# Fourth Sunday of Advent - Love Grows
**Theme:** Prince of Peace
**Date:** December 22, 2024
**Location:** St. John's United Church of Christ, Chambersburg, PA
---
## Order of Service
### 🎶 Gathering Song
"This is the Day"
This is the day, this is the day
That the Lord has made, that the Lord has made
We will rejoice, we will rejoice
And be glad in it, and be glad in it
This is the day that the Lord has made
We will rejoice and be glad in it
This is the day, this is the day
That the Lord has made
### 🌟 Unison Welcome
"No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."
### 🗣 Announcements
### ✝️ Passing of the Peace
*"The peace of Christ be with you"*
*"And also with you"*
### 🔔 Chiming of the Trinity & Prelude
### 🙏 Call to Worship
Come, let us sit at the feet, on the shoulders, and in the arms of the loving God who calls us children.
- **We are God’s chosen family**, united by miracles.
- Let us sing songs of praise and worship the One who loves us from creation to resurrection.
- *Let the love of God be the center of our worship today.*
### 🎵 Hymn
#85 “Christians All, Your Lord is Coming”
Christians all, your Lord is coming,
drawing near in holy birth.
Ring the bells and sound the trumpets,
let your music fill the earth.
Dance and move to show God's glory;
kneel and pause to hear God's word.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Rise and let your songs be heard.
Christians all, your Lord is coming,
calling you to serve in deed.
See the ones who hurt and suffer,
hear their cry and act with speed.
Set all selfish ways behind you.
Purge your hearts of sinful greed.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Christ in you will meet their need.
Christians all, your Lord is coming,
he will rise up from the dead.
Lift the cup of sin forgiven;
bless the host and eat his bread.
Mend the ways where peace is broken,
give yourselves to true Shalom.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Dwell as one in church and home.
Christians all, your Lord is coming,
hope for peace is now at hand.
Let there be no hesitation,
walk in faith where life demands.
Bear the word that God has given,
share the birth that stirs your soul.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Christ will come and make you whole.
### 🕯 Lighting of the Advent Candles
**Participants:** Courtney, Asher, and Shiloh Robertson
### 🙏 Call to Confession
"Let us confess the ways in which we have not loved our neighbors."
### 🛐 Prayer of Confession
- *Ever-loving God, you teach us love and compassion.*
- *Forgive us for turning away from suffering and limiting love to familiar boundaries.*
---
## 🎶 Kyrie
**Hymnal Companion C-4**
**Kyrie Eleison** (Lord, Have Mercy)
Kyrie eleison,
Christe eleison,
Kyrie eleison.
**Translation:**
Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.
### Assurance of Grace
*"God’s love is immense and infinite. When we confess, we are forgiven."*
### 🎵 Gloria Patri
Hymn #704
**Gloria Patri** (Glory Be to the Father)
Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son,
and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen. Amen.
### 📖 Scripture Readings
#### Micah 5:2-5a
> **2** But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah,
> who are one of the little clans of Judah,
> from you shall come forth for me
> one who is to rule in Israel,
> whose origin is from of old,
> from ancient days.
> **3** Therefore he shall give them up until the time
> when she who is in labor has brought forth;
> then the rest of his kindred shall return
> to the people of Israel.
> **4** And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord,
> in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.
> And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great
> to the ends of the earth;
> **5** and he shall be the one of peace.
> — [Micah 5:2-5a NRSVUE](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Micah+5%3A2-5&version=NRSVUE)
#### Luke 1:46b-55
> **46** And Mary said,
> "My soul magnifies the Lord,
> **47** and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
> **48** for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
> Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
> **49** for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
> and holy is his name.
> **50** His mercy is for those who fear him
> from generation to generation.
> **51** He has shown strength with his arm;
> he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
> **52** He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
> and lifted up the lowly;
> **53** he has filled the hungry with good things,
> and sent the rich away empty.
> **54** He has helped his servant Israel,
> in remembrance of his mercy,
> **55** according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
> to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
> — [Luke 1:46-55 NRSVUE](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+1%3A46-55&version=NRSVUE)
### 🎶 Anthem
"Concertato on 'Alleluia, Sing to Jesus'" (arr. Robert Lau)
### 🧒 Children’s Message
**Leader:** Roxanne Davenport
*Children’s Corner will follow.*
### 📖 Second Scripture Reading
#### Luke 2:30-32
> **30** for my eyes have seen your salvation,
> **31** which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
> **32** a light for revelation to the Gentiles
> and for glory to your people Israel.
> — [Luke 2:30-32 NRSVUE](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+2%3A30-32&version=NRSVUE)
#### Matthew 9:35-37
> **35** Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness.
