"Wonder" There's nothing quite like looking up at a sky full of stars on a clear dark night far from the city. At this time of year I like to imagine the wisemen who spending their lives studying the night sky and suddenly realizing that something big is happening. When they realize that God is doing something new they set off to find out what it is. The wise men probably expected to find a royal child adorned in all sorts of luxury but instead found Jesus, surrounded by animals born to an unwed mother. It was certainly not what they expected, but they bowed down anyway, gave their gifts and left... still wondering what God is up to. God is still doing unexpected things and still giving us reasons to look around and wonder.

In a world that seems intent on moving faster and faster pushing us to the limits of exhaustion and anxiety God calls us to stop and reflect. This time for reflection gives us a chance to see what God has done, and a chance to see what God is doing all around us. God is at work here and now, but sometimes it is only in the stillness and silence that we can begin to see it.

Dr. Leland Albright preaches on Christmas Day 2016.

Tucked into verse 3 of the familiar song "Away in a Manger" is a beautiful prayer. "Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask you to stay close by me forever and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in your tender care and fit us for heaven, to live with you there."

Blue Christmas:  a service of hope for the holidays

Just an Ordinary Girl

1st Sunday of Advent, sermon preached by Pastor Ben Sloss

Interfaith Community Thanksgiving Service - message given by Pastor Ben Sloss, Grace Lutheran Church

Christ the King Sunday, sermon preached by Pastor Saïd Ailabouni.

26th Sunday after Pentecost; sermon preached by Pastor Ben Sloss