We are saturated by our world and a lot of our neighbors, friends, and family members that we are in the Christmas season. (It really begins on December 24th.)
Right now, we are in the season of Advent. Advent is a time of the church year when we remember that the world is in great darkness, but the darkness is a time of hope. It is a time when we remember two of the many promises our Lord has given us through the prophet Isaiah,
“Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign.
Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and shall call his name Immanuel.” -Isaiah 7:14-
The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,
on them has light shone.
-Isaiah 9:2-
During the season of Advent, we remember that we are living in dark times until Christ comes into our world with the hope and eternal life that only He can bring. Our lives will be a time of hope-filled struggle. Our Savior has delivered us from sin, death, and Satan, through His death and resurrection, which began at the time of His conception in the womb of Mary. During our Advent Midweek and Christmas services this month we will be focusing on how the Lord delivered to us that message of hope through the work of His “angels”—His “messengers.” Here is our list of special services and themes:
Mdwk 1: Thurs. Dec. 1 @ 7:00 pm “Hope Amid Doubt” (Gabriel & Zechariah)
Mdwk 2: Thurs. Dec. 8 @ 7:00 pm “Hope Amid the Impossible” (Gabriel & Mary)
Mdwk 3: Thurs. Dec. 15 @ 7:00 pm “Hope Amid Fear” (Joseph’s Dream)
Mdwk 4: Thurs. Dec. 22 @ 7:00 pm “The Angels”
Christmas Eve: Sat. Dec. 24 @ 4:00 pm “Peace Brings Renewed Hope” (Angels & Shepherds)
Christmas Day: Sun. Dec. 25 @ 8 & 10:15 am “God’s Presence in the Christ Child” (Angel & Shepherds)
Although we know Christmas is not here yet, we know He is coming soon! Join us in worship this Advent and Christmas season here at Grace—bring your family, neighbors, and friends to “see” Jesus!
Shalom in Jesus,
Pastor Peter M. Peitsch