Celebrating the Advent Season at Riverwood Church
The Advent season is a time of reflection, anticipation, and celebration for Christians around the world. At Riverwood Church, this year's Advent service was a heartfelt gathering filled with worship, prayer, and a deep sense of community. Erin, one of the speakers, welcomed everyone warmly, especially first-time guests, and introduced the various elements of the service.
The Significance of the Advent Wreath
Erin began by explaining the Advent wreath, which symbolizes hope, peace, joy, and love. Each candle represents a different aspect of the Advent season, culminating in the lighting of the Christ candle. This final candle signifies the birth of Jesus Christ, a momentous event that brings light and hope to the world.
A Reading from the Gospel of Luke
The service included a reading from Luke 1:26-38, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will give birth to Jesus. This passage highlights the miraculous nature of Jesus' birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to send a savior.
The Preeminence of Christ
Erin also shared a reading from Colossians 1:15-20, emphasizing the preeminence of Christ. This passage underscores Jesus' divine nature and his role in creation, redemption, and reconciliation. It serves as a reminder of the centrality of Christ in the Christian faith.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving
Following the readings, a prayer was led, thanking God for sending Jesus to save humanity. The prayer also asked for God's light to shine through the congregation, reflecting the transformative power of Jesus' life and teachings.
The Timeless Story of Jesus
Erin drew a parallel between the retelling of the Christmas story and the release of a new Superman movie. He emphasized that, like the best stories, the story of Jesus is worth retelling. Despite being well-known, the Christmas story remains powerful and relevant. Erin highlighted the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah and recounted Jesus' life, miracles, teachings, death, and resurrection.
The Good News of Great Joy
The angel's announcement to the shepherds in Luke 2:10 was described as good news of great joy for all people. Erin explained that Jesus' birth is significant because he became the high priest, Lamb of God, suffering servant, and king. His death and resurrection bring forgiveness and life, offering a transformative relationship with God.
An Invitation to Faith
Erin extended an invitation to those unfamiliar with the story of Jesus to put their faith in it. He encouraged prayer and surrender to Jesus, highlighting the life-changing nature of this news. Erin prayed for those committing to Jesus and thanked God for Jesus' birth and sacrifice.
A Call to Share the Story
Erin concluded by encouraging everyone to share the story of Jesus and live in a way that reflects his teachings. He invited those who made a decision to follow Jesus to indicate it on a connection card, emphasizing the need for people fully committed to Christ.
The Advent service at Riverwood Church was a beautiful celebration of faith, community, and the timeless story of Jesus Christ.
