December 22nd Virtual Worship
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Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, December 22
Scripture Reading: Luke 1:46-55
Sermon: Shining a Light of Peace
Luke 1:46-55
And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
Key Idea of the Sermon
Advent is a time to prepare for the re-birth of Christ in our lives. Each Advent season we celebrate four gifts Christ offers: hope, love, joy, and peace. Today’s lesson is the song of Mary. It begins with thanks offered from a humble heart. Mary reminds us that the Lord loves to work in surprising and life-changing ways with those who are considered “lowly” by the world. To this encouragement to trust God’s grace, Mary adds a much-repeated theme from the ancient Hebrew prophets—the path to peace is paved by just actions of “lifting up the lowly”, “filling the hungry”, and “helping all God’s people”.
Questions for Reflection
• Mary’s song is based on Hannah’s song. Read Hannah’s story and song in I Samuel 1:1-2:10. How does Hannah’s story and song add insight to Mary’s story and song?
• How has God “looked with favor” on your life that has caused your “spirit to rejoice in God”? Who in your circle of influence needs to hear your story and song of faith for encouragement to turn to God?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Thanks to Mary we know that just actions lead to peace. So, pick a project of mercy, kindness, and compassion for your household to undertake in Advent. Choose a project that matches your talents and passions, that way joy is added to mercy. Post about your project on the Friedens’ Facebook page so others can be encouraged to make a difference too.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
