Growing in the Faith of Advent
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Gathering
Take time to gather informally and preview the service outline. If you'd like to participate in communion and lighting of the advent candles, please be prepared to do so.
Service
I. Opening
Welcome and Introduction: Welcome, fellow preppers, to our service for the second Sunday in Advent. As we navigate the challenges of preparing for uncertain times, let us also prepare our hearts for the arrival of the greatest gift—Jesus Christ.
Opening Prayer: Gracious and Sovereign Father, as we gather in this sacred moment, we open our hearts in faith, trusting in Your divine guidance and provision. We reflect on the journey of Mary and Joseph, a testament of unwavering faith and preparedness, as they navigated the path laid before them. May their example inspire us to place our trust in Your perfect timing and steadfast provision. Bless this time of reflection, O Lord, as we explore the intertwining threads of faith and preparedness, anchoring our hearts in Your unfailing love. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, we pray. Amen.
Advent Candles: Today we light the second Advent candle, called “The Bethlehem Candle” or sometimes called the candle of Faith. This candle commemorates Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.
Scripture: Luke 2:1-5 (AMP) Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, [ordering] that a census be taken of the entire inhabited earth (the Roman Empire). This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to register for the census, each to his own city. So Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register with Mary, who was betrothed to him, and was with child.
Insight: According to Google Maps, traveling form Nazareth to Bethlehem today by car would take 1 hour and 56 minutes over 93 miles (151 kilometers), has tolls, and crosses country borders. On foot, it would take 34 hours of travel time. If Mary and Joseph were in shape and could trek 8 hours a day, the journey would take just over 4 days. Oh, and remember—Mary is going to give birth real soon.
II. Worship and Praise
Let's enter into a time of worship, reflecting on the value of Faith
Video Link: Home Free - O' Holy Night
Reflection: Here are a few points for reflection that individuals can ponder while listening to this rendition of O’ Holy Night:
- Profound Mystery: Consider the profound mystery and miracle of the Holy Night when Jesus was born. Reflect on the awe-inspiring nature of the Incarnation, where God took on human form to dwell among us.
- Divine Harmony: As you listen to the rich harmonies in the song, reflect on the divine harmony brought into the world through the birth of Christ. The union of heaven and earth, symbolized in the angelic announcement to the shepherds, resonates in the musical harmony.
- Redemption's Story: "O Holy Night" narrates the story of the world's redemption. Reflect on the lyrics that speak of the "thrill of hope" and the arrival of the Redeemer. Consider the impact of Christ's birth on the course of human history.
- Universal Relevance: The message of Christmas extends beyond time and place. Reflect on how the timeless message of "O Holy Night" continues to resonate and bring hope to people across generations and cultures.
- Personal Encounter: Christmas is not just a historical event; it's an invitation to a personal encounter with the Savior. Use this time to reflect on your own relationship with the Christ whose birth is celebrated in this timeless hymn.
Allow the powerful lyrics and harmonies of O Holy Night to guide your thoughts toward the significance of the season and the profound meaning of Christ's birth.
III. Communion
Let's partake in communion as we remember the profound sacrifice that began with the humble birth of our Savior.
Communion symbolizes Jesus' sacrifice, offering forgiveness and eternal life to those who believe. It's for those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior. We invite you to take communion at home, guiding you through preparation, prayer, and reflection. It's an opportunity to introduce the practice to your family, fostering meaningful conversations about its significance.
During the time of Communion, please share the cup and break the bread as is suitable for your gathering
IV: Message: “Faith in God's Provision”
As we kindle the second candle in our Advent wreath, the Bethlehem Candle, let its flame symbolize the growing light of faith within our hearts.
Today, we center our reflections on the profound concept of faith and how it intertwines with our journey of preparedness. Just as this candle shines brightly, may our collective faith illuminate our paths and inspire us to trust in God's provision. Let us learn from the wisdom of scriptures as we explore the harmonious connection between faith, preparedness, and community.
