to be offered they may lay their hands on other parts of the body and add their prayers. Several of these soaking prayer sessions may be needed before healing may be completed, but the results can be spectacular. Some years ago Jim contracted polio and lost the use of his legs. I was in a prayer group with his wife, Doris, and every time we met we would soak Jim in this kind of healing prayer. There was gradual strengthening of Jim's legs over several years, until at last he was able to stand upright, discard his crutches, and walk again.
While making hospital calls I discovered a woman who had passed out on the road and wrecked her car. Tests showed that she had suffered severe brain damage. Her husband asked me to pray for her because the doctors felt there was little hope of recovery. For three months our church and others continued to pray for her and to soak her in our prayers as she lay in a coma in the hospital. A few weeks ago when I visited her she sat up, opened her eyes, and smiled when she recognized me. She had come out of the coma, had regained her memory, and she thanked me for the prayers which she believed had been so helpful. Persistence in prayer often gets remarkable results. Praise be to God! Amen.
Questions? Comments?
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Cassia
Cassia was one of the principal spices of the Holy Anointing oil used to anoint priests, kings and their garments. Likewise the coming King Messiah's robes will smell of cassia. Cassia is not frequently used today but was apparently a highly valued commodity in Bible times. The root word, kiddah, in both Hebrew and Arabic, signifies a strip and refers to the strips of bark from which the spice is made. In the spiritual sense, cassia speaks of humility, being stripped of pride, set apart (holy) with a servant's heart. The deep, exotic aroma and the rich color of our Cassia oil make it a welcome addition to our family of Biblical fragrant anointing oils.
Psalm 45:8 "Your robes are all fragrant with myrrh, aloes and cassia..."
Botanical Information:
Botanical: Cinnamomum cassia
Part Used: Bark & leaves
Habitat: Burma, India, South China
Cassia is an evergreen tree with an aromatic bark, similar to cinnamon, but darker, thicker and coarser. The outer surface is rough and greyish-brown, the inside bark is smoother and reddish-brown. The stems are cut down when the bark is mature. The bark is removed in short lengths and dried, then ground into powder or rolled from both sides toward the center, to form a quill resembling a scroll. An aromatic oil can be derived through steam distillation of the leaves to produce a strong and penetrating fragrance.
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Cedars of Lebanon
The cedar of Lebanon is a huge evergreen tree by Middle Eastern standards reaching 90 feet in height, the “King" of all Biblical trees. The wood is astonishingly decay resistant and it is never eaten by insect larvae. It is beautifully majestic and red toned with deep green leaves. The tree bark is dark gray and exudes a gumlike resin from which the highly aromatic oils are produced. Cedars of Lebanon is the strong, fragrant wood used to build David's house, Solomon's house and much of the First Temple. It was also used along with hyssop in the cleansing of a leper's house. It speaks of strength, permanence, endurance and wholeness.
Ps 92:12 "The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon."
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FRANKINCENSE & MYRRH
These two fragrances combined not only smell divine, but have deep spiritual significance as two of the three gifts presented to the Messiah after his birth. (Learn more about the spiritual meaning of this and our other fragrances on our anointing oil teaching page.)
In temple days, sweet incense containing Frankincense was placed on the Inner Altar of the Tabernacle and burned morning and evening. It speaks of intercession. Myrrh, used as a burial spice and in purification rites, was a primary ingredient of the Holy Anointing Oil. It speaks of suffering and death, but our total deliverance in the atoning work of Messiah. Frankincense & Myrrh, two of the three prophetic gifts given to the Messiah at His birth, represent His role as Priest and Prophet, signifying all that Messiah would do and continues to do on our behalf.
Is 53:5 "He was wounded for our transgression, He was bruised for our iniquities; ....and by His stripes we are healed."
Heb 7:24-26: "...he is totally able to deliver those who approach God through him; since he is alive forever and thus able to intercede on their behalf."
Note: The Frankincense fragrance listed on the website will always contain a tiny bit of Myrrh to help with the pungency of the Frankincense fragrance. It will either be labeled Frankincense & Myrrh or simply Frankincense.
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Henna
Henna, a shrub producing masses of small, white, heavily fragrant flowers, has been widely used as a cosmetic from ancient times until present. It is popular in the Middle East as a dye which is applied in intricate patterns on the hands and feet of brides. The whole unbroken leaves of henna will not stain the skin; however, when they are broken or crushed the color is released to stain the skin. The mention of the alluring fragrance of Henna is quite appropriately found in the beautiful love song of the Bible, Song of Songs 1:14. It is a smell you can fall in love with instantly and is thought to be the source of Cleopatra's famous captivating perfume. The root word for Henna is derived from an Arabic word meaning emotional tenderness. We, like the Henna leaves and flowers, can become spiritually tender and extremely fragrant when we submit to the breaking of our own wills in true repentance before the Lord.
Psalm 51:17 "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."
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Hyssop (Holy Fire)
Hyssop is a low growing evergreen, bushy herb growing 1 to 2 feet high, cultivated for its flower-tops, from which the fragrance is extracted. The herb grows in arid climates out of rocky soil and out of cracks in ancient walls such as in the old Temple area of Jerusalem. Hyssop was once called a "Holy Herb" because it was used for sprinkling in the ritual practices of the Hebrews. Ex 12:22 reads “And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and strike the lintel and the two side posts..” Because of the reference found in Num. 19:6 (“And the priest shall take cedar wood, and hyssop, and scarlet, and cast it into the midst of the burning of the heifer”), we have called this fragrance “HOLY FIRE”. Hyssop, a very "clean, fresh" scent, speaks of spiritual cleansing by the refining fire of the Holy Spirit.
Ps 51:7 “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.”
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The Ketubah Collection - Marriage Covenant
Ketubah is the Hebrew word meaning "It is written" and the name given to marriage contracts for the children of Israel outlining the vows and responsibilities of the groom and the bride toward each other. Many scriptures compare the marriage covenant on earth with the covenant between the Creator and His people. After the Exodus, Moses presented the children of Israel with the terms of one such covenant, the Ten Commandments written with the finger of the Holy One of Israel, which they accepted wholeheartedly with a resounding “I do.” Love for The One True God, shown by obedience to His Word, is the basis on which this covenant is extended to all who believe.
Ketubah is a special aromatic blending of biblical fragrances representing the participants in the holy covenant of marriage:
the Groom, the Bride and the Spirit of The Living God.
Frankincense & Myrrh: fragrances of the Groom
Spikenard: fragrance of the Bride
Hyssop (Holy Fire): fragrance of the Holy Spirit
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King's Garments, a unique blend of Cassia & Myrrh
Myrrh, bitter to the taste, sweet to the smell, was used in purification rites and Holy Oil.
Cassia was one of the principal spices of the Holy Anointing oil used to anoint priests, kings and their garments. Likewise the garments of our coming King Messiah and High Priest, will smell of cassia. Psalm 45:8 "Your robes are all fragrant with myrrh, aloes and cassia...".
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Lily of the Valley
Lily of the valley is known for its delicate, cup-like, pure white flowers and its light and crisp fragrance. The Beloved in Song of Solomon compares herself to one of these after she has heard her lover declare how ravished he is with her. In the spiritual sense, lily speaks of purity of heart.
Song of Sol. 2:1 "I am the rose of Sharon, the lily of the valleys."
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Oil of Myrrh
Myrrh, an exotic Biblical spice, was used in purification & beautification rites, in the formula for the Holy Anointing Oil, and in burial spices. Queen Esther was bathed in Oil of Myrrh for six months and with other aloes and perfumes for another six months before her presentation to the king. Bitter to the taste but sweet to the smell, myrrh in the spiritual sense speaks of dying to self to become a "sweet smelling savor" to the Lord.
Esther 2:12 Each girl had her turn to appear before King Achashverosh after she had undergone the full twelve-month preparation period prescribed for the women, consisting of a six-month treatment with oil of myrrh and six months with perfumes and other cosmetics for women.
