Brothers and sisters, though we are coming to the end of this year’s advent season, we are encouraged to remain diligent stewards anticipating and prepared for Jesus’ promised return (Mark 13:32-36; Luke 21:34-36). Join us Sunday mornings as God’s word is preached and His forgiveness through Christ is distributed in the absolution and Holy Supper.
Christmas Eve Service will be Tuesday January 24 beginning at 6:30 pm. We won’t be hosting any Christmas Day service here.
Sunday December 22 is the fourth and final Sunday of this Advent season. We will follow the liturgy of Divine Service Four beginning on page 203 in the LSB hymnal. Hymns chosen for the day are #350 Come Thou Precious Ransom Come; #355 O Savior Rend the Heavens Wide; #641 You Satisfy the Hungry Heart; and #357 O Come, O Come Emmanuel.
Scriptures assigned to the day are Psalm 80:1-7; Micah 5:2-5a; Hebrews 10:5-20; and Luke 1:39-45.
Jesus came into the world to save sinners. The Scriptures read this Sunday express that truth in different terms. He came to redeem us from our sin, giving Himself as a substitute sacrifice to undergo the punishment we deserve. Jesus is the ransom, that is, the payment that would set us free from captivity to the devil, the world and our own sinful flesh. He is the ultimate sacrifice; by His death He fulfilled the Old Testament offering requirements, and established a new relationship with God for you, as a gracious gift received through faith. Jesus died for you, so God has declared you holy, sanctified through the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Jesus, the Son of God, was conceived in the virgin Mary as the Holy Spirit overshadowed her. He developed in his mother’s womb as any human baby would. Yet, even in the womb there were signs that He is different. The baby in the womb of Elizabeth, Mary’s relative, leapt when being in the presence of the unborn king. The rather insignificant town of Bethlehem in the region of Ephrathah became one of the world’s most famous towns when Jesus was born there. He comes into the world to rule over an eternal kingdom not of this world. He is born to be a new kind of shepherd. He came with strength and majesty to bring you peace and security. Blessed is everyone who holds on to this Jesus.
COLLECT: Stir up Your power, O Lord, and come and help us by Your might, that the sins which weigh us down may be quickly lifted by Your grace and mercy; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Please let me know if you have any prayer requests or questions about the Scripture readings or the Christmas schedule. God bless you with a Merry Christmas. Pastor Boster
