The blessings that introduce the Sermon on the Mount affirm the actions and attitudes that Jesus believes best characterize God’s people. youtu.be/-9eSw_9FeM4
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The blessings that introduce the Sermon on the Mount affirm the actions and attitudes that Jesus believes best characterize God’s people. youtu.be/-9eSw_9FeM4
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 God chooses to work through a body of people, a company of disciples. Even though each of us has come to Christ by his or her own independent choice, and even though each of us must always do private business with God, the church is not a collection of rugged individualists. It is a company. It is God’s own method, and it only works if we are willing to take our place in the body of Christ. youtu.be/q5tql_-grlg  We were astounded when a whole planet of scientists worked together to take the first photograph of a black hole. Perhaps as a planet-wide church, we can see the suffering in our midst that sinks into its own invisible black hole of despair. Jesus is the Word made flesh, In the light of the Word we may see clearly the sin-filled condition of the world and, like Jesus in the Gospel of John, reach out to all who suffer. youtu.be/rI0Ox_TRNdI  Tonight, we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Tonight’s service is one of scripture and hymns or Christmas Carols. The scriptures and accompanying narrative are the Christmas message, and there is therefore no sermon. This service has a variety of carols, candlelight, and Holy Communion. Tonight, we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. youtu.be/aeX-JHRJOI4  On this third Sunday of Advent, traditionally known as Gaudete Sunday, we are called to “rejoice” even though we may not feel particularly joyful. Many of us may feel burdened with year-end deadlines to meet, holiday parties to plan and attend, cards to send, presents to buy and wrap. Those who live alone, isolated from such Christmas chaos, might feel the poignance of their loneliness. Those who make their way to a pew this Sunday are more than likely in need of an “inoculation of joy” as a way to resist despair. youtu.be/LueBl8Ha8LY  When Isaiah spoke of predator and prey dwelling in peace together, it was a way to symbolize the kingdom of God. But animals also have some things to teach us about living in the world this side of the kingdom ― matters of interconnection, stewardship, and the goal of a world at peace. youtu.be/bBtU8v_w3co  Waiting is the task of Advent. But prophecy and imagination fuel our faith, hope and love until the glad day when all waiting is ended, and we see our Lord Jesus Christ triumphantly reigning over all creation.
Due to technical problems, there is no video.  Jesus regularly practiced the habit of thanking God. Even at the Last Supper he thanked God before breaking bread. Considering that all of life comes to us from God, considering that God will see us through even the most difficult times, we can always be grateful. Thanking God “through thick and thin” helps us to grow spiritually. The Pilgrims knew this and we would do well to learn it too. https://youtu.be/K9udXodAWIQ  Work is a worthwhile thing. We will not always enjoy it, and we benefit from vacations. But when we do work, neither shirking our tasks nor overworking gives glory to God. What does glorify him is honest labor, done diligently, and kept in balance with the rest of our lives. youtu.be/7G1vLDO7agE |