> **36** When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
> **37** Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few;
> **38** therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
> — [Matthew 9:35-38 NRSVUE](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+9%3A35-38&version=NRSVUE)
### 📖 Sermon
**Rev. Caroline E. Saxton**
### **🗒 Sermon Summary**
- **Central Message/Takeaway:**
The central message of the sermon is that *love grows*. God's love is expansive, inclusive, and transformative, crossing boundaries of geography, culture, and social status. This love, exemplified through Jesus' birth and ministry, calls us to reflect on how we embody and share love in our lives and communities.
The sermon emphasizes the Advent theme of love, using Simeon's encounter with the baby Jesus as a metaphor for receiving, cradling, and nurturing love, and Jesus' compassion in Matthew as an example of love in action. The call to action invites the congregation to become active participants in spreading this love, especially to marginalized and underrepresented groups.
- **Liturgical/Thematic Focus:**
The sermon ties directly to the fourth Sunday of Advent, focusing on love as the culmination of hope, peace, and joy. The preacher integrates the lighting of the Advent candles into the theme, reinforcing love's central role in the Christmas story and its implications for the congregation's daily lives.
---
### **🎙 Preaching Style**
- **Style:**
The sermon is **Narrative-Expository**:
- It uses storytelling (Simeon's embrace of Jesus, personal experiences of love) to engage the congregation emotionally.
- It includes scriptural exposition to ground the message in biblical texts.
- **Inclusive Examples:**
- Personal and communal experiences, such as the Blue Christmas service and local tragedies, make the sermon relatable.
- The preacher highlights the inclusivity of God's love, noting its expansion to all people and its accessibility across boundaries of geography, culture, and social status.
- **Learning Needs:**
The preacher accommodates diverse learning styles:
- **Auditory learners:** Engaged through vivid storytelling and reflective language.
- **Visual learners:** Supported by the imagery of the Advent candles and the metaphor of love growing like a spreading light.
- **Kinesthetic learners:** Invited to participate through reflection, prayer, and actionable steps to embody love.
---
### **🗣 Intonation and Delivery**
- **Vocal Delivery:**
The preacher's vocal delivery was impactful, with a warm and compassionate tone. Strategic pauses and variations in pace emphasized key points, ensuring clarity and engagement.
- **Gestures and Visuals:**
The lighting of the Advent candles served as a powerful visual aid, symbolizing the growth of love alongside hope, peace, and joy. The preacher's gestures were inviting and inclusive, reinforcing the message's accessibility.
- **Tone:**
The tone was welcoming, empathetic, and hopeful. The preacher struck a balance between addressing grief and loss (e.g., Blue Christmas reflections) and celebrating the joy and growth of love.
---
### **📝 Content Structure**
- **Organization:**
1. **Introduction:**
- Reflections on Advent and the theme of love.
- Acknowledgment of communal grief, loneliness, and hope as part of the Christmas story.
2. **Biblical Exposition:**
- Simeon's encounter with baby Jesus (Luke 2:30-32).
- Jesus' compassion for the crowds (Matthew 9:35-38).
3. **Application:**
- Encouragement to embody love through actions of justice, inclusion, and compassion.
- Call to reflect on personal expressions of love in daily life.
4. **Conclusion:**
- Affirmation of God's love as expansive and transformative.
- Invitation to live out this love as active participants in God's story.
- **Transitions:**
Smooth transitions between scripture, personal stories, and broader themes maintained coherence and reinforced the message.
- **Learning Enhancements:**
The repetition of the "love grows" theme, combined with vivid metaphors (e.g., love as a spreading light), supported retention and understanding.
---
### **👥 Engagement and Application**
- **Engagement:**
The preacher engaged the congregation by addressing shared experiences (e.g., community tragedies, Blue Christmas service) and emphasizing the universality of God's love.
- **Practical Applications:**
- Extend love through tangible actions: supporting neighbors, volunteering, and advocating for justice.
- Reflect on personal biases and how love can transcend them.
- Actively participate in communal efforts to spread love and compassion.
- **Interactive Elements:**
Moments of reflection, prayer, and a communal call to action engaged auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learners.
---
### **📖 Scripture Breakdown**
- **Micah 5:2-5a:**
- This prophecy highlights the humble origins of Jesus and his role as the shepherd who brings peace.
- It sets the stage for understanding love as rooted in humility and service.
- **Luke 1:46b-55 (Mary's Song):**
- Mary's praise celebrates God's love and justice, particularly for the oppressed and marginalized.
- The passage reinforces the expansive and inclusive nature of divine love.
