Call to Celebration
Wondrous Love, how will you greet us this day?
In the faces of children, Love will manifest
herself today.
Joy is anticipated in this worship experience.
May our internal, individual songs connect neighbor to neighbor to fill this space like kinetic energy.
We hear your call to become agents of peacemaking.
Our hope is grounded in the One who sees
our potential and holds our future.
Amen
Offertory
Benevolent One, we treasure the gifts of Love and community. New life is at the birth canal and we are awaiting for this new gift to turn our communities right side up. Amen
Full Service December 19th
Scripture Lesson
Luke 1:39-54 NIV
Mary Visits Elizabeth
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.
41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed:“Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!
43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
Mary’s Song
46 And Mary said: My soul glorifies the Lord
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name.
50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.
51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm, he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful.