December 5th Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Matthew Leone, Rene Vazquez
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
If you wish to see more information about giving or to checkout our new Online Giving process, visit our GIVING page.
Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
The Second Sunday of Advent, Love Through Refining
See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years
[Reading above - Malachi 3: 1-4]
Malachi (the Hebrew word for “my messenger) is a collection of Divine oracles following the exile, the return to the homeland, and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. The message from God is primarily directed to the priests who serve in the Temple. The concern has to do with the development of a cynical and pragmatic attitude that undermines the passionate commitment that should characterize trust in and loyalty to God.
Questions for Reflection:
How do you experience God’s message for your life? What is the essence of that message in your life and in the life of our community of faith?
When we get too focused on the everyday routine or feel overwhelmed by the problems we face, it is easy to lose sight of our identity and purpose from God. Friedens’ mission is to receive and share the love of Christ. How can you allow this mission to renew your passion for God?
As a process of refinement purifies precious metals, how is God at work in your life to purify your purpose and sharpen your actions in line with the love of Christ?
A Practice to Focus on Discipleship:
We are using an ancient spiritual practice called Lectio Divina. This is a prayerful way of reading a scripture passage with mindfulness of Christ’s Living Spirit in the words. We are currently using Romans 12:9-18 as our scripture focus. On Sundays please slowly read through these verses a few times in an attitude of prayer. Pay attention to a word or phrase that stands out. Then apply this word or phrase to the challenges and opportunities of each day in the week. On Saturday look back and give thanks for the way Christ has helped you live as a more faithful disciple. If you need help or guidance, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com.