The Bells of Peebles Old Parish Church ring out on behalf of the people of the Old Parish, and our partners in Eddleston, Stobo and Drumelzier. We send our warmest greetings to all from this lovely part of the Scottish Borders. And especially having just enjoyed of our local festival and pageant in Peebles - Beltane - all be it in a much reduced virtual format.

This morning we extend a particular welcome to our American brothers and sisters who today are celebrating
Independence Day. Have a day to enjoy and to reflect on our shared Christian heritage. We value both you and that same heritage.

In today’s reading we find the Apostle Paul reflecting on his own health
disorders, and how they seem to have made him weak in the Lord’s service.
And yet, that same Lord offers quite another conclusion. A conclusion
which should bring hope to each of us.

After the bells stop, we shall hear the Battle Hymn of the Republic, sung to
the words of Julia Ward, “Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the
Lord".

Today it is sung by Andrew Henthorn, who has just been appointed as
organist and director of music at Eddleston Parish Church.

HYMN: Mine eyes have seen the glory

6th Sunday after Pentecost

PRAYER

Lord God, your love for humankind present in the beginning of all things,
extends throughout history and touches even our lives.

Your love sees failings and forgives.
Your love feels pain and wipes away our tears.
Your love knows grief and comforts the sorrowful.
Your love sees sin and still loves the sinner.

Forgive us when we fail to live lives that reflect your love.
Forgive us the many times when we take for granted
all that you have done for us.
Transform us, through your Spirit, and empower us to serve you,
this day and all days.

Amen.

THE LORD'S PRAYER

LESSON

St. Paul's 2nd letter to the Corinthian's 12; 2-10 

I know a person in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to
the third heaven--whether in the body or out of the body I do not know;
God knows.
And I know that such a person--whether in the body or out of the
body I do not know; God knows--
was caught up into Paradise and heard things that are not to be told,
that no mortal is permitted to repeat.
On behalf of such a one I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not
boast, except of my weaknesses.
But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the
truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what
is seen in me or heard from me,
even considering the exceptional character of the revelations.
Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the
flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too
elated.
Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me,
but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made
perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my
weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships,
persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am
weak, then I am strong.

HYMN: My faith looks up to thee

Reflection

PRAYER

Almighty God and Father, you have formed us to be your children. Help us to
be holy and blameless, doing the work of your kingdom in our lives. Grant us
wisdom and courage to hear your voice and do your will. Open our hearts to
welcome the cleansing and healing strength of your love. Gracious God, hear
the prayers of your people.

Lord, you are our foundation. By your grace help us to hear and understand.
Make us bold to proclaim your good news. Make us the fruit of your Gospel.
Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

O Lord, keep us ever mindful of your poor, those who are homeless and
hungry. Help those who despair to find your hope. Warm our hearts and lead
us to care for the stranger. Comfort those who mourn. Abiding in your love
we pray for those who are ill, suffer, grieve or are in need. Lord, in your
mercy, Hear our prayer.

Going into your courts with joy, we give thanks O Lord, for the abundance of
God’s grace and we rejoice with those celebrating birthdays and
anniversaries and those whose joy is known only in the secrets of their
hearts. Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Jesus Christ, you travelled through towns and villages “curing every disease
and illness.” At your command, the sick were made well. Come to our aid
now, in the midst of the global spread of the coronavirus, that we may
experience your healing love. Heal those who are sick with the virus. May
they regain their strength and health through quality medical care. Heal us
from our fear, which prevents nations from working together and neighbours
from helping one another. Heal us from our pride, which can make us claim
invulnerability to a disease that knows no borders. Jesus Christ, healer of all,
stay by our side in this time of uncertainty and sorrow. Be with those who
have suffered the loss of loved ones from the virus. May the departed be at
rest with you in your eternal peace.

All this we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 Amen

Hymn: Now thank we all our God

THE BLESSING and BENEDICTION

May God the Father prepare your journey,
Jesus the Son guide your footsteps,
The Spirit of Life strengthen your body,
The Three in One watch over you,
on every road that you may follow.

And the Blessing of God,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit
be with you this day
and evermore.
AMEN.

Voluntary