Click here for a teaching on Purim and the Fast of Esther
Botanical Information:
Botanical: Commiphora myrrha
Part Used: The gum resin
Habitat: Oman, Somalia, Yemen
The small bushy trees grow high on coastal cliffs with little soil and flourish in extreme hot, arid climates. Harvested by hand in the very last days of fall, the gum resin flow is milky white, as it begins to crystallize. The fresh myrrh is packed in burlap sacks, then carried down the rocky paths to awaiting camel packs and onto local markets. harvesters follow the "Frankincense & Myrrh trails" to market just as in ancient days.
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Pomegranate
The pomegranate, a Persian native, is one of the oldest fruits known to man and was highly esteemed by the Israelites. It takes an enormous amount of the flower petals to be pressed and steam-distilled in order to make a quantity of oil. Once pressed the slightly amber oil, which is the basis for all our Pomegranate products, gives off a pleasant and slightly fruity odor. Jewish tradition teaches that the pomegranate is a symbol for righteousness, because it is said to have 613 seeds which corresponds with the 613 mitzvot or commandments of the Torah. Pomegranate is one of the seven species the spies brought back with them to show how fertile the promised land was. It speaks of God's favor exhibited, in fruitfulness and abundance - hence we call it our “BLESSINGS COLLECTION”.
Nu 13:23 "They came to the valley of Eshkol...they brought also of the pomegranates, and of the figs."
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Rose of Sharon
This flower from the region of Sharon in Israel is actually not a rose, but is part of the hibiscus family. Its blooms are nonetheless beautiful and glorious, just as Isaiah depicted the millennial reign when the Bride of Messiah shines forth in all the radiance of her heavenly glory and beauty.
Song of Sol 2:1: "I am the rose of Sharon, the lily of the valleys."
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Spikenard
Spikenard, a rare and costly fragrant oil, was used by Mary of Bethany to anoint the head and feet of the Messiah two days before His death, as recorded in John 12:3: “Then Mary took a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment.” It speaks of the Bride’s extravagant adoration of & intimacy with the Bridegroom, in total abandonment, without regard to cost. We at ABBA call Spikenard "The Fragrance of the Bride", for it symbolizes the bride who has made herself ready.
Song of Sol 1:12 "While the king sits at his table, my spikenard sends forth its fragrance."
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Monday, February 8, 2010
Love, the World and Jesus
As you go about your daily business and hear the radio music, see television and movies, books and magazines all explaining love in one way or another. You pretty much get the idea that love is about romantic interludes and sex. With Valentines day coming up you see candy, flowers and cards for sale and on the internet you can sign up for arranged meetings with the partner that is right for you. But Jesus had a different idea of what love was.
First Jesus tells us that we must forgive each other for our wrongs (trespasses),
He also tells us we must turn the other cheek, give our coat to those who ask and walk the extra mile. Jesus tells us that we must be kind to others, help the poor and feed the hungry. He tells us the story of the man who was beat by robbers and left for dead and how the good Samaritan cleaned his wounds, bound his wounds with medicine (herbs) and bandages, took him to an inn and paid to have him looked after. In true measure love is a Godly and sacrificial act, brought on by compassion. This can be the most difficult kind of love to act on. To give a part of yourself, to forgive and to help others, and yet Jesus tells us that we will be rewarded in heaven for this kind of love. It is not an imposition to give part of your garden vegetables to a low income family; or to sew clothing and quilts for the poor, or to buy a coat for someone that is cold, to give a homeless person a ride to a shelter or to save a small portion of your groceries each week for someone who in the future may need them, it is a gift from God.
First Jesus tells us that we must forgive each other for our wrongs (trespasses),
He also tells us we must turn the other cheek, give our coat to those who ask and walk the extra mile. Jesus tells us that we must be kind to others, help the poor and feed the hungry. He tells us the story of the man who was beat by robbers and left for dead and how the good Samaritan cleaned his wounds, bound his wounds with medicine (herbs) and bandages, took him to an inn and paid to have him looked after. In true measure love is a Godly and sacrificial act, brought on by compassion. This can be the most difficult kind of love to act on. To give a part of yourself, to forgive and to help others, and yet Jesus tells us that we will be rewarded in heaven for this kind of love. It is not an imposition to give part of your garden vegetables to a low income family; or to sew clothing and quilts for the poor, or to buy a coat for someone that is cold, to give a homeless person a ride to a shelter or to save a small portion of your groceries each week for someone who in the future may need them, it is a gift from God.
And Jesus Walked
By Rev. Harold W. Langley Jr.
2009-12-13
Rev. Harold W. Langley Jr.
Melrose, Fl
And Jesus Walked..
There is an old joke floating around, that I find has deep relevance in today's times. It concerns a teenager nearing his 16th birthday, who wants a car from his father, An old style Minister. The teen asks comes to his Father one day, as he pours over his upcoming sermon. Dad says the teen, I’m nearly sixteen, and everyone else is getting a car for their sixteenth birthday. So I want one for mine. The Father pulls his reading glasses down his nose slightly and peers over them at his boy. Son, Says the Father, I’ll make a deal with you. There is one month until your birthday. If you fulfill three tasks for me until then, I will buy you the car of your choice. The teen excited at the prospect of any car he chooses, agrees, without hesitation. Very well, the old Minister said, The first thing I want you to do is start attending services, at least once a week. Fine said the teen. The next thing I ask, is that you study your Bible, for thirty minutes a day, every day. OK his son smiled. The last thing I want, is for you to cut your hair. The young man, stalled a bit on the last request, but gave in without argument.
The day finally came when the boy turned sixteen, and he walked smiling up to his Father, once again seated in his den, crafting a new sermon. Dad? He said. It’s time to go get my car. The Minister, smiled up at his son, and said, one minute my boy. There is something I’d like to say to you first. Ok the teen said begrudgingly wanting to hurry to the car lot as if the last car was up for sale. I’m very proud of you son, the Father said. I have to admit when I asked those things of you, I expected none of them to happen. You’ve done well. Every week I saw you at my sermon, in the first pew. Yup, sure was, said his boy. And for the last month you’ve been reading through the scriptures like a starving man, looking for bread. Yes that’s right his boy smiled, But you still aren’t getting your car, the Minister said with a shrug. You see you still haven’t cut your hair. The boys eyes narrowed as he grinned out of one side of his mouth. You see dad, there is a reason for that, and it comes from the Bible. Really? How so? The minister asked. Well, the teen started, I’ve been reading a lot lately about Jesus. He was the son of God, and Died on the cross to deliver us from all sin right? Yes that’s correct the proud father said. And we should all strive to be more like Jesus shouldn’t we? I would have to agree with that, no question. His father said. Well Dad Jesus had long hair, and if I should be more like him, I don’t think it’s right that you force me to cut mine. He smiled a triumphant smile as he looked his father in the eyes. You make a good point son, but you’ve missed something very important in the story. Said the minister. And what is that? The teen asked. It’s true the Lamb of God had long hair, And Jesus walked everywhere he went.
So many of us think this way in our everyday lives. With our work, our families, even with our Faith. You see we know what needs to be done to get the things we want, including salvation. But when it all comes down to it, few actually take the time to complete the tasks without trying to find a loophole here and there. And eventually, those loopholes build up higher and higher until our feet become snagged in them, tripping us up. A wise man once told me, anything worth having, is worth working for, And anytime you have to work, make sure to do it right the first time. Wise words that matter as much to our faith as to every aspect of our lives today. Any job takes hard work and dedication to be secure, and sucessful. A family is a full time job in and of itself. And when it comes to our faith, you get back what you put into it. If you work hard and persevere at following the beliefs of your personal faith, you will receive greater rewards, than by just showing up at church now and then . Snoozing during the sermon.
2009-12-13
Rev. Harold W. Langley Jr.
Melrose, Fl
And Jesus Walked..
There is an old joke floating around, that I find has deep relevance in today's times. It concerns a teenager nearing his 16th birthday, who wants a car from his father, An old style Minister. The teen asks comes to his Father one day, as he pours over his upcoming sermon. Dad says the teen, I’m nearly sixteen, and everyone else is getting a car for their sixteenth birthday. So I want one for mine. The Father pulls his reading glasses down his nose slightly and peers over them at his boy. Son, Says the Father, I’ll make a deal with you. There is one month until your birthday. If you fulfill three tasks for me until then, I will buy you the car of your choice. The teen excited at the prospect of any car he chooses, agrees, without hesitation. Very well, the old Minister said, The first thing I want you to do is start attending services, at least once a week. Fine said the teen. The next thing I ask, is that you study your Bible, for thirty minutes a day, every day. OK his son smiled. The last thing I want, is for you to cut your hair. The young man, stalled a bit on the last request, but gave in without argument.
