Holy Trinity Sunday Messages: Recent Episodes
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
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Today we observe the Epiphany of Our Lord. The actual day of Epiphany was
this past Friday, but this is a great opportunity to celebrate Christmas all over
again! For in Epiphany, we see wisemen, Gentile pagans from afar, come and
worship the Son of God in Bethlehem, and we rejoice that Jesus is for all peoples!
Advent marks an anticipation for the arrival of our Savior. He’s coming, but
where? Location is a significant part of the Advent story. Jesus Christ doesn’t just
simply appear on the scene; He comes to specific people in specific places with a
specific purpose.
As we explore each locale geographically, historically, prophetically, and through contemporary anthropology, we will find ourselves in the settings important to salvation’s story, discovering the most important place the Savior comes: to us.
Advent marks an anticipation for the arrival of our Savior. He’s coming, but
where? Location is a significant part of the Advent story. Jesus Christ doesn’t just
simply appear on the scene; He comes to specific people in specific places with a
specific purpose.
As we explore each locale geographically, historically, prophetically, and through contemporary anthropology, we will find ourselves in the settings important to salvation’s story, discovering the most important place the Savior comes: to us.
This redemption is on full display in our text from Isaiah 52 and in Jesus’ saving
work as He transforms Jerusalem into the Abode of Peace it was always meant to
be through His death and resurrection. Now, advent believers await the New Jerusalem arriving with our Lord’s second coming.
This same theme was preached on “Vision Sunday” (the day of our May Voters
Assembly). On that particular day the emphasis was upon a stewardship of time
and talents, calling every member to serve in some capacity. After all, if we do not
step forward to serve and support the ministries, how will they—those in our com-
munity, our school, and those who’ve wandered—hear? Now, six months later, we
again consider the question, only from the perspective of financial stewardship.
Our Scriptural focus for these last two Sundays of the church year will be 2
Corinthians 8 & 9. These two chapters are arguably Paul’s most thorough discus-
sion on money without even mentioning “the M-word.” Christians in Corinth had—
in one way or another—indicated to the apostle a refusal to participate in the fi-
nancial ministry of the church. So, St. Paul made his appeal.
The Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost. We are well into the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: Today we conclude our sermon series based on the book "Walking Together" by LCMS church planter, Pastor Ted Doering. The aim for this book and series has been to rediscover the simplicity of discipleship, despite how complicated we often make it. It all starts with Jesus who, through His Holy Spirit, calls us into a lifelong journey of trusting His promises, seeking and following Him. But this discipleship is not a solo act--we join other disciples of Jesus, following Him TOGETHER one step at a time.
The Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost. We are well into the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: We continue our sermon series based on the book "Walking Together" by LCMS church planter, Pastor Ted Doering. The aim for this book and series is to rediscover the simplicity of discipleship, despite how complicated we often make it. It all starts with Jesus who, through His Holy Spirit, calls us into a lifelong journey of trusting His promises, seeking and following Him. But this discipleship is not a solo act--we join other disciples of Jesus, following Him TOGETHER one step at a time.
On this second Sunday of the month it is also customary for us to receive the Mite Box offering to further the mission work of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. During the Sharing of the Peace in service, you are invited to place your Mites in the Mite Box and your offerings in the plates, both of which are located in the front of the Sanctuary. You may also choose the Text-to-Give alternative by texting: htlcedmond Mites, followed by the $ dollar amount, to 73256.
The Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost
Labor Day Weekend
Welcome to worship on this Labor Day Weekend! We are midway through the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church and the work of the Spirit through the body of Christ. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon Series: We continue our sermon series based on the book "Walking Together" by LCMS church planter, Pastor Ted Doering. The aim for this book and series is to rediscover the simplicity of discipleship, despite how complicated we often make it. It all starts with Jesus who, through His Holy Spirit, calls us into a lifelong journey of trusting His promises, seeking and following Him. But this discipleship is not a solo act--we join other disciples of Jesus, following Him TOGETHER one step at a time.
The Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost. We continue in the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: We continue our sermon series based on the book "Walking Together" by LCMS church planter, Pastor Ted Doering. The aim for this book and series is to rediscover the simplicity of discipleship, despite how complicated we often make it. It all starts with Jesus who, through His Holy Spirit, calls us into a lifelong journey of trusting His promises, seeking and following Him. But this discipleship is not a solo act--we join other disciples of Jesus, following Him TOGETHER one step at a time.
The Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost. We continue in the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: We continue our sermon series based on the book "Walking Together" by LCMS church planter, Pastor Ted Doering. The aim for this book and series is to rediscover the simplicity of discipleship, despite how complicated we often make it. It all starts with Jesus who, through His Holy Spirit, calls us into a lifelong journey of trusting His promises, seeking and following Him. But this discipleship is not a solo act--we join other disciples of Jesus, following Him TOGETHER one step at a time.
The Tenth Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Tenth Sunday after Pentecost. We continue in the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: Today we begin a new sermon series based on the book "Walking Together" by LCMS church planter, Pastor Ted Doering. The aim for this book and series is to rediscover the simplicity of discipleship, despite how complicated we often make it. It all starts with Jesus who, through His Holy Spirit, calls us into a lifelong journey of trusting His promises, seeking and following Him. But this discipleship is not a solo act--we join other disciples of Jesus, following Him TOGETHER one step at a time.
