Osceola Sermon Christmas December 20 th, 2009 By Pastor Bob Vale
|
|
- Lillian Richard
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Osceola Sermon Christmas December 20 th, 2009 By Pastor Bob Vale Biblical Focus: John 1:14 JN 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. Scripture Lesson: LK 2:1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to his own town to register. LK 2:4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. LK 2:8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." LK 2:13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,`lk 2:14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."``lk 2:15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." LK 2:16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Opening Hymn: #236 While Shepherd Watched Their Flocks Prayer Chorus: #204 Emmanuel Hymn of Discipleship: #240; Hark The Herald Angels Sing. Video: Christmas Worship Elements by Flashlight films: Shepherds Then read the morning Scripture: (Barb S. Luke 2:1-20) This morning I want to talk to you about the mystery and miracle of the Christmas Story. I believe the Christmas Story is a miracle. In fact, it is a whole lot of miracles. Stop to think about it. 1. The miracle of angels appearing to both Mary and Joseph.
2 2. The miracle of John the Baptist leaping in the womb of Elizabeth his mother when pregnant Mary came close to them. 3. The miracle of the Virgin Birth. 4. The miracle of God becoming flesh and living among us. 5. The miracle of the Angles speaking to the shepherds to find the baby Jesus. 6. The miracle of Joseph and Mary leaving to go to Egypt just in time to escape the killing of young infant males by King Herod s soldiers. 7. The miracle of the wise men following the start in the east to find the baby Jesus. The Christmas story is full of miracles. Do you believe in Miracles? Or maybe a better question might be; Do you fully believe in the miracles of the Bible? Albert Einstein once said, "There are only two ways to live your life. One is as if nothing is a miracle. The other is as if everything is." Is Christmas a miracle and mystery to you or is it just a nice story to tell our children for the Holiday Season? Sometimes we may wonder why an unbelieving world wants to call Christmas, Happy Holiday s rather than Merry Christmas. I understand the Politically Correct emphases is to not offend those who, don t believe, or to perhaps secularize a nation & culture. But do we as Christians lose something when we bow to that line of thinking? You know.. don t say anything religious because we might offend the one or two true atheist in our community? Perhaps we so easily accept the PC understanding of Happy Holiday s, because the Christian community has lost the Mystery and Miracle of Christmas as we have washed it in the filter of Political Correctness ourselves and an unbelieving world say s so what about the Christmas story. Anytime we as Christians run the miracles of God through the filter of Political Correctness; we always lose the mystery and miracle of the event. Play the Brad Stine Video: 0-2:31 seconds. (Christian Comedian from Plymouth, Indiana.) I have this video. A72ACB&index=13 As Christians, Let s be happy and willing to say Merry Christmas this year, rather than Happy Holiday s. Can we as Christ followers and believers in the gospel admit The Christmas story is a miracle? (or a group of miracles?) Let's look at the Christmas story from the perspective of the angels. God uses His angels to communicate special news; they have made many important announcements throughout history. But this one is probably the most important.
3 Imagine if you were an angel in heaven. Perhaps you were going to get the assignment to tell the good news of Jesus birth to the world. You have been practicing your lines. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." You would probably think. Ok, which Jewish temple are we going to fly over and which high priest are we going to wake up in the middle of the night? Will it be the high priest in Jerusalem? Will it be a high ranking Pharisee, a Sadducee, or an expert in the law? Who is the Jewish Pope of the day we should give this good news to? Finally God gives them their orders. They are not to go to a Jewish Temple, or the local Synagogue in Jerusalem. They are not to go to the house of the high priest to wake him up in the middle of the night with the good news. In fact, God surprises them with the news, and tells the angels, that this most important announcement will be told out in the middle of nowhere. (An open Desert) In the darkness of night amidst the stars would be where the angels would share the good news of the light of the world coming to earth. Why lowly Shepherds rather than the religious elite? Illustration: Max Lucado said God announced Jesus' birth to the shepherds because they were most likely to receive the news with faith. They were probably the most likely not to be so skeptical and try and theologize the situation. Perhaps God had a deeper meaning in approaching the shepherd rather than the religious elite. The Jews at that time and even today felt as if they were a chosen people. In many ways a Holy Club; small but very significant. Do you remember when you were little and you had a back yard club house. There were maybe three or four of you in your little club. As a child one of the best parts of having your own club is deciding who could join and who you could keep out. So it was with the Jews of Jesus day. Among the Jews at the time of Jesus birth, there was no evangelism committee in the local synagogue. They did not pass out cards in the neighborhood to tell of upcoming outreach events. You were either born in to the clan, or you weren t. Maybe the message God was trying to send was, The Good News of my son Jesus Christ coming to earth is for everyone. From the lowliest shepherd to the richest of kings. God s thought may have been: Let s begin with the shepherds, because if we give the good news to the kings or the religious elite, they may not want to share it. As Christians we must cultivate a theology of mystery. I find it fascinating that God didn't reveal himself to the religious leaders. The fundamental mistake the religious leaders made was trying to force God to fit in their personal religious boxes. Illustration: In the book Rumors of Another World, Philip Yancey says there are two ways of looking at the world: "One takes the world apart, while the other seeks to connect and put it together." Similarly, there are two approaches to God. On issues of faith, do you accept it freely, or do you tear it apart?
