Reflections on Reading Mark

We have been reading Mark’s Gospel together for a few weeks now, and we’ve knocked 100 readings off of our communal goal of 300 total readings! Watch the short video below and check out some of the reflections of your community on Mark’s Gospel!

Kids, don’t forget to break out your coloring and activity pages as the sermon is underway.
Parents, if you need to download another copy of those pages, you can find them HERE.

Call to Worship

As you read the words of Ezekiel 34:11-15 (NLT) imagine God speaking these words to you.

¹¹ “For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search and find my sheep. ¹² I will be like a shepherd looking for his scattered flock. I will find my sheep and rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on that dark and cloudy day. ¹³ I will bring them back home to their own land of Israel from among the peoples and nations. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel and by the rivers and in all the places where people live. ¹⁴ Yes, I will give them good pastureland on the high hills of Israel. There they will lie down in pleasant places and feed in the lush pastures of the hills. ¹⁵ I myself will tend my sheep and give them a place to lie down in peace, says the Sovereign Lord. 

Take a moment of silence to remember you have a Good Shepherd.

Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ,
We come once again in front of our screens to worship. This is not how we wish it to be. We long to gather in groups. We would love to gather as 5,000 people to hear you teach us. We would settle for dozens of people. May our longing for your word not be diminished under these days of restrictions. Instead, may we find ourselves like the crowds of Mark, seeking you, running after you, following you, calling for you. Meet our needs this hour and in all hours to come as one who is a loving shepherd of his sheep. Amen.

Song of Worship – “Bless the Lord Oh My Soul”

Bless the Lord oh my soul
Oh my soul worship his holy name
Sing like never before
Oh my soul
I’ll worship your holy name

The sun comes up its a new day dawning
It’s time to sing your song again
Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes

Bless the Lord oh my soul
Oh my soul worship his holy name
Sing like never before
Oh my soul
I’ll worship your holy name

Your rich in love and you’re slow to anger
You name is great and your heart is kind
For all your goodness I will keep on singing
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find

Bless the Lord oh my soul
Oh my soul worship his holy name
Sing like never before
Oh my soul
I’ll worship your holy name

And on that day when my strength is failing
The end draws near and my time has come
Still my soul will sing your praise unending
Ten thousand years and then forevermore

Bless the Lord oh my soul
Oh my soul worship his holy name
Sing like never before
Oh my soul
I’ll worship your holy name

Bless the Lord oh my soul
Oh my soul worship his holy name
Sing like never before
Oh my soul
I’ll worship your holy name

Song of Worship – “Let Us Adore” and “Fairest Lord Jesus”

Let Us Adore
Let us adore the ever living God
And render praise unto him
Let us adore the ever living God
And render praise unto him

Who spread out the heavens
And established the earth
Whose glory is manifest throughout all the earth

He is our God
He is our God
There is no one else
He is our God
He is our God
There is no one else

Let us adore the ever living God
And render praise unto him
Let us adore the ever living God
And render praise unto him

Who spread out the heavens
And established the earth
Whose glory is manifest throughout all the earth

He is our God
He is our God
There is no one else
He is our God
He is our God
There is no one else

Fairest Lord Jesus
Fairest Lord Jesus, ruler of all nature
O thou of God and man the son
Thee will I cherish, thee will I honour
Thou my soul’s glory, joy, and crown

Fair are the meadow, fairer still the woodlands
Robed in the blooming garb of spring
Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer
Who makes the woeful heart to sing

Fair is the sunshine, fairer still the moonlight
And all the twinkling starry host
Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer
Than all the angels heaven can boast

Beautiful Saviour, Lord of the nations
Son of God and son of man
Glory and honour, praise, adoration
Now and forevermore be thine
Glory and honour, praise, adoration
Now and forevermore be thine

Prayer Exercise

Take a few moments to write down or name out loud who you believe Jesus Christ to be. You can use full sentences or simply names for Jesus Christ. Once you have thought of a few names or a couple sentences, tell Jesus in prayer who you believe him to be. By naming our belief in Christ, we give him praise and we recognize that he is Lord and we are not.

Message – Mark 6:30-44

Responding in Thanksgiving

Jesus provides the disciples with the food he calls them to give. He says, “you feed them” and then he supplies the means to do it. What does Jesus instruct you to give? Whatever it is, trust that he will provide you the means, financial or otherwise, to obey.