On this second Sunday of the month it is also customary for us to receive the Mite Box offering to further the mission work of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. During the Sharing of the Peace in service, you are invited to place your Mites in the Mite Box and your offerings in the plates, both of which are located in the front of the Sanctuary. You may also choose the Text-to-Give alternative by texting: htlcedmond Mites, followed by the $ dollar amount, to 73256.
Welcome Home Sunday
Greetings in the name of Jesus! Today is Holy Trinity’s Welcome Home Sunday, a special day full of fun activities and festivities. Most of the day’s events—such as the combined celebration service, and the subsequent BBQ luncheon and games, etc.—will take place starting at our 10:45 service. You are welcome to come back to join in all the fun and fellowship as you are able!
Why “Welcome Home Sunday?” We Welcome Home our Lutheran day School families, and our Sunday School families as we begin a new academic year, and as students enter new classrooms. We Welcome Home those who had busy summers out of town, away from us during the past few months as they traveled for vacation, or family gatherings, weekend getaways, etc., and are now getting back into the routine of life. We Welcome Home those who have ever strayed from the Church for one reason or another, and are seeking a place to call their own, again. And, finally, as always, we Welcome Home everyone who ever walks through these doors to worship in the Lord’s house. Whatever the case, Welcome Home! And may Christ be welcome inyour home, too!
Our theme today is, Better Together, based on Ecclesiastes 4:7-12. This passage refers to the strength and durability of a "cord with three strands." It's often read at weddings, as husband and wife are bound together in marriage with Christ at the center--the third cord binding all things together. Yet, it's not just marriage that benefits from such a message of togetherness. Instinctive to the human experience is the truth that we are all Better Together, when we support one another. Because our Creator God is a God of Community, it's only natural that mankind, the pinnacle of God's creation, thrive on community. It's for this reason that Christ came--to reconcile sinners to the Father, drawing us together as the people of God. Led by the Spirit, we join with all God's people in our walk as disciples, through all of life's highs and lows. With Christ at the center, we are Better Together!
The Eighth Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Eighth Sunday after Pentecost. We continue in the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: Today we conclude our series Give Us A King, based on 1 Samuel. We've explored this Old Testament book like looking at a scrapbook of sorts, viewing Israel's family story and finding ourselves in its pages. In big and small ways, the characters we meet in 1 Samuel cry out, “Give Us a King!” Yet all along, they had one! The same Lord seeks to lead us, too. That same Lord sent His Son to rescue us from sin and to teach us to pray “Thy kingdom come!” Jesus Himself stands on the final page of this scrapbook as the King we need and crave.
The Seventh Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Seventh Sunday after Pentecost. We continue in the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: 1 Samuel offers an intimate family portrait, telling the story of the nation of Israel through marriages under pressure, sibling dynamics, trouble between fathers and sons, and intense personal failures. What comes together is a scrapbook of sorts, reminding Israel of her family story and inviting future generations to find themselves in its pages. In big and small ways, the characters we meet in 1 Samuel cry out, “Give Us a King!” Yet all along, they had one! The same Lord seeks to lead us, too. That same Lord sent His Son to rescue us from sin and to teach us to pray “Thy kingdom come!” Jesus Himself stands on the final page of this scrapbook as the King we need and crave.
The Sixth Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Sixth Sunday after Pentecost. We continue in the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: 1 Samuel offers an intimate family portrait, telling the story of the nation of Israel through marriages under pressure, sibling dynamics, trouble between fathers and sons, and intense personal failures. What comes together is a scrapbook of sorts, reminding Israel of her family story and inviting future generations to find themselves in its pages. In big and small ways, the characters we meet in 1 Samuel cry out, “Give Us a King!” Yet all along, they had one! The same Lord seeks to lead us, too. That same Lord sent His Son to rescue us from sin and to teach us to pray “Thy kingdom come!” Jesus Himself stands on the final page of this scrapbook as the King we need and crave.
The Fifth Sunday After Pentecost
Welcome to worship on this Fifth Sunday after Pentecost. We continue in the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: 1 Samuel offers an intimate family portrait, telling the story of the nation of Israel through marriages under pressure, sibling dynamics, trouble between fathers and sons, and intense personal failures. What comes together is a scrapbook of sorts, reminding Israel of her family story and inviting future generations to find themselves in its pages. In big and small ways, the characters we meet in 1 Samuel cry out, “Give Us a King!” Yet all along, they had one! The same Lord seeks to lead us, too. That same Lord sent His Son to rescue us from sin and to teach us to pray “Thy kingdom come!” Jesus Himself stands on the final page of this scrapbook as the King we need and crave. So if you’ve ever looked at your family, your workplace, your community, or your world and prayed for God’s loving leadership – “Give Us a King!” – plan to join your Holy Trinity family in worship and Discipleship Hour this summer as we open up this powerful and pivotal record of the King’s work among His people.
The Second Sunday After PentecostWelcome to worship on this Father's Day! Today is also the Second Sunday after Pentecost. We have begun the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: More than a sweeping look at Israel's political history, 1 Samuel offers an intimate family portrait, telling the story of the nation of Israel through marriages under pressure, sibling dynamics, trouble between fathers and sons, and intense personal failures. What comes together, then, is a scrapbook of sorts, reminding Israel of her family story and inviting future generations to find themselves in its pages. In big and small ways, the characters we meet in 1 Samuel cry out, “Give Us a King!” Yet all along, they had one! The same Lord seeks to lead us, too. That same Lord sent His Son to rescue us from sin and to teach us to pray “Thy kingdom come!” Jesus Himself stands on the final page of this scrapbook as the King we need and crave. So if you’ve ever looked at your family, your workplace, your community, or your world and prayed for God’s loving leadership – “Give Us a King!” – plan to join your Holy Trinity family in worship and Discipleship Hour this summer as we open up this powerful and pivotal record of the King’s work among His people.
