Star Followers - Advent 2015

Join us each Sunday in Advent as we learn what it means for us to follow the star to Bethlehem. The series begins this Sunday, November 29th. (Yes, it's the magi who followed the star to Bethlehem, and we celebrate their journey and arrival on the Day of Epiphany, January 6th. But most of us experience Advent-Christmas-Epiphany as all of a piece, so work with us here!).

• November 29th, “A New Hope” (Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25:1-10; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13; Luke 21:25-36). Jesus encourages us to, “lift our heads, for your redemption is drawing near.”
• December 6th, “The Empire Strikes Back” (Malachi  3:1-4; Luke 1:68-79; Philippians 1:3-11; Luke 3:1-6) In the midst of Roman rule, John preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The Apostle Paul writes from a Roman prison.
• December 13th, “Return of the Baptist” (Zephaniah 3:14-20; Isaiah 12:2-6; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:7-18) John points to Jesus as the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
• December 20th, “Faith Awakens” – Sunday School Advent/Christmas Program (Micah 5:2-5a; Luke 1:46b-55, Hebrews 10:5-10; Luke 1:39-45) Elizabeth blesses Mary, because she believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.