November 27th Virtual Worship
| The Order of Worship - First Sunday of Advent |
|---|
| 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: Isaiah 2:1-5 |
| A Message to Children |
| Worship in Music |
| Pastoral Prayer & The Lord's Prayer |
| Hymn of Reflection |
| Sermon: Hope Does Not Disappoint |
| 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:
Hope Does Not Disappoint
The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it. Many peoples shall come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between the nations and shall arbitrate for many peoples; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore. O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!
[Reading above - Isaiah 2:1-5]
In a time when hope is sorely needed, we turn to our ancient scriptures and tradition for help. In a situation of adversity Isaiah directs God’s people to the source of hope—the Divine promise of reconciliation. When we are not sure the next best step to take, we renew our tradition of Advent candle lighting—discovering a meaningful practice that focuses us on the symbolic light that the darkness cannot overcome.
Questions for Reflection:
This ancient prophetic passage is rich in imagery: God’s house as the highest of mountains, weapons being recycled into farm implements, walking in the light. What image is a source of hope in your life?
According to Isaiah the action that produces hope through reconciliation is coming into God’s presence and learning God’s ways. How do you understand the essence of living Divine wisdom?
What are the changes you notice when you are intentional about living in God’s light?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Candle lighting is an ancient tradition of faith. The illumination and warmth of a candle is a beautiful and comforting image of God’s presence. How might you safely incorporate candlelight in these days leading to Christmas? You can create your own Advent candle wreath for your home. You can light a candle at a mealtime and as you do so invite all at the table to say, “we walk in God’s light”. You can use light as a visual focus for quiet prayer and reflection. You can share the light by kind actions that bless others. Be creative and enjoy this practice.
A Practice to Deepening Discipleship
Incorporate a faith journal in your spiritual practice. Use the journal as a way to:
jot down needs and blessings with words or drawings or pictures
respond to the questions for reflection in the sermon notes
make notes about the weekly scripture lessons and sermons
create a to-do list of discipleship actions
list questions you want to explore
write prayers, stories, poems, or letters
be creative!
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