Song of Praise – “How Marvelous”

How Marvelous

I stand amazed in the presence
Of Jesus the Nazarene
And wonder how He could love me
A sinner, condemned, unclean

How marvelous! How wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
How marvelous! How wonderful
Is my Savior’s love for me!

He took my sins and my sorrows
He made them His very own;
He bore the burden to Calvary
And suffered and died alone

How marvelous! How wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
How marvelous! How wonderful
Is my Savior’s love for me!

When with the ransomed in glory
His face I at last shall see
‘Twill be my joy through the ages
To sing of His love for me

How marvelous! O how wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
How marvelous! How wonderful
Is my Savior’s love for me!

Benediction

Go in peace, believing that you are not like a sheep without a shepherd. You have a good shepherd, Jesus the Christ. Amen

Kids, don’t forget to break out your coloring and activity pages as the sermon is underway.
Parents, if you need to download another copy of those pages, you can find them HERE.

Call to Worship

Take a moment to catch your breath. Image your life as a boat. You have your plans. You want to sail this way and that… and then storms come along and mess things up. Where do you turn in trouble?

Hear the words of Psalm 107:23-32 (NLT)! May they bring us perspective in the storm.

²³ Some went off to sea in ships,
    plying the trade routes of the world.
²⁴ They, too, observed the Lord’s power in action,
    his impressive works on the deepest seas.
²⁵ He spoke, and the winds rose,
    stirring up the waves.
²⁶ Their ships were tossed to the heavens
    and plunged again to the depths;
    the sailors cringed in terror.
²⁷ They reeled and staggered like drunkards
    and were at their wits’ end.
²⁸ “Lord, help!” they cried in their trouble,
    and he saved them from their distress.
²⁹ He calmed the storm to a whisper
    and stilled the waves.
³⁰ What a blessing was that stillness
    as he brought them safely into harbor!
³¹ Let them praise the Lord for his great love
    and for the wonderful things he has done for them.
³² Let them exalt him publicly before the congregation
    and before the leaders of the nation.

Song of Worship – “Faithfulness”

In the breakers that storm my faith
God my Rock and God my Hope, You will prevail
You’re the constant in a sea of change
What You’ve done and what You’ve said will never change
What You’ve done and what You’ve said will never change

Great is Your faithfulness, great is Your faithfulness
Always and forever
Always and forever

There are memories that seize my heart
But they will never steal or tear our love apart
There are victories yet to come
They are certain as the rising of the sun
They are certain as the rising of the sun

Great is Your faithfulness, great is Your faithfulness
Always and forever
Always and forever

From age to age the same, Your mercy never changes
Your joy it is my strength, Your goodness never changes
Your goodness never changes

Great is Your faithfulness, great is Your faithfulness
Always and forever, always and forever
Always and forever

Message – Mark 4:35-41

Song for Reflection

Responding in Thanksgiving

We recognize that we like to “captain our own ship” and yet we know how futile this is when it comes to facing a storm. Giving helps us to open our hearts and minds to the One who is actually able to bring us through the storm. May God come near and touch our hearts and minds as we open our hands.

Response Song – “Faithful and True”

How can I serve anyone but You?
How can I serve anyone but You?
How can I serve anyone but You?
How can I serve anyone but You?

You are faithful, You are true
You are mercy, You shine through
The darkness cannot hide You
It cannot hide You,
Oh my God

How can I serve anyone but You?
How can I serve anyone but You?
How can I serve anyone but You?
How can I serve anyone but You?

You are faithful You are true
You are mercy, You shine through
The darkness cannot hide You
It cannot hide You,
Oh my God

You are faithful You are true
You are mercy, You shine through
The darkness cannot hide You
It cannot hide You,
Oh my God

Benediction

Opening Prayer – Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord

As you begin this time of worship and prayer, listen to the song below and allow it to be for you a prayer.

Scripture Reading – Psalm 119:9-18

Read the following aloud. After you’ve read it choose one line or phrase to make into a quiet word to silently repeat and hold before God for a moment or two.

How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
    By living according to your word.
I seek you with all my heart;
    do not let me stray from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart
    that I might not sin against you.
Praise be to you, Lord;
    teach me your decrees.
With my lips I recount
    all the laws that come from your mouth.
I rejoice in following your statutes
    as one rejoices in great riches.
I meditate on your precepts
    and consider your ways.
I delight in your decrees;
    I will not neglect your word.
Be good to your servant while I live,
    that I may obey your word.
Open my eyes that I may see
    wonderful things in your law.

