Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The Everlasting Light is this year’s Advent and Christmas theme is based on Isaiah 60 and employs Phillips Brooks’ cherished hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem” (LSB 361).
Isaiah famously promises that “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed” (Isaiah 40:5). In chapter 60, this glory explodes with radiant color. Divine glory rises upon Zion, who is addressed as a woman throughout chapter 60. She is quite the lady to behold!
Brooks’ masterpiece beautifully describes Bethlehem on a December night. The hymn moves back and forth from a description of Christmas to the meaning of Christmas. It ends with the prayer, “O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Immanuel!” (st. 4).
When you connect Isaiah 60 to “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” what happens? A wonderful weaving together of biblical hope and Christian hymnody!
- “A Street Called Light” Midweek Advent 1 December 2nd.
- “A Street Called Beautiful” Midweek Advent 2 December 9th.
- “A Street Called Impossible” Midweek Advent 3 December 16th.
- “A Street Called Forever” Christmas Eve December 24th.
- “Hanging of the Greens” will be done as part of the Second Sunday of Advent on Sunday December 6th at 10:30 am.
Advent Midweek Schedule:
- Wednesdays: December 2, 9, 16
- Dinner at 6:00 pm
- Midweek Worship at 7:00 pm
Christmas Eve Schedule:
- December 24: One Christmas Eve Service at 7:00pm with Communion and Candlelight. There will be no services on Christmas Day.
Come join us for the Midweek Advent Dinner and Worship Services. Happy Advent and Merry Christmas!
In Christ’s Peace,
Pastor Ryan Honeycutt