A Celebration of Our National Independence
The Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
Welcome to worship in the name of Jesus, the risen and reigning King of kings and Lord of the Nations! Today marks not only the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, but we also celebrate the 246th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Our worship today focuses on the blessings and responsibilities of being a Christian citizen, humbly living as the people of God in Christ Jesus as citizens of both the kingdom of heaven and the kingdoms of the earth. Led by the Holy Spirit, we seek to honor and serve our God, and to honor and serve our country.
The Third Sunday After PentecostWelcome to worship on this Third Sunday after Pentecost. We have begun the lengthy Season of Pentecost, also known as "The Time of the Church." This season in the liturgical calendar focuses upon the ongoing growth of the Church. The altar/vestment color for this season is traditionally green to denote that growth.
About our Sermon series: More than a sweeping look at Israel's political history, 1 Samuel offers an intimate family portrait, telling the story of the nation of Israel through marriages under pressure, sibling dynamics, trouble between fathers and sons, and intense personal failures. What comes together, then, is a scrapbook of sorts, reminding Israel of her family story and inviting future generations to find themselves in its pages. In big and small ways, the characters we meet in 1 Samuel cry out, “Give Us a King!” Yet all along, they had one! The same Lord seeks to lead us, too. That same Lord sent His Son to rescue us from sin and to teach us to pray “Thy kingdom come!” Jesus Himself stands on the final page of this scrapbook as the King we need and crave. So if you’ve ever looked at your family, your workplace, your community, or your world and prayed for God’s loving leadership – “Give Us a King!” – plan to join your Holy Trinity family in worship and Discipleship Hour this summer as we open up this powerful and pivotal record of the King’s work among His people.
The Fifth Sunday of Easter
Christ is risen, indeed! Alleluia! Welcome to worship on this Fifth Sunday of Easter. The Easter Season spans fifty days, ending on the Feast Day of Pentecost. During the Easter Season the altar hangings are white, conveying the message of festival and celebration. Throughout the Season, the Old Testament readings are customarily substituted with selections from the Book of Acts to convey how the Church grew in blessings as it proclaimed the Good News of the Risen Christ!
This afternoon, Holy Trinity's voters will assemble for a biannual meeting. This May meeting focuses upon the Ministry Plan and the budget. Yet the mission and ministry of our congregation is not only dependent upon the fragment of members who gather as voters. Ever member has a role to play! In an effort to engage more congregants with the Ministry Plan, our sermon today will address our current and future ministry, answering the question, How Will They Hear?
The landscape of Christianity in America has changed significantly in the 21st century. Even the way our own congregation carries out its mission and ministry has had to change over the past two years, and we are finally returning to near pre-pandemic numbers. In an ever-changing world, the manner in which the Church makes disciples must continually adapt. In a nation which continually challenges Christianity, and in a community rife with watered-down doctrine, the Church today--globally, locally, and as individual members--must consider how to carry out Christ's Gospel mission. How can the church of today take action for the sake of the church of tomorrow? Or, as St. Paul asks in Romans 10, "How Will They Hear?" What we find is that the mission of making disciples involves every member of the Body of Christ using their gifts and talents to the glory of God.
Todays Message will focus on Romans 10:8b-17
8b ... The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart. This is the message of faith that we proclaim: 9 If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 One believes with the heart, resulting in righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, resulting in salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, Everyone who believes on him will not be put to shame, 12 since there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, because the same Lord of all richly blesses all who call on him. 13 For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
14 How, then, can they call on him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about him? And how can they hear without a preacher? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. 16 But not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, Lord, who has believed our message? 17 So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ.
The Sixth Sunday of Easter
Christ is risen, indeed! Alleluia! Welcome to worship on this Sixth Sunday of Easter. The Easter Season spans fifty days, ending on the Feast Day of Pentecost. During the Easter Season the altar hangings are white, conveying the message of festival and celebration. Throughout the Season, the Old Testament readings are customarily substituted with selections from the Book of Acts to convey how the Church grew in blessings as it proclaimed the Good News of the Risen Christ!
About our sermon series: The book of Acts is full of beautiful "pictures" of the early church and, despite the nearly 2,000 years of a changing world, there's still much we can learn from its pages. Having heard details of the Ministry Plan last week, this series looks to key snapshots of the early church in mission as found in Acts to discover how we are part of that bigger picture of Christ's mission. What we find in Acts is a church constantly working to bring its mission in focus. We find a mission in panorama as the call to witness widens further and further. And, we find a church quickly diversified at Pentecost--like adding "Technicolor" to an old photo. We pray you are blessed through this series, "Picture It," as we look at "Snapshots of the Church in Mission" all around us.
Todays Message will focus on Acts 1:1-11
1 I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day he was taken up, after he had given instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After he had suffered, he also presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
4 While he was with them, he commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. “Which,” he said, “you have heard me speak about; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit in a few days.”
6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?”