Kids’ Coloring and Activity Booklets

Kids, don’t forget to break out your coloring and activity pages as the sermon is underway.
Parents, if you need to download another copy of those pages, you can find them HERE.

Sermon

The questions that punctuated each reflection on the seed and soil were:
1. In what ways have you become hard to God and the Gospel message?
2. How can you develop a faith life that has endurance?
3. What might be dividing your focus and loyalty? What desires are you feeding?
4. What is one step you can take toward cultivating “good soil” in your life?

Take time to reflect, jot down any thoughts, and respond to God in prayer.

Offering

For all that you give us, Generous One – we give you thanks! May these offerings be an evidence of your Word becoming fruitful in our lives, and a contribution to the great work of your harvest in the world.
Amen.

Song of Worship – The Goodness of God

I love you Lord
Oh your mercy never fails me
All my days I’ve been held in your hands
From the moment that I wake up
Until I lay my head
I will sing of the goodness of God

All my life you have been faithful
All my life you have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God

I love your voice
You have led me through the fire
In darkest nights I’ve been held like no other
I’ve known you as a Father
I’ve known you as a friend
I have lived in the goodness of God

All my life you have been faithful
All my life you have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God

Your goodness is running after
It’s running after me
Your goodness is running after
It’s running after me
With my life laid down I surrender now
I give you everything
Your goodness is running after
It’s running after me

Your goodness is running after
It’s running after me
Your goodness is running after
It’s running after me
With my life laid down I surrender now
I give you everything
Your goodness is running after
It’s running after me

All my life you have been faithful
All my life you have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God

All my life you have been faithful
All my life you have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God
I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God
I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God

The Sending – From 2 Peter 3:18

Grow in grace and understanding of our Master and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Glory to the Master, now and forever! Amen.

Continue to read the Gospel of Mark and log your readings HERE! In a couple weeks we will include an update video with some of your highlights and reflections!

Mark For Kids

Kids (and parents) – don’t forget to break out the activity and coloring pages for this week in your kids’ packs! If you need, there are downloadable copies below.

Call to Worship – From Psalm 103

Read this invitation aloud. If you are meeting with others, have one person read the plain print, and the other(s) read what is in bold.

Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits—
who forgives all your sins,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the Pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
Bless the LORD, O my soul.

Song of Worship – “Lord I Need You”

Lord I come and I confess
Bowing here I find my rest
Without you I fall apart
You’re the one that guides my heart

Lord I need you oh I need you
Every hour I need you
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God how I need you

Where sin runs deep your grace is more
Where grace is found is where you are
And where you are Lord I am free
Holiness is Christ in me
Where you are Lord I am free
Holiness is Christ in me

Lord I need you oh I need you
Every hour I need you
My one defence, my righteousness
Oh God how I need you

Teach my song to rise to you
When temptation comes my way
When I cannot stand I’ll fall on you
Jesus you’re my hope and stay
When I cannot stand I’ll fall on you
Jesus you’re my hope and stay

Lord I need you oh I need you
Every hour I need you
My one defence, my righteousness
Oh God how I need you

Scripture Reading – Mark 2:1-12

Grab a pen and paper. Imaginatively read the following Gospel passage putting yourself in the shoes of one of the members of the crowd gathered around Jesus. Pay close attention to all five of your senses, and jot down any reflections on what you notice as you participate in the story. If you’re with others, share your observations.

When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God’s word to them, four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.”

But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there thought to themselves, “What is he saying? This is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”

Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’? So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”

And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, “We’ve never seen anything like this before!”

– What did you see?
– What did you hear?
– What did you feel?
– What did smell?
– What did you taste?

Sermon

Silent Prayer

Pause for a couple minutes to pray silently, remembering to:
– give thanks for those who have carried you to Jesus over your life
– pray by name for someone who is in need of the forgiveness and healing Jesus
– ask for help to overcome any obstacles you are facing in being a person who loves and cares for others

Song of Worship – “How Marvelous”

I stand amazed in the presence
Of Jesus the Nazarene
And wonder how He could love me
A sinner, condemned, unclean

How marvelous! How wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
How marvelous! How wonderful
Is my Savior’s love for me!

