Liturgy

The people walking in darkness
will see a great light.
For those who live in a land of deep darkness,
a light will shine.

For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and all authority will rest on his shoulders.
And he will be called:
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his authority and peace,
there will be no end.

He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever.
Amen.

— Isaiah 9: 2, 6-7

Community Confession

In prayer, let us confess to God as a community.

A star rises in the East,
proclaiming the birth of our King.

Born of adversity Jesus promises hope,
affirming the good on earth,
challenging the bad and the second rate.

Born to bring cheer,
he stands against all
that would cultivate depression and apathy.

Born to bring peace,
he frustrates all who choose
dishonesty and denial of justice.

He is Emmanuel.

The star of God’s presence,
calls us to follow after its maker
just as the Magi begin their long journey to enlightenment.

Let us do the same
and celebrate the advent of our Savior and King
now and forever.

In the name of the Father,
of the newborn Son
and of the Holy Spirit,
amen.

Reflection

What words or phrases stand out to you in Colossians 3:12-17?
How do you need to live differently in light of this Scripture?

Benediction

Depart in peace, and take with you the certain knowledge
That Jesus is always coming into the world.

We will seek Jesus, not in a long ago stable or ancient manger,
But in the people we meet and in the depths of our own hearts.

May the blessing of Christmas make you a blessing to others;
May the peace of the season pervade all that you do.

We will welcome the challenge of discipleship.
We will offer ourselves as God’s ministers.
We will go forth in hope, peace, joy, and love as one church.

In the name of the Father,
of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

Go in peace and live the church.
See you throughout the week.

[Photo by Randy P. Martin @ Flickr]