- **Luke 2:30-32:**
- Simeon's praise emphasizes the recognition of God's salvation and the joy of receiving and nurturing love.
- **Matthew 9:35-38:**
- Jesus' compassion for the crowds serves as a model for how love can manifest in action, especially for those who are lost or marginalized.
- The call for laborers in the harvest parallels the congregation’s role in spreading love.
---
### **Logical Reasoning**
- **Strengths in Reasoning:**
1. **Causal Reasoning:** The preacher effectively linked Jesus' actions of compassion to the congregation’s responsibility to act out of love.
2. **Balanced and Nuanced Views:** The sermon acknowledged grief, loss, and hardship alongside hope and joy, making the message relatable and grounded in reality.
3. **Appeal to Facts/Evidence:** The preacher drew on biblical texts and historical context to support the message.
- **Suggestions for Improvement:**
- Include more specific examples of how the congregation can act on the message in their local context.
- Provide additional connections to contemporary social justice issues.
---
### **📚 References**
- **Referenced Texts:**
- *"Jesus is the Question"* by Martin B. Copenhaver (upcoming book study).
- Commentary from Rev. Dr. D.T. Park.
- **Marginalized Voices:**
The sermon emphasized the inclusion of all people, particularly the marginalized, as central to God's love and Jesus' ministry.
---
### **🗨 Quotes and Illustrative Stories**
- **Impactful Quotes:**
- "Love grows."
- "God’s love is not limited—it is ever-expanding."
- "The Gospel in one word is love."
- **Illustrative Stories:**
- Simeon’s embrace of Jesus: A tender moment symbolizing the receiving and nurturing of love.
- References to local tragedies and the Blue Christmas service: Highlighting love's role in addressing grief and hardship.
---
### **🔄 Calls to Action**
- **Encouraged Actions:**
- Reflect on how to embody love in daily life.
- Actively participate in initiatives that promote justice and inclusion.
- Join communal efforts such as the upcoming book study to deepen understanding of Jesus' teachings.
- **Learning Accommodations:**
The calls to action were clear and supported by visual symbols (e.g., Advent candles) and reflective moments, engaging multiple learning styles.
### **📚 References**
#### Referenced Texts:
1. **"Jesus is the Question: The 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the 3 He Answered"** by Martin B. Copenhaver
- **Overview:**
This book explores how Jesus used questions to engage with people and provoke reflection, rather than simply providing answers. It emphasizes that faith is often about asking and wrestling with questions rather than finding definitive solutions.
- **Connection to Sermon:**
The preacher mentioned this book to invite the congregation into deeper exploration of Jesus' methods of teaching and engaging with others. By framing Jesus as someone who asks rather than always answers, the sermon challenges the audience to approach their faith journey with curiosity and openness.
- **Future Opportunity:**
The preacher encouraged participation in a **weekly book study** starting January 6, 2025, to delve deeper into the themes of this book.
2. **Commentary from Rev. Dr. D.T. Park**
- **Overview:**
Dr. Park is a renowned theologian known for his work on cross-cultural theology and inclusivity in the church. His commentary on the universality of Jesus’ mission highlights the way God’s love expands beyond traditional boundaries.
- **Connection to Sermon:**
The preacher cited Dr. Park to emphasize the expansive nature of God’s love, as seen in Jesus’ interactions with both Jews and Gentiles. This supports the sermon’s theme of inclusivity and the call to embrace others with love.
#### Additional Insights:
- **Historical and Contextual References:**
- The preacher referenced the Advent tradition of lighting candles, with specific emphasis on love, to symbolize the spreading of God’s light in a dark world.
- Simeon’s role in Luke was contextualized as the only figure besides Mary to physically hold Jesus, making his recognition of Jesus as the Messiah an intimate and profound act of love.
- **Connections to Congregational Life:**
- The **Blue Christmas Service** was mentioned as an example of addressing grief and loss with love and compassion, aligning the sermon’s message with the congregation’s shared experiences.
- References to local tragedies (e.g., recent violence in Chambersburg) underscored the need for the congregation to embody love in real, tangible ways within their own community.
#### Marginalized Voices Highlighted:
- The sermon emphasized how the biblical texts call for inclusion of all people, particularly marginalized groups, into the fold of God’s love.
- While no specific Black theologians or LGBTQIA+ scholars were cited, the message aligned with broader themes of equity and justice found in liberation theology.
---
### Suggestions for Further Study:
1. **Liberation Theology:**
- Explore writings by **Gustavo Gutiérrez** or **James Cone**, which align with the sermon’s focus on justice and inclusivity.
