by Keeva Kase As we approach the third Sunday of Advent – the season of expectancy for the newborn Christ – we are encouraged to remember the prophesy of Micah 5: “And they shall dwell securely, for now his greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth: he shall be peace.” This prophecy, as … Continue reading
by Kimberly Knowle-Zeller Scripture: James 5:7-10 Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. … Continue reading
by Dena Douglas Hobbs Scripture passage: Matthew 3:1-3 “In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, ‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way … Continue reading
by Elizabeth Dilley Scripture Reading: Isaiah 12:1-6 You will say in that day: “I will give thanks to you, O Lord, For though you were angry with me, your anger turned away, and you comforted me. Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and … Continue reading
~ by Dena Hobbs December is a tricky time for me. Though Advent is my favorite church season, December is the hardest month of the year for me emotionally and spiritually. How can this be? For starters, I am an introvert who likes quiet and meditation and December just gets rather loud and busy, doesn’t … Continue reading
In place of our regular Monday liturgy and Wednesday reflection, we offer you this brief family worship service for Christmas morning. May you all have a grace-filled, joy-filled, love-filled Christmas. Scripture: from Isaiah 9 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on … Continue reading
Earlier this week I was thinking to myself I had done a pretty good job of keeping it peaceful and calm and not cramming too much in among all the special events that show up on the calendar this time of year. Okay, I was feeling just the teensiest bit smug. Then on Monday night … Continue reading
Today I was surprised to read someone’s prickly remarks about Advent. Their remarks watered the sacred tradition of Advent, its candles and liturgy and reflections, into the spiritual equivalent of weak tea. I was startled. And confused. And I felt myself burn with the malevolent wish to offer some prickly comments in return. Once my … Continue reading
“A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” ~Isaiah 11:10 Advent is one of my favorite times in the church year. It’s a call to the church to wait and prepare. This is not a frenzied preparation, but a hopeful time of anticipation. But, … Continue reading
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 2:2-5 Memory Verse: “Come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!” (Isaiah 2:5) Prayer: Dear God,Let us be people of your peace.As the darkness grows longer each day,Let us walk in the light of your love and grace.Amen Reflection: This coming Sunday, December 1, is the first Sunday of Advent. … Continue reading
Practicing Families 