Simeon – an aged and righteous man – blesses the Lord for allowing him to live to see the Christ-child. He also warns Mary that Jesus will serve as a catalyst. Some will respond positively; some, negatively. Ultimately, Mary’s heart will be pierced with grief by the coming crisis. The prophet Anna proclaims good news to all who will listen. Both Simeon…
Through the angel Gabriel, God visits a lowly peasant girl named Mary and announces that she will bear a son and call him Jesus. This one will be great, “the Son of the Most High,” and will be given an eternal kingdom in the lineage of the house of David. In Jesus, God’s promise to provide a deliverer for Israel (and for…
Paul continues his discussion of Christian living by calling believers to “imitate God, as God’s beloved children”. He speaks of three ways in which believers do this: (1) by walking in love, (2) walking in light, and (3) by walking wisely. Paul is not interested in setting forth a series of rules as much as he is interested in speaking of a…
Inspired by God’s Spirit, the “anointed” one brings good news of redemption, liberation, and healing. God’s favor is coming to bring gladness to those who mourn and renewal to the ruined. The blessed of the Lord will greatly rejoice with their whole being because of God’s glorious salvation. Opening Carol: How Great My Joy! Ministry of Music by Youth Choir: Rejoice in…
Having informed his readers that they must experience a complete spiritual fashion makeover by “putting off” old behaviors and “putting on” christlike behaviors, the Apostle gives practical advice on what must be removed and what must be appropriated in order to wear the “wardrobe of Christ.” Join us tonight for our “After the Through the Bible Zoom Chat” https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89826000792 Password is the…
The prophet speaks words of comfort and peace to exiled Israel. Israel experienced exile because of its sins, but the time of God’s judgment is over. God is coming in power and might to save God’s people. The prophet calls Israel to repent of its sins and remove all obstacles to God’s way. John the Baptist will proclaim this message prior to…
When the Apostle sets out on developing a Christian ethic, one might expect him to put out a philosophy or set of rules, but instead he puts forward the person of Christ. He invites us to “learn Christ” because “truth is in Jesus”. He also develops what it means to live our baptismal identity by dying to old ways and rising to…
As they go about their normal lives, a faithful priest and his wife are given shocking and unexpected news. Zacharias is told that his elderly wife Elizabeth will bear a child, and that this child “will be great in the sight of the Lord” – the one predicted by the prophet Malachi who will be a forerunner before the coming of the…
In God’s final judgment of all people through Christ, many will be surprised to hear that they personally ministered to Jesus in and through their works of mercy done to others. Opening Hymn: Jesus Shall Reign Closing Doxology: We Praise Your Name! Alleluia!
Paul calls the church to walk worthy of God’s calling by dwelling together in the unity of the Spirit. During his earthly ministry, Christ promised to build his church. The risen and ascended Christ has put us together and equipped us with gifts for the common good of our life together. By sharing life and gifts together, the church grows into christlikeness.…