Advent is about the “coming days.” God’s people have always lived in great expectation, but that expectation finds specific, repeated enunciation in the texts appointed for these four weeks. The ancients anticipated a “righteous Branch to spring up for David.” The Thessalonians awaited “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all the saints.” Jesus’ contemporaries hoped for the time “to stand before the Son of Man.” With them we eagerly await the coming days: another Christmas celebration, a second coming, and the advent of Christ in word and supper.

Advent is about the “coming days.” God’s people have always lived in great expectation, but that expectation finds specific, repeated enunciation in the texts appointed for these four weeks. The ancients anticipated a “righteous Branch to spring up for David.” The Thessalonians awaited “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all the saints.” Jesus’ contemporaries hoped for the time “to stand before the Son of Man.” With them we eagerly await the coming days: another Christmas celebration, a second coming, and the advent of Christ in word and supper.

“[T]he solemnity of Christ the King was fairly recently established by Pope Pius the 11th in 1925 in response to the increasing threat of the rise of fascism in Europe leading up to World War II. At the time, authoritarian leaders of fascist regimes were being lifted up as all powerful demigods, and the Roman Catholic Church created this holy day in an attempt to reclaim power for the church. If this feast tells us anything, it’s this: Fascism is diametrically opposed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Reign of Jesus Christ stands in strong opposition to the death-dealing policies of tyrants and fascists.” Rev. Elle Dowd

Knowing this history helps me: the celebration of Christ the King started not as an opportunity to weaponize religious power, but rather as a reminder to people of good faith that nationalism and fascism are not our moral authorities. This feast rejects the idea that such ideologies should control the world’s narrative. Written by Allison Connelly.

On All Saints Day we celebrate the victory won for all the faithful dead, but we grieve for our beloved dead as well, knowing that God honors our tears. We bring our grief to the table and find there a foretaste of Isaiah’s feast to come.

In winter’s deepest night, we welcome the light of the Christ child. Isaiah declares that the light of the long-promised king will illumine the world and bring endless peace and justice. Paul reminds us that the grace of God through Jesus Christ brings salvation to all people. The angels declare that Jesus’ birth is good and joyful news for everyone, including lowly shepherds. Filled with the light that shines in our lives, we go forth to share the light of Christ with the whole world.

Jeremiah’s promise of the execution of “justice and righteousness in the land” finds ironic fulfillment in the execution of Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews. It appears utterly contradictory that a king should be crucified with a criminal. This victory appears for all the world as humiliating defeat. Yet through the gate of death Jesus opens the door to paradise.

Pastor Jules preaching: We are rising strong. God is with us, and any burdens are not ours to bear alone. We will have courage in the liminal zone and keep uplifting each other through times of heavy betrayal. Scripture readings from Psalms 42:1-5 and Luke 12:22-32.

Pastor Jules preaching: This time of year can be difficult for many people. And still, God is with us. Scripture readings from John 1:1-14 and Isaiah 52:7-10

Pastor Jules preaching: We have become God's presence wherever we go. Scripture: Luke 2:1-7 & Isaiah 9:2-7.

Pastor Jim preaching: What difference will it make if Jesus is invited more deeply and conspicuously into our lives? When did gifts and sharing come to represent the spirit of Christmas? Scripture readings from Matthew 1:18-25 and Romans 1:1-7.

Pastor Jules preaching: Even when the way seems desolate, like there is no hope, God brings things once thought dead back to life. Also, learn the surprising origins of camels. Scripture readings from Matthew 11:2-11 and Isaiah 35:1-10.

Pastor Jules preaching: How can we interrupt patterns with negative effects on our lives, and adapt to patterns that better fit our goals, needs, and community wellbeing? Scripture readings from Matthew 3:1-12 and Isaiah 11: 1-10.

Pastor Jim preaching: How to try to stay grounded and the power of gratitude. Scripture readings from Matthew 24: 36-44 and Romans 13:11-14.

Pastor Jules preaching: inspired by Leonard Cohen's "Anthem" lyrics - "There is a crack in everything; that's how the light gets in." Scripture reading from John 1.

Pastor Jules preaching: "Be Still" - the importance of rest and play. Scripture readings from Luke 23:33-43 and Psalm 46.