Advent 3 Joy Light and Presence
At this time there are some people to whom I would like to extend my special thanks for their service to the Lord in our community. These include the following:
Daphne -preparing and leading play
Allison – task of coordinating costumes
Michelle- organising and teaching the children
Congregation-Great participation in the play
Reza & Patty – tidying the op shop.
I would also like to extend my congratulations and thanks to Kathy for her successful application for a grant of over $4,000 to paint the ceiling above the front entrance to our church, and surrounding area.
As I said in a previous bulletin article, our collection is focussing upon assisting our struggling farmers in Longreach through the drought relief collection at Longreach Uniting Church, through their minister, Rev. Jenny Coombes. This money stays local community as it will be used to buy vouchers for local businesses to give to the farmers. A personal personal note written with each donation should hopefully warm the hearts of these farmers at Christmas.
Today is the Third Sunday in Advent! This time of waiting for the Birthday of Jesus is, as we have discussed, also a time of preparation, or getting ready for, Christmas.
At Advent, it is important to hear from a variety of people of great faith, about God’s promises to send the world a Saviour- who would show the way to God and teach us about God’s love and forgiveness. Today we have the blessing of listening to the sermon from Dave Bartsch, YWAM Gold Coast Base Leader.
Today is the third Sunday in Advent. We hear today of Mary’s song of praise that gives glory to God.
Mary’s humble words rejoiced at God’s blessing on her and his salvation plan for the whole world
A world where eyes will see, and ears will hear; where everyone will want to dance and sing for joy and in God’s presence
Like Mary, we watch and wait for these signs of God’s kingdom, to break into our lives
We rejoice in the coming of the King and we wait in hope and peace.
God prepares our hearts for the coming of Jesus. So, we light the candle of joy.
God of grace and truth, may our spirits rejoice as we look towards the birth of Christ, our Saviour. As we reflect on your mercy and grace, let us see your glory and experience your joy. Amen.
Yours in Christ
Debra