2. **Mary’s Role in Scripture:**
- Delve into works like *"Truly Our Sister"* by Elizabeth A. Johnson, which examines Mary as a model of faith and inclusivity.
3. **The Use of Questions in Faith:**
- Additional books like *"The God Who Questions"* by Leonard J. DeLorenzo provide further insights into how Jesus’ questioning style fosters deeper reflection and engagement.
### 🛐 Sharing of Joys and Concerns
### 🙏 Prayers of the People & The Lord’s Prayer (Debts)
**The Lord's Prayer**
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
forever. Amen.
### 💌 Invitation to Giving
### 🎵 Offertory Response
"Hope in the God who reigns above, holding us in steadfast love."
Hope in the God who reigns above,
Who holds us all in steadfast love;
Whose Spirit blows across the earth,
Preparing us for second birth. Amen.
### 🙏 Prayer of Dedication
*"God, our Loving Parent, your love compels us to give."*
### 🎵 Hymn
#723 “Canticle of the Turning”
My soul cries out with a joyful shout
That the God of my heart is great,
And my spirit sings of the wondrous things
That you bring to the ones who wait.
You fixed your sight on your servant's plight,
And my weakness you did not spurn,
So from east to west shall my name be blessed.
Could the world be about to turn?
**Refrain:**
My heart shall sing of the day you bring.
Let the fires of your justice burn.
Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near,
And the world is about to turn.
Though I am small, my God, my all,
You work great things in me,
And your mercy will last from the depths of the past
To the end of the age to be.
Your very name puts the proud to shame,
And to those who would for you yearn,
You will show your might, put the strong to flight,
For the world is about to turn.
**Refrain**
From the halls of power to the fortress tower,
Not a stone will be left on stone.
Let the king beware, for your justice tears
Every tyrant from his throne.
The hungry poor shall weep no more,
For the food they can never earn;
There are tables spread, every mouth be fed,
For the world is about to turn.
**Refrain**
Though the nations rage from age to age,
We remember who holds us fast:
God's mercy must deliver us
From the conqueror's crushing grasp.
This saving word that our forebears heard
Is the promise which holds us bound,
'Til the spear and rod can be crushed by God,
Who is turning the world around.
**Refrain**
---
## Announcements and Vision
## This Week at St. John's
- **Tuesday, December 24**
- Office Closing: 12:00 pm
- 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Service – Fellowship Hall
- 7:00 pm Christmas Eve Service – Sanctuary
- **Wednesday, December 25**
- Church Holiday – Christmas (Office Closed)
- **Thursday, December 26**
- Church Holiday – Christmas (Office Closed)
- **Sunday, December 29**
- 8:45 am Wired Word Church School Class – Room 116
- 10:00 am Sunday Service – Sanctuary
---
### Special Announcements
#### 🎄 Christmas Fund
The Christmas Fund supports the Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund, providing financial support to clergy, lay employees, and their families in need. Contributions will be received on December 22 and 29. Please designate "Christmas Fund" in the memo line of your check or envelope.
#### ✨ Christmas Eve Worship Services
- 5:00 pm in Fellowship Hall
- 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary
#### 🎭 Silent Night, Holy Night
Actors are needed to help portray the Christmas story on Christmas Eve (both 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm). Sign up on the Youth Bulletin Board.
#### 💙 Blue Christmas Service
Thank you to all who supported our Blue Christmas service. We pray it provided healing and hope.
#### 🎵 Bell Choir and Choir Rehearsals
Rehearsals will not be held on December 26. They will resume on Thursday, January 2. New ringers and singers are always welcome! Contact Gary Crum for details.
---
### Ongoing and Upcoming Activities
#### 🧒 Children's Church School Classes
Classes will not meet on Sunday, December 29. Godly Play, Spark! Elementary, and Teen Discussion classes will resume on Sunday, January 5.
#### 🎁 Reverse Advent Calendar
Spread holiday cheer by participating in the Reverse Advent Calendar! Boxes should be returned by Christmas Eve for dedication and delivery. More information is in the December Spirit.
#### 🧼 Operation Dishwasher
Thank you for your support in replacing the dishwasher in the church kitchen. The campaign goal of $20,000 is nearly complete!
#### ❄️ Winter Weather Policy
- If snow occurs and you're unsure if Sunday Worship is canceled, check your email for an e-blast or call the church office for updates.
- If CASD (local school district) cancels classes:
- Morning activities will be canceled if there is a delay.
- Evening activities will be canceled if there is an early dismissal.
#### 🧣 Winter Warmth Drive
Help families in the community stay warm and fed this winter.
