What Is Your Name? A 21st Century Worship Resource for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A

(May be presented by two readers or be shared as a dialogue between Leader and Congregation)

"What is your name?"
Jacob's combatant demanded. He may as well have said, "Who are you -- really?" A name was often descriptive of personal traits and character in Old Testament culture.

"What is your name?"
The question was a call to confession--daring an honest response. Stubborn resistance held Jacob's adversary at bay. Jacob was not losing, but he wanted a blessing.

"What is your name?"
What should I to do -- wrestle all night for nothing or confess and be blessed?
(Pause)
Jacob! My name is Jacob, trickster, deceiver…and I need a blessing today.

Prayer of Confession

(Read in unison)

Lord, without saying a word, you know who I am. But, you ask me to speak, to honestly confess who I am. I confess that some days I deny the genius that you have placed within me. I settle for mediocrity and avoid the responsibilities of greatness. I confess that other days I ignore Christ within me and practice ungodliness. I confess that in past times I have answered to names that were out of character for Christians. Today, I confess that I am who you made me to be: holy, righteous, just, loving and kind. Amen.

Words of Assurance

The same God who demands honest confession provides thorough forgiveness.
Receive God's forgiveness today. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.
(People to one another)
In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!

From the Africana Worship Book for Year A. Used with permission.