The Wisdom of Preparedness: Insights from Proverbs
Proverbs 6:6-8 (AMP): Go to the ant, O lazy one; Observe her ways and be wise, Which, having no chief, Overseer or ruler, Provides her food in the summer, And gathers her provision in the harvest.
Proverbs 21:20 (AMP): There is precious treasure and oil in the house of the wise [who prepare for the future], But a short-sighted and foolish man swallows it up and wastes it.
Reflection: Like the ant, diligently preparing during times of abundance, we are called to exercise wisdom in our preparedness. This aligns with the idea of having faith in God's provision by responsibly stewarding the resources He provides.
Divine Guidance in Preparation: Joseph's Story in Genesis
Genesis 41:34-36 (AMP): Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers and officials over the land, and set aside one-fifth [of the produce] of the [entire] land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance. Let them gather [as a tax] all [of the fifth of] the food of these good years that are coming, and store up grain under the authority and control of Pharaoh as food [supply] in the cities. And let them guard it as a reserve for the land during the seven years of famine which will occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land will not be ravaged during the famine.
Reflection: Joseph's obedience to interpret Pharaoh's dream and the subsequent storage of provisions were divinely guided actions. This narrative highlights the intersection of faith and preparation, emphasizing that our preparedness can be an act of faith when guided by divine wisdom.
Inherent Faith and Wisdom: The Ant's Lesson in Proverbs
Proverbs 30:24-25 (AMP): Four things are small on the earth, But they are exceedingly wise: The ants are not a strong people, Yet they prepare their food in the summer.
Reflection: The metaphor of ants in Proverbs underscores the innate wisdom and faith within us. We are born with a sense of preparedness and an understanding of the seasons of life. Like the ants, our inherent faith and wisdom guide us in being prepared for various seasons.
The Faithful and Wise Manager: Lessons from Luke
Luke 12:42-43 (AMP): The Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise steward [of the estate], whom his master will put in charge over his household, to give his servants their portion of food at the proper time? Blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired) is that servant whom his master finds so doing when he arrives.
Reflection: The faithful and wise manager in Luke understands the balance between using resources wisely and saving for the future. This Biblical illustration encourages us to cultivate similar qualities of discernment and faithful stewardship in our lives.
Unity in Community
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (AMP): Two are better than one because they have a more satisfying return for their labor; for if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and does not have another to lift him up. Again, if two lie down together, then they keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? And though one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Reflection: Let’s be sure to acknowledge the value of community and collaborative preparedness. Ecclesiastes emphasizes the strength found in unity, highlighting that two are better than one and a cord of three strands is not quickly broken. This encourages the idea that our collective faith and preparedness can have a broader impact.
Those in the military tell us that the right number of people in a foxhole is three: one can rest, one can be on lookout, and one can work on other tasks like cooking, cleaning, first aid, repairs, etc. There is great value in teaming up and working together.
Faith in God's Provision
Matthew 6:25-26 (AMP): “Therefore I tell you, stop being worried
or anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted) about your life, as to what you
will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, as to what you will wear.
Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look
at the birds of the air; they neither sow [seed] nor reap [the harvest] nor
gather [the crops] into barns, and yet your heavenly Father keeps feeding them.
Are you not worth much more than they?”
Trusting God's Timing
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (AMP): There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven—A time to be born and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance.
Reflection: Ecclesiastes teaches us the divine artistry of timing. As we engage in preparedness, let us trust God's perfect timing—recognizing the appointed seasons in which our actions align with His sovereign plan. This wisdom, woven into the fabric of our lives, ensures that our efforts bear fruit in His ordained moments.
Conclusion
Today, as we stand in the glow of the Bethlehem Candle, the flame of faith flickers within our hearts. We've journeyed through the Scriptures, discovering the harmony between faith and practical preparedness. In the wisdom of the ant, we've witnessed diligence in preparation. The House of the Wise, storing choice food and oil, reminded us to preserve not just for tomorrow but for the future.
Joseph's obedient response to God's message speaks volumes about faith in action, knowing that God's guidance is our ultimate source of wisdom. The metaphor of ants and their wisdom encourages us to tap into the innate faith and wisdom bestowed upon us by our Creator.
