Sing a Song of Promise
|
|
- Laureen Rogers
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Sing a Song of Promise Leah Grundset Davis Ravensworth Baptist Church December 3, st Sunday of Advent Luke 1:55 77 Happy New Year! That s right, it s the first day of Advent, which marks the beginning of a new church year. Each year, the church calendar re-sets today as we take down the green, ordinary time decorations, replacing them with purple and actual greenery. We leave ordinary time in the dust and look to these new seasons of marked time, shorter church seasons, beginning with these four weeks of Advent, followed by 12 days of Christmas, which lead us to Epiphany. Advent is the season where we prepare for the coming of Jesus. The four Sundays carry themes you ll see them on the banners above me and all throughout our worship. We light a candle each week as the brightness of the candles, point us to the nearness of Christ. During Advent, we acknowledge the long wait of faith, the long nights of grief, the waiting, the worrying, the anxiety. All of this wrapped up in the season of waiting for Jesus to come again. About 2000 years ago, some others were waiting for Jesus in very different ways. This Advent at RBC, we re going to sing along with them. Specifically, we re going to look at songs from the Gospel of Luke. Today and next Sunday, we ll look for promise and hope in Zechariah s song. Then on the Sunday of joy, we ll see what Mary s song might have to say to a world that needs some turning upside down. On the fourth Sunday of Advent, which happens to be Christmas Eve that s right we ll meet in the morning for worship and Christmas Eve service in the afternoon in the morning we ll hear the shepherds and angels song and the song from the stable that evening. Then, Simeon s song will help us celebrate Christmas. All this is the first two chapters of the Gospel of Luke! It s no coincidence that during Advent and Christmas we sing some of the most beloved hymns. The Advent songs of longing and Christmas carols of joy proclaim that God-with-us has come and will come again. We sing these hymns and songs and remember when we sang them as children, when we sat at a piano with grandparents, learning those notes of Silent Night, singing with a choir, of caroling and of singing in this space on Sunday mornings. Singing together does this to us it rests/lingers in a place in our brain. Group singing, for those who have done it all of us in this room, is the most exhilarating and transformative of all. It takes something incredibly intimate, a sound that begins inside you, shares it with a roomful of people and it comes back as something even more thrilling: harmony. So it s not surprising that group singing is on the rise. According to Chorus America, 32.5 million adults sing in choirs, up by almost 10
2 million over the past six years. Many people think of church music when you bring up group singing, but there are over 270,000 choruses across the country and they include gospel groups to show choirs. As the popularity of group singing grows, science has been hard at work trying to explain why it has such a calming yet energizing effect on people. What researchers are beginning to discover is that singing is like an infusion of the perfect tranquilizer, the kind that both soothes your nerves and elevates your spirits. The elation may come from endorphins, a hormone released by singing, which is associated with feelings of pleasure. Or it might be from oxytocin, another hormone released during singing, which has been found to alleviate anxiety and stress. Oxytocin also enhances feelings of trust and bonding, which may explain why still more studies have found that singing lessens feelings of depression and loneliness. A very recent study even attempts to make the case that music evolved as a tool of social living, and that the pleasure that comes from singing together is our evolutionary reward for coming together cooperatively, instead of hiding alone, every cave-dweller for him or herself. It turns out you don t even have to be a good singer to reap the rewards. According to one 2005 study, group singing can produce satisfying and therapeutic sensations even when the sound produced by the vocal instrument is of mediocre quality. 1 Do you want your endorphins up? To be energized? To be calm? Satisfying and therapeutic sensations even with a mediocre voice? We sing together! (Here ends my public service announcement for joining the RBC choir). But really: we sing together to proclaim what we believe. It s quite remarkable to me that Zechariah broke into song in this passage from Luke. Here s some important background information to know about Zechariah. He was a priest and one of his days at the temple, he went into the holy of holies to make an offering. While inside, the angel Gabriel, yes THAT Gabriel showed up. In a type-scene that you Bible scholars will recognize, Zechariah was told that he and his wife, who were both around age 80 would be having a baby and this baby was to be named John. A laugh heard across the centuries, starting with Sarah and finishing with Zechariah was only stifled by his utter disbelief. I guess Gabriel and God expected more from this priest, 1 Stacy Horn, Singing Changes Your Brain, Time Magazine, August 16,
