For Advent, we’re following the guide Celebrating Abundance by Walter Brueggemann. We want to create space to sit in the tension between our illusions of abundance and the abundance of newness. Or as Brueggemann says about Advent: "Advent is preparation for the demands of newness that will break the tired patterns of fear in our lives."

 

Advent 1: Newness Is On Its Way

Song: Children Of The Earth by Josh Garrels

Recognition of Souls:

Living God, visit us in this season with your Holy Spirit that we may get carried away to do obedient things we have not yet done, kingdom things we did not think we had in us, neighbor things from which we cringe. May you act in us, through us, beyond us, more than we imagine, because newness is on its way among us.

Amen.

Song: Are You Listening by United Pursuit

Reading:

John is not the newness. He prepares us for the newness. And his word is that if we want to be immersed in the life giving power of God, then we must do as john says: share your coat and shoes and goods; manage money in neighborly ways; quit being the heavy in social transactions. Who would’ve thought such concrete acts are the tactic whereby God's newness will yet come!

Advent is not the kind of “preparation” that involves shopping and parties and cards. Such illusions of abundance disguise the true cravings of our weary souls.  Advent is preparation for the demands of newness that will break the tired patterns of fear in our lives.

Song: Everything Now by Arcade Fire

Reading: Luke 3:15-16

Song: O Come O Come Emmanuel

Sermon: Darren Fred

Song: For Joy by Aaron Strumpel

Song: May You Find A Light by The Brilliance

Benediction:

God, You are here

God, You are good

God, You are enough

Amen

 

Resource

Celebrating Abundance by Walter Brueggemann

Practice

During times of stress this week, pause and repeat this:

God, You are here

God, You are good

God, You are enough

[Your name], you are here

[Your name], you are good

[Your name], you are enough