4 I guess it s human nature to be suspicious of the miraculous. Perhaps in our unbelief we try to understand the mystery of God by explaining miracles through our laws of physics or nature. When we do this we, put God in a box and make the Lord Manageable to our point of view. Unfortunately when we do this, we end up with a God who can "never surprise us, never overwhelm us, never astonish us, never transcend us." In the end.god becomes less than God. In my many years of being a student of theology, I don t believe we are to totally understand the mysteries of God. Isaiah 55:8 says that God's thoughts are further from the thoughts of humans than the heavens are from the earth. Scientist are now able to see distant galaxies 13 million light years away from earth! (That is about how far the All Knowing Omniscience of God is from our finite human thinking. The shepherds who were approached by the angels exhibited a childlike faith, because they assumed God could act in any way He wanted. Did you know that. Fish don t need Marine Biologist to swim in the deep oceans. "Birds don't need ornithologists to fly." Dog s don t need us Veterinarians to teach them how to smell 700 times better than we can. God also doesn't need Pastors, theologians or deep thinkers in order to perform miracles in our lives. Amen? God is looking for people who won't tell him what He can or can't do in our lives. God is looking for people who will look at God and say Why Not. (I know this sentence sounds a bit like a John F. Kennedy quote, and it is similar; but spiritually speaking it certainly rings true.) The shepherds took God at face value; when they heard the news, they embraced it with a simple childlike faith. Sometimes we miss the miracle because we analyze it to death. In the end, if we do this.we put miracles to death. There was a young man who was sitting in his living room one day when his dog dragged in a little gift in its mouth a dead animal of some sort. Has your dog or cat ever done that? Our cats do this every now and then. One of our cats is so good at catching birds, we purposely put a collar with a bell on his neck to give the local birds a fighting chance to get away. Well, this fella found a dead animal in his dog s mouth. Upon taking a closer look, he was dismayed to recognize the dead animal to be a bunny that belonged to a little girl named Bonnie, who lived next door. Bonny was about six years old and her little bunny was brown with white ears that were very distinctive. The young man just felt terrible, believing his dog had killed little Bonny s bunny. The quick-thinking young man came up with a plan. Removing the small bunny from the dog s mouth, which by now was a dirty mess, he put the little bunny
5 in the kitchen sink. With a little warm water and some shampoo, he tried to clean up the dead bunny as best he could. Then he took a hair dryer (a hare dryer actually) and blow-dried the bunny until it looked pretty good; or as good as a dead bunny could look. Finally, he took the dead bunny out to the neighbor s rabbit hutch and carefully placed the dead little bunny it back in the cage. He kind of fluffed him up so that he looked very natural there in his little box. He felt pretty good about his compassionate task and hoped his neighbors would not know the real truth that his dog killed the little bunny. The next morning, the young man looked out the window of his house and noticed a large crowd of people gathered around the rabbit hutch at the neighbors house. Everyone seemed to be talking and pointing. The young man decided to go over and act like any normal curious neighbor and find out what was going on at the rabbit hutch. When he got there, the little girl s mother said to the young man, You won t believe what has happened! It s a miracle, it s a miracle! Little Bonny s bunny passed away a few days ago, and we buried that little bunny right over there... Mmmmm the young man thought for a bit and said, wow, now that s a miracle. How in the world did that happen? I suppose the young man could have apologized and explained exactly what happened. But that surely would have taken the mystery and miracle out of the situation. Perhaps it was best to leave it the way it was. I suppose God could come down to earth and do his best to explain all the miracles of the world. But would we lose the mystery and wonder of God? In the end, would we say, aw---that s nothing now that I can understand it. On the ether hand is there any way we could even begin to understand the miracles or majesty of God? Perhaps there are some things we are not to totally understand, but just accept by faith in God. Maybe that young man will wait until little Bonnie is an adult and ask her.do you remember that little bunny you had when you were six years old that