A Blustery Morning

Well, yesterday was certainly cold, but at least it was still and bright. Though the temps are warmer today with the wind it feels much colder and the snow is blowing and drifting. If you have to be out and about, be careful.

Many thanks for those who made it possible for us to have a service yesterday. Thanks to those who braved the elements to clear the parking lots and sidewalk. Thanks also to those who stepped in at the last minute in various roles in the service. We appreciate it so much. Thanks to Jamie and the choir. I think you sounded great.

Next week is our last Sunday of Advent before the beginning of our Christmas celebration later that week. We’ll be looking at Simeon’s Song, perhaps the least well-known of the four songs we’ve thought about. It’s called Nunc Dimittis from the first part of the line in Latin “Now let depart your servant in peace, Lord.” It’s been set to music and used in various Christian traditions as a communion hymn, or an evening prayer, or even in funerals. We find it at Luke 2:28-32. Perhaps the most remarkable part of this song is that it includes the line “. . . a light for revelation to the Gentiles [or nations].” It’s not surprising though that Luke would want to include this song. A major theme in his gospel is the inclusion of those who were previously excluded.

We’ve got some great music in store for next week. You won’t want to miss the last of these Advent services. Hopefully the weather will cooperate, and we can all meet next Sunday for worship together. Why don’t you bring along a friend as well. It should be a great Sunday.

God bless,

Brian

Scripture readings for next Sunday

Luke 2:22-35—What strikes you about Simeon’s song?

Isaiah 52:7-10—How do we see God’s comfort for his people expressed in this story?

Ephesians 2:1-10—How is God’s “great love” connected to our salvation?

Psalm 40—What does it mean to patiently wait for God’s salvation?