ASLC Podcast

Introduction
Light shines in the darkness for the upright, the psalmist sings. Isaiah
declares that when we loose the bonds of injustice and share our bread
with the hungry, the light breaks forth like the dawn. In another
passage from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus, the light of the world,
calls his followers to let the light of their good works shine before
others. Through baptism we are sent into the world to shine with the
light of Christ.
This is the Day that the Lord has made!
Let us rejoice and be glad in it!

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 58:1-9a, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 and Matthew 5:13-20

Who are the blessed ones of God? For Micah, they are those who do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. For Jesus, they are the poor, the meek, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, those who mourn, and those who hunger for righteousness. In baptism we find our blessed identity and calling in this countercultural way of living and serving.
Scripture Readings: Micah 6:1-8; Psalm 15; Matthew 5:1-12

Jesus begins his public ministry by calling fishers to leave their nets and follow him. In Jesus the kingdom of God has come near. We who have walked in darkness have seen a great light. We see this light most profoundly in the cross—as God suffers with us and all who are oppressed by sickness, sin, or evil. Light dawns for us as we gather around the word, the font, and the holy table.
Scripture Readings: Psalm 27:1, 4-9; Matthew 4:12-23
Jesus begins his public ministry shortly after John the Baptist is imprisoned by Herod. He proclaims the nearness of God’s reign and calls four fishermen to be his first

Introduction
Today’s gospel opens with further reflection on Jesus’ baptism. He is
the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world and the one
anointed by the Spirit. In the liturgy we come and see Christ revealed
among us in word and meal. We go forth to invite others to come and
worship the Holy One and to receive the gifts of grace and peace made
known among us.

Psalm 40:1-11

1 Corinthians 1:1-9

Introduction
In the waters of the Jordan, Jesus is revealed as the beloved Son of God.
Through this great epiphany, Jesus fulfills all righteousness and becomes
the servant of God who will bring forth justice and be a light to the nations.
In the waters of baptism we too are washed by the Word, anointed by the
Spirit, and named God’s beloved children. Our baptismal mission is to
proclaim good news to all who are oppressed or in need of God’s healing.

Isaiah 42:1-9, Matthew 3:13-17

Introduction
The feast of Epiphany (“manifestation”) concludes the Christmas
season with a celebration of God’s glory revealed in the person of
Jesus Christ. In Isaiah and Ephesians, that glory is proclaimed for all
nations and people. Like the light of the star that guided the magi to
Jesus, the light of Christ reveals who we are: children of God who are
claimed and washed in the waters of baptism. We are sent out to be
beacons of the light of Christ, sharing the good news of God’s love to
all people.

Scripture Readings: Psalms 72:1-7, 10-14; Matthew 2:1-23

Lessons: Isaiah 9:2-7, Micah 5:2-5a, Luke 2:1-7, Luke 2:8-16, Matthew 2:1-11 and John 1:1-14

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.

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 9:2-7; Psalm 96; Luke 2:1-20

Today Isaiah prophesies that a young woman will bear a son and name him Emmanuel. The gospel is Matthew’s account of the annunciation and birth of the one named Emmanuel, God-with-us. On this final Sunday of Advent we prepare to celebrate the birth of the one born to save us from the power of sin and death.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 7:10-16; Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Romans 1:1-7

A note of joyful expectation marks today’s worship. Isaiah announces that the desert shall rejoice and blossom, and Jesus points to the unexpected and transforming signs of God’s reign. We wait with patience for the coming of the Lord, even as we rejoice at his presence among us this day: in word and holy supper, in church and in our homes, in silent reflection and in works of justice and love. We pray that God would open our eyes and ears to the wonders of Christ’s advent among us.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10; Psalm 146:5-10; Matthew 11:2-11
John the Baptist expects the Messiah to bring God’s judgment upon the earth (Matt. 3:11-12). From a prison cell, he wonders whether Jesus is the one who will do this. Jesus’ response indicates that God’s reign is indeed being fulfilled already through healing and restoration.