Advent 2: The Spirituality of Faith

Summary:  The Gospel of Mark begins with John the Baptist.  John’s message is about what a person needs to do to receive the God News.  How does the Good News become a reality for us?  It is through baptism and the work of the Holy Spirit that Jesus become present in our lives and we gain the treasures of heaven.  These are spiritual gifts: strength, love, new life, and the assurance that we will have everlasting life.  The Holy Spirit allows us to live a life that seeks good, and enables us to be helpful, loving, and compassionate.  The Good News is that through the victory of Christ over death we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.  This provides us a faith that results in the salvation of our souls.

The Second Sunday of Advent – December 6, 2020

Order of Worship:

Prelude: “There’s a Voice in the Wilderness”

Greeting

Lighting of the Advent Wreath – The Candle of Peace

Opening Hymn: “Prepare the Royal Highway”

Prayer of the Day

Old Testament reading: Isaiah 40:1-11

Hand bell Ensemble: “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus”

Gospel Reading: Mark 1:1-8

Children’s Message

Choir Anthem: “Jesus, Name of Wondrous Love”, by Everett Titcomb

The Sermon: The Spirituality of Faith – Pastor Dan Severson

Sermon Hymn: “On Jordan’s Banks”

Prayers and the Lord’s Prayer

Sending Hymn: “People Look East”

Dismissal

Postlude: “Savior of the Nations, Come”, by Curt Oliver