3 Zechariah that to doubt so God struck him unable to speak for what turns out to be the entirety of Elizabeth s pregnancy and the first week of his son s life. Elizabeth was more on board with this advanced maternal age, also welcoming her miraculously pregnant cousin Mary into her home. The point is that Zechariah, the priest, the preacher, the one with all the privilege in the land was silenced for nine months while Elizabeth and Mary, two without standing, waddling around pregnant with no privilege or rights were the ones to proclaim the good news of God during that time. So here we go. Elizabeth and Zechariah welcomed their son to the world as Gabriel said, and named him John. The town was abuzz with the birth of this baby to gasp Zechariah and sweet-spirited Elizabeth. The family and friends came around on the 8th day for John s circumcision and the naming ceremony. Remember: Zechariah still can t speak. The family gathers and after opening presents and eating some cake, the family says we re going to name him Zechariah, after his father. As Elizabeth held her baby, she looked at the gathered group and confidently said, Nope. He will be named John. The group of priests and relatives looked confused and said, No one in your family has that name. You can t name him that! Because the group could still not believe the account of Elizabeth, the group turned to Zechariah, the man who couldn t SPEAK to try and get some answers. I wonder why it was so difficult to believe what Elizabeth was saying? Why was it not true until Zechariah confirmed it that what she said was true? Wisely, I think Zechariah learned a few things during his full-term of silence and delivered his words on a tablet. He wrote, His name is to be john. And immediately upon the proclamation of his son s name, Zechariah s mouth was opened and his silence was no more. Of course, his family didn t know what to think a reverent awe washed over them. With that backstory, you see why it was remarkable that Zechariah would start to sing. His song came in two verses and we ll look at the first verse today and the second next week. Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and he started his song of promise! He sang: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them. 3
4 He has raised up a mighty saviour for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us. Thus he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has remembered his holy covenant, the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham, to grant us that we, being rescued from the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. How could he keep from singing? This song was all about God s faithfulness. God gave Zechariah a voice to proclaim the faithfulness of God through the centuries and that God was coming again and his son, John would be the one to announce him. This new savior had been raised up and salvation and forgiveness belonged to the people. This song is not just a song, but a spirit-event, a moment of God s Holy Spirit breaking into the ordinary, mundane world. And bringing with it God s preferred and promised future. Zechariah s song is spirit-empowered. It recalls God s promises. The words of promise to David that he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old and the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham. The promises of salvation from enemies, of redemption from danger, of freedom to love and serve God in holiness and righteousness. And the song announces that these promises are kept in the nearly-twin arrivals of John and Jesus. 2 These promises, this longing are the paradox of Advent. We are sitting in the midst of the already---that Jesus has come and the not yet that we believe Jesus will come again, that he is always breaking into our lives. This weekend is the National Weekend of Prayer for LGBTQ justice as you heard Cathy talk about earlier in the service. Cathy Baskin attended a People of Faith for Equality in Virginia lunch this week in preparation for the weekend and the Supreme Court case on Tuesday. While there she heard Claire Markham speak from the Center for American 2 Rolf Jacoboson, Commentary on Luke 1:68-79, Working Preacher. 4