He took my sins and my sorrows
He made them His very own;
He bore the burden to Calvary
And suffered and died alone

How marvelous! How wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
How marvelous! How wonderful
Is my Savior’s love for me!

When with the ransomed in glory
His face I at last shall see
‘Twill be my joy through the ages
To sing of His love for me

How marvelous! O how wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
How marvelous! How wonderful
Is my Savior’s love for me!

Offering

Living God,
Like the crowds who saw the man on the mat receive forgiveness and healing, we too are amazed at Your goodness and Your grace. We praise You, God – in word, in song, in offerings, in obedience – for all the amazing provision and goodness you bring into our lives, and the lives of those around us.
Amen.

Benediction

May God, who enables us to stand firm for Christ,
And who, by his Spirit, has stamped us with his eternal pledge –
a sure beginning of what he is destined to complete –
May He make of us witnesses in the world to the abundant goodness of God.
Amen.

Welcome to the Gospel of Mark! As Winnipeg Covenant Churches we journey with one of the gospel accounts each year from Christmas through Easter. Julia is going to introduce our Mark reading challenge. It is a fun way to push a communal reading of the gospel but the best reason to read is it will change you!

Mark Reading Challenge

For more on the Mark Reading Challenge click here.

Mark For Kids

We want all ages to be engaged by an encounter with Jesus in the gospel according to Mark. There is a kids reading guide which highlights an abridged reading of the gospel and we encourage you as parents and families to engage as a whole family. There are also Mark activities packages that correspond to each Sunday of our series. You can print from the link below or you can contact your church office to get the copies you need for your kids.

Prayer for Change

Lord,
A voice came crying out in the wilderness, “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his path straight.”
We too prefer a straight path but we work our hardest to prepare our own way.
Change us! Turn our eyes to Jesus.
A voice came from the heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with whom I am well pleased.”
We like affirmation but mostly when it is us being affirmed.
Change us! Turn our eyes to Jesus.
A voice calls to us, “Follow me…”
We like having followers but following feels uncomfortable. We like our control.
Change us! Help us say yes to you! In your name, Jesus, we pray.
Amen.

Take My Life

Take my life and let it be
Consecrated Lord to thee
Take my moments and my days
Let them flow in ceaseless praise
Let them flow in ceaseless praise

Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of thy love
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for thee
Swift and beautiful for thee

Take my silver and my gold
Not a mite would I withhold
Take my intellect and use
Every power as thou shalt choose
Every power as thou shalt choose

Take my will and make it thine
It shall be no longer mine
Take my heart it is thine own
It shall be thy royal throne
It shall be thy royal throne

Take my love my Lord I pour
At thy feet its treasure store
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only all for thee
Ever, only all for thee

Take my love my Lord I pour
At thy feet its treasure store
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only all for thee
Ever, only all for thee

Message – Part 1 (Mark 1:1-8)

Scripture Reading – Mark 1:9-20

Read this portion of Mark aloud. If you’re with others take turns reading, switching at the paragraph breaks.

At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”

At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.

After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”

As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.

When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.

Message – Part 2 (Mark 1:9-20)

Offering

Today’s text ends with Jesus inviting disciples to join in the inbreaking Kingdom. We do this in many ways. We do this with our heads, hearts, hands and yes bank accounts. Maybe giving to God’s work is something that you have done for as long as you can remember. We are grateful for your partnership. Maybe giving to God’s work is something brand new to you or something you have never even thought was for you. We would be so bold to challenge you to give. Give something, give regularly from now until Easter and see what God does to you in this practice.

God, we return to you these gifts that came from your hand. It is you who gives us minds and hands and bodies that are able to help us earn a living. We thank you for this! We want to be a part of what you are doing in this world. Use our gifts join in the new creating you are doing in the world.
Amen.

He Knows My Name

I have a Maker
He formed my heart
And before even time began
My life was in his hands

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
And He hears me when I call

I have a Father
I have a Father
He calls me His own
He’ll never leave me
No matter where I go

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
And He hears me when I call

Benediction

As God is at work, may we have eyes to see and hearts and hands ready to partner. As God calls may we say, “yes”! Jesus, give us strength and courage, by your Spirit to join you. Amen.

