Series Theme:
The time of the preaching of this series was the end of 2020 towards the end of a challenging COVID-19 year.
Millions of families throughout the world would be missing loved ones at Christmas and new Year celebrations as they and the whole world remained uncertain as to what lay ahead in the new year as infections and deaths were spiraling out of control in the United States and the United Kingdom.
This Advent sermon series takes us back to the truth that God is sovereign and rules over all things through Christ. In the world’s darkness a great Light is shining, a light that brings great joy and hope. This Light is He who was promised from long ago and whose arrival that first Christmas Day was in accord with God’s set purpose, plan and timing. Today, Christ remains this Light of the world who alone brings joy into the midst of darkness and hope as our eyes are turned heavenward toward God to see that He works all things for good for those who love Him.
Readings reproduced on this page:
The Holy Bible: New International Version. 1996, 1984. Grand Rapids: Zondervan
Readings
Luke 2:1–7 (NIV84)
1In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.
2(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)
3And everyone went to his own town to register.
4So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.
5He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.
6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born,
7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
.
Text
Luke 2:8–14 (NIV84)
8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
10But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.
11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.
12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
