Are You the One?

This Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent. The theme for this Sunday is Joy – a moment of glad anticipation as Christmas nears. It centers on the joy of the approaching Savior and the nearness of salvation, a deep, spiritual joy beyond mere happiness — and it focuses on preparing the way for Christ, asking God for help in overcoming obstacles and living with peace and joy.

The title of the sermon this week is: “Are You The One?”. The gospel text is from Matthew 11: 2-11. John the Baptist expects the Messiah to bring God’s judgement upon the earth. From a prison cell, he wonders whether Jesus is the one who will do this. Jesus’ response indicates that God’s reign is indeed being fulfilled already through healing and restoration.

We Gather to Worship

Prelude: Prelude on “Bristol”, arr. by Healey Willan

Welcome

Advent Candle Lighting

Confession and Forgiveness

Gathering Hymn: “People Look East”

Apostolic Greeting

Hymn of Praise

Prayer of the Day

Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10

Choir Anthem: “Prince of Peace”, words and music by Twila Paris

Gospel Acclamation and Gospel: Matthew 11:2-10

Children’s Time Sermon “Are You the One?”, Pastor Lauren Chambers

Sermon Hymn: “Joyous Light of Heavenly Glory”

Apostles Creed

Prayers of the Church

Announcements

Offertory: “Creator of the Stars of Night”, arr. by David Lasky

The Great Thanksgiving

Holy, Holy, Holy and Words of Institution

The Lord’s Prayer

Communion Distribution

Benediction

Sending Hymn: “Awake! Awake, and Greet the New Morn”

Dismissal

Postlude