In this Advent series, we will prepare hearts and mind to look forward to the second coming of Christ by exploring the incarnation (Christ’s first coming). Using the Lectionary texts, we join in with the Christian Church all over the world in preparing to celebrate the season of Christmas by observing Advent. We are waiting for his return. While we wait, we gather in faith and expectation for Christ to be revealed to the world. We wait for God "to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ."
We have just exited a brief season where we paused to give thanks. The calendar dictates that we now shift to the rush and rampant commercialism of the Christmas season. For centuries, the church has entertained a season of waiting called Advent. In Advent, we turn our attention to the glorious return of Christ. In this period prior to Christ’s return, we wait for… The Arrival.
by Dion Frasier
Preaching
God's love for us has been demonstrated in the most powerful way when the messiah, who was promised long ago, gave his life as an offering for those he loves.
It would be cute if the story of Christ was only about a crib. But the truth is that it involved a cross.
It would be cute if the story of Christ was only about a mother soothing her child. But the truth is that later, a crying mother would be soothed by the words of comfort spoken by her son as he hung on a cross.
It would be cute if the story of Christ was only about a host of angels singing hymns from heaven. But the truth is that later, those same angels watched in horror as the son of God breathed his last.
The story of crib to cross is... the Christmas Gospel.
by Dion Frasier
Preaching
It is a unique and valuable gift to emanate peace. When you are around a person of peace, it has a profound impact. When chaos strikes, they speak comfort in a way that is meaningful and deep.
Are you one of those people?
by Dion Frasier
Preaching
Optimism and hope are radically different attitudes.
The optimist speaks about concrete changes in the future. The person of hope lives in the moment with the knowledge and trust that all of life is in good hands.