7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
9 After he had said this, he was taken up as they were watching, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 While he was going, they were gazing into heaven, and suddenly two men in white clothes stood by them. 11 They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up into heaven? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come in the same way that you have seen him going into heaven.”
The Fifth Sunday in Lent
Welcome to Worship on this Fifth Sunday in Lent. We are nearing the end of our penitential Lenten walk to the cross. The traditional color for the Season of Lent is PURPLE denoting humility, repentance and spiritual self-examination before our Lord and King. The use of the Crucifix in this season draws our attention to Christ Crucified as proclaimed in 1 Corinthians 1:23. A crucifix differs from a cross in that it bears the “Corpus Christi,” that is, the Body of Christ. The Lenten Season is traditionally marked with the absence of “alleluias” until Easter, and also less sung or chanted liturgy.
We conclude our Lenten sermon series entitled Dear Church. Some have referred to Scripture as “God’s love letter” to us. And, in fact, many books of the New Testament were written as letters, including the Book of Revelation. For all of its mystery and intrigue at the End Times, looking ahead at Christ’s return, the Book of Revelation was actually intended as a letter from Jesus to seven churches. Throughout the Sundays in Lent we have explored these seven letters of Revelation, examining the words of our Savior as He encourages the faithful and draws us to Himself in preparation for His return.
Todays Message will focus on Revelation 3:7-13
7 “Write to the angel of the church in Philadelphia: 'Thus says the Holy One, the true one, the one who has the key of David, who opens and no one will close, and who closes and no one opens:
8 I know your works. Look, I have placed before you an open door that no one can close because you have but little power; yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 Note this: I will make those from the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews and are not, but are lying—I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and they will know that I have loved you.
10 Because you have kept my command to endure, I will also keep you from the hour of testing that is going to come on the whole world to test those who live on the earth. 11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one takes your crown.
12 The one who conquers I will make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will never go out again. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God—the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God—and my new name.
13 Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.'"
The Fourth Sunday in Lent
Welcome to Worship on this Fourth Sunday in Lent. We continue our penitential Lenten walk to the cross. The traditional color for the Season of Lent is PURPLE denoting humility, repentance and spiritual self-examination before our Lord and King. The use of the Crucifix in this season draws our attention to Christ Crucified as proclaimed in 1 Corinthians 1:23. A crucifix differs from a cross in that it bears the “Corpus Christi,” that is, the Body of Christ. The Lenten Season is traditionally marked with the absence of “alleluias” until Easter, and also less sung or chanted liturgy.
We continue our Lenten sermon series entitled Dear Church. Some have referred to Scripture as “God’s love letter” to us. And, in fact, many books of the New Testament were written as letters, including the Book of Revelation. For all of its mystery and intrigue at the End Times, looking ahead at Christ’s return, the Book of Revelation was actually intended as a letter from Jesus to seven churches. Throughout the Sundays in Lent we will explore these seven letters of Revelation, examining the words of our Savior as He encourages the faithful and draws us to Himself in preparation for His return.
Todays Message will focus on Revelation 3:1-6, 14-22
1 “Write to the angel of the church in Sardis: 'Thus says the one who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars:
I know your works; you have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead. 2 Be alert and strengthen what remains, which is about to die, for I have not found your works complete before my God. 3 Remember, then, what you have received and heard; keep it, and repent. If you are not alert, I will come like a thief, and you have no idea at what hour I will come upon you.
4 But you have a few people in Sardis who have not defiled their clothes, and they will walk with me in white, because they are worthy. 5 In the same way, the one who conquers will be dressed in white clothes, and I will never erase his name from the book of life but will acknowledge his name before my Father and before his angels.
6 Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.'"...
14 “Write to the angel of the church in Laodicea: 'Thus says the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the originator of God’s creation:
15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot. 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth. 17 For you say, ‘I’m rich; I have become wealthy and need nothing,’ and you don’t realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked.
18 I advise you to buy from me gold refined in the fire so that you may be rich, white clothes so that you may be dressed and your shameful nakedness not be exposed, and ointment to spread on your eyes so that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be zealous and repent.
20 See! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. 21 To the one who conquers I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.
22 Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.'”
The Third Sunday in Lent
Welcome to Worship on this Third Sunday in Lent. We continue our penitential Lenten walk to the cross. The traditional color for the Season of Lent is PURPLE denoting humility, repentance and spiritual self-examination before our Lord and King. The use of the Crucifix in this season draws our attention to Christ Crucified as proclaimed in 1 Corinthians 1:23. A crucifix differs from a cross in that it bears the “Corpus Christi,” that is, the Body of Christ. The Lenten Season is traditionally marked with the absence of “alleluias” until Easter, and also less sung or chanted liturgy.
Throughout the Season of Lent, our Sunday sermon series is entitled Dear Church. Some have referred to Scripture as “God’s love letter” to us. And, in fact, many books of the New Testament were written as letters, including the Book of Revelation. For all of its mystery and intrigue at the End Times, looking ahead at Christ’s return, the Book of Revelation was actually intended as a letter from Jesus to seven churches. Throughout the Sundays in Lent we will explore these seven letters of Revelation, examining the words of our Savior as He encourages the faithful and draws us to Himself in preparation for His return.
Todays Message will focus on Revelation 1:4, 9-11a, 2:18-29
1:4 John: To the seven churches in Asia. Grace and peace to you from the one who is, who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne...
9 I, John, your brother and partner in the affliction, kingdom, and endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard a loud voice behind me like a trumpet 11 saying, “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches...