seemed to be a Miracle Bunny, then explain the true story to her. Perhaps God is waiting for us to return to heaven when our lives are through, and there amidst the angels of heaven, we will begin to learn more about all the wonderful miracles God has been giving us on our behalf. Illustration: Albert Einstein says that the person who cannot experience wonder has ceased living because he has ceased seeing. In my short life I have come to learn this about miracles: Miracles tend to happen to those who believe in them; and not to those who don t. I hope that you can re-experience the mystery of Christmas the omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent God of all Creation was born as a helpless little baby in Bethlehem. The angel said to the shepherds: "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. Let s Pray,
6 Oh Lord that we would be a people of miracles; that we would have the faith of a child; that we would experience the mystery and majesty of Christmas this year. Help us to celebrate the wonder of Christmas with new eyes, a fresh spirit, a strengthened heart, and a deeper understanding of your love for us. We thank you for the gift of your son Jesus Christ as a miracle baby given to us 2,000 years ago. You are the reason for the season! Amen.
The story of Christmas occurred over 2000 years ago. It is the story of God sending his
The story of Christmas occurred over 2000 years ago. It is the story of God sending his Son Jesus Christ to earth. Jesus was the Son of God so he was greater than a king, yet,he was born in a very lowly
More informationPrescription for Life Lesson 2 Luke 1:57-2:20
Luke 1:57-66 The Birth of John the Baptist 57 When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and
More informationLuke 2:1-7. The birth of Jesus
Luke 2:1-7 The birth of Jesus In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor
More informationChristmas Bingo. Question Where was Mary living when the angel visited her? Answer Nazareth Scripture: Luke 1:26-27
What was the name of the angel who told Mary that she would have a son named Jesus? Gabriel Scripture: Luke 1:26-27, 30-31 Where was Mary living when the angel visited her? Nazareth Scripture: Luke 1:26-27
More informationMatthew 1: Luke 2:1-4
Matthew 1:18-25 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.
More informationJourney to Bethlehem Labyrinth
Journey to Bethlehem Labyrinth This shows positions for 25 stops for Dec 1 st to 25 th. For starting on Advent Sunday, follow the table below. If starting on Advent Sunday, adjust the number of stops to
More informationCan. Can. Christmas? you tell me the story of. All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) by Bethany Tapp
Can you tell me the story of Christmas? by Bethany Tapp All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) Can you tell me the story of Christmas? All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) by Bethany Tapp Jesus
More informationGlory to God in the Highest
FOCAL TEXT Luke 2:1 20 BACKGROUND Luke 2:1 20 Christmas Lesson Glory to God in the Highest MAIN IDEA Jesus birth brought peace and is worthy of the highest praise. QUESTION TO EXPLORE How can we praise
More informationT H E G R E A T E S T G I F T ( N I V T R A N S L A T I O N )
C H R I S T M A S P A G E A N T S C R I P T T H E G R E A T E S T G I F T ( N I V T R A N S L A T I O N ) C H A R A C T E R S N a r r a t o r M a r y J o s e p h K i n g H e r o d D o v e S h e p a r d
More informationMadness & the Manger
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband
More informationNEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH
NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH Sunday School Curriculum Week Sixty-Eight December 22, 2013 Celebrating The Light Of Christmas The Light Of Jesus Birth Luke 2:1-21 Celebrating The Light Of Christmas The Light
More informationWhy Jesus Came Give. Caesar Augustus gave a decree -- an imperial edict
1 Jesus came to teach us to give. Why Jesus Came Give One of the great things about Christmas is giving. At the end of our celebration we watched the movie, Little Women. In her book, Little Women, Louisa
More informationCHRISTMAS TOOLKIT. Tips and ideas to help people celebrate and proclaim the Savior s birth at Christmastime. Christ is born!
CHRISTMAS TOOLKIT Tips and ideas to help people celebrate and proclaim the Savior s birth at Christmastime. Christ is born! KEEPING CHRISTMAS IN CHRIST It s not uncommon to hear of keeping Christ in Christmas
More informationSongs of Christmas Song of the Angels Kevin Haah Luke 2: December 21, 2014
[Slide 1] Merry Christmas to all of you! I love the songs that we sung today. Thanks to the children who sang beautifully, and thanks to the worship team for leading us into the joyous songs of Christmas.
