The reign of God has begun. Those who fished for fish will hereafter fish for people. The way they earned a living prepared them for life in the reign of God.

Nathaniel is the first person in the gospels to insult Jesus. Then Jesus praises him for it. Are the followers of Jesus known for being those "in whom there is no deceit" today?

In Mark's gospel, at Jesus' baptism the clouds don't just part. Instead, the heavens are torn open. Somthing has changeddrastically. Also, the voice of God appears to be heard by Jesus alone. What's up with that?

Those who encounter Jesus always leave the experience "by another road" as changed people. How is that change going to live out in us as individuals and as a congregation in the coming year?

Simeon says in his song that the child he holds in his arms, the child he has waited for so long, Jesus is "destined for the rising and falling of many". New Years Day is a time when we think about the times we have fallen and our regrets, as well as our hopes of rising above the past with God's help. This worship service will offer a chance to let go of our regrets and go forth with our hopes

There are a number of legends about animals who were present at the birth of Jesus. This is a story I wrote the Advent just before our older daughter, Sarah, was born about a cat that was present for that wondrous event, and who brings a different perspective to Jesus' birth