2:18 “Write to the angel of the church in Thyatira: 'Thus says the Son of God, the one whose eyes are like a fiery flame and whose feet are like fine bronze:
19 I know your works—your love, faithfulness, service, and endurance. I know that your last works are greater than the first.
20 But I have this against you: You tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and teaches and deceives my servants to commit sexual immorality and to eat meat sacrificed to idols. 21 I gave her time to repent, but she does not want to repent of her sexual immorality.
22 Look, I will throw her into a sickbed and those who commit adultery with her into great affliction. Unless they repent of her works, 23 I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am the one who examines minds and hearts, and I will give to each of you according to your works.
24 I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who haven’t known “the so-called secrets of Satan” —as they say—I am not putting any other burden on you. 25 Only hold on to what you have until I come.
26 The one who conquers and who keeps my works to the end: I will give him authority over the nations— 27 "and he will rule them with an iron scepter; he will shatter them like pottery" — 28 just as I have received this from my Father. I will also give him the morning star.
29 Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.'"
The Second Sunday in Lent
Welcome to Worship on this Second Sunday in Lent. We have begun our penitential Lenten walk to the cross. The traditional color for the Season of Lent is PURPLE denoting humility, repentance and spiritual self-examination before our Lord and King. The use of the Crucifix in this season draws our attention to Christ Crucified as proclaimed in 1 Corinthians 1:23. A crucifix differs from a cross in that it bears the “Corpus Christi,” that is, the Body of Christ. The Lenten Season is traditionally marked with the absence of “alleluias” until Easter, and also less sung or chanted liturgy.
Throughout the Season of Lent, our Sunday sermon series is entitled Dear Church. Some have referred to Scripture as “God’s love letter” to us. And, in fact, many books of the New Testament were written as letters, including the Book of Revelation. For all of its mystery and intrigue at the End Times, looking ahead at Christ’s return, the Book of Revelation was actually intended as a letter from Jesus to seven churches. Throughout the Sundays in Lent we will explore these seven letters of Revelation, examining the words of our Savior as He encourages the faithful and draws us to Himself in preparation for His return.
Todays Message will focus on Revelation 1:4, 9-11, 2:8-17
1:4 John: To the seven churches in Asia. Grace and peace to you from the one who is, who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne...
9 I, John, your brother and partner in the affliction, kingdom, and endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard a loud voice behind me like a trumpet 11 saying, “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches...
2:8 “Write to the angel of the church in Smyrna: Thus says the First and the Last, the one who was dead and came to life:
9 "I know your affliction and poverty, but you are rich. I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
10 "Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. Look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison to test you, and you will experience affliction for ten days. Be faithful to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
11 “Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will never be harmed by the second death.
12 “Write to the angel of the church in Pergamum: Thus says the one who has the sharp, double-edged sword:
13 "I know where you live—where Satan’s throne is. Yet you are holding on to my name and did not deny your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness who was put to death among you, where Satan lives.
14 "But I have a few things against you. You have some there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to place a stumbling block in front of the Israelites: to eat meat sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality. 15 In the same way, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 So repent! Otherwise, I will come to you quickly and fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
17 “Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name is inscribed that no one knows except the one who receives it."
The First Sunday in Lent
Welcome to Worship on this First Sunday in Lent. We have begun our penitential Lenten walk to the cross. The traditional color for the Season of Lent is PURPLE denoting humility, repentance and spiritual self-examination before our Lord and King. The use of the Crucifix in this season draws our attention to Christ Crucified as proclaimed in 1 Corinthians 1:23. A crucifix differs from a cross in that it bears the “Corpus Christi,” that is, the Body of Christ. The Lenten Season is traditionally marked with the absence of “alleluias” until Easter, and also less sung or chanted liturgy.
Throughout the Season of Lent, our Sunday sermon series is entitled Dear Church. Some have referred to Scripture as “God’s love letter” to us. And, in fact, many books of the New Testament were written as letters. Much of God’s Word is an Open Letter to His people, to the church. This is especially true of the Book of Revelation. For all of its mystery and intrigue at the End Times, looking ahead at Christ’s return, the Book of Revelation was actually intended as a letter to the church--more specifically, Jesus is writing to SEVEN churches. Throughout the Sundays in Lent we will explore these seven letters of Revelation, examining these somewhat peculiar words of our Savior as He encourages the faithful and draws us to Himself in preparation for His return.
Todays Message will focus on **Revelation 1:4, 9-11, 2:1-7
1:4** John: To the seven churches in Asia. Grace and peace to you from the one who is, who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne...
9 I, John, your brother and partner in the affliction, kingdom, and endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard a loud voice behind me like a trumpet 11 saying, “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches...
2:1 "Write to the angel of the church in Ephesus: Thus says the one who holds the seven stars in his right hand and who walks among the seven golden lampstands: 2 I know your works, your labor, and your endurance, and that you cannot tolerate evil people. You have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and you have found them to be liars. 3 I know that you have persevered and endured hardships for the sake of my name, and you have not grown weary.
4 "But I have this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first. 5 Remember then how far you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. Otherwise, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. 6 Yet you do have this: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
7 “Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God."
