Posts Tagged ‘Advent’

Fourth Sunday of Advent: Hope in the Midst of Tribulation

Dec 15, 2010

Lectionary Readings: Isaiah 7:10-14. At a time when the Davidic dynasty was threatened severely, even with the loss of the throne, Isaiah promised survival but through God alone. Romans 1: 1-7. Paul has been designated to announce the Gospel – Jesus Christ, “descended from David according to the flesh but… Son of God… by his ... Read more

Third Sunday of Advent: Being Progressively Patient

Dec 7, 2010

Lectionary Readings: Isaiah 35: 1-6, 10. The prophet sees the desert blooming with new life, as the eyes of the blind our open, the ears of the deaf unsealed, and everyone returns singing to Zion. James 5: 7-10. The patience of the farmer is emphasized. He plants the seed in the autumn and waits through ... Read more

Second Sunday of Advent: A Savior’s Resume

Dec 1, 2010

Lectionary Readings: Isaiah 11:1-10. After destruction and long waiting, the official spring of David will come as a tender shoot out of the hidden root of Jesse, David’s father; a new paradigm will be enjoyed by all. Romans 15:4-9. Everything has been written four our instruction and encouragement, so that we may live in perfect ... Read more

1st Sunday Of Advent: A Light in the Darkness

Nov 23, 2010

Lectionary Readings: Isaiah 2: 1-5. Isaiah prophesizes about the future glory of Jerusalem. “They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; one nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war again.” Romans 13: 11-14. Paul reminds the Romans that they must be awake and ready for ... Read more

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Dec 16, 2009

Readings: Micah 5:1-4. Not from mighty Jerusalem but from insignificant Bethlehem would come the ruler of Israel; his origins reached back to most ancient promises. Hebrews 10:5-10. What was prefigured in Israelite sacrifices reached a fulfillment in the body of Jesus and his desire to do always the will of the Father. By this “will” ... Read more

Third Sunday of Advent

Dec 9, 2009

Readings: Zephaniah 3:14-18a -The prophet composes a hymn of hope for Jerusalem and the temple where “the Lord is in your midst.” Philippians 4:4-7 – Rejoice in the Lord always … The Lord is near. Present your needs to God. Then God’s own peace, beyond your comprehension, will stand guard over your hearts and minds. ... Read more

Second Sunday of Advent

Dec 1, 2009

Readings: Baruch 5:1-9.  The Glory breaks over the new Jerusalem and God’s people return to their homeland. Phil 1: 4-6, 8-11. Paul prays for the completion of God’s holiness and charity among these, his favorite converts. Luke 3:1-6. John the Baptist is introduced amidst the data of world history. Thoughts for your consideration: By John ... Read more

First Sunday of Advent

Nov 24, 2009

Readings: Jeremiah 33:14-16. God will raise a tender shoot or branch from the seemingly dead root of the Davidic royal house. Because God wonderfully fulfills his promises to Jerusalem, the city of David will be renamed: “The Lord our justice.” 1 Thessalonians 3:12 – 4:2. We are exhorted to keep our hearts blameless for the ... Read more