Announcements

Don’t forget to check out the Mark Reading Challenge material here. Read Mark! Encounter Jesus!

Beginning with Stillness

Take two minutes to sit still before you begin your morning of worship. Close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths in and out. Allow your mind to catch up to your body. Maybe you were just making pancakes for kids, or trying to send off a quick email, or folding some laundry – but NOW you’re here for the purpose of worship and prayer. You’re in the presence of God. When you’re ready, thank God for His presence with you and begin.

Scripture Reading – Galatians 4:4-5

If you are meeting with others, take turns reading, switching readers each line.

But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son,
born of a woman, born under the law,
in order to redeem those who were under the law,
so that we might receive adoption as children.

Song of Worship – “Hope for Everyone”

Hear the angels sing
There’s hope for everyone
To announce our King
There’s hope for everyone
What good news they bring
There’s hope for everyone
Angels sing
There’s hope for everyone

They came from afar
There’s hope for everyone
Wise men saw the star
There’s hope for everyone
Shepherds heard the choir
There’s hope for everyone
From afar
There’s hope for everyone

We are waiting on the promise
For the One who lights the darkness
Bending low to be among us
Bring Your glory in the highest

Come let us adore
There’s hope for everyone
On the manger floor
There’s hope for everyone
What are you waiting for
There’s hope for everyone
Come adore
There’s hope for everyone

We are waiting on the promise
For the One who lights the darkness
Bending low to be among us
Bring Your glory in the highest, Jesus

Come let us adore
There’s hope for everyone
On the manger floor
There’s hope for everyone
What are you waiting for
There’s hope for everyone
Come adore
There’s hope for everyone

Scripture Reading – Psalm 148

Read it aloud!

Praise the Lord!

Praise the Lord from the heavens!
    Praise him from the skies!
Praise him, all his angels!
    Praise him, all the armies of heaven!
Praise him, sun and moon!
    Praise him, all you twinkling stars!
Praise him, skies above!
    Praise him, vapors high above the clouds!
Let every created thing give praise to the Lord,
    for he issued his command, and they came into being.
He set them in place forever and ever.
    His decree will never be revoked.

Praise the Lord from the earth,
    you creatures of the ocean depths,
fire and hail, snow and clouds,
    wind and weather that obey him,
mountains and all hills,
    fruit trees and all cedars,
wild animals and all livestock,
    small scurrying animals and birds,
kings of the earth and all people,
    rulers and judges of the earth,
young men and young women,
    old men and children.

Let them all praise the name of the Lord.
    For his name is very great;
    his glory towers over the earth and heaven!
He has made his people strong,
    honoring his faithful ones—
    the people of Israel who are close to him.

Praise the Lord!

Homily on Psalm 148

Reflecting on The Advent and Christmas Season

Take some time to consider where you noticed the movement of God in your life over the Advent and Christmas season. Get a pen and a piece of paper, hit play on the song below, and prayerfully jot out some reflections on one (or more) of the following questions:

• When did God seem especially close over these past weeks? When did He seem distant?
• What caught your attention in the Advent and Christmas seasons about the way God works in the world?
• What character from the Christmas narratives most captured your imagination and why?
• To what has God been inviting you over the past weeks?
• What truth do you need to hold on to from these past weeks as we approach a new year?

Offering

Living God:
Thank you that you are the Light of the World, the source of our hope, our peace, our joy, and all true love. Your word says that the earth is Yours, and so is everything in it; the world and all its people belong to You. Everything we have belongs to You – our very lives belong to You. At the end of a strange and difficult year, we now offer back to You a portion of what You have given us. This we do as an act of worship, as a thanksgiving for Your provision, and as an expression of our ongoing trust in You into the future.
Amen.

Song of Sending – “The Blessing”

May the words of this song be a prayer for you, as well as a reminder and encouragement to you as we approach the end of this year. God is with you. He is for you.

Benediction

Don’t forget to join your church for the first portion of worship each week via ZOOM. Faith Covenant meets for some online face-to-face connection at 10:00am, and Holy Community meets at 10:30am. Contact your church for the ZOOM link!

4th Sunday of Advent

Advent simply means “coming”. It is the season in which we remember and wait for the coming of Christ Jesus our Lord. We remember when he came to earth, born in Bethlehem, all those years ago. And, we wait with anticipation and readiness for Christ to come again. Join us on this 3rd week in this month long journey as we wait and watch for Jesus!