5 Progress. She said, it s so appropriate for us to have this weekend of prayer on the first Sunday of Advent. The LGBTQ community has been living in a constant state of Advent. Meaning, our LGBTQ siblings know a lot about waiting waiting to be welcomed in church, waiting to be valued as human beings, waiting for the civil and human rights to be honored in a country where all are supposedly equal, waiting to eat a cake that celebrates the love couples share, waiting for a government that does not discriminate. This weekend, we pray. And we hope and rest in God s promises with the song of Zechariah and the songs of longing alongside our LGBTQ siblings. Part of Zechariah s song was quoted from a song of the people this was song the people sang, not a song a priest or religious leaders sang. This was a song that the people rose up that mercy and forgiveness were theirs, not the song of the ruling elite who looked to fill their wallets with greed and power. This newness, these promises of God flip the power structures on their head. Zechariah went silent in the gospel of Luke and two women, Elizabeth and Mary s voices were heard instead. When he does sing, he quotes those two women AND amplified the song of the people who live under occupation. That s part of God s promise in this life of faith! The voices of the marginalized will rise up! They will be amplified for the world to hear the good news! Zechariah didn t sing his own words when he speech returned. He sang the good news according to the people. We sing together in this space this morning we sang, pleading O, Come Thou Longexpected Jesus, born to set thy people free! We sang Blessed Be the God of Israel, the words of Zechariah s song! In a minute, we will sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear. We sing to express our hopes, our protest and the promises of God. Let s keep singing together and proclaiming that God s promises are realized among us and that this world we be turned upside down once again. Let s sing together and raise our energy and endorphins for the Advent in front of us because God knows we need some extra energy right about now. We sing for the freedom of all people. This story of Jesus coming to live among us is incarnation, it s liberation for all of us. This is God s promise to us. 5
ZECHARIAH S SONG OF HOPE Luke 1:68-79
Luke 1:68-79 The theme for the first week of advent is Hope The candle is sometimes called the prophecy candle The birth of Jesus was prophesied hundreds of years before it happened! Isaiah 9:6 "For unto
More informationWEEK 1 - A FUTURE PROMISE
WEEK 1 - A FUTURE PROMISE Scripture - Jeremiah 33:14-15 Adult Devotion Even as adults we know what its like to look forward to something. We know the feelings of excitement and anticipation when there
More informationMEMORY VERSE: Thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways (Luke 1:76)
Mustard Seed Children s Summary for December 16, 2007 Released on Wednesday, December 12, 2007 Called to Prepare MEMORY VERSE: Thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways (Luke 1:76)
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 informationChristmas is a time when we hear lots of music, some of it good, some not so good. My wife dislikes some it so much that she s been
Song of Zechariah Luke 1:67-79 Dec. 8, 2013 1 Christmas is a time when we hear lots of music, some of it good, some not so good. My wife dislikes some it so much that she s been known to take her ipod
More information1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL SUMMARIZE IT
1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL The people of Israel had waited a very long time for their Messiah (or A LOOK AHEAD During the month of December there will be about 10 devotionals focusing on the birth of Jesus
More informationThis Is What Christmas Really Means
This Is What Christmas Really Means The Benedictus of Zechariah Luke 1:67-79 It is so wonderful to hear the choir sing the Christmas message. The tradition of singing at Christmastime is as old as Christmas
More informationI am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12
I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12 1 Boxing Day/Tomorrow 9.30 am Service No Night Service I am the light of the world.
More informationWHY DID JESUS COME? SESSION 4. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting. Jesus came to remove our sin.
SESSION 4 WHY DID JESUS COME? The Point Jesus came to remove our sin. The Passage Luke 1:68-79 The Bible Meets Life Thanks to the Internet, we have easy access for finding solutions and fixing problems.
More informationChapter One. The Setting Y. Prologue
Chapter One The Setting Y Prologue Before anything else existed, the Word already was I am that Word. I was in fellowship with God; in fact, I was God. I was there from the very beginning. Through me God
More informationAdorning Advent. Second Sunday of Advent Annunciation. Scripture: Luke 1:68-79
Scripture: Luke 1:68-79 Call to Worship: It is indeed right to give you our thanks and praise, Almighty God, for into the nothingness of chaos, you break forth with the light of new creation. Though we
More informationThe Christmas Story. Zechariah and Elizabeth. From Luke 1:1-25
The Christmas Story Zechariah and Elizabeth From Luke 1:1-25 In the days when Herod was king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah. His wife s name was Elizabeth and they were both honorable and
More informationWHY DID JESUS COME? SESSION 4. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting. Jesus came to remove our sin.
