Worship Celebration - December 8, 2002
Rev. Sunil Balasundaram
THE SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
*CALL TO WORSHIP (responsive)
Wake up, people of God! The Word of God is coming to dwell among us.
O world, watch! Do not sleep! For the realm of God is near.
Prepare for the unexpected to break into your lives; be alert to the signs of the coming of God.
But we are exiles in a strange land, hoping for news of a Savior to help us.
Look for the Light that was with God in the beginning. Even while you are seeking your home, prepare a dwelling place for the Lord.
We will wait without fully knowing; we will rest in the stillness with the company of faith, hope, and love.
Wake up, people of God! Look for the Light! Listen attentively for the coming of the Word.
THE OLD TESTAMENT LESSON Isaiah 40:1 – 11
OPENING PRAYER (Unison)
We risk, O Lord, the journey to Bethlehem. We earnestly seek the community of shepherds and wise men. For the star we look, and await the Song. For it is what the heart loves which draws to the truth. This glad Season we venture to believe. Help, Thou, our unbelief, that our hearts may be strangely warmed. Amen.
LIGHTING OF THE SECOND ADVENT CANDLE
WORSHIPING WITH PRAISE - Praise Songs
PRAISE & CONCERNS
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
THE LORD’S PRAYER
*GOSPEL LESSON Luke 1: 26 – 45
*HYMN OF PREPARATION Angels we have heard on high ( No. 190 )
SERMON When a young person said "Yes!"
THE OFFERTORY
As forgiven and reconciled people, let us offer ourselves and our gifts to God.
*Offertory response (unison) Doxology
ANNOUNCEMENTS
*HYMN OF DEDICATION There’s a Song in the Air ( No. 196 )
*CLOSING PRAYER & BENEDICTION
* Please stand as you are able