The day finally came when the boy turned sixteen, and he walked smiling up to his Father, once again seated in his den, crafting a new sermon. Dad? He said. It’s time to go get my car. The Minister, smiled up at his son, and said, one minute my boy. There is something I’d like to say to you first. Ok the teen said begrudgingly wanting to hurry to the car lot as if the last car was up for sale. I’m very proud of you son, the Father said. I have to admit when I asked those things of you, I expected none of them to happen. You’ve done well. Every week I saw you at my sermon, in the first pew. Yup, sure was, said his boy. And for the last month you’ve been reading through the scriptures like a starving man, looking for bread. Yes that’s right his boy smiled, But you still aren’t getting your car, the Minister said with a shrug. You see you still haven’t cut your hair. The boys eyes narrowed as he grinned out of one side of his mouth. You see dad, there is a reason for that, and it comes from the Bible. Really? How so? The minister asked. Well, the teen started, I’ve been reading a lot lately about Jesus. He was the son of God, and Died on the cross to deliver us from all sin right? Yes that’s correct the proud father said. And we should all strive to be more like Jesus shouldn’t we? I would have to agree with that, no question. His father said. Well Dad Jesus had long hair, and if I should be more like him, I don’t think it’s right that you force me to cut mine. He smiled a triumphant smile as he looked his father in the eyes. You make a good point son, but you’ve missed something very important in the story. Said the minister. And what is that? The teen asked. It’s true the Lamb of God had long hair, And Jesus walked everywhere he went.
So many of us think this way in our everyday lives. With our work, our families, even with our Faith. You see we know what needs to be done to get the things we want, including salvation. But when it all comes down to it, few actually take the time to complete the tasks without trying to find a loophole here and there. And eventually, those loopholes build up higher and higher until our feet become snagged in them, tripping us up. A wise man once told me, anything worth having, is worth working for, And anytime you have to work, make sure to do it right the first time. Wise words that matter as much to our faith as to every aspect of our lives today. Any job takes hard work and dedication to be secure, and sucessful. A family is a full time job in and of itself. And when it comes to our faith, you get back what you put into it. If you work hard and persevere at following the beliefs of your personal faith, you will receive greater rewards, than by just showing up at church now and then . Snoozing during the sermon.
A Biblical Overview of Anointing with Oil
To anoint means to rub or smear with oil, therefore,the act of anointing can be by either rubbing or smearing. Oil in the Bible is the physical representation of a spiritual reality. Hebrews 9:23-24 refers to such things as a type or "copy” of true things in the heavenlies. Anointing oil represents the anointing of the Holy Spirit or God's anointing and it can be used for:
* Consecration – Anoint and pray setting people, children, homes, offices, etc. apart for God's purpose. In Exodus 30:25-29 and Exodus 40:9, Moses is commanded by God to anoint the tabernacle and it's furnishing "that they may be most holy." We are the tabernacle. the holy temple of God. Anoint and pray, asking God to make us "holy"
* Impartation – Anoint and pray asking the power of God to come into your heart or the heart of a loved one. As when Samuel anointed David as king in 1 Samuel 16:13 imparting the power of the Holy Spirit The Bible says “the Spirit of the Lord was upon David from time forward."
* Emancipation – Anoint and pray calling upon the Lord to set you free, Isaiah 10:27 tells us that the yoke, a symbol of the bondage and oppression of our enemies, will be destroyed because of the anointing oil.
* Preparation – Anoint and pray to prepare yourself and others for God's purpose. In Matt 26:6-12 a woman pours a fragrant oil upon Jesus' head as preparation for his death and burial.
In addition, anointing oil is used as a sign of joy (Isaiah 61:3, Hebrews 1:9,) and is to be used for joy when mourning has ended (1 Samuel 12:20-23) for readiness (Matthew 5:7-13), physical healing (Mark 6:13, James 5:14-15), adoration (Luke 7:16-30), to honor a guest (Luke 7:38,46), when preparing to meet the king (Ruth 3:3), for cleansing (Leviticus14: 15-18, Ezekiel 16:9), for burial Mark 14:8), medicine for wounds (Luke 10:34), for disease Jeremiah 8:22). To abstain from anointing with Oil is a symbol of mourning (2 Samuel 14:2).
Moses was commanded by God in Exodus 30:22-25 to use specific spices to make the anointing oil for the tabernacle. In a similar manner today, specific spices (Exodus 35:8), directed by God, are added to olive oil for specific purposes.
Apply the oil in the name of the Lord. Then in faith ask the Father to meet your needs and the needs of others. The power is His; the privilege to pray is yours.
* Consecration – Anoint and pray setting people, children, homes, offices, etc. apart for God's purpose. In Exodus 30:25-29 and Exodus 40:9, Moses is commanded by God to anoint the tabernacle and it's furnishing "that they may be most holy." We are the tabernacle. the holy temple of God. Anoint and pray, asking God to make us "holy"
* Impartation – Anoint and pray asking the power of God to come into your heart or the heart of a loved one. As when Samuel anointed David as king in 1 Samuel 16:13 imparting the power of the Holy Spirit The Bible says “the Spirit of the Lord was upon David from time forward."
* Emancipation – Anoint and pray calling upon the Lord to set you free, Isaiah 10:27 tells us that the yoke, a symbol of the bondage and oppression of our enemies, will be destroyed because of the anointing oil.
* Preparation – Anoint and pray to prepare yourself and others for God's purpose. In Matt 26:6-12 a woman pours a fragrant oil upon Jesus' head as preparation for his death and burial.
In addition, anointing oil is used as a sign of joy (Isaiah 61:3, Hebrews 1:9,) and is to be used for joy when mourning has ended (1 Samuel 12:20-23) for readiness (Matthew 5:7-13), physical healing (Mark 6:13, James 5:14-15), adoration (Luke 7:16-30), to honor a guest (Luke 7:38,46), when preparing to meet the king (Ruth 3:3), for cleansing (Leviticus14: 15-18, Ezekiel 16:9), for burial Mark 14:8), medicine for wounds (Luke 10:34), for disease Jeremiah 8:22). To abstain from anointing with Oil is a symbol of mourning (2 Samuel 14:2).
Moses was commanded by God in Exodus 30:22-25 to use specific spices to make the anointing oil for the tabernacle. In a similar manner today, specific spices (Exodus 35:8), directed by God, are added to olive oil for specific purposes.
Apply the oil in the name of the Lord. Then in faith ask the Father to meet your needs and the needs of others. The power is His; the privilege to pray is yours.
INTRODUCTION
Anointing oils can be used as a symbolic representation of our faith in Jesus Christ to answer our prayers through divine intervention; consecration, sanctification, applied as a healing salve or ointment that has true medicinal attributes, used as a perfume for hygiene purposes, funeral or embalming practices, or preparing weapons for warfare. Anointing oil and ointments have multiple applications as you will see in the scripture references below.
Praying For Others With Anointing Oil
Important Things To Remember
When using anointing oil during times of prayer, it is important to remember the anointing oil is only a tangible symbolic representation of our faith in Jesus Christ. Anointing oils have no "special power" in and of themselves. It is Jesus Christ alone who performs miracles and answers our prayers of faith...with or without anointing oil.
In (Mathew 6:7) the Bible clearly states God knows what we need before we ask him and instructs us how to pray. (Matthew 6:9-10) "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven". (1 John 5:14-15) "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him". Therefore, we need to pray for God's will to be done and surrender our own (Luke 22:42). "Not thy will, but Thine".
The act of "anointing with oil" is not intended to replace medical assistance or other therapeutic procedures. Please work in cooperation with health care or mental health professionals.
Ancient Anointing Oil & Ointment Preparation
Anointing oil is an unguent, or ointment prepared from oil alone or with the addition of flowers, fragrant herbs, gums, resins, seeds, spices and other botanicals. Some formulas were very simple and consisted of one active ingredient and olive oil, while other formulas were a complex mixture of ingredients. These unguent or ointments had distinct aromatic odours; herbal, medicinal, earthy, balsamic, spicy, or sweet aromas. It does not mean they had a sweet perfume fragrance like the perfumes we buy at the store today.