SESSION 4 WHY DID JESUS COME? The Point Jesus came to remove our sin. The Passage Luke 1:68-79 The Bible Meets Life Warning lights on the car dashboard serve a good purpose usually. When the low tire pressure
More informationSongs of Christmas Zechariah s Song Kevin Haah Luke 1: December 14, 2014
[Slide 1] We are in the middle of a Christmas sermon series called, Songs of Christmas. We are going to look at the first Christmas carols from the Book of Luke. [Slide 2] Today, we will look at: Zechariah
More informationSermon for the 4 Sunday of Advent. Magnificat
1 th Sermon for the 4 Sunday of Advent Text: Luke 1: 46-47, 54-55 Mary said, My heart praises the Lord; my soul is glad because of God my Saviour. He has kept the promise he made to our ancestors, and
More informationTHE MEANING IS IN THE WAITING John the Baptist Still Waiting Layne Lebo December 11, 2016
THE MEANING IS IN THE WAITING John the Baptist Still Waiting Layne Lebo December 11, 2016 Past, present and future separate and distinct, yet also inextricably linked. That s true for God s activity in
More informationLISTEN TO THE SILENCE. Luke 1:5-25, 57-66
1 LISTEN TO THE SILENCE Luke 1:5-25, 57-66 [A sermon preached by the Rev. Stan Gockel at the Bellbrook Presbyterian Church on December 9, 2012] I The story of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and the birth of John
More informationAgainst his better judgment, he peeled back a little bit of the wrapping paper and saw he had received the Transformers figure just as he had hoped.
Anticipation Advent: Zechariah and Elizabeth God of the Impossible does the Incredible I came across this short story about Christmas that I quite liked and might be able to relate to one day, having four
More informationGod s promised Messiah is Jesus Christ, His Son.
Session 4 Promise Kept God s promised Messiah is Jesus Christ, His Son. LUKE 1:26-38 Many of us decorate our homes for Christmas. We make sure trees, ornaments, and lights are strategically placed in just
More informationMORAGA VALLEY PRESBY TERIAN CHURCH
2 0 1 7 A D V E N T D E VO T I O N A L MORAGA VALLEY PRESBY TERIAN CHURCH table of contents Advent...2 The Advent Wreath...3 Week 1 Preparing for the Child...4 DECEMBER 3-9 Week 2 Anticipating the King...6
More informationLongest Night Service at St Mary with St Alban, Teddington
Longest Night Service at St Mary with St Alban, Teddington We did very low key advertising for this just a notice in the pew sheet and a short article on the web site. We advertised it as a quiet service
More informationAdvent. A Season for All Generations. Part I Advent, the Season
Advent A Season for All Generations Part I Advent, the Season This two-part Advent program is for use by small or large groups during the four weeks of Advent. You might use this with your regular study
More informationInternational Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 1:57-58, 67-79
International Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 1:57-58, 67-79 International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 15, 2013 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series)
More informationIn the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
10 OUR EUCHARISTIC LITURGY Introductory Rites ENTRANCE ANTIPHON (Turn to the appropriate day) GREETING In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 1 The grace of our Lord Jesus
More informationNovember 29, 2015 Come Thou Long Un-Expected Jesus Luke 21:25 28 The Second Presbyterian Church of Baltimore The Rev. Dr.
November 29, 2015 Come Thou Long Un-Expected Jesus Luke 21:25 28 The Second Presbyterian Church of Baltimore The Rev. Dr. Tom Blair There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth
More informationThe Reign of Christ (Song of Zechariah Luke ) Sarah Bachelard
23 November 2013 The Reign of Christ (Song of Zechariah Luke 1. 68-79) Sarah Bachelard Today is the Feast of the Reign of Christ, and the last week of the church s year. Next week we begin the new liturgical
More informationOffering Ps.107:1,12 Prayer of thanksgiving & intercessions Hy.81:1,2,3,7 Divine blessing
Liturgy for Sunday, December 25, 2011 AM Confession of Dependence and Divine Greeting Ps.98:1,2 Ten words of the covenant Hy.18:1,3 Prayer of confession and illumination Ministry of the Word Reading: Luk.2:1-20
More informationThe Nativity of St. John the Baptist
The Nativity of St. John the Baptist June 24, 2018 9:00 a.m. Rev. Todd Goldschmidt, Pastor Theme: Thank God For Sending John the Baptist to Prepare Us For His Gracious Visitation! Sermon Text: Luke 1:57-80
More informationThe Christmas Creche novena
