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Today, January 6, is Epiphany. This church festival marks the arrival of the magi - not kings or even wise men, but likely Persian astrologers and mystics who traveled far to worship the Christ child. Their journey was guided by the light of a star, and this theme of light and revelation and the presence of God carries through this church season. In the readings for worship over the following weeks, we will hear how God’s presence and glory and radiance are revealed among us - through the life and ministry of Jesus, and in God’s ongoing revelation to God’s people throughout salvation history and still today.
But, back to the magi - when we imagine the Christmas story, we picture them already arrived at the creche, gifts in hand, accompanied by a few camels for good measure. But that’s only a snapshot of the whole story, and perhaps not even an accurate one. The magi - maybe three, but more likely a whole caravan, men and women - do finally reach the infant king, Jesus, only they find him not in the manger, but in a house. They do finally reach the infant king, Jesus, but only after first encountering the fearful, loose cannon King Herod.
I can’t decide which is the most remarkable part of this story. There’s the surprising piece that foreigners - from a different land, and a different religion - dedicate themselves to months of arduous travel to bring costly gifts for someone else’s newborn king. Then there’s the astonishing part that these foreign mystics have the bravery and audacity to defy the ruthless King Herod by going home by another road.
But perhaps the most remarkable thing is not so much about the magi at all. Perhaps the most remarkable thing is what this story tells us about how God is at work in the world. God does not choose to be born in a palace. God does not choose to first reveal the arrival of God’s son to the powerful men of that day, whether kings or chief priests or scribes. No, God comes to dwell with the humble and the lowly and the weak. God’s arrival is announced to outsiders, to foreigners, and to those without power.
Perhaps you, too, have been surprised by the unexpected ways God is at work in the world. Perhaps you, too, have been surprised by the unexpected people who are drawn to worship God, the unexpected people who show God’s radiance through their words and deeds. Sometimes, it's even us - sinful, lost, hurting, uncertain. Remarkable, indeed.
With hope,
Pastor Kerri
Bonus resources:
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As you're reading through this email, be sure to click all the words that appear underlined in blue font - these are hyperlinks, which open bonus content!
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Join us online, via Zoom or Facebook Live, or on the phone for worship on Sunday at 9am. Recordings of previous worship services are available on our Facebook page (no sign-in required).
Computer/Tablet/Smartphone - Click this link or open the Zoom app and enter Meeting ID 838 5330 2328 and password 15425.
Phone - Dial 301-715-8592. When prompted, dial in the Meeting ID: 838 5330 2328 and password: 15425.
If you would like to receive a paper copy of the liturgy and/or weekly email, please contact the office or Pastor Kerri. |
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If you're interested in reading, singing/playing an instrument, or providing artwork to be included in our online worship, please let Pastor Kerri know. We'd love to include more voices in our worship services!
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The next Curbside Communion will be held this Sunday, January 10, from 10-11am. Please drive down South St. and pull into the driveway at the rear of the church. Pastor Kerri will pass individually packaged bread and wine (or wafer/grape juice) through your car window, accompanied by a brief communion liturgy.
If you would like to gather outside with others for the communion liturgy, you may meet at the rear of the church building at 10am. Please wear your mask and practice distancing. If you are unable to participate but wish to receive communion, please contact Pastor Kerri for communion to be brought to you at home.
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Faith Formation resources
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Epiphany Star - Download, color, and cut out a star to celebrate Epiphany today!
For Baptism of Our Lord - Another set of discussion/reflection questions and a coloring page from Illustrated Ministry.
Book Study - We're continuing to read through Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again, by Rachel Held Evans. Join us on Zoom at 7pm this Wednesday evening.
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Annual congregational meeting
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It is our usual practice to hold a congregational meeting each January for the purpose of approving the budget, electing Council members, and conducting other business. Due to the current restrictions on gathering in person and a desire for continuity of leadership during these unusual times, the congregation Council is proposing that the meeting be delayed for up to six months. During that period, Council terms would be extended and the current year's budget would remain in effect.
If you have questions or disagree with this proposal, please contact Pastor Kerri or Council President Alan Sandusky.
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Offering envelopes for 2021 are available at the church; pick up your box on Wednesdays from 12:30-2pm, or at the next Curbside Communion.
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In Our Prayers
To add a name to the prayer list, contact Pastor Kerri or the office.
Amy, John Dye, Janice Haggerty, Wayne Harris & Kathy Richter-Harris, Wayne Herbert, Tom Hoak, Mary Jordan, Beckie Merchant, Joe Mongell, the family & friends of John Ratai, Patty Schroyer, Amy Schwarz, the family & friends of Pat Spiese, Sandy Thornton
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Thursday, January 7
Psalm 29
Samuel 3:1-21
Acts 9:10-19a
Friday, January 8
Psalm 29
1 Samuel 16:1-13
1 Timothy 4:11-16
Saturday, January 9
Psalm 29
1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12
Luke 5:1-11
Sunday, January 10 - Baptism of Our Lord
Genesis 1:1-5
Psalm 29
Acts 19:1-7
Mark 1:4-11
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Monday, January 11
Psalm 69:1-5, 30-36
Genesis 17:1-13
Romans 4:1-12
Tuesday, January 12
Psalm 69:1-5, 30-36
Exodus 30:22-38
Acts 22:2-16
Wednesday, January 13
Psalm 69:1-5, 30-36
Isaiah 41:14-20
John 1:29-34
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To reach Pastor Kerri, call or text 724-603-5589, or email her at rev.kerri.clark@gmail.com
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