Pastor Rob’s Reflections

As I write this, we are beginning Advent. Advent is the four-week season before Christmas in many Christian traditions. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin “adventus,” meaning coming or arrival.

I have to admit, I love Christmas. I look forward to it almost as much as I did when I was a kid. But not for the presents now–for the feelings–watching perennial movies like “It’s a Wonderful Life” or any of its many adaptations, “A Christmas Carol,” along with popular Christmas songs and the wonderful Christmas hymns we sing in December.

During Advent, there is a feeling of folks gearing up for the arrival of our blessed Lord.  I’m making a pact with myself this Christmas. I’m promising myself that I will use this season of Advent to immerse myself in the traditions of Christmas that lead us to a wonderful experience of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day worship. 

Please do the same and have a wonderful Christmas season. 

See you in church.

– Dr. Rob

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December Scriptures

Liturgical Color for Advent – Violet or Blue

White for Christmas – December 24, 25, 28, and January 4

December 7 – Second Sunday of Advent

    Isaiah 11:1‑10

    Psalm 72:1‑7, 18‑19

    Romans 15;4‑13

    Matthew 3:1‑12

December 14 – Third Sunday of Advent

    Isaiah 35:1‑10

    Psalm 146:5‑10

    Luke 1:46b‑55

    James 5:7‑10

    Matthew 11:2‑11

December 21 – Fourth Sunday of Advent

    Isaiah 7:10‑16

    Psalm 80:1‑7, 17‑19

    Romans 1:1‑7

    Matthew 1:18‑25

December 24 – Nativity of the Lord

    Isaiah 52:7‑10

    Psalm 98

    Hebrews 1:1‑4, (5‑12)

    John 1:1‑14

December 28 – First Sunday of Christmas

    Isaiah 63:7‑9

    Psalm 148

    Hebrews 2:10‑18

    Matthew 2:13‑23