Traditional Daily Use
The practice of anointing with perfumed oil was common among the Hebrews and other nations.
· It was also the custom of the Jews in like manner to anoint themselves with oil, as a means of refreshing or invigorating their bodies (Deuteronomy 28:40; Ruth 3:3; 2 Sam 14:2; Micah 6:15; Psalms 104:15, Proverbs 27:9; Amos 6:6 etc.). This custom is continued among the Arabians to the present day .
· Anointing was an act of hospitality (Luke 7:38,46).
· Richly perfumed and expensive; Solomon 4:10; John 12:3
Medicinal and Prayer For The Sick
· Oil was used also for medicinal purposes. It was applied to the sick, and also to wounds (Psalms 109:18; Isaiah 1:6; Mark 6:13; James 5:14).
High quality anointing oils, ointments, and perfumes made with pure unadulterated ingredients may have calming and medicinal attributes due to the actual healing properties of the pure plant essences used in them.
Weapons and Spiritual Warfare
·The expression, "anoint the shield" (Isaiah 21:5), refers to the custom of rubbing oil on the leather of the shield so as to make it supple and fit for use in war.
Preparation For Burial and Funerals
· John 12:3
· The bodies of the dead were sometimes anointed (Mark 14:8; Luke 23:56).
Sanctification
· Purifying the body (Oil of Myrrh) Esther 2:12;
Consecration
The Holy Anointing Oil (Exodus 30 Holy Oil) is the only anointing oil specifically mentioned in the Bible for this purpose.
· The promised Deliverer is twice called the "Anointed" or Messiah (Psalms 2:2; Daniel 9:25,26), because he was anointed with the Holy Ghost (Isaiah 61:1), figuratively styled the "oil of gladness" (Psalms 45:7; Hebrews 1:9). Jesus of Nazareth is this anointed One (John 1:41; Acts 9:22; 17:2,3; 18:5,28), the Messiah of the Old Testament.
· The act of anointing was significant of consecration to a holy or sacred use; hence the anointing of the high priest (Exodus 29:29; Leviticus 4:3) and of the sacred vessels (Exodus 30:26). The high priest and the king are thus called "the anointed" (Leviticus 4:3,5,16; 6:20; Psalms 132:10). Anointing a king was equivalent to crowning him (1 Samuel 16:13; 2Sam 2:4, etc.). Prophets were also anointed (1 Kings 19:16; 1 Chronicles 16:22; Psalms 105:15 ).
Preparation and Commerce
· Prepared by the apothecary; Ecclesiastes 10:1
· An article of commerce; Ezekiel 27:17; Revelation 18:13
Spiritual Anointing With the Holy Ghost
-The Most Important Anointing-
· Spiritual anointing with the Holy Ghost is conferred also upon Christians by God. (2 Corinthians 1:21, 1 John 2:27) " Anointing "expresses the sanctifying influences of the Holy Spirit upon Christians.
(2 Corinthians 1:21) "Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, is God."
(1 John 2:27) "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him".
All believers who have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and savior have been given this “Anointing”.
Praying For Others With Anointing Oil
Important Things To Remember
When using anointing oil during times of prayer, it is important to remember the anointing oil is only a tangible symbolic representation of our faith in Jesus Christ. Anointing oils have no "special power" in and of themselves. It is Jesus Christ alone who performs miracles and answers our prayers of faith...with or without anointing oil.
In (Mathew 6:7) the Bible clearly states God knows what we need before we ask him and instructs us how to pray. (Matthew 6:9-10) "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven". (1 John 5:14-15) "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him". Therefore, we need to pray for God's will to be done and surrender our own (Luke 22:42). "Not thy will, but Thine".
The act of "anointing with oil" is not intended to replace medical assistance or other therapeutic procedures. Please work in cooperation with health care or mental health professionals.
Ancient Anointing Oil & Ointment Preparation
Anointing oil is an unguent, or ointment prepared from oil alone or with the addition of flowers, fragrant herbs, gums, resins, seeds, spices and other botanicals. Some formulas were very simple and consisted of one active ingredient and olive oil, while other formulas were a complex mixture of ingredients. These unguent or ointments had distinct aromatic odours; herbal, medicinal, earthy, balsamic, spicy, or sweet aromas. It does not mean they had a sweet perfume fragrance like the perfumes we buy at the store today.
Traditional Daily Use
The practice of anointing with perfumed oil was common among the Hebrews and other nations.
· It was also the custom of the Jews in like manner to anoint themselves with oil, as a means of refreshing or invigorating their bodies (Deuteronomy 28:40; Ruth 3:3; 2 Sam 14:2; Micah 6:15; Psalms 104:15, Proverbs 27:9; Amos 6:6 etc.). This custom is continued among the Arabians to the present day .
· Anointing was an act of hospitality (Luke 7:38,46).
· Richly perfumed and expensive; Solomon 4:10; John 12:3
Medicinal and Prayer For The Sick
· Oil was used also for medicinal purposes. It was applied to the sick, and also to wounds (Psalms 109:18; Isaiah 1:6; Mark 6:13; James 5:14).
High quality anointing oils, ointments, and perfumes made with pure unadulterated ingredients may have calming and medicinal attributes due to the actual healing properties of the pure plant essences used in them.
Weapons and Spiritual Warfare
·The expression, "anoint the shield" (Isaiah 21:5), refers to the custom of rubbing oil on the leather of the shield so as to make it supple and fit for use in war.
Preparation For Burial and Funerals
· John 12:3
· The bodies of the dead were sometimes anointed (Mark 14:8; Luke 23:56).
Sanctification
· Purifying the body (Oil of Myrrh) Esther 2:12;
Consecration
The Holy Anointing Oil (Exodus 30 Holy Oil) is the only anointing oil specifically mentioned in the Bible for this purpose.
· The promised Deliverer is twice called the "Anointed" or Messiah (Psalms 2:2; Daniel 9:25,26), because he was anointed with the Holy Ghost (Isaiah 61:1), figuratively styled the "oil of gladness" (Psalms 45:7; Hebrews 1:9). Jesus of Nazareth is this anointed One (John 1:41; Acts 9:22; 17:2,3; 18:5,28), the Messiah of the Old Testament.
· The act of anointing was significant of consecration to a holy or sacred use; hence the anointing of the high priest (Exodus 29:29; Leviticus 4:3) and of the sacred vessels (Exodus 30:26). The high priest and the king are thus called "the anointed" (Leviticus 4:3,5,16; 6:20; Psalms 132:10). Anointing a king was equivalent to crowning him (1 Samuel 16:13; 2Sam 2:4, etc.). Prophets were also anointed (1 Kings 19:16; 1 Chronicles 16:22; Psalms 105:15 ).
Preparation and Commerce
· Prepared by the apothecary; Ecclesiastes 10:1
· An article of commerce; Ezekiel 27:17; Revelation 18:13
Spiritual Anointing With the Holy Ghost
-The Most Important Anointing-
· Spiritual anointing with the Holy Ghost is conferred also upon Christians by God. (2 Corinthians 1:21, 1 John 2:27) " Anointing "expresses the sanctifying influences of the Holy Spirit upon Christians.
(2 Corinthians 1:21) "Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, is God."
(1 John 2:27) "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him".
All believers who have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and savior have been given this “Anointing”.
A H E A L I N G S E R V I C E
With The Laying On Of Hands
Anointing With Oil & Prayer
James 5:13-16; Isaiah 61:1-3; Mark 2:1-12
Acknowledgements and Sources: For well over 25 years I had led
healing prayers and performed anointing within Bible Study and Prayer
Groups. But despite this practice I had never held or conducted a
"Healing Service" in the sanctuary of any of the churches I attended
or served. Recently a number of parishioners suggested that it would
be good to have such a service and requested that I conduct one. One
of the folk with a ministry of prayer offered to take care of the
logistics of the service - and so at last, after many years of
thinking about it, a date was set and an invitation was made to the
congregation (and through the congregation to any friends or family
who may desire it) to come and take part in a service of healing as
both makers and receivers of prayer.
