What are we waiting for?
Advent 2021 Sermons
From the Cradle to the Cross and All That We’re Taught - Combined Service
December 26, 2021 • Rev. Becky Holland • Matthew 5:1–12
Jesus – we are amazed by your grace. Through you, all things were made, and in all things, we can discern your presence. Yet, you faced rejection, betrayal, and persecution from the moment of your birth, to your sacrifice on the cross, to this present day. You taught, healed, and went about doing good, and you accomplished the impossible. Forgive us when we forget the child in the cradle is the Lord of all the earth. May we be ready to welcome you as the Lord of our lives. Amen.
Christmas Eve - Rainbow Puppets
December 24, 2021 • Rev. Brian Sixbey • Luke 2:1–20
We light the Christ candle to celebrate Christ among us! Just as this light will be multiplied in our presence, so may God’s presence be multiplied through our thoughts, words, and deeds tonight and through our lives.
The Promise Is on Your Face! - Modern
December 19, 2021 • Rev. Brian Sixbey • Luke 1:26–45
As the birth of Jesus came nearer, Mary and Elizabeth shared precious moments together, even bursting into songs of praise. How perfect that the young Mary was blessed with the wisdom and joy of her older cousin, who welcomed her with open arms and a glad heart. As we come nearer to celebrating Jesus’ birth and preparing for his return, may we also share joy, wisdom, open arms, and glad hearts with the people we meet. Who knows? In opening our hearts and arms to others, we may also be opening our hearts and arms to receive Jesus. We pray for joy in Jesus’ name. Amen.
The Promise Is on Your Face! - Traditional
December 19, 2021 • Rev. Brian Sixbey • Luke 1:26–45
As the birth of Jesus came nearer, Mary and Elizabeth shared precious moments together, even bursting into songs of praise. How perfect that the young Mary was blessed with the wisdom and joy of her older cousin, who welcomed her with open arms and a glad heart. As we come nearer to celebrating Jesus’ birth and preparing for his return, may we also share joy, wisdom, open arms, and glad hearts with the people we meet. Who knows? In opening our hearts and arms to others, we may also be opening our hearts and arms to receive Jesus. We pray for joy in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Hurry up and Wait! - Modern
December 12, 2021 • Rev. Brian Sixbey • Isaiah 12:2–6, Luke 3:7–18
As we come ever closer to the celebration of Jesus’ birth, all the parties, gatherings, cookies and sweets, a busy calendar, and gift buying threaten to hide the meaning of your holy day. Jesus’ birth means that God is not far from us, but is God-with-us. Remind us, Lord, that you intend to be our Lord, our shepherd, and our guide. May your teaching and example set the pace and promise for our days, for we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Hurry up and Wait! - Traditional
December 12, 2021 • Rev. Brian Sixbey • Isaiah 12:2–6, Luke 3:7–18
As we come ever closer to the celebration of Jesus’ birth, all the parties, gatherings, cookies and sweets, a busy calendar, and gift buying threaten to hide the meaning of your holy day. Jesus’ birth means that God is not far from us, but is God-with-us. Remind us, Lord, that you intend to be our Lord, our shepherd, and our guide. May your teaching and example set the pace and promise for our days, for we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Answering the Call - Modern
November 28, 2021 • Becky Holland • Psalm 139:1–18
Lord, today we turn our attention away from ourselves and towards the world for which you gave your life. We are grateful for the gifts you give us, gifts such as people, skills, friendships, faith, materials, and money, because those gifts help us serve others in your name. Forgive us when we focus too much on ourselves to hear your call to serve others, for we ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Answering the Call - Traditional
November 28, 2021 • Becky Holland • Psalm 139:1–18
Lord, today we turn our attention away from ourselves and towards the world for which you gave your life. We are grateful for the gifts you give us, gifts such as people, skills, friendships, faith, materials, and money, because those gifts help us serve others in your name. Forgive us when we focus too much on ourselves to hear your call to serve others, for we ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.