Advent 2023

For weary and burdened people, Jesus offers “rest for your souls.” Pastor Dawn Holt Lauber speaks from the gospel of Matthew on the rest that we can only receive from Jesus. She sings “Silent Night” to close out these 2023 Advent Podcasts.

Zechariah’s Song is not a way to announce his child's birth but to declare that God’s faithfulness, salvation, and peace are for all people and for all time. Pastor Dawn Holt Lauber considers how Zechariah’s testimony affirms how our God who makes promises to us is also our God who keeps His promises to us. She responds by singing “O Little Town of Bethlehem” with Bobby Schiff at the piano.

Before the multitude of angels sing to the group of shepherds on the hillside, we have Mary’s quietly powerful and individual song of praise. Pastor Dawn Holt Lauber reflects on the power as well as the tenderness of the Magnificat. Pastor Dawn follows her devotion singing the traditional Polish carol, “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly.”

“Do not be afraid. The Lord is with you.” Pastor Dawn Holt Lauber offers words of comfort and encouragement in this Advent devotional focused on the annunciation in Luke’s gospel. The fourth-century hymn, “Of the Father’s Love Begotten,” bookends her devotion. 

Emmanuel, God is with us. Pastor Dawn Holt Lauber contemplates Isaiah’s prophecy about the forerunner who prepares the way for the Messiah in this Advent devotional. “Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus” is her musical response, with jazz artist, Bobby Schiff, at the piano.