What follows in this service is indebted to numerous conversations
and discussions with Charlene Elizabeth Fairchild regarding healing
and wholeness during the last 18 years. While I have used "anointing
oil" in my ministry from the very beginning, Charlene brought into
our marriage and our ministry together a greater depth of
understanding of how to prepare, bless, and use anointing oil.
The following service is indebted to outlines and words from the
Episcopal Book of Common Prayer (USA)and the Book of Alternate
Services (Canada) garnered over many years of referring to them. Of
particular help in initially organizing the prayers for healing
(including use of some phrases) was Nancy L. Woodworth Hill's "A
Healing Liturgy" copyright 1992, 1994 (The Episcopal Church of The
Ascension, 16 Linwod Avenue, Buffalo, NY). Also Chaplain Allison
Cline(aacline@isys.ca), Pioneer Manor Long Term Care Facility,
Sudbury, Ontario offered numerous tips during a series of online
exchanges on the worship-recl@uniting.com.au List in late May 2003.
Her "Notes on Healing" were a particularly helpful reminder of some
of the issues around healing prayer. Those notes were based in turn
on materials she received from the Iona Community. Also thanks to
Allison for some of the petitions of the prayer of confession and the
pastoral prayer.
* OPENING WORDS
L The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
P And also with you.
* OPENING SONG: "Shine Jesus Shine" SONG
* PRAYER
We ask your presence among us, O God, Creator of the universe, Sustainer
of life, Redeemer of humankind; bring your healing light and power into
our wounded hearts and bodies and minds and souls, clear the way for each
of us to discover within ourselves the fulness of your power and all of
your wondrous blessings; help us dear God to respond to your vast love and
to bless you, so that we may be a beacon through which you may shine into
the world and be everlasting citizens of your Kingdom both in heaven and on
earth. Amen.
READING JAMES 5:13-16
Hear this reading from James, the servant of God and of the Lord Jesus
Christ - taken from the Fifth Chapter of his letter to the twelve tribes
scattered through the nations. He writes:
Is any one of you in trouble? They should pray. Is anyone
happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick?
They should call the elders of the church to pray over them and
anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer
offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will
raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each
other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous
person is powerful and effective.
L This is the word of the Lord.
P Thanks be to God
COMMENT
Tonight that is what we are here to do. We are here to pray for those in
trouble. To sing songs of praise with those who are happy, and to anoint
with oil - the oil of gladness - the oil of blessing - all those who are
sick that they may be made whole. We come in the expectation that God will
do all that He has promised - that sins will be forgiven and that lives
will be made new.
As we gather here in a holy hope tonight - we give thanks to David Hiebert
who is on the keyboard for us to help us make our offering of music to our
God - and to the elders in our faith and in this congregation, those who
have been given a ministry of prayer and intercession - who will come
forward at the appropriate time to help administer the laying on of hands
and anointing - and to all of you who have come with your joys and your
concerns and your deepest hopes.
We are going to sing a couple of songs now - following from your sheets....
SONG: "How Majestic Is Your Name" SONG
SONG: "Shout To The Lord" SONG
READINGS ISAIAH 61:1-3; MARK 2:1-12
I have already read to you from the Letter of James, the brother of our
Lord regarding gathering to pray for one another.
I would like to read to you now a couple of other scriptures.... The first
being from the Book of The Prophet Isaiah - in the 61st Chapter. There
the prophet proclaims these words - words read in part by Jesus in the
synagogue in Capernaum as he began his ministry. Isaiah announced:
The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has
anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to
bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year
of the Lord's favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to
comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion
-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil
of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead
of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of
righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his
splendour.
L This is the word of the Lord.
P Thanks be to God
The next reading some of you have heard fairly recently - it was the gospel
text for the first Sunday of June here in this place. It is, as I said
then, a favourite passage of mine - and I hope it will be one for you as
well. It is taken from the Gospel According To Mark - chapter Two - verses
one to twelve.
A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people
heard that he had come home. So many gathered that there was no
room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to
them. Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by
four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of
the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and,
after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was
lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic,
"Son, your sins are forgiven."
Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to
themselves, "Why does this fellow talk like that? He's
blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?"
Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were
thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, "Why are you
thinking these things? Which is easier: to say to the paralytic,
'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, take your mat and
walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority
on earth to forgive sins . . . ." He said to the paralytic, "I
tell you, get up, take your mat and go home."
He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all.
This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, "We have never
seen anything like this!"
L This is the gospel of our Risen Lord
P Praise be to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
SONG: "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" SONG
HOMILY
Since the very beginning, the ministry of healing has played a vital and
central part in the life of both Israel and the Church of Jesus Christ.
The world was made good it says in the very first chapter of the first book
of the Holy Scriptures, but alas - the wholeness of the world, its basic
integrity, has been broken by sin.
We learn from the very beginning that not only is death introduced into the
world because of sin, but even the thorns and thistles that prevent us from
fully enjoying the riches of the world that God has made, are the result of
sin, the result of the broken-ness of our world.
We, also learn from the very beginning that it is God's plan is to restore
to wholeness the earth and all who dwell there in - and in particular to
bring his people, those whom he has chosen and called to his own, to the
fulness of the joy that is possible in this world - that fullness, that
wholeness, that completeness, that integrity, that wells up as abundant
life here and now - and indeed forever. Sin is forgiven. Death is indeed
vanquished.
Jesus, quoting from the prophet Isaiah, proclaimed to his community in
Capernaum, and he proclaims to us here today - the eternal purpose of God -
a purpose that Jesus said was even then being fulfilled in their hearing -
a purpose that is indeed still being fulfilled - in places like this - and
among people and by people like you and me - among people and by people
who are called and anointed by God.
We as a community of believers - and as individuals of faith - are called
by God - each as God gifts us - to proclaim good news to the poor, to bind
up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from
darkness for the prisoners.
We are called to proclaim the time of God's favour and of his judgement
and to comfort those who mourn and to provide for those who grieve.
These things God calls us to as a community of faith with Isaiah - and with
Christ - are not simply physical things that we are to do - but spiritual
as well.
There are many people whose bodies are completely free in the physical
sense, they can come and go where and when they want, but they are captive
in their minds and hearts and souls to anxiety and fear they are bound by a
sense of despair, they mourn not simply the loss of a person dear to them,
but the loss of the sense of God's care and God's goodness towards them
or towards those whom they love.
There are many who are bound up by sin, their own sin and/or the sins that
others have committed against them; sins that they have not been able to
forgive - even though they want to, people who need to be set free, who
need what we call inner healing, inner peace, inner wholeness.
And there are those who do indeed have need of physical restoration,
those who, like the paralytic in the gospel lesson that was read tonight,
whose bodies are in rebellion - whose bodies are enslaved.
We are called to minister to all these and to proclaim the good news of
God's love.
Like the friends who brought the paralytic to Jesus,
we are called to bring to God those among us in need of healing, those in
need of wholeness and to beseech God and to allow God - to give to them
what has been promised.
As Isaiah puts it we are called to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead
of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
The truth be told - we don't do it ourselves - but God does it on account
of us and God does it on account of his own name - his own glory - his own
splendour. God does it as a testimony to his word, as a fulfilment of his
own promises.
Our part is to trust in God, to believe in God, to trust in God for
ourselves - and for those who cannot yet trust in God, to believe in God
for ourselves - and for those who are still lost in unbelief.
And our part is also to do those simple things, those necessary things,
that help to answer the prayers we make... if we pray for bread for the
poor, it is also for us to share the bread on our table, if we pray for a
healing for cancer it is also for us to tend to our way of living and to
support the healers among us.
Our part is to do what we can do - and to come in trust and in faith to God
and to ask him to bring healing and wholeness - just as he chooses.
Brothers and sisters - I tell you today I have seen cancers arrested. I
have witnessed one who was not supposed to live, let along walk, climb the
steepest stairs to attend his brother's wedding on Christmas Eve. I have
seen God provide for the poor - bringing groceries and leaving money when
the only hope that the person had was the hope they expressed in prayer.
I have seen many prayers answered and wonderful things happen.
The most wonderful thing I have seen happen however - is the journey to
wholeness that has occurred as different men and women who have touched my
life at different times have sought the Lord - or had others seek the Lord
on their behalf - and have found him.