The Last Sunday of the Epiphany Season
The Transfiguration of Our Lord
Welcome to worship! Transfiguration Sunday marks the final Sunday in the Epiphany Season. Throughout the Season, the readings have pointed to the ministry of Jesus revealing Him as the Son of God and His mission to save the world. At the Transfiguration, we celebrate this manifestation of Christ’s glory and majesty as true God being revealed to certain disciples prior to His sacrificial walk to Calvary’s cross. The altar color is WHITE symbolic of Christ’s holiness and perfection.
At the conclusion of today's service, we bid farewell to the word of praise, "Alleluia," as we prepare for the more reflective and repentant Season of Lent. During this time, the chancel will also be prepared for the Lenten Season with purple hangings, and the Christ Candle will be extinguished. We then wait for Ash Wednesday as our solemn Lenten walk to the cross begins.
Today we also conclude our sermon series, "Are You My Neighbor?" We often hear and even speak the command “Love your neighbor.” But what does this mean? How well do we show love to the people we come into contact with at the grocery store, on the highway, at work, or even on social media? How do we treat those different from us, those who deliberately wrong us, or those who seek to harm either our reputation, our person or those we care about? Loving your neighbor can be tricky. Jesus gave many examples of how to show love to others through His teachings, healings, and interactions during His earthly ministry. In this series, we look at His example to learn how to love those around us as we ask the question, “Are you my neighbor?”
Todays Message will focus on Luke 9:28-36
28 About eight days after this conversation, he took along Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white.
30 Suddenly, two men were talking with him—Moses and Elijah. 31 They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish in Jerusalem.
32 Peter and those with him were in a deep sleep, and when they became fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men who were standing with him.
33 As the two men were departing from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it’s good for us to be here. Let’s set up three shelters: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he was saying.
34 While he was saying this, a cloud appeared and overshadowed them. They became afraid as they entered the cloud. 35 Then a voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, the Chosen One; listen to him!”
36 After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They kept silent, and at that time told no one what they had seen.
The Seventh Sunday After Epiphany
Welcome to worship on this Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany! During the Epiphany Season the Scriptures, hymns and collects point to Jesus revealed publicly as the Son of God: through His miracles, the authority of His preaching, and the testimony of others. With Epiphany's further emphasis on extending Christ's kingdom to all nations through missions, the liturgical color of green is used to symbolize such growth.
We also continue our sermon series, "Are You My Neighbor?" We often hear and even speak the command “Love your neighbor.” But what does this mean? How well do we show love to the people we come into contact with at the grocery store, on the highway, at work, or even on social media? How do we treat those different from us, those who deliberately wrong us, or those who seek to harm either our reputation, our person or those we care about? Loving your neighbor can be tricky. Jesus gave many examples of how to show love to others through His teachings, healings, and interactions during His earthly ministry. In this series, we will look at His example to learn how to love those around us as we ask the question, “Are you my neighbor?”
Todays Message will focus on Luke 6:27-38
27 “But I say to you who listen: Love your enemies, do what is good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.
29 "If anyone hits you on the cheek, offer the other also. And if anyone takes away your coat, don’t hold back your shirt either. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and from someone who takes your things, don’t ask for them back. 31 Just as you want others to do for you, do the same for them.
32 "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. 33 If you do what is good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners to be repaid in full.
35 "But love your enemies, do what is good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High. For he is gracious to the ungrateful and evil. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over—will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
The Sixth Sunday After Epiphany
Welcome to worship on this Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany! During the Epiphany Season the Scriptures, hymns and collects point to Jesus revealed publicly as the Son of God: through His miracles, the authority of His preaching, and the testimony of others. With Epiphany's further emphasis on extending Christ's kingdom to all nations through missions, the liturgical color of green is used to symbolize such growth.
We also continue our sermon series, "Are You My Neighbor?" We often hear and even speak the command “Love your neighbor.” But what does this mean? How well do we show love to the people we come into contact with at the grocery store, on the highway, at work, or even on social media? How do we treat those different from us, those who deliberately wrong us, or those who seek to harm either our reputation, our person or those we care about? Loving your neighbor can be tricky. Jesus gave many examples of how to show love to others through His teachings, healings, and interactions during His earthly ministry. In this series, we will look at His example to learn how to love those around us as we ask the question, “Are you my neighbor?”
Todays Message will focus on Luke 5:27-32, 6:12-16
27 After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, “Follow me.” 28 So, leaving everything behind, he got up and began to follow him.
29 Then Levi hosted a grand banquet for him at his house. Now there was a large crowd of tax collectors and others who were reclining at the table with them. 30 But the Pharisees and their scribes were complaining to his disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”
31 Jesus replied to them, “It is not those who are healthy who need a doctor, but those who are sick. 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
12 During those days he went out to the mountain to pray and spent all night in prayer to God. 13 When daylight came, he summoned his disciples, and he chose twelve of them, whom he also named apostles: 14 Simon, whom he also named Peter, and Andrew his brother; James and John; Philip and Bartholomew; 15 Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called the Zealot; 16 Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.
The Fifth Sunday After Epiphany
Welcome to worship on this Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany! During the Epiphany Season the Scriptures, hymns and collects point to Jesus revealed publicly as the Son of God: through His miracles, the authority of His preaching, and the testimony of others. With Epiphany's further emphasis on extending Christ's kingdom to all nations through missions, the liturgical color of green is used to symbolize such growth.