Reflecting on the faithful and wise manager in Luke, we're reminded that responsible stewardship involves discernment—knowing when to use resources and when to store them. As we journey through life, let's be like the ants, the wise, and Joseph—faithful stewards of God's provision.
In Ecclesiastes, we find the strength of companionship and the power of unity. A cord of three strands is not easily broken. In our faith journey, let us weave together trust in divine guidance, responsible preparation, and the bonds of community.
As we close this chapter on faith and preparedness, let the flame of the Bethlehem Candle illuminate our path. Faith in God's provision isn't a passive endeavor—it's an active partnership. Trust in divine guidance, responsibly prepare for the future, and stand united in the journey. May this flame of faith burn bright in our hearts, guiding us in every season of life.
Closing Prayer
Gracious Father, as we reflect on the lessons of faith and preparedness, may our hearts be attuned to Your wisdom. Help us to trust in Your provision, guided by faith, and to be diligent stewards of the resources You entrust to us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
V: Offering
We trust each local group to manage their offerings locally, guided by faith and the Holy Spirit. Let all our generosity strengthen our community and reach those in need around us.
In other words: do collect the offering, but don't send it to me. You decide what to do with it.
VI: Closing
Closing Prayer: Gracious Father, we thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word and the guidance it provides for our journey. As we reflect on the essence of faith, both in trusting Your divine plan and responsibly preparing for the future, may Your Spirit guide us in applying these truths to our lives. Grant us discernment in every season, and may our preparedness be a testimony to Your faithfulness. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Closing Remarks: Before we part ways, let these words linger in your hearts. May the faith that inspired the ant's diligence, the wisdom that stores up choice provisions, and the divine direction witnessed in Joseph's actions be woven into the fabric of your daily lives. Let faith and preparedness walk hand in hand, embracing God's timing and following His lead. As you go forth, may the light of the Bethlehem Candle illuminate your path, and may the Advent season deepen your anticipation of the coming Christ. Until we meet again, may God's peace be with you. Amen.
Local Group Discussion and Fellowship
Feel free to continue the celebration in your local groups, discussing the message, sharing your reflections, and enjoying fellowship. Here are a few points of reflection for the entire service that individuals and groups can discuss informally afterward:
- Sharing the Light: Reflect on the symbolic lighting of the Bethlehem Candle, representing faith. Consider ways you can share the light of your faith with others, bringing hope and encouragement.
- Faith in Action: How can you actively demonstrate your faith in God's provision in your daily life? Think about practical steps you can take to align your actions with your trust in God's guidance.
- Seasons of Preparation: Contemplate the seasons of life and how they relate to your journey of faith and preparedness. Are there specific areas where you feel called to prepare, trusting in God's timing for different seasons?
- Ant-Like Diligence: In what areas of your life can you apply the diligence and preparedness exhibited by ants, as mentioned in Proverbs 6:6-8? Consider both short-term and long-term aspects of preparation.
- Discerning God's Timing: Reflect on the importance of discerning God's timing, as highlighted in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. How can you seek God's guidance to align your actions with His sovereign plan?
- Divine Harmony: Connect the idea of divine harmony from "O Holy Night" with your personal journey. How can you bring harmony to the different aspects of your life, aligning them with the message of Christmas?
- Rejoicing in Redemption: Consider the profound theme of redemption in "O Holy Night." How does the knowledge of Christ's birth impact your sense of joy, hope, and personal redemption?
- Expressing Awe: Allow the mystery of the Holy Night to inspire awe in your heart. How can you express this awe in your prayers, actions, and interactions with others?
- Personal Encounter: If Christmas is an invitation to a personal encounter with the Savior, reflect on how you can nurture and deepen that encounter in your daily walk of faith.
- Gratitude for the Journey: Express gratitude for the faith journey you are on. Consider the progress you've made, the lessons learned, and the moments of divine guidance that have shaped your path.
These points are designed to encourage personal reflection
and meaningful discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the service's
message and its practical application in daily life.
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