I remember listing to my old 33LP records when I was a kid, and the Christmas albums were the most used.
On a collection of popular singing artists, I can still hear Andy Williams singing - "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." Whether or not you think the Christmas season is just that - the most wonderful time - it certainly ranks up there pretty high.  The Swart family christmas tree is up and we went with the "retro look" this year, with the larger C7 bulbs and some bubble lights bespeaking of yesteryear.   If you are in the neighborhood - stop in for a cup of hot chocolate.  I should shift our minds toward this Sunday - but can you tell I "cranked for Christmas!"?

This Sunday is the 2nd week of Advent.  Cheryl & Katie Feather will be lighting the Bethlehem Candle on our Advent wreath.

Lil Cable's "God Lives in Human Hearts" message will be offered during the Children's Moments.

The first lesson comes from the gospel of Mark 1:1-8.  John the Baptist is the messenger ahead of Jesus - "preparing the way".  He preaches a baptism of repentance.  John speaks of One who will come and baptize with the Holy Spirit!

The Sermon Text comes from Isaiah 40:1-11.  Isaiah's prophecy is one which speaks of comfort.  
"Comfort, comfort my people says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem."

The sermon, therefore, "Repentance and Comfort - Gifts of God" will attempt to consider both messages:  
the harsh, leather-lunged prophet called John, 
and the comforting voice of Isaiah.  

The music we sing this week will be a mix of familiar Christmas carols and some - perhaps - unfamiliar Advent music.  
The music DVD's will lead us through O Little Town of Bethlehem and Away in a Manger.

In keeping with the text from Mark, the 1st hymn will be "On Jordan's Banks the Baptist's Cry" is a lively, celebrative song of announcement.

Holy Communion will be shared at the front of the church, and all believers are invited to receive "the gifts of God - for the people of God."

The closing Hymn - "Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers"  concludes our service and begins with this 1st verse of hope:
"Rejoice, rejoice, believers, and let your lights appear;
The evening is advancing, and darker night is near.
The bridegroom is arising and soon is drawing nigh.
Up, pray and watch and wrestle; at midnight comes the cry."

I look forward with great joy of worshipping with you this week.
The darkness of December deepens - but the Light shines forth!

With great heart, 
Pastor Jon