Today we begin a new sermon series entitled, "Are You My Neighbor?" We often hear and even speak the command “Love your neighbor.” But what does this mean? How well do we show love to the people we come into contact with at the grocery store, on the highway, at work, or even on social media? How do we treat those different from us, those who deliberately wrong us, or those who seek to harm either our reputation, our person or those we care about? Loving your neighbor can be tricky. Jesus gave many examples of how to show love to others through His teachings, healings, and interactions during His earthly ministry. In this series, we will look at His example to learn how to love those around us as we ask the question, “Are you my neighbor?”
Todays Message will focus on Luke 5:1-11
1 As the crowd was pressing in on Jesus to hear God’s word, he was standing by Lake Gennesaret. 2 He saw two boats at the edge of the lake; the fishermen had left them and were washing their nets. 3 He got into one of the boats, which belonged to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from the land. Then he sat down and was teaching the crowds from the boat.
4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 “Master,” Simon replied, “we’ve worked hard all night long and caught nothing. But if you say so, I’ll let down the nets.”
6 When they did this, they caught a great number of fish, and their nets began to tear. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them; they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’s knees and said, “Go away from me, because I’m a sinful man, Lord!” 9 For he and all those with him were amazed at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, Zebedee’s sons, who were Simon’s partners.
“Don’t be afraid,” Jesus told Simon. “From now on you will be catching people.” 11 Then they brought the boats to land, left everything, and followed him.
Welcome to worship on this Third Sunday after the Epiphany! During the Epiphany Season the Scriptures, hymns and collects point to Jesus revealed publicly as the Son of God: through His miracles, the authority of His preaching, and the testimony of others. With Epiphany's further emphasis on extending Christ's kingdom to all nations through missions, the liturgical color of green is used to symbolize such growth.
This year, 2022, marks the 500th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther's translation of the New Testament into German. With such a significant, world-changing anniversary, it is fitting that we begin this new year with a focus upon Scripture. This sermon series focuses our attention back on God’s Word, the Bible–-its contents and purpose in our lives. As we make our new year's resolutions let us resolve to know our Triune God better as we rediscover and read the Bible. In the beginning of this new year, let us fix our eyes on Jesus and His Word. In the beginning of each new week, let us join as God’s church in worship. In the beginning of each new day, let us look to God’s holy Word.
Todays Message will focus on Luke 4:16-30
16 He came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. As usual, he entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up to read. 17 The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him, and unrolling the scroll, he found the place where it was written:
18 "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."
20 He then rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. And the eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today as you listen, this Scripture has been fulfilled.”
22 They were all speaking well of him and were amazed by the gracious words that came from his mouth; yet they said, “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?”
23 Then he said to them, “No doubt you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Doctor, heal yourself. What we’ve heard that took place in Capernaum, do here in your hometown also.’”
24 He also said, “Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in his hometown. 25 But I say to you, there were certainly many widows in Israel in Elijah’s days, when the sky was shut up for three years and six months while a great famine came over all the land. 26 Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them except a widow at Zarephath in Sidon. 27 And in the prophet Elisha’s time, there were many in Israel who had leprosy, and yet not one of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian.”
28 When they heard this, everyone in the synagogue was enraged. 29 They got up, drove him out of town, and brought him to the edge of the hill that their town was built on, intending to hurl him over the cliff. 30 But he passed right through the crowd and went on his way.
Welcome to worship on this Second Sunday after the Epiphany! During the Epiphany Season the Scriptures, hymns and collects point to Jesus revealed publicly as the Son of God: through His miracles, the authority of His preaching, and the testimony of others. With Epiphany's further emphasis on extending Christ's kingdom to all nations through missions, the liturgical color of green is used to symbolize such growth.
This year, 2022, marks the 500th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther's translation of the New Testament into German. With such a significant, world-changing anniversary, it is fitting that we begin this new year with a focus upon Scripture. This sermon series focuses our attention back on God’s Word, the Bible–-its contents and purpose in our lives. As we make our new year's resolutions let us resolve to know our Triune God better as we rediscover and read the Bible. In the beginning of this new year, let us fix our eyes on Jesus and His Word. In the beginning of each new week, let us join as God’s church in worship. In the beginning of each new day, let us look to God’s holy Word.
Todays Message will focus on Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10
1 All the people gathered together at the square in front of the Water Gate. They asked the scribe Ezra to bring the book of the law of Moses that the Lord had given Israel. 2 On the first day of the seventh month, the priest Ezra brought the law before the assembly of men, women, and all who could listen with understanding. 3 While he was facing the square in front of the Water Gate, he read out of it from daybreak until noon before the men, the women, and those who could understand. All the people listened attentively to the book of the law...
5 Ezra opened the book in full view of all the people, since he was elevated above everyone. As he opened it, all the people stood up. 6 Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and with their hands uplifted all the people said, “Amen, Amen!” Then they knelt low and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground...
8 They read out of the book of the law of God, translating and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was read. 9 Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to all of them, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping as they heard the words of the law. 10 Then he said to them, “Go and eat what is rich, drink what is sweet, and send portions to those who have nothing prepared, since today is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, because the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
The First Sunday after the Epiphany of our Lord also traditionally marks the church's celebration of The Baptism of Our Lord. The altar color is white for today’s commemoration of Christ's Baptism by John the Baptist. Jesus did not need Baptism for forgiveness of His own sins, but, as He told John, "to fulfill all righteousness," obeying the Words of God's messenger, and being anointed with water and the Spirit.
