Welcome to Lutheran Church of the Master for the 1st Sunday of Christmas! After eight days have passed, Mary and Joseph circumcise their child and give him the name Jesus. They return to the temple in Jerusalem to enact the sacred birth rituals of their culture and tradition. While they are doing what is customary, the unexpected occurs. A man named Simeon is led by the Spirit into the temple to proclaim Jesus as the “light of revelation.” Then, a prophet named Anna suddenly approaches them; she praises God and speaks about Jesus to everyone longing for redemption. Rituals mark sacred turning points in our lives. They can help us make meaning of celebrations, losses, and transitions. As new parents to Jesus, Mary and Joseph could feel weary for what lies ahead, but perhaps these sacred rituals—and those who bear witness to them—bolster them and give them courage for the journey. How do our sacred rituals root us and help us live into new chapters with courage?
I hope you have had the opportunity to download the resources for this Season of The Spirit to prepare your at-home worship spaces or for worship in the building. We’re excited to welcome Melinda Alberty as a guest musician today! Welcome Melinda! For worship today, I invite you to please download and open the worship guide to fully participate as you, too, are a vital participant in today’s liturgy. Peace & Blessings Dear Church ~ Pastor Dave
1st Sunday of Christmas Worship Guide, Prayer Requests & Virtual Pew Card, and Donations can all be made or found here: https://linktr.ee/LCotM
For our liturgy today, please give your thanks to all of our worship contributors which includes you!