The Christmas Creche novena By Sr. Esther Leroux, DSMP DECEMBER 16th Authority of God the Father in Joseph Opening Prayer: (use this prayer at the beginning of each day) Lord Jesus, Master of both the
More informationWhy Did Jesus Come? When have you recently turned to the Internet for a solution to a problem? QUESTION 1 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 37
4 Why Did Jesus Come? When have you recently turned to the Internet for a solution to a problem? QUESTION 1 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 37 THE POINT Jesus came to remove our sin. THE BIBLE MEETS LIFE Warning
More informationAdvent www.stonegatefellowship.com/christmas What Is Advent? The word Advent comes from a word in Latin that means to come or to arrive. For many centuries, followers of Jesus have celebrated His arrival
More informationCovenant: Zechariah and Elizabeth. Luke 1: 5-25
Covenant: Zechariah and Elizabeth Luke 1: 5-25 I always enjoy the Advent texts. They give us an opportunity to take a look at some of the lesser known stories in the Bible, like our text today. I invite
More informationUNWRAPPING THE GIFTS OF CHRISTMAS: PEACE
UNWRAPPING THE GIFTS OF CHRISTMAS: PEACE Luke 3.1-6 and Luke 1.68-79 Second Sunday of Advent, Year C, December 6, 2015 -- Rev. Dr. Charlie Berthoud Covenant Presbyterian Church -- Madison, WI Of the four
More information12/17/17 Advent 3 Have Yourself a Mary Christmas Luke 1:39-55 Pastor Doug Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church
12/17/17 Advent 3 Have Yourself a Mary Christmas Luke 1:39-55 Pastor Doug Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church Something that has become popular on social media is people using creative means to reveal that
More informationSt. Matthew s Ev. Lutheran Church. Second Sunday in Advent Theme: The Gift of PEACE 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Service
St. Matthew s Ev. Lutheran hurch 1615 Wauwatosa Ave., Wauwatosa, WI 53213 December 6 th, 2015 Second Sunday in Advent Theme: The Gift of EAE 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Service relude Welcome to Worship Gathering
More informationLuke - Extra Teaching Points #2 Luke 1:26-80 (NASB)
Luke - Extra Teaching Points #2 Luke 1:26-80 (NASB) Jesus was given David s throne at His birth He was born King! Luke 1:26-30 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee
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 informationDOCTRINAL FOCUS SPIRITUAL REFLECTION FOR TEACHERS. Level: 1 Grade: Prep God Is With Us!
Level: 1 Grade: Prep God Is With Us! In this unit students learn about the seasons of Advent and Christmas. They explore the concepts of waiting and joyful anticipation that are expressed through the use
More information2017 Advent Devotional from the Diocese of Virginia and Forma
2017 Advent Devotional from the Diocese of Virginia and Forma the network for christian formation The Diocese of Virginia and Forma are thrilled to partner together to offer this simple Advent devotional
More informationDecember 16, 2018 Sanctuary Service 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. Third Sunday in Advent
December 16, 2018 Sanctuary Service 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. Third Sunday in Advent Order of Worship Prelude On Jordan s Banks the Baptist s Cry Aaron David Miller Welcome and greetings Ben Hooper, pastoral
More informationChristmas I. The First Blessing, the First Promise, and Miracle Babies
Christmas 2013 I. The First Blessing, the First Promise, and Miracle Babies At Christmas, we celebrate a baby being born. The birth of any baby is always something to celebrate. It always feels like a
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 informationGo ahead and open up your hymnal to the very front, to page 15. This is the
Texts: Malachi 3:1-4; Psalm 141; Acts 13:13-26; Luke 1:57-80 Go ahead and open up your hymnal to the very front, to page 15. This is the calendar of saints days that our church commemorates. We Lutherans
More informationThe Birth of Jesus Foretold
Story 79 riah that because he didn t believe God s word, he wouldn t be able to speak until everything God had told him came true. At that moment, Zechariah discovered that he couldn t speak. He had a
More informationMagnificat (Luke 1:46b-55)
Magnificat (Luke 1:46b-55) And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for the
More informationOrder of Prayer Freshman Experience: Lighting the World with Hope December 8, 2011
Order of Prayer Freshman Experience: Lighting the World with Hope December 8, 2011 Board Room in darkness as much as possible with an Advent Wreath. Power point on screen. Opening Prayer: Loving God, your
More informationADVENT 2017: Declaring the Coming of Messiah Shepherds Heard Luke 2:8-20 Layne Lebo December 17, 2017
ADVENT 2017: Declaring the Coming of Messiah Shepherds Heard Luke 2:8-20 Layne Lebo December 17, 2017 Have you ever noticed that when good things happen to other people we say they re lucky or fortunate
More informationHCPC Advent Introduction. How to use this guide
HCPC Advent 2018 Daniel & Bethany Headley Introduction We are delighted to be part of your Advent celebration this year! Bethany and I have been celebrating Advent every year since 2002 and the addition
More informationLuke s Christmas Carols: Benedictus December 15, 2013 Luke 1:5-25, 57-80
Luke s Christmas Carols: Benedictus December 15, 2013 Luke 1:5-25, 57-80 SI: In the middle of sermon series on four Christmas songs in Luke 1-2. Next Sunday we ll study the song of the angels, Gloria in
More informationHoly Trinity Church, Thornhill
Holy Trinity Church, Thornhill Established in 1830 140 Brooke Street, Thornhill, ON L4J 1Y9 Phone: 905 889 5931 Fax: 905 889 5632 www.holytrinity-thornhill.ca info@holytrinity-thornhill.ca Something good
More informationThe Gospel According to LUKE
The Gospel According to LUKE Introduction: The Gospel of Luke is in the form of a letter to a man named Theophilus. Luke wrote after having carefully investigated all the facts about Christ (1:1 4). Luke
More informationA 10 WEEK STUDY FOR ADVENT, CHRISTMAS AND EPIPHANY
A 10 WEEK STUDY FOR ADVENT, CHRISTMAS AND EPIPHANY Produced by St Asaph Cathedral Advent is a very important and at the same time often neglected season. The constraint of time often means that it comes
More informationADVENT DEVOTIONAL. advent: the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event
ADVENT DEVOTIONAL advent: the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event A CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL GUIDE Produced by Grace Bible Church, Killeen, TX Adapted from Mystery Church, Joplin, MO Illustrations
More informationAdvent Morning Prayer. Week 3
Advent Morning Prayer Week 3 Monday 12 th December 2011 Our week begins with Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means rejoice in Latin. We prepare this week by feeling the joy. Each morning this week, in that brief
More informationDISCUSSION GUIDE PINELAKE CHURCH MIRACLE THE MIRACLE OF PURPOSE (LUKE 1:26-38) DECEMBER 15, 2013
PINELAKE CHURCH MIRACLE THE MIRACLE OF PURPOSE (LUKE 1:26-38) DECEMBER 15, 2013 PREPARATION > Spend the week studying Luke 1:26-38. Consult the commentary provided and any additional study tools to enhance
More informationPrayers for Praying the Rosary ( Special Incl. Novena )
Prayers for Praying the Rosary ( Special Incl. Novena ) 1. The Sign of the Cross 2. Special / Novena Prayer Queen of the Holy Rosary, you have deigned to come to Fatima and Medjugorje, to reveal to the
More informationGetting Ready for Jesus
Getting Ready for Jesus Lesson 21, Kindergarten Lesson 21 Goal Your child will explore the concept of preparing for the coming of Jesus Christ. Key Points Saint John the Baptist taught people and told
More informationAdvent Devotions for Family Worship
Advent Devotions for Family Worship For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
More informationThe Birth of Jesus Foretold
GOSPEL STORY CURRICULUM (NT) UPPER ELEMENTARY LESSON 1 The Birth of Jesus Foretold LUKE 1 BIBLE TRUTH THE BABY TO BE BORN TO MARY WOULD BE THE SAVIOR OF THE WORLD l e s s o n snapshot 1. OPENING REVIEW....
More informationA Christmas Quiz: Separated Version
A Christmas Quiz: Separated Version Dr. Dale Taliaferro s 38-question quiz concerning the Christmas story from a biblical perspective. The quiz with questions and answers together can be found here. 1.
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 informationWHY DID JESUS COME? When have you recently turned to the Internet for a solution to a problem? QUESTION #1 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 37
4 WHY DID JESUS COME? When have you recently turned to the Internet for a solution to a problem? QUESTION #1 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 37 THE POINT Jesus came to remove our sin. THE BIBLE MEETS LIFE Warning
More informationThe questions at the end of each day are totally optional and may need rephrasing for your unique audience!
FAMILY ADVENT 1 Introduction We did this in our family and it seemed to go down well (the first time with a three and a five year old) so I wanted to offer it as a potential resource for others. The idea
More informationDr. Dale Taliaferro s 38-question quiz concerning the Christmas story from a biblical perspective.
