February 8, 2026
CHIMING OF THE HOUR
WELCOME
On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to God.” It is hard to describe duty to God for any one person. This duty is based on a person’s own religious teachings. Duty to God is different for people of different faiths; however, for all people, it means living according to the teachings of their religion.
Membership in Scouting America explicitly requires recognition of a Supreme Being, belief in God and respect for other Scouts’ and Scouters’ belief in God is an expectation that has been repeatedly affirmed by the National Council. Whether the sponsor of a Scouting unit is secular or religious, duty to God is a basic tenet of our movement. We express it each time we recite the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
We invite all Scouts and Scouters attending this service to join in prayer in a way that we hope all will find comfortable. Let us express thanks for the many blessings that God has given to us and ask for the wisdom and skills to carry out and enhance the Scouting program. We hope that this observance will be a positive experience that will help you encourage appropriate religious observances within the world companionship of Scouting.
*PRESENTATION OF THE COLORS
Will the troop & congregation, please rise, hats off.
Color guard, advance.
Prepare to post the colors.
Post the colors.
Scouts, salute.
THE SCOUT OATH & THE SCOUT LAW
Scouts, please join me in The Scout Oath:
On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.
Scouts, please recite The Scout Law:
A Scout is:
TRUSTWORTHY. LOYAL. HELPFUL. FRIENDLY.
COURTEOUS. KIND. OBEDIENT. CHEERFUL.
THRIFTY. BRAVE. CLEAN. REVERENT.
Two.
Color guard, return to ranks.
Retreat.
Troop and Congregation, you may be seated.
PRELUDE “Cwm Rhondda” arr. Lani Smith
CALL TO WORSHIP
We are salt for the earth.
We are a light for the world.
Just as no one hides a lamp away,
we will offer the world what only we can give.
In shining our lights, we will remember:
We are not the only ones with vital wisdom.
Grateful for mutual enlightenment,
we will not drown out another’s beam with ours.
*HYMN No. 65
“Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”
1 Guide me, O thou great Jehovah,
pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but thou art mighty.
Hold me with thy powerful hand.
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven,
feed me till I want no more;
feed me till I want no more.
2 Open now the crystal fountain,
whence the healing stream doth flow.
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
lead me all my journey through.
Strong deliverer, strong deliverer,
be thou still my strength and shield;
be thou still my strength and shield.
3 When I tread the verge of Jordan,
bid my anxious fears subside.
Death of death, and hell’s destruction,
land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises, songs of praises
I will ever give to thee;
I will ever give to thee.
*CALL TO CONFESSION
Into this space we bring our weights and burdens—
the things we have done or not done,
said or not said.
Trusting in God’s mercy,
let us lay down those burdens before God.
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Patient God,
it is so easy for us to miss the point.
We know how to perform righteousness;
we go to church, we donate, we volunteer,
but we care more about how we are seen
than our faithfulness to you.
We show off our piousness,
instead of actually sharing our food,
our homes, our resources
with those in the most need.
Have mercy on us for the ways we serve ourselves,
and teach us your way,
the way that leads to justice and peace. Amen.
Silence is observed
*ASSURANCE OF PARDON
Beloved, hear the good news:
When we cry for help, God says, “Here I am!”
When we ask for mercy,
God grants it freely, longing for a closer walk with us.
In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven.
Alleluia! Thanks be to God!
*RESPONSE NO. 1 v. 4 “Holy, Holy, Holy!”
4 Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All thy works shall praise thy name, in earth and sky and sea.
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
*PASSING OF THE PEACE OF CHRIST
Welcome each other. Welcome the stranger. Welcome all who come. As Christ welcomed everyone, no matter what their background, no matter what their social status; as Christ welcomed enemies and friends, outcasts and leaders, foreigners and neighbors, let us open our hearts and homes and lives. Let us be Christ to everyone we meet.
May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
And also with you.
Worshippers are invited to briefly “pass the peace” of Christ to those directly seated around them thus keeping our worship time “decent and in order” with a focus upon being part of God’s community.
