Worship Service: Joy to the World, Reclaiming the Promise of Hope

Sunday we celebrate the beginning of Advent, a season of hopeful anticipation, active waiting. Throughout this season, we will explore the paradox of God's promise and wonder about what signs we might see of hearts preparing room for the good news of great joy for all people. We ask, in a world of fear and times of uncertainty, "what is the hopeful promise of which the prophet speaks? What signs might we see of God's hope being born among us today? and Where in the world do you find hope?" Beginning this Sunday, we will sing familiar Christmas carols to bring a little more "comfort and joy" into these uncertain times. It is also a way of exploring and experiencing the paradox of Christmas; that God's promise is both fulfilled in the birth of Jesus and yet remains a future hope. Sunday's readings are Jeremiah 33:14-16 and Luke 21:25-31. If you will be watching online, have a candle ready as we invite you to light the first candle of Advent with us and welcome the light of hope to guide us in preparing room for God's love in our hearts and homes.