Sunday Words of Encouragement December 8, 2013

[As noted the first Sunday of December I am sharing e a bit of advent messages during this beautiful season along with songs from our choir program.]

ADVENT WEEK TWO is a time of Conception... a time to reflect that God left his throne on high and came to be born a man in a simple manger in a humble, little town.

The four weeks of the Discerning Advent program with podcasts are shared and available online and through email at God in All Things.

Week Two :: Annunciation
Mary’s kind of freedom, that is, not clinging, is a surrendering to God’s will. It exemplifies a true cooperation with the divine which leads to the incarnation of Jesus. By discovering this freedom within us, we can better cooperate with the divine through discernment. Putting aside our own expectations—though not dismissing our deep desires—will lead to a new incarnation in the form of a decision.

Our guest Pastor this morning also spoke of the Angel's visit to Mary. PastorB noted that, although the news to her was overwhelming, Mary accepted and submitted herself to God's plan. Then PastorB asked "What happened after the angel left?"  Once the excitement of the moment is passed, how should we respond? We can follow the example of Mary to (1) continually remember the promise and the commitment we made; (2) visit and help someone else who may have more trouble (an elderly, pregnant Elizabeth); and (3) give Thanks and Praise to God for the blessings already received (Mary's Magnificat prayer).

This song is a duet and choir piece that we shared this morning.

I looked at a dozen or so versions online.  I chose this one because of the lovely interpretive dance. 

A Verse for Today:
Luke 1:38 (NIV)
38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

Even when the excitement of worship is over, I will carry your word and promises, and my commitment to trust you, in my heart. Thank you, my Lord, for all the blessings you have already given to me. Help me to share with others and to maintain my TRUST that you will see me through whatever plans that you have for me.