ANTHEM “Be Still and Know that I Am God” David Lantz
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE
UNISON PRAYER OF ILLUMINATION
God of shining splendor,
your voice makes the earth tremble in wonder.
Overshadow us with your Spirit
so that we may hear your Word
and live as faithful disciples
and covenant people;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
SCRIPTURE Matthew 5:13-20
13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything but is thrown out and trampled underfoot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15 People do not light a lamp and put it under the bushel basket; rather, they put it on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter,[a] not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished.19 Therefore, whoever breaks[b] one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Pause…
This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God!!
SERMON
Let us take ourselves back to that place again, from last Sunday – with Jesus on the Mount. Imagine we are poor and living in a small rural village no one cares about. We hear that a man is speaking over on a mountain and so we gather our family to go listen. We hear this man, Jesus, go through a list of rather crazy things like blessed are the poor, and those who mourn and so on…and then he comes to today’s scripture passage and tells us, “You are the salt of the earth..” He is telling us, that our life has meaning and purpose in this world, that we ARE the salt of the earth.
To fully understand this simple yet powerful statement, we need a little history lesson. Salt was highly valuable in ancient times. The Greeks believed there was something divine contained in salt. The romans had such a value on salt that they would sometimes pay a portion of a soldier’s salary in salt. It is said to be from this that we get the word soldier – ‘sal dare’, meaning to give salt. From the same source we get the word salary, ‘salarium’. Salt was a scarce and expensive commodity and its value was legendary. Wouldn’t you just love that of your boss came up to you next week and said sorry we can’t pay you fully in cash but here is a cup of salt?!
Salt was also a preserving agent. Used heavily before refrigeration. Salt was also a large part of offerings in the Old Testament. In Leviticus 2:13 Moses was giving instructions to the Israelites for their offerings that they would bring to the temple. He said to “season all your grain offerings with salt to remind you of God’s eternal covenant. Never forget to add salt to your grain offerings.”
And obviously another big use for salt was to add flavor to food just like it is today. So I believe that In this context Jesus is telling us that we are to bring flavor, taste or zest to those around us. Notice Jesus doesn’t say “you will become the salt,” or “you have the potential within you to be the salt,” No, it’s important that we notice He says, “you ARE the salt.” We as followers of Christ ARE the salt of the earth. We have value to God and are to share that with others.
Then we get to the line “but if salt loses its saltiness, there is no way to make it salty again. It has become worthless, so it is thrown out to be trampled on.” So, what is Jesus talking about here? At this time in Palestine, there were two types of salt. The first kind was pure through evaporation, but the majority was taken from the Dead Sea and it contained a lot of impurities in it like little white minerals that resembled salt but were not.
So farmers would get this stuff, and they would have big piles of it behind their homes and they would mix it with fertilizer to use in their fields. A small amount benefited the soil and their crops. But what would sometimes happen is rain would come and pour down on that mound of salt and wash away the true salt (the sodium chloride) and they would be left with this hardened useless substance that couldn’t be used in their fields because it would harden the soil…so guess what it was used for? They would throw it out in front of their homes to make a path. It would harden and become almost like a sidewalk for people to walk on. And so Jesus warns us that if the salt (pointing at self) loses its flavor, it’s zest for God, it is useless and is like a pathway for people to trample on.
So, let’s fast forward to today, February 8, 2026 – what does this mean for us when we read Jesus telling us that we are the salt of the earth? Looking back at the history lesson I just put you through and yes there will be a test after worship, I believe it means we are highly valuable! That we are called to add flavor and seasoning to this world that at times can seem so dark and dismal or bland of you will. And if we take it a bit farther, we as Christians are called to preserve the world – preserve the values of Christ in this world where so many are searching for meaning and purpose.
I’m reminded of a meme that’s been floating around recently that says something like “humans are like plants. They both need water and sunlight to survive.” I’m not sure what it really says but close enough . Well guess what else plants need to survive? A little bit of salt – not too much, just a little. A tiny sprinkle is all it takes. The same is true for us! You, me, we need some sodium, some salt, in order to survive. It’s true, I looked it up on the internet Salt is needed to transmit nerve impulses, contract and relax muscle fibers (including those in the heart and blood vessels), and it is needed to maintain a proper fluid balance. And guess what? It doesn’t take much to do this. Literally 1/10 of a teaspoon of salt contains all the sodium needed for a human to survive.