A Christmas Quiz Dr. Dale Taliaferro s 38-question quiz concerning the Christmas story from a biblical perspective. Take the quiz yourself: click here for a format with the questions and answers separated.
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 informationDawning (Zechariah s Song)
Dawning (Zechariah s Song) The people who live in darkness have seen a great light, and for those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned (Matthew 4:16). Luke 1:68-75 1 As I ve told
More informationCELEBRATING WEEK FOUR of ADVENT
CELEBRATING WEEK FOUR of ADVENT Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:14 We pause and remember that
More informationChristmas Great Expectations. Luke 1: Message #1 of 2 S771. Sermon given on December 24, Sunday Morning Service
Christmas 2017 Great Expectations Luke 1:26-38 Message #1 of 2 S771 Sermon given on December 24, 2017 Sunday Morning Service Pastor Rick Lancaster Great Expectations Luke 1:26-38 Opening Comments Turn
More informationadvent 2018 Family Advent Guide
advent 2018 Family Advent Guide Advent is a special time in the church year. IT S A TIME TO WAIT & PREPARE OUR HEARTS TO CELEBRATE THE GREAT JOY OF CHRISTMAS We wait on this side of history with hope and
More informationConnect group questions Luke 1:39-56 Certain that God s eternal promises were being fulfilled
Connect group questions Luke 1:39-56 Certain that God s eternal promises were being fulfilled 1. The image of Mary can vary quite a lot from the original! What motivates those who have added on to the
More informationAdvent Morning Prayer. Week
Advent Morning Prayer Week 3-2012 This prayer resource is offered to you as an assistance to prayerful preparation for our celebrating the birth of the infant Jesus at Christmas. What you will need These
More informationInternational Anglican Congregation Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill Episcopal/Anglican Alexandria, Virginia
International Anglican Congregation Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill Episcopal/Anglican Alexandria, Virginia The Fourth Sunday of Advent December 23, 2018 Holy Eucharist, Rite II, 11:00 a.m. Page references
More information2. Do you live for the next vacation, adventure, weekend, or do you prefer routine activities? Why do you prefer your approach?
Growing Deeper In the Waiting Week One: Take It Personally Luke 1:26-38 Spend FIFTEEN Day One 1. Are you by nature a patient person? Do you enjoy the anticipation more than the realization? Are you okay
More informationTHE BIBLE SOCIETIES/COLLINS
THE BIBLE SOCIETIES/COLLINS Contents Some stories from the gospel iv Where to look when feeling iv Where to look when wondering about v New Testament maps Jerusalem in New Testament times vi Palestine
More informationALTERNATIVE ADVENT WREATH LITURGY
ALTERNATIVE ADVENT WREATH LITURGY An alternative Advent candle tradition focuses on those who prepared for the coming of Christ: Advent Advent Advent Advent Christmas The Patriarchs The Prophets John the
More informationCatholic Prayers & Precepts
Click on the name of the prayer: Catholic Prayers & Precepts Sign of the Cross Our Father/Lord s Prayer Hail Mary Glory Be Act of Contrition Act of Contrition (traditional) Apostles Creed Angelus Nicene
More informationFamily " Advent Devotional
REDEEMER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Family Advent Devotional 1 DearFamilies, IwanttoencourageyoutousethisAdventDevotionalwithyourfamilyduring thesenextseveralweeks.thisseasonisallaboutwaiting,longing,and anticipation.we,newyorkers,arenottypicallyfondofwaiting.wefrequently
More informationPrayer at St. Mark s. Reception Prayers: The Sign of the Cross In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Prayer at St. Mark s Reception Prayers: The Sign of the Cross In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Morning Prayer Father in heaven, you love me, You are with me night and day.