Advent Hymn

“O Come O Come Emmanuel” is said to be nearly 1200 years old, making it one of the oldest if not the oldest of Advent/Christmas hymns. Play the video below and enter into these ancient lyrics of holy longing.

Scripture

Our Advent hymn is partly based off of the prophetic word given by Isaiah in Isaiah 7:14. It says this:

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel (God with us).”

This is the same prophesy that Matthew says is fulfilled when Jesus is born in Bethlehem (Matthew 1:23). Imagine the joy of those who were waiting so long for this prophesy to be realized…

Before you move ahead with the reflection below, take a moment to reflect yourself:

1. What lyrics or turns of phrase from the song (above) caught your attention?
2. What emotions/thoughts come from the name of God: “Immanuel (God with us)” during a pandemic?
3. Are you sensing God with you today?
4. What is heavy for you today, and where do you need the Lord himself to give you a sign he is there in the middle of it with you?

Reflections on “O Come O Come Emmanuel”

Prayer of Welcome

Offering

God is the giver of all good and perfect gifts. We will, one day, be able to meet together again. That too will be a sign of “Emmanuel” God with us. Until that time we urge you to remain faithful to worshipping God through your finances. These gifts speak to our conviction that God continues to be with us even in exile. If God is still here then he surely is worthy of every act of worship we can offer.

Prayer: May you bless these gifts, Lord, as well as these the givers. We pray and trust in your holy, worthy, and everlasting name…Immanuel… AMEN

Benediction – Isaiah 40:5

The glory of the Lord will be revealed,
    and all people will see it together.
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

Announcement

Join us on Christmas Eve at 6:30 for a service of carols, candlelight, and good news. Have some candles ready for you and your family as, even though we are meeting via ZOOM, we will still be letting light shine forth as we celebrate through the beautiful tradition of Christmas Eve candle lighting. Watch your church’s email for the link to the service, or contact us for more information!

Don’t forget to join your church for the first portion of worship each week via ZOOM. Faith Covenant meets for some online face-to-face connection at 10:00am, and Holy Community meets at 10:30am. Contact your church for the ZOOM link!

3rd Sunday of Advent

Advent simply means “coming”. It is the season in which we remember and wait for the coming of Christ Jesus our Lord. We remember when he came to earth, born in Bethlehem, all those years ago. And, we wait with anticipation and readiness for Christ to come again. Join us on this 3rd week in this month long journey as we wait and watch for Jesus!

Song of the Season – “Joy to the World”

Joy to the world, the Lord is come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart, prepare him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven, and heaven and nature sing

Joy to the world, the Saviour reigns
Let men their songs employ
While fields and floods, rocks hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy

No more let sins and sorrows grow
Nor thorns infest the ground
He comes to make his blessings flow
Far as the curse is found
Far as the curse is found
Far as, far as the curse is found

He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of his righteousness
And wonders of his love
And wonders of his love
And wonders, wonders of his love

What word, phrase, or line catches you?
What joy does this express this Advent season?
Take a moment to text or email a line(s) to a friend or family member who could use this joyful reminder!

Reflection – Advent 3

Scripture Reading

Read aloud these words from Psalm 98.

Psalm 98

¹ Sing a new song to the Lord,
    for he has done wonderful deeds.
His right hand has won a mighty victory;
    his holy arm has shown his saving power!
² The Lord has announced his victory
    and has revealed his righteousness to every nation!
³ He has remembered his promise to love and be faithful to Israel.
    The ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God.

⁴ Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
    break out in praise and sing for joy!
⁵ Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp,
    with the harp and melodious song,
⁶ with trumpets and the sound of the ram’s horn.
    Make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King!

⁷ Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise!
    Let the earth and all living things join in.
⁸ Let the rivers clap their hands in glee!
    Let the hills sing out their songs of joy
⁹ before the Lord,
    for he is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with justice,
    and the nations with fairness.

Offering

We desire that this offering express careful and willing sharing on our part, with fruitful blessing on God’s part, as together we seek to build God’s kingdom among the nations and God’s will among all peoples, through Christ the Lord. Amen.