Too much salt and we get health problems. Too much salt and we ruin our food, right? Just a little sprinkle, just the right amount and we got it! A perfect balance…
So, if we, as the “salt of the earth” are highly valuable, can keep fires going (as in the offerings in the temple, and can preserve things, such as the values of God…how can we do this in our daily lives?
I believe Jesus is calling us in this scripture to live out the values of Christ in a REAL and honest way. The values of truth, honesty, love, kindness, justice and peace. As the Bible says, “We are the peacemakers.” But we must be careful to keep the balance and not overdo it, not “over salt” if you will.
The metaphors of salt and light specifically addressed the impact faithfulness should have in the world. It should illuminate, flavor and preserve. Like both salt and light, our relationship with God should have an obvious impact on everyone who comes in contact with us. Jesus isn’t just calling us to be devoted; He’s encouraging us to have an influence everywhere we go. To add flavor and life to a conversation or environment we are in.
My neighbors growing up, in Virginia, were the type of Christians who may have over salted things. They only allowed their kids to listen to Christian music, they went to church Sunday morning, Sunday evening and Wednesday night in addition to bible study groups during the week. They openly prayed in public before meals, called the police on their fellow neighbors for playing the “devils’ music” too loudly, never uttered a curse word and on and on. They turned off every neighbor around them because their behavior was just too much. It left a bitter taste in everyone’s mouth, even their kids rebelled as adults. Too much salt!
It’s like trying to enjoy a good meal. Using a little bit of salt is perfect, but too much salt ruins it, so there must be a balance. Too much can make it unbearable, but too little can make it bland.
God calls us to be ourselves. Not to overdo it and shove it down people’s throats.
If we live a life, a genuine life of kindness and love, and sprinkle a little, just a little, of that around we will be what God calls us to be in this world. We can take our time, our talents and put them to use to build the kingdom of God. If we are a great musician…make beautiful music and share it. If we are an artist…create masterpieces that spread joy. We can use our math skills to help our friends keep on budget. Many of you are retired and have the gift of time in which you can invest in others. But friends it is not enough to stay in our close circle of church friends, close friends and family. No. We are commanded to go out into the world and share God’s message of love and peace to everyone. Is that scary? Yes…
The story of Sir Nicholas Winton, a British stockbroker, illustrates these truths about salt and light.
Winton was born in England in 1909, and baptized in the Anglican Church by grandparents of German Jewish decent. He grew up to be a stockbroker. In 1938 his friend asked Winton to forgo a ski vacation and visit Czechoslovakia as part of a British Committee for Refugees to Czechoslovakia.
As part of his trip, he toured refugee camps. Winton was concerned that war was imminent and worried about the increasing violence against the Jewish community. He was made aware of a Jewish agency in Britain which helped rescue 10,000 Jewish children.
Winton decided to start a relief effort of his own which would require raising 50 pounds per child to be paid to the British government just for transport. He also worked to raise other necessary funds and find foster homes for each child. Through it all he kept his job as a stockbroker by day, and worked on his relief efforts by night.
In total it is believed that he saved 669 children. Winton never spoke a word about his efforts. It wasn’t until his wife found a scrapbook in the attic 50 years later that he began to speak publicly about his story. By the time he reached 104 years old, he had been reunited with some of the children and the 6,000 members of his “extended family.”
What Winton did was heroic. It’s something most of us will never have the opportunity to do, but it doesn’t mean we can’t be salt and light.
Think of the talents and skills that Winton needed to be a stockbroker. They are probably the same skills he relied on when organizing the rescue of almost 700 children. It required someone who wasn’t afraid to take risks. It required strategic thinking and a view for the long-term impact. What served him well in his vocation served him well when God called him to save those children. This was no accident.
God has gifted each one of us with a specific bundle of skills, talents, and vision which make you suited for very specific things. These skills that allow you to serve others through your work allow you to serve others across all dimensions. This requires that we make calculated decisions about what work to pursue, as well as about our work in the church and in civil society.