This year, 2022, marks the 500th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther's translation of the New Testament into German. With such a significant, world-changing anniversary, it is fitting that we begin this new year with a focus upon Scripture. This sermon series focuses our attention back on God’s Word, the Bible–-its contents and purpose in our lives. As we make our new year's resolutions let us resolve to know our Triune God better as we rediscover and read the Bible. In the beginning of this new year, let us fix our eyes on Jesus and His Word. In the beginning of each new week, let us join as God’s church in worship. In the beginning of each new day, let us look to God’s holy Word.
Todays Message will focus on Romans 6:1-11
1 What should we say then? Should we continue in sin so that grace may multiply? 2 Absolutely not! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Or are you unaware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we were buried with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been united with him in the likeness of his death, we will certainly also be in the likeness of his resurrection.
6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be rendered powerless so that we may no longer be enslaved to sin, 7 since a person who has died is freed from sin.
8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him, 9 because we know that Christ, having been raised from the dead, will not die again. Death no longer rules over him. 10 For the death he died, he died to sin once for all time; but the life he lives, he lives to God. 11 So, you too consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
The Second Sunday After Christmas
Happy New Year! Today is the Second Sunday after Christmas. We continue the joyous celebration of our Savior’s birth during the 12 Days of the Christmas Season, and the blessings that come to us in Christ. We also begin a new sermon series today, entitled In The Beginning...
This year, 2022, marks the 500th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther's translation of the New Testament into German. For Luther and the reformers, it was important for God’s people to have His holy Word in their own language in order to better know God and His promises in Christ Jesus. Today, we are blessed to have God’s Word in our own language, in multiple translations for us to understand it…but few do. Many were and still are persecuted for possessing the Bible, yet many Christians remain Biblically illiterate and apathetic. As we begin a new year, resolutions are on many people’s minds, and a great opportunity emerges for God’s people: to rediscover and read the Bible. This sermon series focuses our attention back on God’s Word, the Bible–its contents and purpose in our lives. In the beginning of this new year, let us fix our eyes on Jesus and His Word. In the beginning of each new day, let us look to God’s holy Word. In the beginning of each new week, let us join as God’s church in worship.
Todays message will focus on Luke 2:40-52
40 The boy [Jesus] grew up and became strong, filled with wisdom, and God’s grace was on him.
41 Every year his parents traveled to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival. 42 When he was twelve years old, they went up according to the custom of the festival. 43 After those days were over, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it.
44 Assuming he was in the traveling party, they went a day’s journey. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. 45 When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him.
46 After three days, they found him in the temple sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all those who heard him were astounded at his understanding and his answers. 48 When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”
49 “Why were you searching for me?” he asked them. “Didn’t you know that it was necessary for me to be in my Father’s house?” 50 But they did not understand what he said to them.
51 Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was obedient to them. His mother kept all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.
Every year it happens. From the moment Halloween is past, department stores and radio stations begin blaring Christmas music. ’Tis the season for catchy tunes and unending earworms. The Season of Christmas is full of music, both secular and sacred. And that seems to have always been the case, especially from the start of Luke's nativity narrative. In the first two chapters of his Gospel, the evangelist highlights a number of songs sung in preparation for the coming Christ, as well as in response to His glorious arrival. Throughout the Advent & Christmas Seasons, we will listen to these songs of preparation and hope in a series entitled “Joy to the World.”
Today's message will focus on Luke 2: 1-14
1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole empire should be registered. 2 This first registration took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So everyone went to be registered, each to his own town.
4 Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David, 5 to be registered along with Mary, who was engaged to him and was pregnant.
6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn son, and she wrapped him tightly in cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: 11 Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped tightly in cloth and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: 14 "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people he favors!"
Every year it happens. From the moment Halloween is past, department stores and radio stations begin blaring Christmas music. ’Tis the season for catchy tunes and unending earworms. The Season of Christmas is full of music, both secular and sacred. And that seems to have always been the case, especially from the start of Luke's nativity narrative. In the first two chapters of his Gospel, the evangelist highlights a number of songs sung in preparation for the coming Christ, as well as in response to His glorious arrival. Throughout the Advent & Christmas Seasons, we will listen to these songs of preparation and hope in a series entitled “Joy to the World.”
Today's message will focus on Luke 1:57-80
57 Now the time had come for Elizabeth to give birth, and she had a son. 58 Then her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her his great mercy, and they rejoiced with her.
59 When they came to circumcise the child on the eighth day, they were going to name him Zechariah, after his father. 60But his mother responded, “No. He will be called John.”
61 Then they said to her, “None of your relatives has that name.” 62 So they motioned to his father to find out what he wanted him to be called. 63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, “His name is John.” And they were all amazed.
64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free, and he began to speak, praising God. 65 Fear came on all those who lived around them, and all these things were being talked about throughout the hill country of Judea. 66 All who heard about him took it to heart, saying, “What then will this child become?” For, indeed, the Lord’s hand was with him.
67 Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied:
68 "Blessed is the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and provided redemption for his people. 69 He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, 70 just as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets in ancient times; 71 salvation from our enemies and from the hand of those who hate us.
72 "He has dealt mercifully with our ancestors and remembered his holy covenant— 73 the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant that we, 74 having been rescued from the hand of our enemies, would serve him without fear 75 in holiness and righteousness in his presence all our days.
76 "And you, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77 to give his people knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.
78 "Because of our God’s merciful compassion, the dawn from on high will visit us 79 to shine on those who live in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."
80 The child grew up and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel.