The Way
The Way
Last week we explored how the context for repentance is the in-breaking movement of the Kingdom of Heaven to which we turn and join. We step out into the “way of the Lord.” This coming Sunday is Joy Sunday, or “Gaudete” as it's sometimes called, which comes from the Latin word for “rejoice.” We'll be reading from Isaiah 35, which also uses the metaphor of the “way” to provide context for our joy.
Like repentance, joy has context. Joy is framed within Israel's movement from the desert of exile to liberation in Zion. To get there, she travels along the “Way of Holiness” that God establishes and protects. At the end of the journey, everlasting joy awaits her.
There are some surprises along the Way, of course. So on Sunday we'll look at the map, consider the starting point and the destination, and take in the scenery.
I look forward to rejoicing with you!
Steve E+
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Reminder: Angel Tree gifts (unwrapped) must be dropped off at the Salvation Army by 4:30pm today: 351 Hilltop Lane, Annapolis.
Music During Advent: We often sing hymns and parts of our liturgy during Advent that we don’t sing much during the rest of the year. We’ll be singing three such songs this Sunday and it might aid in your worship if they’re more familiar to you: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed, Now Thank We All our God, and O Lord, Have Mercy.
Christmas Giving Opportunities—Redeemer has partnered with our neighbors at The Salvation Army Annapolis Corps for two of their annual initiatives:
The Red Kettle Campaign—there’s still time!
Project Angel Tree—thank you to all who participated. We helped serve 28 local families.
Lessons and Carols and Wine and Favorite Hors d’Oeuvres Reception—Christmas Eve, 5:00pm
Christmas Day Holy Communion—11:00am
Men’s Bible Study—Thursdays, 7:00am @ 1309
Morning Prayer—Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:00–8:30am on Zoom (redeemerannapolis.org/midweek)
Photo: Diego Jiminez on Unsplash