I have seen those who have had only weeks left to live - frightened and
afraid - come to peace, come to know that God had something good in mind
for them.
I have known those who, after a life of righteousness and faith, despite
years of suffering the assaults of their own body, receive and share the
vision of the paradise that God has formed for us all.
God has a plan for us. A plan to make us whole. A plan to heal us.
And God calls us to pray for and proclaim that plan - and to give thanks
for all that has done, and is doing and will yet do.
Is any one of you in trouble? They should pray. Is anyone happy?
Let them sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? They
should call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint
them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in
faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them
up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore
confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that
you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful
and effective.
That is what we here to do tonight.
We are here to praise God - to pray - and to anoint the sick - and to keep
the commandments of our God. We are here in testimony to the words of
David in Psalm 23 - "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my
enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. We are here so
that God may fulfil his word among us.
* SONG: "Bless Be The Name of The Lord" SONG
Movement to the communion table or altar for the first
part of the prayer time. Confession is an important
part of the service as is a general pastoral prayer.
PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS AND FOR GRACE - PASTORAL PRAYER
Loving God, we hold before you our lives. Examine how we have used
the resources you have given us: our time, talents, money and energy.
Give us grace to understand how our decisions, our actions, and even
our inactions, affect our lives and the lives of others. Rejoice
with us in the good we have done, sorrow with us in our sin. Help us
to accept accountability for those things for which we are truly
responsible, to make amends to any we have injured, and to turn to
you.... In your loving kindness restore and forgive us.... Lord, hear
our prayer....
Gracious God, we also bear the impact of others' actions and inactions
on the course of our lives. By your gracious presence encourage us to
let go of any evil we have endured. Help us to forgive now that which
we need to forgive...... Lord, hear our prayer....
Lord we pray for others in our community and in our world at this
time. And we give to you our thanks....
Most Holy God we praise and thank you for the gift of your continuing
presence in our lives; embracing, strengthening and upholding us.
Help us and help all we hold before you to recognize the numerous ways
you continue to be present in our lives.... Lord, hear our prayer...
O Rock of our salvation, we give thanks for those who support us in
our journey: our friends, our partners, our family members, and those
professionals who walk with us. Gift them all with wisdom, caring,
vitality and strength.... Lord hear our prayer....
Loving God, whose Child Jesus wept and laughed, exult with us in our
triumphs and comfort us in our sorrows. Help us to remember the
great value you place on our lives.
Life-giving God, you gifted humankind with memory, reason and
capabilities. Give us guidance in discerning the direction of our
lives.... Lord, hear our prayer....
We place before you our current sorrows and concerns - and we pray
you, lift from us the burden and grant us your yoke of peace and
comfort and service.... Lord, hear our prayer...
We offer prayers for the poor the sick, the hungry, the oppressed....
We pray for the departed and for those who mourn.....
We pray for peace in our homes, and among nations and peoples.....
We pray for the children and all the little ones of our world - that
their needs may be met and that they may grow in grace and in love as
they advance in years...
.... Lord hear our prayer....
Continue as one directly into the following
blessing of the anointing oil.
BLESSING OF OIL
And now, O Lord, Holy Father, Loving God, giver of health and
salvation: send your Holy Spirit to sanctify and bless this oil; that,
as your holy apostles anointed many that were sick and healed them, so
may those who in faith and repentance receive this holy unction be
made whole and know the fullness of your joy. AMEN
The designated persons to take part in the
laying on of hands are invited forward to
stand before the communion table or altar:
"Will those who are helping in the
administration of oil and the laying on of
hands please come forward now and stand
before me...."
BLESSING OF ELDERS
Bless O God each one here as they pray for one another and anoint
one another with Holy Oil.
At this point move to the front of the table
or altar and join the elders. Invite them to
stand in a semi-circle facing the
congregation.
"Please stand here to one side and the other
of me - and join with me and the congregation
as we sing "Just As I Am". As the song is
sung and as other music is played I urge all
who desire to come forward for prayer and
anointing to do so. Otherwise, for this
song and for the prayer time please remain
seated and continue in prayer and meditation
as music is played."
SONG "Just As I Am" SONG
PRAYERS FOR HEALING
Invitation is made by gesture. Some encouragement may
be necessary until the first two or so persons have
started forward - and again when there is a lag. Our
experience is that there are two or three waves."
Don't hesitate, when there is a lag in people coming
forward to pray for the whole congregation and to renew
a cycle of singing the hymn.
As individuals come to the front have the elders form a
rough circle around them, quietly inquire of the
petitioner what they desire prayer for (let them
whisper in your ear). As the Spirit and pastoral
sensitivity move you, you may exhort the petitioner
regarding their deep desires and needs. All the time of
prayer should be filled for the rest of the
congregation with music - quiet choruses, meditative
tunes, etc.
Then with the elders placing hands on the head and/or
shoulders of the person anoint the petitioner with oil
in the form of the cross on the forehead in the name of
God - and commence praying. Allow the elders to pray
as they are moved to pray. Sometimes this will be
serially, at other times this will be concurrently. Go
with the flow.
The following petitions are samples only. They were
shared ahead of time with the elders who were not
familiar with this form of healing prayer to help "free
them" to pray spontaneously and particularly with each
person who came forward.
I/We anoint you with this oil in the Name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit and I pray for you NAME (or the person you
are asking for) for the fullness of his blessings, the fullness of his
Joy.....
..... May our Lord sustain you with his presence, drive away all
sickness of body and spirit, and give you the victory of his life and
his peace which will enable you to serve him both now and evermore.
..... May our Lord Jesus Christ uphold you and fill you with his
grace, that you may know the healing power of his love in every area
of your life.
..... May the Lord God set you free from all anxiety and doubt, all
fear and uncertainty.
..... Know that your sins are forgiven by his most Holy Grace
and go and live as he has show you - in the power and by the
power of His Spirit.
..... Send oh God your healing light and power and energy into
every part of this person - and in particular grant that every
malignancy of cell and fibre, of blood and bone be cast out and
that wholeness of both body and spirit be given to them.
.... May the Lord help you walk with Him day by day....
.... Through the love of God made known in Jesus Christ may the
God's grace flow through your life, restoring wholeness to your
relationship with God and others. May the indwelling Spirit
strengthen you in all goodness and keep you in resurrected life.
..... May the Lord bless your husband and bring him healing.
Fill him with your Spirit and lead him in the way you, O God,
want him to go.
When all have come forward who will come
forward close the prayer time with a word of
prayer for all like this:
CONCLUDING PRAYER
Lord, we pray for all who have been outwardly anointed with holy oil
this night, that they all may have the inward anointing of the Holy
Spirit. And for all those who have prayed - those who have shown
mercy - those who have lifted their hands to you in thanksgiving and
in supplication - for all present here, O God, we give thanks and ask
that you continue with them day by day. Indeed, O Lord, keep us all
from all evil, preserve us in all goodness. Bless us so that we may
indeed bless others in your most Holy Name - we ask it in the name of
Christ Jesus - who taught us to pray together as one family,
saying........
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come,
thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our
daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who
trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us
from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for
ever and ever. Amen
HYMN "Lord Jesus, of You I Will Sing" SONG
BENEDICTION
Go in peace, And may the blessings of our Lord and God - The Creator
and Maker of All - our Saviour and Redeemer go with you, both now and
forevermore. Amen
Anointing With Oil & Prayer
James 5:13-16; Isaiah 61:1-3; Mark 2:1-12
Acknowledgements and Sources: For well over 25 years I had led
healing prayers and performed anointing within Bible Study and Prayer
Groups. But despite this practice I had never held or conducted a
"Healing Service" in the sanctuary of any of the churches I attended
or served. Recently a number of parishioners suggested that it would
be good to have such a service and requested that I conduct one. One
of the folk with a ministry of prayer offered to take care of the
logistics of the service - and so at last, after many years of
thinking about it, a date was set and an invitation was made to the
congregation (and through the congregation to any friends or family
who may desire it) to come and take part in a service of healing as
both makers and receivers of prayer.
