Welcome to our Worship Celebration for The Second Sunday of Advent ~ December 5, 2021.
ALL ARE WELCOME HERE!
NOTE: We had some technical difficulties this morning, the recording begins at the sermon.
Readings for Advent 2: Malachi 3:1-4; Luke 1:68-79; Philippians 1:3-11; Luke 3:1-6
Summary of the Readings: All the biblical passages for today focus upon the coming acts of God to save. The dominant mood is one of joyful expectation, but not without some reference to the dark background that precedes the coming salvation. Malachi’s messenger of the covenant brings good news to Jerusalem, but also a period of purifying judgement. Used as the responsorial psalm, Zechariah’s canticle in Luke affirms the coming of the Messiah and looks to the culmination of God’s promise of salvation and peace. The letter from Paul to the ancient church in Philippi includes a warm and joyful thanksgiving for the community as it looks toward the “day of Christ.” The gospel story tells of the call of John the Baptizer, and is characterized in his message of a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
Questions for Reflection: The prophet Malachi says that God is “like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap” (Mal.3:2). Reflect on events of the past year. How has God been working to refine and purify your life or community of faith?
Paul writes to the church at Philippi: “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing of the gospel from the first day until now” (Phil. 1:3-5). Think about people in your life for whom you give thanks, who have been in your prayers, and who have brought good news and joy to you this year. Consider writing them a letter or card to express your gratitude.
If you wish to follow along with the order of service as you watch, you can do so by going to our website, www.epiphanysudbury.org, and scroll to the bottom of the page under Recent Announcements.
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