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 informationBe Still and Know (Luke 1:5-25) by Rev. Dan McDowell November 25, 2018
1 Be Still and Know (Luke 1:5-25) by Rev. Dan McDowell November 25, 2018 5 In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife
More informationThe Blessings of Christmas 1. The Blessings of Christmas. Mark McGee
The Blessings of Christmas 1 The Blessings of Christmas By Mark McGee Being a Christian has so many wonderful blessings attached to it. In fact, the Apostle Paul tells us that we are blessed with every
More informationiew=detail&mid=6f30244ff997594c70286f30244ff997594c7028&form=vire
December 4, 2016 Second Sunday of Advent The Call of Christmas Mary: A Call to Provide Luke 1:26-38 https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=the+honeymooners%2c+%22hello+mom%22&v iew=detail&mid=6f30244ff997594c70286f30244ff997594c7028&form=vire
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 informationSacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry
Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year C Fourth Sunday of Advent: Joy Scripture: Luke 1:39 55 NRSV Gathering Welcome Advent is a season of waiting for the coming of light into a darkened
More informationDay 1 Broken/Separate (Dec. 18)
Day 1 Broken/Separate (Dec. 18) Item Needed: Garden of Eden Stickers Wouldn t it have been wonderful to walk in the garden with God? Can you imagine what it would have been like to physically walk and
More informationDECEMBER 17, 2017 Third Sunday of Advent
DECEMBER 17, 2017 Third Sunday of Advent Please respond with words in bold print. *Please stand if comfortably able *************************************************** WORDS OF WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
More informationAn Angel Visits Mary. Luke 1:26-38
An Angel Visits Mary Luke 1:26-38 Sunday Teacher s Lesson for children An Angel visits Mary Luke 1:26-38 Younger Verse Older Verse We tell you the good news: what God promised our fathers. Acts 13:32 We
More informationWell, our Lord reminds us through today s Liturgy of the Word. that one of the great themes of Advent and Christmas is smallness.
Well, our Lord reminds us through today s Liturgy of the Word that one of the great themes of Advent and Christmas is smallness. Advent and Christmas remind us that the glorious power of God tends to be
More informationInternational Bible Lesson Commentary Luke 1:39-56
International Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 1:39-56 New Revised Standard Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 11, 2016 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday
More informationThe Real. Jesus. A study through the Gospel of Luke. BOOK 6: His preparation
The Real Jesus A study through the Gospel of Luke BOOK 6: His preparation 3 T h e R e a l J e s u s 4 T h e R e a l J e s u s BECOMING A CHRISTIAN In the Bible, God reveals His truth about how to have
More informationLighting the Advent Wreath 2007
Lighting the Advent Wreath 2007 About Advent Advent comes from the Latin word 'adventus' meaning 'Coming.' Advent begins the church year starting four Sundays before Christmas. The season of Advent has
More informationLiving Savior Lutheran Church
Living Savior Lutheran Church 4616 Gharrett St Missoula, MT 59803 livingsaviormissoula.org 406.543.8222 Pastor Noah Willitz noah.willitz@gmail.com December 23, 2018 Advent 4 WELCOME TO WORSHIP We re happy
More informationAn Order for Morning Prayer
An Order for Morning Prayer 12 1 Preparation The Peace Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us
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 informationEVENING PRAYER. 3 rd Sunday of Advent (Psalter week III) PSALMODY Psalm 110: 1-5, 7
EVENING PRAYER 3 rd Sunday of Advent (Psalter week III) PSALMODY Psalm 110: 1-5, 7 please sit Presider Our Lord will come to claim his glorious throne in the assembly of the princes. Ambo The Lord s revelation
More informationZION UNITED CHURCH McKEE S MILLS PASTORAL CHARGE THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA
ZION UNITED CHURCH McKEE S MILLS PASTORAL CHARGE THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA Student Minister Betty-Jean Friedman Supporting Minister Rev. G. Boyd Butt Ministry of Music Robyn Mitton December 24, 2007
More informationAnd Jesus Came. An Advent Devotional. Beth Lambdin
And Jesus Came An Advent Devotional Beth Lambdin Copyright 2012 Beth Lambdin All rights reserved. ISBN: ISBN-13: DEDICATION This book is dedicated to Edward and Gloria Borden, my wonderful parents, who
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 information1Celebrate God s Preparations
DEC. 4 1Celebrate God s Preparations December 4, 2016 Unit 1: Move Over, Santa! BIBLE STUDY Luke 1:5-25, 57-70, 76-77; John 1:6-9 Preparing for the First Christmas BIBLE TRUTH God prepares people to receive
More informationMOUNTAIN PARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH ADVENT GUIDE
ADVENT GUIDE Advent, formed from a Latin word meaning coming or arrival, is about the coming of Christ. It s the celebration of the first advent of Jesus and the anxious awaiting of His second. The season
More information