What follows in this service is indebted to numerous conversations
and discussions with Charlene Elizabeth Fairchild regarding healing
and wholeness during the last 18 years. While I have used "anointing
oil" in my ministry from the very beginning, Charlene brought into
our marriage and our ministry together a greater depth of
understanding of how to prepare, bless, and use anointing oil.
The following service is indebted to outlines and words from the
Episcopal Book of Common Prayer (USA)and the Book of Alternate
Services (Canada) garnered over many years of referring to them. Of
particular help in initially organizing the prayers for healing
(including use of some phrases) was Nancy L. Woodworth Hill's "A
Healing Liturgy" copyright 1992, 1994 (The Episcopal Church of The
Ascension, 16 Linwod Avenue, Buffalo, NY). Also Chaplain Allison
Cline(aacline@isys.ca), Pioneer Manor Long Term Care Facility,
Sudbury, Ontario offered numerous tips during a series of online
exchanges on the worship-recl@uniting.com.au List in late May 2003.
Her "Notes on Healing" were a particularly helpful reminder of some
of the issues around healing prayer. Those notes were based in turn
on materials she received from the Iona Community. Also thanks to
Allison for some of the petitions of the prayer of confession and the
pastoral prayer.
* OPENING WORDS
L The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
P And also with you.
* OPENING SONG: "Shine Jesus Shine" SONG
* PRAYER
We ask your presence among us, O God, Creator of the universe, Sustainer
of life, Redeemer of humankind; bring your healing light and power into
our wounded hearts and bodies and minds and souls, clear the way for each
of us to discover within ourselves the fulness of your power and all of
your wondrous blessings; help us dear God to respond to your vast love and
to bless you, so that we may be a beacon through which you may shine into
the world and be everlasting citizens of your Kingdom both in heaven and on
earth. Amen.
READING JAMES 5:13-16
Hear this reading from James, the servant of God and of the Lord Jesus
Christ - taken from the Fifth Chapter of his letter to the twelve tribes
scattered through the nations. He writes:
Is any one of you in trouble? They should pray. Is anyone
happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick?
They should call the elders of the church to pray over them and
anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer
offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will
raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each
other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous
person is powerful and effective.
L This is the word of the Lord.
P Thanks be to God
COMMENT
Tonight that is what we are here to do. We are here to pray for those in
trouble. To sing songs of praise with those who are happy, and to anoint
with oil - the oil of gladness - the oil of blessing - all those who are
sick that they may be made whole. We come in the expectation that God will
do all that He has promised - that sins will be forgiven and that lives
will be made new.
As we gather here in a holy hope tonight - we give thanks to David Hiebert
who is on the keyboard for us to help us make our offering of music to our
God - and to the elders in our faith and in this congregation, those who
have been given a ministry of prayer and intercession - who will come
forward at the appropriate time to help administer the laying on of hands
and anointing - and to all of you who have come with your joys and your
concerns and your deepest hopes.
We are going to sing a couple of songs now - following from your sheets....
SONG: "How Majestic Is Your Name" SONG
SONG: "Shout To The Lord" SONG
READINGS ISAIAH 61:1-3; MARK 2:1-12
I have already read to you from the Letter of James, the brother of our
Lord regarding gathering to pray for one another.
I would like to read to you now a couple of other scriptures.... The first
being from the Book of The Prophet Isaiah - in the 61st Chapter. There
the prophet proclaims these words - words read in part by Jesus in the
synagogue in Capernaum as he began his ministry. Isaiah announced:
The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has
anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to
bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year
of the Lord's favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to
comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion
-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil
of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead
of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of
righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his
splendour.
L This is the word of the Lord.
P Thanks be to God
The next reading some of you have heard fairly recently - it was the gospel
text for the first Sunday of June here in this place. It is, as I said
then, a favourite passage of mine - and I hope it will be one for you as
well. It is taken from the Gospel According To Mark - chapter Two - verses
one to twelve.
A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people
heard that he had come home. So many gathered that there was no
room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to
them. Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by
four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of
the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and,
after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was
lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic,
"Son, your sins are forgiven."
Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to
themselves, "Why does this fellow talk like that? He's
blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?"
Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were
thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, "Why are you
thinking these things? Which is easier: to say to the paralytic,
'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, take your mat and
walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority
on earth to forgive sins . . . ." He said to the paralytic, "I
tell you, get up, take your mat and go home."
He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all.
This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, "We have never
seen anything like this!"
L This is the gospel of our Risen Lord
P Praise be to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
SONG: "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" SONG
HOMILY
Since the very beginning, the ministry of healing has played a vital and
central part in the life of both Israel and the Church of Jesus Christ.
The world was made good it says in the very first chapter of the first book
of the Holy Scriptures, but alas - the wholeness of the world, its basic
integrity, has been broken by sin.
We learn from the very beginning that not only is death introduced into the
world because of sin, but even the thorns and thistles that prevent us from
fully enjoying the riches of the world that God has made, are the result of
sin, the result of the broken-ness of our world.
We, also learn from the very beginning that it is God's plan is to restore
to wholeness the earth and all who dwell there in - and in particular to
bring his people, those whom he has chosen and called to his own, to the
fulness of the joy that is possible in this world - that fullness, that
wholeness, that completeness, that integrity, that wells up as abundant
life here and now - and indeed forever. Sin is forgiven. Death is indeed
vanquished.
Jesus, quoting from the prophet Isaiah, proclaimed to his community in
Capernaum, and he proclaims to us here today - the eternal purpose of God -
a purpose that Jesus said was even then being fulfilled in their hearing -
a purpose that is indeed still being fulfilled - in places like this - and
among people and by people like you and me - among people and by people
who are called and anointed by God.
We as a community of believers - and as individuals of faith - are called
by God - each as God gifts us - to proclaim good news to the poor, to bind
up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from
darkness for the prisoners.
We are called to proclaim the time of God's favour and of his judgement
and to comfort those who mourn and to provide for those who grieve.
These things God calls us to as a community of faith with Isaiah - and with
Christ - are not simply physical things that we are to do - but spiritual
as well.
There are many people whose bodies are completely free in the physical
sense, they can come and go where and when they want, but they are captive
in their minds and hearts and souls to anxiety and fear they are bound by a
sense of despair, they mourn not simply the loss of a person dear to them,
but the loss of the sense of God's care and God's goodness towards them
or towards those whom they love.
There are many who are bound up by sin, their own sin and/or the sins that
others have committed against them; sins that they have not been able to
forgive - even though they want to, people who need to be set free, who
need what we call inner healing, inner peace, inner wholeness.
And there are those who do indeed have need of physical restoration,
those who, like the paralytic in the gospel lesson that was read tonight,
whose bodies are in rebellion - whose bodies are enslaved.
We are called to minister to all these and to proclaim the good news of
God's love.
Like the friends who brought the paralytic to Jesus,
we are called to bring to God those among us in need of healing, those in
need of wholeness and to beseech God and to allow God - to give to them
what has been promised.
As Isaiah puts it we are called to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead
of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
The truth be told - we don't do it ourselves - but God does it on account
of us and God does it on account of his own name - his own glory - his own
splendour. God does it as a testimony to his word, as a fulfilment of his
own promises.
Our part is to trust in God, to believe in God, to trust in God for
ourselves - and for those who cannot yet trust in God, to believe in God
for ourselves - and for those who are still lost in unbelief.
And our part is also to do those simple things, those necessary things,
that help to answer the prayers we make... if we pray for bread for the
poor, it is also for us to share the bread on our table, if we pray for a
healing for cancer it is also for us to tend to our way of living and to
support the healers among us.
Our part is to do what we can do - and to come in trust and in faith to God
and to ask him to bring healing and wholeness - just as he chooses.
Brothers and sisters - I tell you today I have seen cancers arrested. I
have witnessed one who was not supposed to live, let along walk, climb the
steepest stairs to attend his brother's wedding on Christmas Eve. I have
seen God provide for the poor - bringing groceries and leaving money when
the only hope that the person had was the hope they expressed in prayer.
I have seen many prayers answered and wonderful things happen.
The most wonderful thing I have seen happen however - is the journey to
wholeness that has occurred as different men and women who have touched my
life at different times have sought the Lord - or had others seek the Lord
on their behalf - and have found him.
I have seen those who have had only weeks left to live - frightened and
afraid - come to peace, come to know that God had something good in mind
for them.