Responding in Prayer

Stand up. Physically reposition your body.
Turn your face and your gaze upward.
Lift up your hands – hold them in front of you with your palms faced up;
Or lift them straight over your head. Heck, “raise the roof” if the Spirit leads….
Recognize that God is looking on you in deep and sincere love.
From this position take 30 seconds or a minute to simply hold a feeling of joy in your heart.
Pray this way in an enthusiastic voice:

God of Life –
I turn myself – my whole life – to You.
With joy for the freedom there is in You…
With joy for how you’ve come to make Your blessings flow….
I turn myself – my whole life – to You.
Amen.

Closing Song – “Hope for Everyone”

Hear the angels sing
There’s hope for everyone
To announce our King
There’s hope for everyone
What good news they bring
There’s hope for everyone
Angels sing
There’s hope for everyone

They came from afar
There’s hope for everyone
Wise men saw the star
There’s hope for everyone
Shepherds heard the choir
There’s hope for everyone
From afar
There’s hope for everyone

We are waiting on the promise
For the One who lights the darkness
Bending low to be among us
Bring Your glory in the highest

Come let us adore
There’s hope for everyone
On the manger floor
There’s hope for everyone
What are you waiting for
There’s hope for everyone
Come adore
There’s hope for everyone

We are waiting on the promise
For the One who lights the darkness
Bending low to be among us
Bring Your glory in the highest, Jesus

Come let us adore
There’s hope for everyone
On the manger floor
There’s hope for everyone
What are you waiting for
There’s hope for everyone
Come adore
There’s hope for everyone

Benediction

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24
¹⁶ Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. ¹⁹ Do not quench the Spirit. ²⁰ Do not despise the words of prophets, ²¹ but test everything; hold fast to what is good; ²² abstain from every form of evil.

²³ May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁴ The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.

Announcements

HCCC and FCC Christmas Carol Concert: Mark your calendars for December 19th, 7:00pm! A live concert via ZOOM for the whole family to enjoy some homegrown Christmas music sung or performed by your friends. It will be a good time! Invite friends. See your church’s weekly e-mail for zoom link.

Christmas Eve Service: Join us for a virtual Christmas Eve service including candle lighting (provide your own candles). More details to come.

Christmas Cheer BINGO: As Jesus’ people, our lives to be are signs of his Kingdom here and now. When we love our neighbours in Jesus’ name, we reveal the hope, peace, joy and love of Christ and his reign. We become like an early answer to the prayer “Come, Lord Jesus” which God will one day answer perfectly.

Print off these Christmas Cheer BINGO cards, and see what you can do to be part of sharing the goodness of Jesus Christ with others this season. Have some fun with it. See what you can do!

Don’t forget to join your church for the first portion of worship each week via ZOOM. Faith Covenant meets for some online face-to-face connection at 10:00am, and Holy Community meets at 10:30am. Contact your church for the ZOOM link!

2nd Sunday of Advent

Advent simply means “coming”. It is the season in which we remember and wait for the coming of Christ Jesus our Lord. We remember when he came to earth, born in Bethlehem, all those years ago. And, we wait with anticipation and readiness for Christ to come again. Join us on this 2nd week in this month long journey as we wait and watch for Jesus!

Song of the Season – “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus”

Come, thou long expected Jesus,
born to set thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us,
let us find our rest in thee.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation,
joy of every longing heart.

Born thy people to deliver,
born a child and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever,
now thy gracious kingdom bring.
By thine own eternal spirit
rule in all our hearts alone;
by thine all sufficient merit,
raise us to thy glorious throne.

What word, phrase, or line catches you?

What about this connects with your prayer longing this Advent season?

Take a moment to text or email a line(s) to a friend or family member who could use this hope!

Reflection – Advent 2

Scripture Reading

Read aloud these words from Isaiah 61. After reading, hit ‘play’ on the instrumental audio of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus for a second listen. As you listen, slowly scroll past the images in the gallery below. Allow them to move you toward the time of intercessory prayer to follow. What people or situations is God leading you to pray for?

Isaiah 61:1-3
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
    because the Lord has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
    to proclaim freedom for the captives
    and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
    and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
    instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
    instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
    instead of a spirit of despair.

Intercessory Prayer

How are you prompted to pray for others? For people you know? For situations?

