SCRIPTURE: Matthew 1:18-25, New International VersionItalicized names/words are added from the Tree of Life Version JOSEPHS: 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: MARYS: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit, the…
SCRIPTURE: Matthew 3:1-12, The Message 1-2 While Jesus was living in the Galilean hills, John, called “the Baptizer,” was preaching in the desert country of Judea. His message was simple and austere, like his desert surroundings: “Change your life. God’s kingdom is here.”3 John and his message were authorized by Isaiah’s prophecy: Thunder in the…
SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 11:1-10, Good News Translation The royal line of David is like a tree that has been cut down; but just as new branches sprout from a stump, so a new king will arise from among David’s descendants.2 The spirit of the Lord will give him wisdom and the knowledge and skill to rule…
SCRIPTURE: Shining Light Tells The Good Story 3:7-18 (Luke 3:7-18)First Nations Version, an Indigenous Translation of the New Testament 7 Large crowds of people were coming out to hear Gift of Goodwill (John) and have him perform the purification ceremony. He noticed some of the spiritual leaders in the crowd and warned them, “You nest…
SCRIPTURE: Shining Light Tells The Good Story 3:1-6 (Luke 3:1-6)First Nations Version, an Indigenous Translation of the New Testament The People of Iron (Romans) had many new rulers and governors, and the tribes of Wrestles with Creator (Israel) had a new chief holy man for the sacred lodge. It was now the fifteenth year of…
SCRIPTURE: Shining Light Tells The Good Story 25:25-36 (Luke 25:25-36)First Nations Version, an Indigenous Translation of the New Testament Verses 37-38: During the day Creator Sets Free (Jesus) would teach and tell his stories at the sacred lodge. Then at night he would go to where he was lodging on Olive Mountain. Then, in the…
Where is your hope anchored? This worship service explores that question. Our five district superintendents each share a personal story of hope made real in their lives, and their messages are interspersed with incredible musical arrangements provided by United Methodist Churches throughout Minnesota. As we prepare to enter a new year during a global pandemic, this…
Advent begins in the dark and anticipates a brighter day. Our waiting for dawn is far from passive – it is filled with planning, wondering, firming our roots and gathering our resources for growth, all while keeping an eye on the horizon. As we gather to worship and meditate this Communion Sunday, we will continue our Advent collection of symbols. Each of you is invited to bring to your worship window – along with simple elements for Communion – something that is an emblem of what is currently bringing light into your life, reminding you that Christmas is near. Above the manger hangs a star of light – shining through the dark. It is winter, and the Base Camp of our church community is warm. Let’s keep the gift of Sabbath; rest a bit together, and reflect, refuel, and refresh our sense of reverence.
Advent begins. It is as simple as that. It begins at the beginning, long before the star or even the first birthing cry. It begins with a need, then a hope, then a vision; a messenger, an inkling, and then – then a long growing season – a journey toward light and life. As we gather to worship and meditate this Sunday, we will begin a collection that will grow in the coming weeks. Each of you is invited to bring to your worship window something that is a space waiting to be filled – be it object, sign or symbol. An empty manger. A promise of new life. A star in the dark. It is winter, and the Base Camp of our church community is warm. Let’s keep gift of Sabbath; rest a bit together, and reflect, refuel, and refresh our sense of reverence.