I have known those who, after a life of righteousness and faith, despite
years of suffering the assaults of their own body, receive and share the
vision of the paradise that God has formed for us all.
God has a plan for us. A plan to make us whole. A plan to heal us.
And God calls us to pray for and proclaim that plan - and to give thanks
for all that has done, and is doing and will yet do.
Is any one of you in trouble? They should pray. Is anyone happy?
Let them sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? They
should call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint
them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in
faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them
up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore
confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that
you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful
and effective.
That is what we here to do tonight.
We are here to praise God - to pray - and to anoint the sick - and to keep
the commandments of our God. We are here in testimony to the words of
David in Psalm 23 - "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my
enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. We are here so
that God may fulfil his word among us.
* SONG: "Bless Be The Name of The Lord" SONG
Movement to the communion table or altar for the first
part of the prayer time. Confession is an important
part of the service as is a general pastoral prayer.
PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS AND FOR GRACE - PASTORAL PRAYER
Loving God, we hold before you our lives. Examine how we have used
the resources you have given us: our time, talents, money and energy.
Give us grace to understand how our decisions, our actions, and even
our inactions, affect our lives and the lives of others. Rejoice
with us in the good we have done, sorrow with us in our sin. Help us
to accept accountability for those things for which we are truly
responsible, to make amends to any we have injured, and to turn to
you.... In your loving kindness restore and forgive us.... Lord, hear
our prayer....
Gracious God, we also bear the impact of others' actions and inactions
on the course of our lives. By your gracious presence encourage us to
let go of any evil we have endured. Help us to forgive now that which
we need to forgive...... Lord, hear our prayer....
Lord we pray for others in our community and in our world at this
time. And we give to you our thanks....
Most Holy God we praise and thank you for the gift of your continuing
presence in our lives; embracing, strengthening and upholding us.
Help us and help all we hold before you to recognize the numerous ways
you continue to be present in our lives.... Lord, hear our prayer...
O Rock of our salvation, we give thanks for those who support us in
our journey: our friends, our partners, our family members, and those
professionals who walk with us. Gift them all with wisdom, caring,
vitality and strength.... Lord hear our prayer....
Loving God, whose Child Jesus wept and laughed, exult with us in our
triumphs and comfort us in our sorrows. Help us to remember the
great value you place on our lives.
Life-giving God, you gifted humankind with memory, reason and
capabilities. Give us guidance in discerning the direction of our
lives.... Lord, hear our prayer....
We place before you our current sorrows and concerns - and we pray
you, lift from us the burden and grant us your yoke of peace and
comfort and service.... Lord, hear our prayer...
We offer prayers for the poor the sick, the hungry, the oppressed....
We pray for the departed and for those who mourn.....
We pray for peace in our homes, and among nations and peoples.....
We pray for the children and all the little ones of our world - that
their needs may be met and that they may grow in grace and in love as
they advance in years...
.... Lord hear our prayer....
Continue as one directly into the following
blessing of the anointing oil.
BLESSING OF OIL
And now, O Lord, Holy Father, Loving God, giver of health and
salvation: send your Holy Spirit to sanctify and bless this oil; that,
as your holy apostles anointed many that were sick and healed them, so
may those who in faith and repentance receive this holy unction be
made whole and know the fullness of your joy. AMEN
The designated persons to take part in the
laying on of hands are invited forward to
stand before the communion table or altar:
"Will those who are helping in the
administration of oil and the laying on of
hands please come forward now and stand
before me...."
BLESSING OF ELDERS
Bless O God each one here as they pray for one another and anoint
one another with Holy Oil.
At this point move to the front of the table
or altar and join the elders. Invite them to
stand in a semi-circle facing the
congregation.
"Please stand here to one side and the other
of me - and join with me and the congregation
as we sing "Just As I Am". As the song is
sung and as other music is played I urge all
who desire to come forward for prayer and
anointing to do so. Otherwise, for this
song and for the prayer time please remain
seated and continue in prayer and meditation
as music is played."
SONG "Just As I Am" SONG
PRAYERS FOR HEALING
Invitation is made by gesture. Some encouragement may
be necessary until the first two or so persons have
started forward - and again when there is a lag. Our
experience is that there are two or three waves."
Don't hesitate, when there is a lag in people coming
forward to pray for the whole congregation and to renew
a cycle of singing the hymn.
As individuals come to the front have the elders form a
rough circle around them, quietly inquire of the
petitioner what they desire prayer for (let them
whisper in your ear). As the Spirit and pastoral
sensitivity move you, you may exhort the petitioner
regarding their deep desires and needs. All the time of
prayer should be filled for the rest of the
congregation with music - quiet choruses, meditative
tunes, etc.
Then with the elders placing hands on the head and/or
shoulders of the person anoint the petitioner with oil
in the form of the cross on the forehead in the name of
God - and commence praying. Allow the elders to pray
as they are moved to pray. Sometimes this will be
serially, at other times this will be concurrently. Go
with the flow.
The following petitions are samples only. They were
shared ahead of time with the elders who were not
familiar with this form of healing prayer to help "free
them" to pray spontaneously and particularly with each
person who came forward.
I/We anoint you with this oil in the Name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit and I pray for you NAME (or the person you
are asking for) for the fullness of his blessings, the fullness of his
Joy.....
..... May our Lord sustain you with his presence, drive away all
sickness of body and spirit, and give you the victory of his life and
his peace which will enable you to serve him both now and evermore.
..... May our Lord Jesus Christ uphold you and fill you with his
grace, that you may know the healing power of his love in every area
of your life.
..... May the Lord God set you free from all anxiety and doubt, all
fear and uncertainty.
..... Know that your sins are forgiven by his most Holy Grace
and go and live as he has show you - in the power and by the
power of His Spirit.
..... Send oh God your healing light and power and energy into
every part of this person - and in particular grant that every
malignancy of cell and fibre, of blood and bone be cast out and
that wholeness of both body and spirit be given to them.
.... May the Lord help you walk with Him day by day....
.... Through the love of God made known in Jesus Christ may the
God's grace flow through your life, restoring wholeness to your
relationship with God and others. May the indwelling Spirit
strengthen you in all goodness and keep you in resurrected life.
..... May the Lord bless your husband and bring him healing.
Fill him with your Spirit and lead him in the way you, O God,
want him to go.
When all have come forward who will come
forward close the prayer time with a word of
prayer for all like this:
CONCLUDING PRAYER
Lord, we pray for all who have been outwardly anointed with holy oil
this night, that they all may have the inward anointing of the Holy
Spirit. And for all those who have prayed - those who have shown
mercy - those who have lifted their hands to you in thanksgiving and
in supplication - for all present here, O God, we give thanks and ask
that you continue with them day by day. Indeed, O Lord, keep us all
from all evil, preserve us in all goodness. Bless us so that we may
indeed bless others in your most Holy Name - we ask it in the name of
Christ Jesus - who taught us to pray together as one family,
saying........
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come,
thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our
daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who
trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us
from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for
ever and ever. Amen
HYMN "Lord Jesus, of You I Will Sing" SONG
BENEDICTION
Go in peace, And may the blessings of our Lord and God - The Creator
and Maker of All - our Saviour and Redeemer go with you, both now and
forevermore. Amen
Sunday, February 7, 2010
New Ordination Confirmation
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Reverend
Garry Cuthbert
Sunday the 31st of January 2010
NOTE: PLEASE READ AND RETAIN THIS DOCUMENT FOR YOUR RECORDS.Garry Cuthbert
Sunday the 31st of January 2010
Congratulations! You are now a legally ordained minister for life, though you may relinquish your credentials at any time. AS OF Sunday the 31st of January 2010 YOU HAVE BECOME A MEMBER OF THE PRESTIGIOUS CLERGY. You have earned a title worthy of admiration and respect.
Let it be known on this date that in accordance with the laws of the Universal Life Church Monastery, as ordaining officer, I, Brother Martin, do ordain you into our ministry. From this day forward, you are entitled to all of the rights of an ordained minister. You have the authority to perform marriages, baptisms, and all other ceremonies of the church. You are an independent minister of this church. This is a position that carries with it a burden of responsibility; please respect others and comply with the laws of the land.
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