Saturday, December 7, 2013

2013 Christmas at Connections-entry 2



Hi Friends!

We begin our Christmas Series at Connections entitled "Crescendos from Carols" on Sunday December 8, 2013. See the prior blog entry below (November 30, 2013) for an explanation of the theme.

In our first lesson we will look at the word "hark" which means to "pay attention" and the word "hail" which means "to acclaim or acknowledge" and suggest applications of those directives during this Christmas season.

I hope you'll join us as we enjoy some insights from some of the most prolific hymn writers in history. My prayer is that the "Crescendos from Carols" will overflow from your heart into your homes and neighborhoods and around the world!

Luke 2:8-12
New International Version (NIV)
 
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

God's Peace,
Jeff


2 comments:

  1. If I were to hazard a guess at which Christmas carol you might be referencing, I'd say "Hark the Herald Angels Sing".

    I like the theology of that song. It looks to be very scripture-based, and I see references from Isaiah in there, as well as the synoptic gospels. I imagine that you have found more in your study for this sermon.

    Charles Wesley did this one well. It doesn't just celebrate Jesus' birth, it celebrates His life, and His resurrection, and the gift of eternal life that is offered to all.

    Nice beginning carol, Mr. Hill. I'm looking forward to hearing the whole thing laid out on Sunday, and more in the following weeks.

    Steve

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    1. Thanks Steve. I hope this is a neat way to share the story of Christmas as I remember my childhood preacher (Pap McGinnis-now deceased) doing this once and it made an impact in my life. Come to find out, my daughter had mentioned to her friends that she was going to ask me to do a series centered around Christmas carols. She realized she hadn't remembered to ask but thought it was a Spirit led idea when she realized this is where we landed this Christmas at Connections. Trust that makes sense. Others have done this before and hopefully if it helps people know Christ others will do it in the future.

      God's Peace,
      Jeff

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