Use this simple model of prayer. Simply say “Come, Lord Jesus…” and then fill in the blank with a short request. Repeat. Pray this way for as many people and situations as come to mind. Here are a few to get you started:

• Come, Lord Jesus… Bind up the brokenhearted.
• Come, Lord Jesus… Give comfort to those who are mourning.
• Come, Lord Jesus… Restore what is ruined.
• Come, Lord Jesus… Let my neighbour find their rest in You.
• Come, Lord Jesus… Provide for my friend ____________ who is in need.

Offering

May God bless and make fruitful the gifts of His people for His work in the world.

Benediction

Go now, and celebrate God’s love all your days.
Give to Christ Jesus the obedience of faith,
offering yourself as the servant of the Lord
and allowing God’s Word to be fulfilled in you.
And may the only wise God establish you forever.
May the mysteries of Christ be conceived within you.
And may the Holy Spirit strengthen you and encircle you.

Christmas Cheer BINGO

As Jesus’ people, our lives to be are signs of his Kingdom here and now. When we love our neighbours in Jesus’ name, we reveal the hope, peace, joy and love of Christ and his reign. We become like an early answer to the prayer “Come, Lord Jesus” which God will one day answer perfectly.

Print off these Christmas Cheer BINGO cards, and see what you can do to be part of sharing the goodness of Jesus Christ with others this season. Have some fun with it. See what you can do!

1st Sunday of Advent

Advent simply means “coming”. It is the season in which we remember and wait for the coming of Christ Jesus our Lord. We remember when he came to earth, born in Bethlehem, all those years ago. And, we wait with anticipation and readiness for Christ to come again. Join us in this 4 week journey as we wait and watch for Jesus!

Songs of the Season – “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence”

Let all mortal flesh keep silence,
and with fear and trembling stand;
ponder nothing earthly-minded,
for with blessing in his hand,
Christ our God to earth descendeth,
our full homage to demand.

King of kings, yet born of Mary,
as of old on earth he stood,
Lord of lords, in human vesture,
in the body and the blood;
he will give to all the faithful
his own self for heav’nly food.

Rank on rank the host of heaven
spreads its vanguard on the way,
as the Light of light decendeth,
from the realms of endless day,
that the pow’rs of hell may vanish
as the darkness clears away.

At his feet the six-winged seraph,
cherubim, with sleepless eye,
veil their faces to the presence,
as with ceaseless voice they cry:
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Alleluia, Lord Most High!

Is there a phrase, line or verse that stands out to you? Why do you suppose this is?

What does this song call you towards that you have been forgetting?

Please add your reflection in the comments section to encourage others.

Message – Advent 1

Responding in Prayer

Instructions for Prayer

Silence – Centering Prayer
1. Take a comfortable position and posture. Close your eyes if it helps you. Take a few deep breaths in and out.
2. Begin by simply repeating the words of Habakkuk 2:20: “The Lord is in His holy temple, let all the earth keep silent before Him.”
3. Now, simply keep silence – both outwardly and inwardly. Allow yourself to be still with God. If busy thoughts start to pop into your mind (they always do), gently brush them to the side for the time being.
4. Continue to breath deeply and keep silence for 2 to 3 minutes. If you find you’ve been drawn off into the noise of thought or if distractions arise, return to the words from Habakkuk 2:20 and to silence.

Listening – An Examen
1. After the time of centering, take some time to listen to God. Quietly replay the last few days of life in your mind as though you fast-forwarding through the footage of your own life.
2. Slow down “the tape” and pay closer attention to any moments that feel especially significant to you. Ask God, what he wants you to notice about these moments and listen for an answer.
3. If no particular moments stick out, are there any themes that seem prevalent? Emotions that linger a long time? Ask God what he wants you to notice here.
4. Listen with an ear for any invitation God seems to be giving you in your life right now. Give yourself another 5 minutes or so for this time of prayer.
5. End with a few more moments of silence and repeating those words from Habakkuk 2:20.

Offerings of Thanks

While we watch and wait for Christ’s return we recognize that Christ has made us partners in his work. Like in the parable of talents (Matthew 25:14-30) we are to put the gifts the master has bestowed us with to work for Kingdom good and growth.

We are grateful for the ways you have been faithful and partnered with our churches in this trying season. It makes a difference. Thanks be to God.

Benediction – 1 John 2:28 (The Message)

And now, children, stay with Christ. Live deeply in Christ. Then we’ll be ready for him when he appears, ready to receive him with open arms, with no cause for red-faced guilt or lame excuses when he arrives.