December 31st Virtual Worship
| The Order of Worship |
|---|
| The Bells Call Us To Worship |
| Prelude |
| Call to Worship |
| Hymn of Adoration |
| Confession of Sin |
| Kyrie |
| Assurance of Pardon |
| Greeting of Peace |
| Gloria |
| Scripture Reading: Luke 2:28-40 |
| A Message to Children |
| Worship in Music |
| Pastoral Prayer & The Lord's Prayer |
| Hymn of Reflection |
| Sermon: Long-Awaited Gift |
| Hymn of Parting |
| Benediction |
| On Eagle's Wings |
| Postlude |
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Long-Awaited Gift
Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a ________ ____ _______________ to the Gentiles and for __________ to your people Israel.” And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.” There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped there with ____________ and ___________ night and day. At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became _________, filled with _____________ and the _________ of God was upon him
[Reading above - Luke 2:28-40]
The presentation of Jesus in the Temple emphasizes the devotion of the family that raised Jesus and it underscores the mission of Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promised salvation. Furthermore, the prophecy of Simeon and Anna proclaims that salvation is God’s work, salvation is universal including Gentiles and Jews both, and that God’s delivery of salvation in Jesus brings glory to Israel.
Questions for Reflection:
Religious ritual brought meaning to Mary, Joseph, and Jesus’ life. What rituals are most meaningful to you?
Salvation and deliverance are interchangeable words in the Bible. They refer to the actions of God that bring renewal, reconciliation, and restoration. What has God in Christ saved you from and what has God in Christ saved you for?
Jesus grew in strength and wisdom. What gifts are being developed in your life as you follow the way of Jesus?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Anna practiced the spiritual disciplines of fasting and prayer as a means of staying mindful of God’s presence. As 2024 dawns, what spiritual discipline will you practice in order to stay close to God? Choose one doable action and stick with it through January. Then evaluate the difference it has made and decide if it is the right practice for you to continue. If you need a hand with this task please reach out to Pastor Marc atpastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
A Practice to Deepening Discipleship
Incorporate a faith journal in your spiritual practice.
Use the journal as a way to:
1. jot down needs and blessings with words or drawings or pictures
2. respond to the questions for reflection in the sermon notes
3. make notes about the weekly scripture lessons and sermons
4. create a to-do list of discipleship actions
5. list questions you want to explore
6. write prayers, stories, poems, or letters, be creative!
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