More informationProgram: Come Let Us Adore Him Summary
Program: Come Let Us Adore Him Summary Opening Prayer : Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful verses 1 & 2 (Hymns, no. 202) Scripture: Matthew 1:18 23 : Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful verse 3 Scripture: Luke 2:1 7 : O
More informationSacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry
Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year C Christmas Day Scripture: Luke 2:1 20 NRSV Gathering Welcome Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. Dear
More informationA new perspective on the Advent, by Rev. Courtney Arntzen
A new perspective on the Advent, by Rev. Courtney Arntzen INTRO: The advent of Jesus Christ is not only as it seems There is more going on than we imagine Voice #1: In the beginning was the Word, and the
More informationAdvent. Daily Bible Study available at thirsty.ifesworld.org
Advent Daily Bible Study available at thirsty.ifesworld.org InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA All Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011
More informationThank you for visiting and experiencing the Walk Through Nativity! What follows are the words of the presentation for each scene you have just
Thank you for visiting and experiencing the Walk Through Nativity! What follows are the words of the presentation for each scene you have just witnessed and a brief note from Pastor Reeder. SCENE 1 Family
More informationBells Tell the Story. A Jesus Cares Ministries Christmas Service
Bells Tell the Story A Jesus Cares Ministries Christmas Service 2 Bells Tell the Story: A Jesus Cares Ministries Christmas Service Written by Jeanne Aeschliman Revised by Myrtiss Riediger Edited by Jane
More informationChildren s Christmas Service 2018 Recitations
Alex Andreae Alex: In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David s line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem
More informationJe s u s as a Yo u n g Boy
Prayer Dear God, Thank you that everyone is important to you, even little children. Help me to remember this whenever I feel small and unimportant. In Jesus name, Amen. 17 Then the shepherds told everyone
More informationCome and Worship Him Luke 1:26-38, 2:1-20, Matthew 2:1-12
Fall 2016 ~ Primary Lesson #12 Learning Objectives Come and Worship Him Luke 1:26-38, 2:1-20, Matthew 2:1-12 1. The children will be able to retell the story of Jesus birth. 2. The children will identify
More informationSign up for Mom's Mustard Seeds HERE
Thank you for downloading this printable from Mom's Mustard Seeds. The best way to receive daily and weekly updates from Mom's Mustard Seeds is via Email. Mom's Mustard Seeds is committed to helping all
More informationBehold a Branch is Growing
Behold a Branch is Growing 1. Behold a branch is growing As of loveliest form and grace, As prophets sung, foreknowing; It springs from Jesse's race And bears one little Flower In midst of coldest winter,
More informationThe Purpose of His Coming God sent Jesus to tell us the truth! The truth ABOUT OURSELVES ABOUT GOD
The Purpose of His Coming God sent Jesus to tell us the truth! The truth ABOUT OURSELVES ABOUT GOD o The truth about OURSELVES for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, Romans 3:23, NKJV
More informationCHRISTMAS FAMILY HOME EVENING
CHRISTMAS FAMILY HOME EVENING Opening Prayer: Song: OH COME ALL YE FAITHFUL (1 ST & 2 ND verse) Scripture Reading: MATTHEW 1: 18-23 Song: OH COME ALL YE FAITHFUL (3 RD verse) Scripture Reading: LUKE 2:1-7
More informationChildren: Gabriel! Gabriel, wake up! It s Christmas!!! (shout excitedly, jump up and down, high five)
1 A Heavenly Christmas Morn 2013 byrev. Jenna L. Couch Setting: Heaven, early Christmas morning. The angel Gabriel is sleeping. The children angels rush on the set to wake him up, in Christmas excitement.
More informationA CHRISTMAS BIBLE STUDY A CHRISTMAS BIBLE STUDY
Precept Ministries UK, Christian Centre, Dews Road, Salisbury SP2 7SN Tel 01722 770028 E: admin@precept.org.uk W: precept.org.uk A CHRISTMAS BIBLE STUDY A CHRISTMAS BIBLE STUDY A Christmas Bible Study
More informationNativity Story Advent Chain
Joyful Catholic Families Nativity Story Advent Chain Advent is not a set number of days. It can be 22 to 28 days long. If Advent is 28 days long, use the first four pages of this chain. If Advent is less
More informationLiving Savior Lutheran Church
Living Savior Lutheran Church 4616 Gharrett St Missoula, MT 59803 livingsaviormissoula.org 406.543.8222 Pastor Justin Cloute pastor@livingsaviormissoula.org December 24th, 2016 Christmas Eve WELCOME TO
More informationThe Heartbeat. Nampa United Church of Christ December 2017
The Heartbeat Nampa United Church of Christ December 2017 Christmas Inflatable's As I walk our dog Teddy around the neighborhood, or drive around town to see the Christmas decorations, I have noticed many
More informationChristmas Eve 2017 Pastors Dave Hoffman and Mark Hoffman Foothills Christian Church December 24, 2017
Christmas Eve 2017 Pastors Dave Hoffman and Mark Hoffman Foothills Christian Church December 24, 2017 Dave: What we re going to do now is we re going to read through the Christmas story. The birth of Jesus.
More informationVerse 3. All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. Verse 4. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to
31 And a sword will pierce your very soul." Verse 36. Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when
More information2017 GMAS P&F Christmas Carols Lyric Booklet
2017 GMAS P&F Christmas Carols Lyric Booklet Est. 2003 O Come, All Ye Faithful O, come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O, come, ye, O, come ye, to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, born the King
More informationThe Redemption of Scrooge: Keeping Christmas Well Luke 2: /24/2016
The Redemption of Scrooge: Keeping Christmas Well Luke 2:1-20 12/24/2016 Luke begins his nativity story with, In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered.
More informationTeaching Resource Items for GSI: Gospel Story Investigator (Luke)
Teaching Resource Items for GSI: Gospel Story Investigator (Luke) These items are selected from Teaching Plans in They are provided to make lesson preparation easier and faster for handouts and similar
More informationTHE GREATEST SERMON EVER PREACHED
THE GREATEST SERMON EVER PREACHED Luke 2:1-20 Christmas Eve (Series A) December 24, 2016 Trinity Free Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND The gospel reading for Christmas Eve comes from The Gospel According
More informationPhilippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything
More informationGood News of Great Joy! An Advent Chain Activity Book
Good News of Great Joy! An Advent Chain Activity Book Scripture taken from the Good News Translation Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission. Good News of Great Joy!
More informationWe all have: A Past that we must face A Present that needs embraced A Future that is full of grace A Redemption received by faith
I have endeavored in this Ghostly little book, to raise the Ghost of an Idea, which shall not put my readers out of humor with themselves, with each other, with the season, or with me. May it haunt their
More informationChristmas Scripture Readings. A Seven-Day Compilation of Scripture about the Birth and Purpose of Christ
# Christmas Scripture Readings A Seven-Day Compilation of Scripture about the Birth and Purpose of Christ Day 1 The Announcement of the Birth of John the Baptist Luke 1:5-25 In the days of Herod, king
More informationMt. Traveler Missionary Baptist Church, Waverly, Alabama Synopsis of Sermon Preached by Rev. B. C. Datiri, Pastor WHO IS JESUS?
Mt. Traveler Missionary Baptist Church, Waverly, Alabama Synopsis of Sermon Preached by Rev. B. C. Datiri, Pastor December 2, 2012 1. Born King of the Jews Matthew 2:1 12 1. In this celebrative holiday
More informationSermon: Not-So-Silent Night
Sermon: Not-So-Silent Night Not-So-Silent Night Luke 2:1-20 1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took
More information12/19/10 Mt 1:18 25 THE MESSIAH HAS COME!! 2010 Brenda Etheridge Page 1
14 The Birth of Jesus 2 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
More informationDecember 24, Let us pray.
Title: An Inauspicious Beginning Let us pray. Most holy, Lord God, break the darkness of this night with the light and joy of angels, shepherds, and a humble birth that changed the world and let us give
More informationScripture & Prayers. for Advent IV, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Compiled by Lisa Traylor Prayers from the 1979 Book of Common Prayer
& s for Advent IV, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Compiled by Lisa Traylor s from the 1979 Book of Common Advent IV The Story of St. Mary, mother of Jesus In the sixth month of Elizabeth s pregnancy,
More informationThe Nativity Story and Jesus Formative Years
The Nativity Story and Jesus Formative Years PREFACE The following account has been compiled from the three different Gospel stories of Matthew, Luke, and John using the New King James translation of the
More informationChristmas Eve. St. Luke s United Methodist Church. December 24, o clock in the Evening. 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia 23692
St. Luke s United Methodist Church 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia 23692 Christmas Eve December 24, 2016 5 o clock in the Evening Telephone (757) 898-3017 www.stlukesyorktown.org The Order of
More informationTHE IS COMING! An Advent Chain. of the names of Jesus
Savior THE IS COMING! An Advent Chain of the names of Jesus Scripture taken from the Good News Translation Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Savior THE IS COMING! The word Advent
More informationA Service for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Episcopal service booklet for lay leaders
A Service for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day Episcopal service booklet for lay leaders Preparing for this Service It is important to prepare for this service. This entire service is designed to be led
More informationto be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth.
Jesus is Here 1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. Luke 2:1-2 (ESV) 3
More information+ Festival of Lessons and Carols +
The Christmas Story According to Luke 3rd Sunday of Advent, 11 Dec. 2016 + Festival of Lessons and Carols + We read from the book of the prophet Isaiah, chapter 9, verses 2-7. 2 The people who walked in
More informationThe Birth of Jesus. Luke 2:1-7
The Birth of Jesus In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)
More informationBorn This Day: A Savior
LIGHTHOUSE MINISTRY LEADER S STUDY GUIDE BORN THIS DAY: CHRISTMAS 2016 Born This Day: A Savior Luke 2:11 Core Virtue: Hope December 4, 2016 Week 01 Series: Born This Day: Christmas 2016 This guide is designed
More informationCHRISTMAS EVE COMMUNION SERVICE
1 CHRISTMAS EVE COMMUNION SERVICE SAINT PAUL, NORTHVILLE December 24, 2018 10:00pm Fear Not, the Light of Christ is WITH US! AS WE GATHER The angels brought good news of great joy to the shepherds. The
More informationThe Shepherds and the Sign Luke 2: Introduction
The Shepherds and the Sign Luke 2:11-12 Introduction And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place
More informationSESSION POINT WHAT S THE MOST INTERESTING TRIP YOU VE EVER TAKEN? JESUS CAME FOR OUR SALVATION. LUKE 2:1-14 THE THE ANGELS ANNOUNCEMENT
SESSION 4 WHAT S THE MOST INTERESTING TRIP YOU VE EVER TAKEN? THE ANGELS ANNOUNCEMENT THE POINT LUKE 2:1-14 1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman
More informationTHE WONDER OF A MANGER by Rom A. Pegram
THE WONDER OF A MANGER by Rom A. Pegram In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius
More informationCall for Artists CHRISTMAS ART WALK-Wheaton, IL
Call for Artists 2016 CHRISTMAS ART WALK-Wheaton, IL It is with great pleasure that the Jonahre Foundation seeks 12 artists to create 12 total biblical fine art pieces (one piece per artists) for the 2016
More informationBirth of Jesus. The Life of Jesus 3 years that change the world forever Chronology and Harmony
Birth of Jesus The Life of Jesus 3 years that change the world forever Chronology and Harmony Luke 1:26 33 (NIV) 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth,
More informationChristmas Day Praise: Come and join the celebration (MP 83)
Christmas Day 2017 Call to Worship - (congregational lines in bold) Jesus, born of woman, you entered time. Giver of life, come now, in our time, change our darkness into light. Breathe in us, enter our
More informationMAKE UP PACKET SESSION 4 PROPHECY AND
MAKE UP PACKET SESSION 4 PROPHECY AND THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST December 2017 Student s Name: The Goal of This Session: The purpose of this session is to help the student 1. understand that God always
More informationTHE BIRTH & EARLY LIFE OF JESUS & JOHN THE BAPTIST
THE BIRTH & EARLY LIFE OF JESUS & JOHN THE BAPTIST The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold The Birth of Jesus Foretold Luke 1 5. In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who
More informationJesus is Here (4 th Sunday of Advent)
Jesus is Here (4 th Sunday of Advent) John opens his gospel account with the introduction to Jesus as having been with God and being God from the very beginning of creation. The Hebrew Bible (Old Testament)
More informationThe Nativity of the Lord Christmas
December 25 The Nativity of the Lord Christmas Other readings may be used First Reading (Isaiah 9:1-6) The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom
More informationAN EPIPHANY PAGEANT OF LESSONS AND CAROLS
AN EPIPHANY PAGEANT OF LESSONS AND CAROLS This is a short pageant designed to be used during worship in late Advent, Christmas or early Epiphany. This pageant serves as the liturgy of the word during worship.
More informationExegetical Notes, Luke 2:1-15 Great Joy Luke 2:1-15
Exegetical Notes, Luke 2:1-15 Great Joy Prepared by Charles H. Jensen, Pastor, Cornerstone Fellowship 101 Kylies Road, Coatesville, PA 19320 610-384-1375 charleshjensen@aol.com Luke 2:1-15 Verses 1-2 In
More informationCLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF A CHRISTMAS KIND. Part 2 THE FIRST CHRISTMAS. Randy Broberg December 2010
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF A CHRISTMAS KIND Part 2 THE FIRST CHRISTMAS Randy Broberg December 2010 Our Lord and Savior The Lord My Lord A Savior Luke Luke Luke Horn of Salvation Luke Divinity of Christ Christ
More informationLuke Lesson 6 Handout. Matthew 1:18-19 (AMP)
Luke Lesson 6 Handout Matthew 1:18-19 (AMP) 18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place under these circumstances: When His mother Mary had been promised in marriage to Joseph, before they came together,
More informationthe town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem (2.4) and Mary came with him.
The Birth of the Messiah (Lk 2.1-20) WestminsterReformedChurch.org Pastor Ostella 3-7-2010 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first
More informationAn Advent Chain. World
Joy to the An Advent Chain World Joy to the W orld The word Advent means coming. Jesus is coming. We use the days of Advent to prepare our hearts, homes and families for Christmas Day, the coming of Jesus.
More informationSt. Luke s United Methodist Church. 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia Christmas Eve. December 24, o clock in the Evening
St. Luke s United Methodist Church 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia 23692 Christmas Eve December 24, 2015 5 o clock in the Evening Telephone (757) 898-3017; Fax (757) 898-4304 www.stlukesyorktown.org
More informationThe Triumph of Joy Luke 2:1-20 Christmas Eve (2011)
The Triumph of Joy Luke 2:1-20 Christmas Eve (2011) In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius
More informationLUKE. 1Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative. Dedication to Theophilus
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE Dedication to Theophilus 1Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses
More informationThe Prince Of Peace. Grace be unto you and peace, from God our Father and from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Rev. William J. Shields St. Mark Lutheran Church, Lindenhurst, Illinois Christmas Eve December 24, 2014 Gospel Lesson Luke 2:1-20 1 The Prince Of Peace 1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
More informationThe Birth of Jesus. The Shepherds and the Angels. 2 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world
The Reading of Luke 1:11-16 An Angel of the Lord Appears to Zechariah 11 Then there appeared to him an angel of the Lord, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him,
More informationI. The Birth Announcement Of The New King
THERE S A NEW KING IN TOWN Matthew 1-2 Luke 1-2 I. The Birth Announcement Of The New King 1. ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE PARENTS Luke 1:26-38...the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,
More informationTHE WORD WAS MADE FLESH. Christmas Day Festival Worship
THE WORD WAS MADE FLESH Christmas Day Festival Worship December 25, 2018 WELCOME TO RESURRECTION LUTHERAN CHURCH! Resurrection is where the life of Jesus meets yours bringing life to marriage, family,
More informationIntroduction to the gospel of Luke: Luke 1: 1-4. The foretelling of John the Baptist's birth: Luke 1: The angel's visit: Luke 1: 11-20
Read: Luke 1: 1-25 Introduction to the gospel of Luke: Luke 1: 1-4 1. What was Luke's purpose in writing the book of Luke? The foretelling of John the Baptist's birth: Luke 1: 5-11 2. What are two of the
More informationSpecial Messages of 2017 You Won t to Believe What Happened at Work Last Night! Edited Transcript
Special Messages of 2017 You Won t to Believe What Happened at Work Last Night! Edited Transcript Brett Clemmer Well, here's our topic for today for this Christmas season. We're going to talk about the
More informationJESUS SAVES SESSION 4. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting. Jesus was born to bring us into a relationship with God.
