There are principles of the "new" that have not changed from what came before. "Good news to the poor, release to the captives, recovery of sight to the blind, the year of the Lord's favor." These promises are as valid today as there were when Jesus first spoke them. Luke 4:14- 21

This is Jesus' first miracle, his "Big Debut." This is Jesus' "coming out" party. Why did he perform his first miracle at a wedding? Could it have something to do with the wedding as a metaphor for Christ's ultimate return? John 2:1-11

Baptism is our calling to ministry. It's the ministry of the baptized that makes the church go forward. Just as Jesus' baptism was the launch to his ministry, remembering our baptism can be a launch of our own. Sometimes launches fail. Failure doesn't mean its not worth trying again. Failure only means that we have figured out another way for it not to work. If you didn't launch successfully, it is ok to try again and say, "Here I am Lord, send me!"

This sermon explores the visit of the Magi and Epiphany, a "fool's journey." May we all be so foolish as to believe the signs that God puts before us, where Christ might be revealed to us, and we might be a part of revealing Christ to others.

The incarnation points to God's plan of salvation. So what are we being"saved" from? Is salvation a get-out of hell-free ticket to be redeemed upon death, or is salvation here, now?

Emmanuel – God is with us – this is the ultimate promise of the Christmas story. It is the ultimate longing of the Advent season. It has been a difficult couple of years, and it is important that we remember that, through it all, God is with us. Matthew 1:20b-23

Ever been in the dark, literally? You're scrambling to find the switch, the flashlight, anything to bring light into the darkness. That is what God does with the incarnation; Jesus brings light into a dark world; YOU can shine that light this Christmas and beyond.

"Do not be afraid" seems to be a popular phrase in the scripture. It was spoken by angels to Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds. Fear is often a daily struggle in the midst of a global pandemic. If we can live out our calling to be part of God's incarnation, we will know that God is with us in all times.

Preparing for Advent, the coming of Christ, is more than decorating trees and hanging lights. To prepare ourselves means it's time to clean house and invite Jesus into our lives. Yes, even we need saving!

The wisemen or magi from the East point to one aspect of the Messiah; that is, Jesus is Lord. When we claim Jesus as Lord of our lives, we become citizens of the Church of God. Matthew 2:1-10.