Call to Worship Leader: The rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace. All: How will we walk the path of peace?

Leader: The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. All: Come, let us walk the path of peace by worshiping the Prince of Peace and by seeking first the kingdom of God.

Litany/Prayer of Confession Reader 1: Prince of Peace, you have set before us the path of peace which leads to eternal harmony with God. Reader 2: Jesus, you are our peace. You alone can destroy the dividing walls of hostility between individuals and nations.

Litany/Prayer of Confession People: We have heard your command to seek peace and pursue it. We have heard, but we have not always obeyed. Reader 1: We are like your people Israel who were ever hearing, but never understanding; ever seeing, but never perceiving.

People: Sometimes we allow anger, hatred, and greed to poison our hearts. We refuse to ask for forgiveness or to offer it. We worry and are anxious. So, peace eludes us.

Reader 2: Even then, Jesus, you mercifully say, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30). People: We come to you, Jesus, seeking peace in our relationships with our local and global neighbors.

Reader 1: Many of our local and global neighbors are burdened by anger, hatred, and violence. Reader 2: In many countries, tensions between Muslim and Christian groups leads to frequent acts of violence. In other countries, inter-faith conflicts and ethnic fighting cause unrest and pain.

Reader 1: And in Syria, a multi-year fight for power has left millions crushed by war. Reader 2: When we ignore or turn away from the tragic plight of our global neighbors... People: Forgive us.

Reader 2: When we stereotype individuals, ethnic groups, and nations, forgetting that all people are made in your image... People: Forgive us. Reader 1: Help us to pray more fervently that you will "scatter the nations who delight in war" (Psalm 68:30b) so that peace may prevail on the earth.

Reader 2: Bless World Renew and the Canadian Foodgrains Bank as they strive to be your healing agents in war-torn countries. People: Guide them and work through them so that Christ's peace can be shared with those they serve. Help them to walk the path of peace in all their work around the world.

Reader 1: Inspire all of us with Isaiah’s vision: "God will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore" (Isaiah 2:4). People: We commit to being peacemakers. If it is possible, as far as it depends on us, we will live at peace with everyone.

Reader 2: "Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip us with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen" (Hebrews 13:20-21).

Benediction Leader: Today, you have heard God’s call to walk on the path of peace. Trust that he will guide you. Seek peace seven days a week. And "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

Leader: "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you" (2 Thessalonians 3:16).