**Donations Needed (Dec 1 – Jan 15):**
- Mittens, gloves, winter hats, and socks
- First aid kits, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner
- Tissues, paper towels, toothpaste
- Laundry detergent and soap
#### 🖼 Photo Reminder
Submit photos for the new church directory by **Friday, December 27**. Email them to: `
[email protected]`
#### 📖 New Year, New Book Study
- Begins Monday, January 6, at 1:00 pm in the Conference Room.
- Study: *"Jesus is the Question: The 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the 3 He Answered"* by Martin B. Copenhaver.
- Focus of the first session: Forward and Introduction.
- Books are available from your favorite retailer. All are welcome!
#### 🕊 Community MLK Day Service
- **Date:** Sunday, January 19, 2025
- **Time:** 3:00 pm
- **Location:** Central Presbyterian Church
- **Theme:** "Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence."
- **Details:** Young people are invited to present essays or creative expressions (artwork, dance, photography, drama).
For more information, speak with Pastor Caroline.
---
*For questions or additional details, contact the church office.*## This Week at St. John's
- **Tuesday, December 24**
- Office Closing: 12:00 pm
- 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Service – Fellowship Hall
- 7:00 pm Christmas Eve Service – Sanctuary
- **Wednesday, December 25**
- Church Holiday – Christmas (Office Closed)
- **Thursday, December 26**
- Church Holiday – Christmas (Office Closed)
- **Sunday, December 29**
- 8:45 am Wired Word Church School Class – Room 116
- 10:00 am Sunday Service – Sanctuary
---
### Special Announcements
#### 🎄 Christmas Fund
The Christmas Fund supports the Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund, providing financial support to clergy, lay employees, and their families in need. Contributions will be received on December 22 and 29. Please designate "Christmas Fund" in the memo line of your check or envelope.
#### ✨ Christmas Eve Worship Services
- 5:00 pm in Fellowship Hall
- 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary
#### 🎭 Silent Night, Holy Night
Actors are needed to help portray the Christmas story on Christmas Eve (both 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm). Sign up on the Youth Bulletin Board.
#### 💙 Blue Christmas Service
Thank you to all who supported our Blue Christmas service. We pray it provided healing and hope.
#### 🎵 Bell Choir and Choir Rehearsals
Rehearsals will not be held on December 26. They will resume on Thursday, January 2. New ringers and singers are always welcome! Contact Gary Crum for details.
---
### Ongoing and Upcoming Activities
#### 🧒 Children's Church School Classes
Classes will not meet on Sunday, December 29. Godly Play, Spark! Elementary, and Teen Discussion classes will resume on Sunday, January 5.
#### 🎁 Reverse Advent Calendar
Spread holiday cheer by participating in the Reverse Advent Calendar! Boxes should be returned by Christmas Eve for dedication and delivery. More information is in the December Spirit.
#### 🧼 Operation Dishwasher
Thank you for your support in replacing the dishwasher in the church kitchen. The campaign goal of $20,000 is nearly complete!
#### ❄️ Winter Weather Policy
- If snow occurs and you're unsure if Sunday Worship is canceled, check your email for an e-blast or call the church office for updates.
- If CASD (local school district) cancels classes:
- Morning activities will be canceled if there is a delay.
- Evening activities will be canceled if there is an early dismissal.
#### 🧣 Winter Warmth Drive
Help families in the community stay warm and fed this winter.
**Donations Needed (Dec 1 – Jan 15):**
- Mittens, gloves, winter hats, and socks
- First aid kits, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner
- Tissues, paper towels, toothpaste
- Laundry detergent and soap
#### 🖼 Photo Reminder
Submit photos for the new church directory by **Friday, December 27**. Email them to: `
[email protected]`
#### 📖 New Year, New Book Study
- Begins Monday, January 6, at 1:00 pm in the Conference Room.
- Study: *"Jesus is the Question: The 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the 3 He Answered"* by Martin B. Copenhaver.
- Focus of the first session: Forward and Introduction.
- Books are available from your favorite retailer. All are welcome!
#### 🕊 Community MLK Day Service
- **Date:** Sunday, January 19, 2025
- **Time:** 3:00 pm
- **Location:** Central Presbyterian Church
- **Theme:** "Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence."
- **Details:** Young people are invited to present essays or creative expressions (artwork, dance, photography, drama).
For more information, speak with Pastor Caroline.
---
*For questions or additional details, contact the church office.*
### Birthdays This Week
- 12/23: MaryLee Yaukey, Kathleen Mooshian
- 12/24: Michael Brechbill
- 12/26: Holly Hoover
- 12/27: Connie Evans
- 12/29: Mark Hoger
### Worship Participants
- **Pastor:** Rev. Caroline E. Saxton