SESSION 4 JESUS SAVES The Point Jesus was born to bring us into a relationship with God. The Passage Luke 2:4-20 The Bible Meets Life There s no doubt that Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on
More informationA Service of the Nativity Fourth Sunday in Advent
A Service of the Nativity Fourth Sunday in Advent December 24, 2017 10:00 HANDBELL PRELUDE Still, Still, Still *CHORAL INTROIT *OPENING HYMN AND PROCESSIONAL Silent Night Pg. 239 *CALL TO WORSHIP Leader:
More informationA Journey with Christ the Messiah The Birth of the Messiah
A Journey with Christ the Messiah The Birth of the Messiah Luke 2:4-20, Luke 3:23-38, Matt. 1:1-25 December 25, 2016 This morning we are continuing a new series that I have entitled A Journey with Christ
More informationLessons are prepared by Ledeta LeMariam Sunday School Alexandria, Virginia. For information please contact: Yonas Assefa
Lessons are prepared by Ledeta LeMariam Sunday School Alexandria, Virginia For information please contact: Yonas Assefa Email: ledetasunday@yahoo.com In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy
More informationCarols and Candles Letters Home
Carols and Candles Letters Home For many years a carol service has been held at St Tudwal s church, Llanstadwell, on the Sunday evening before Christmas. Back in 2012 I felt it was time for something a
More informationCHRISTMAS: A SEASON OF SALVATION
CHRISTMAS: A SEASON OF SALVATION SERIES: JESUS, SAVIOR OF THE LOST By Ron Ritchie Christmas has different meanings for each one of us, but family gatherings, good food, friends, travel, shopping, ball
More informationNativity Story Cards
Nativity Story Cards These Nativity Story Cards combine Bible verses with nativity artwork to provide something to read and discuss with young children. Help little ones understand who Jesus is, and why
More informationJoseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born.
The Birth of Jesus How Many Inaccuracies Can You Find? Joseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born. LUKE 2:4 4 So Joseph also went up from
More informationO Little Town of Bethlehem
O Little Town of Bethlehem O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light; The hopes
More information(1) Joy to a Broken World Luke 2:1-12 Dec 13, 2015, Adrian Moskal
(1) Joy to a Broken World Luke 2:1-12 Dec 13, 2015, Adrian Moskal Let s Pray: Heavenly Father, we want to hear from you this morning, I pray that we will be changed this morning by your word, through the
More informationTHE CHRISTMAS GIFT. Processional: Angels We Have Heard on High CW 63 Cong./Children
THE CHRISTMAS GIFT Processional: Angels We Have Heard on High CW 63 Cong./Children Invocation Pastor: As we make time to celebrate today what we believe to be the reason for peace and joy, we do so in
More informationEvangelical Lutheran Hymnary.
By Rev. Jeff Hendrix Based on Martin Luther s Christmas Program and hymn for his children, From Heaven Above to Earth I Come Anno Domini 2016 PROGRAM NOTES This program is based on Luther s Christmas program
More informationA reading from Genesis chapter 3 verses 1 through 19. Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made.
A reading from Genesis chapter 3 verses 1 through 19. Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, Did God actually say, You shall
More informationA Sola Christmas. A Children s Christmas Service Focusing on the Solas of the Reformation. by Matthew Manthe. Of the Father s Love Begotten 35
A Sola Christmas A Children s Christmas Service Focusing on the Solas of the Reformation by Matthew Manthe HYMN Of the Father s Love Begotten 35 All Children Of the Father s love begotten Ere the worlds
More informationLuke 2:1-52 Birth and Circumcision and Childhood of Jesus Time and occasion at Birth of Jesus. Events surrounding Birth of Jesus
Luke 2:1-52 Birth and Circumcision and Childhood of Jesus Time and occasion at Birth of Jesus 1 And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be
More informationADVENT WORSHIP 2018 The Word Made Flesh. And the same word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. John 1:14
ADVENT WORSHIP 2018 The Word Made Flesh And the same word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. John 1:14 Advent The Word Made Flesh Dear Sisters, We offer this Christmas Advent Fellowship program. Advent
More informationDay 204. Angels help God s people. They bring messages from God.
The angel said to him, I am Gabriel. I serve God. I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. Luke 1:19 Day 204 Angels help God s people. They bring messages from God. Gabriel was
More informationI. First, the birth of Christ is for the glory of God By reflection, it becomes clear that the account ascends in verses 1-13 to a peak in verse
Christ s Birth and Christmas within a Christian Worldview (Lk 2.1-20) WestminsterReformedChurch.org Pastor Ostella December 25, 2016 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world
More informationJESUS SAVES SESSION 4. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting. Jesus was born to bring us into a relationship with God.
SESSION 4 JESUS SAVES The Point Jesus was born to bring us into a relationship with God. The Passage Luke 2:4-20 The Bible Meets Life There s no doubt that Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on
More information