In the book “The Call” by Os Guinness, we are called to be salt and light in the four major corners in our lives…
Family
Community
Church
Work
It’s just as important to use your skills and talents in volunteer work as it is in your career. Winton did just that. His heroic efforts in saving children doesn’t make his day job any less important. In fact, he kept his day job. What’s important is that we take our core skills and stretch them across all four areas of life to serve the body of Christ.
So, this week, let us take our packet of salt and keep it with us. Set it on your desk at work or place it on our bathroom vanity. And as we go about our day let us remember that it only takes a little sprinkle of salt to change the flavor of someone’s day and maybe even their life. In the name of Jesus…Amen
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
maker of heaven and earth;
And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord;
who was conceived by the Holy Ghost,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, dead, and buried.
He descended into hell.
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven,
and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father almighty.
From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Ghost,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
*HYMN No. 630 “Fairest Lord Jesus”
1 Fairest Lord Jesus,
Ruler of all nature,
O thou of God to earth come down,
thee will I cherish,
thee will I honor,
thou, my soul’s glory, joy, and crown.
2 Fair are the meadows,
fairer still the woodlands,
robed in the blooming garb of spring.
Jesus is fairer;
Jesus is purer,
who makes the woeful heart to sing.
3 Fair is the sunshine,
fairer still the moonlight,
and all the twinkling, starry host.
Jesus shines brighter;
Jesus shines purer,
than all the angels heaven can boast.
4 Beautiful Savior,
Ruler of the nations,
Son of God and Son of Man!
Glory and honor,
praise, adoration,
now and forevermore be thine!
BLESSING OF THE SCOUTS
O God, your will is that all your children should grow into fullness of life. We lift to you the ministry of scouting that has been part of this community for the past ten years. We give you thanks for camping and outdoor adventures, to teach us that the world is our great home; for study and work, to build character; for service, to see our responsibility to those in need; for encouragement in genuine patriotism and vital faith.
Bless the work of scouting, in Gloucester County and around the world, that, through its efforts, these young men and women may, like our Lord, increase in wisdom and in stature, and in love with you and all people.
We pray for continued safety and growth for scouts and leaders, their families, friends, and all who may be influenced by this program.
We pray for continued support from this congregation here at The Presbyterian Church at Woodbury, and that each and every scout may consider this community a place of welcome and love.
We thank you for your calling to serve the least of these, and in so doing, to discover ourselves in your image of grace and love. All this we pray in the name of Jesus Christ, who taught His disciples to pray saying…
The Lord’s Prayer
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. Forgive us our debts, as we have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
PASSING OF FELLOWSHIP PADS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
TITHES & OFFERINGS
May the gifts that we now offer up to God be a sign of our trust in God’s promise of a new tomorrow, a better day, a sign that love and forgiveness have indeed found a way.
OFFERTORY ANTHEM
*RESPONSE N0. 609 “Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow”
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.
Praise God, all creatures high and low.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Praise God, in Jesus fully known:
Creator, Word, and Spirit one.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
*PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
Your importance in our lives, O God, is reflected in our gifts. We return to you, through the ministry and outreach of this church, a portion of all that you have entrusted to us. We promise that these offerings will not be the end of our giving. We will also invest our time and abilities in your work of healing, comforting, teaching, guiding, and proclaiming good news. Bless each gift, whatever its size, and multiply the good to be done through our talents and treasure. Amen.
*CLOSING FLAG CEREMONY
Color guard, advance.
Prepare to retire the colors.
Color guard, retire the colors
*HYMN No. 613 “O Lord , Our Lord” (3xs)
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, we praise your name.
O Lord, we magnify your name:
Prince of Peace, mighty God;
O Lord God Almighty.
*BENEDICTION
“May the great Scoutmaster . . .” (troop repeats)
“Of all good Scouts . . .” (troop repeats)
“Watch between . . .” (troop repeats)
“Me and thee . . .” (troop repeats)
“While we’re apart . . .” (troop repeats)
“One from one another . . .” (troop repeats)
“Amen” . . .” (troop repeats)
*POSTLUDE