“In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see- I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people; to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”
Luke 2:8-14
Recently we celebrated Thanksgiving, and now we find ourselves in the season of Advent. Advent is a time of preparing. With the season of Advent, we are given the opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for a time of celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus.
As we light each candle on the Advent wreath, let us prayerfully draw close to our Christian faith and journey with Jesus.
In the Advent hymn that we sing at worship “Light One Candle to watch for Messiah” it says,
“Light one candle to watch for Messiah: let the light banish darkness. He shall bring salvation to Israel, God fulfills the promise.”
“Light two candles to watch for Messiah: let the light banish darkness. He shall feed the flock like a shepherd, gently lead them homeward.”
“Light three candles to watch for Messiah: let the light banish darkness. Lift your heads and lift high the gateway for the King of glory.”
“Light four candles to watch for Messiah: let the light banish darkness. He is coming, tell the glad tidings. Let your lights be shining!”
So let me ask you a couple of questions to ponder in this Advent season.
How has God been speaking to you this year and in this time?
What are you most excited about for this Advent and Christmas season?
This year on Christmas Eve on December 24, we will be having two service opportunities for you and your family to worship together at Two Steeples Parish:
Springdale – 3 p.m.
West Blue Mounds – 5 p.m.
We look forward to our opportunities to worship together during the season of Advent and Christmas and celebrate God’s wonderful gift to all humankind, Jesus our Lord and Savior!
Peace and Joy in Jesus!
Jim Ranney ><>
